Rubber lining

Rubber linings offer a wide range of functions that increase the protection and performance of components:

• Corrosion protection: protects metal surfaces against rust and chemicals.

• Abrasion resistance: reduces wear caused by friction or contact with abrasive materials.

• Elasticity and shock absorption: absorbs shocks and vibrations to prevent damage.

• Chemical resistance: withstands aggressive substances such as acids, alkalis or oils.

• Slip resistance: improves the grip of surfaces.

Rubber lining is carried out using various processes, depending on the type of base material and the requirements of the application:

Process	Description	Typical applications
Spray lining	Application of liquid rubber by spraying, often for smaller areas.	Tool handles, coatings
Roller lining	Application of prefabricated rubber sheeting to cylindrical or flat surfaces.	Conveyor rollers, tanks
Vulcanised rubber lining	Application of raw rubber and vulcanisation for chemical crosslinking.	Corrosion protection in chemical plants
Dip coating	Immersing the component in a rubber solution for an even coating.	Coatings for small components

The choice of rubber material depends on the specific requirements. Commonly used rubber types are:

Material	Properties	Typical applications
EPDM	High resistance to UV radiation, ozone and chemicals	Outdoor areas, tanks
NR (natural rubber)	High elasticity and abrasion resistance	Conveyor rollers, rollers
Neoprene (CR)	Weather and chemical resistance	Industrial plants, seals
NBR	Oil and fuel resistance	Machine parts, containers

Rubber lining is indispensable in numerous industries, as it considerably improves the performance and durability of components.

Mechanical engineering

• Protection against wear and mechanical stress.

• Rubber-lined rollers for conveyor technology.

Chemical industry

• Corrosion protection for containers, pipes and reactors.

• Chemical-resistant linings.

Construction industry

• Anti-slip coatings for stairs and floors.

• Waterproofing for roofs and façades.

Automotive industry

• Protective coatings for underbodies.

• Rubberised seals and bumpers.

Rubber lining offers a wide range of advantages:

• Protection against external influences: increases resistance to weathering, chemicals and mechanical stress.

• Improved functionality: reduces abrasion and ensures stable operation.

• Cost efficiency: extends the service life of components and reduces maintenance costs.

Despite the many advantages, there are also challenges:

• Adhesion: the adhesion between the rubber and the base material must be carefully controlled.

• Material selection: choosing the right type of elastomer requires specialist knowledge.

• Process effort: some processes, such as vulcanisation, are time-consuming and costly.

Feature	Rubber lining	Metal coating
Flexibility	High	Low
Resistance	Very good against abrasion and chemicals	Very good against corrosion
Costs	Medium	High
Typical applications	Conveyor technology, corrosion protection	Decorative coatings, rust protection

• Which materials are suitable for rubber lining? Metals such as steel or aluminium as well as plastics and textiles are typical substrates for rubber linings.

• Is a rubber lining recyclable? Yes, rubber linings based on recyclable materials such as EPDM or NBR in particular can be recycled.

• How is adhesion between the rubber and the substrate improved? Special bonding agents or primer layers optimise the bond between rubber and substrate.

• Which processes are particularly durable? Vulcanised rubber linings offer high durability, especially under chemical and mechanical stress.

Rubber lining is an indispensable process in numerous industries, protecting components against external influences and extending their service life. Whether as corrosion protection in the chemical industry, abrasion protection in conveyor technology or as a shock-absorbing layer, rubber linings offer a wide range of solutions to technical challenges.