Polyurethane
What is Polyurethane?
Polyurethane is a relative newcomer to the U.S. market with its commercial introduction in the late 1950’s. Polyurethane is an elastometric material available in forms ranging from coatings to sheets up to 6 inches thick. Polyurethane is an extremely versatile product possessing unprecedented physical properties.
Cast Polyurethane’s most unique characteristic is its extremely broad hardness range. From material as soft as an eraser to that of bowling ball hard, polyurethane’s hardness is the result of the molecular structure of the polymer and not by the addition of plasticizers and fillers.
In elastomer form, urethanes offer superiority to other elastomers in abrasion resistance and toughness. Its durability and toughness is far beyond the range of most rubbers and plastics. With the toughness of metal and the elasticity of rubber, this combination opens new horizons for the engineers who are designing new products for the future.
Because of its remarkable abrasion resistance, parts made from polyurethane will often out-wear rubber, plastic, and metal by margins up to 20 to 1. With its high-flex life, cut-resistance, load-bearing capacity and outstanding resistance to weather, ozone, oxygen and radiation, polyurethane provides unlimited design opportunities.
• Standard hardness (durometer): 60A, 70A, 80A, 90A
Properties, Applications and Availabilities for the Polyurethane Sheet and Rod
| Properties | Applications | Availabilities |
|---|---|---|
| Excellent tensile and tear strength | Seals and gaskets | Rod: .500″ to 6.000″ |
| High load bearing capabilities | Bumpers | Sheet: .032″ to 4.000″ |
| Excellent damping properties | Forming pads | Film: .005″ to .062″ |
| Excellent resistance to ozone, oils, greases and fuels | Scraper blades | Tubing: .062″ I.D. to 4.000″ O.D. |
| Excellent abrasion resistance | Pads | Standard Colors: Amber, custom colors are available |
| Good compressive set characteristics | Cutting Boards | |
| Good weatherability | Roll coverings | |
| Chute liners |

