How to Choose the Right Rubber Material for Industrial Applications?
We got you.Selecting the correct rubber material is one of the most important decisions when designing industrial products. Different rubber compounds provide different levels of resistance to oil, heat, chemicals, weather, abrasion, and mechanical stress.
Choosing the wrong material can result in premature failure, increased maintenance costs, and shorter product life.
This guide explains the key factors to consider when selecting industrial rubber materials and compares the most common options used worldwide.
Why Material Selection Matters
Industrial rubber is used in:
Gaskets
Seals
Conveyor systems
Machine pads
Connected to your stack
Automotive parts
HVAC systems
Marine equipment
Food processing machinery
Each application has unique performance requirements.
Important Selection Factors
When selecting a rubber compound, engineers typically evaluate:
Operating temperature
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Learn moreUV resistance
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Learn moreCompression set
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Learn moreComparison of Common Rubber Materials
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| Material | Best For |
| EPDM | Outdoor weather resistance |
| NBR | Oil and fuel resistance |
| Silicone | High temperature applications |
| Natural Rubber | Wear resistance |
| Neoprene | General industrial use |
| Viton (FKM) | Aggressive chemicals |
Frequently asked questions
Can’t find what you’re looking for? We’ve gathered the answers our customers reach for most so you can get moving faster.
Still have questions?
Contact our teamWhat is the best rubber material for outdoor applications?
EPDM rubber is one of the best choices for outdoor use because it offers excellent resistance to UV rays, ozone, weathering, and aging. It is widely used for roofing, sealing, and construction applications.
Which rubber is best for oil resistance?
NBR (Nitrile Rubber) provides excellent resistance to petroleum oils, fuels, and lubricants, making it ideal for automotive seals, O-rings, hoses, and industrial gaskets.
When should I choose silicone rubber?
Silicone rubber is recommended for applications requiring high or low temperature resistance, food-grade compliance, electrical insulation, or medical use. It performs well from approximately -60°C to +230°C.
How do I choose the right rubber hardness?
Rubber hardness is measured in Shore A.
30–50 Shore A: Soft and flexible
60–70 Shore A: General industrial use
80–90 Shore A: High wear resistance and load-bearing applications
The correct hardness depends on sealing pressure, flexibility, and mechanical requirements.
What information should I provide before ordering custom rubber parts?
To recommend the right material, suppliers usually need:
Application
Operating temperature
Chemical exposure
Required hardness
Dimensions or drawings
Quantity
Providing complete information helps reduce development time and improve product performance.
38 Need help selecting the right rubber material?
Contact Rubberlshore today for OEM rubber sheets and custom molded rubber parts.