Polyurethane (PU) Rubber Advantages
1. Superior abrasion resistance
PU is known as the most wear-resistant common elastomer. Its wear resistance is 3–5 times higher than NBR and natural rubber. It performs extremely well in continuous friction, reciprocating motion, and high-speed dynamic working conditions.
2. Excellent high-pressure & extrusion resistance
PU features strong mechanical strength, low compression set, and outstanding anti-extrusion ability. It can stably work under 10–30 MPa high pressure without deformation, making it ideal for hydraulic and pneumatic sealing systems.
3. High tensile strength and tear resistance
Compared with ordinary rubber, PU has stronger toughness, anti-tear performance, and load-bearing capacity, resisting crack damage under impact and friction.
4. Good oil and grease resistance
PU performs well against mineral oil, hydraulic oil, lubricants, and common industrial fuels.
5. Wide hardness range
Available from soft elastic grades to high-hardness rigid grades, suitable for customized molded rubber parts.
Polyurethane (PU) Rubber Disadvantages
1. Limited temperature resistance
Long-term working temperature: -40°C ~ 80°C. Not suitable for high-temperature environments above 90°C.
2. Poor resistance to strong solvents
Easily corroded by ketones, esters, strong acids, and alkaline liquids.
3. Weak UV and aging resistance outdoors
PU ages faster under long sunlight exposure, mainly for indoor and industrial equipment use.
4. Less flexible than silicone or NBR
PU is harder and less elastic, not recommended for ultra-soft static sealing scenarios.
Typical PU Rubber Applications
– Hydraulic seals, piston seals, rod seals, wiper seals
– High-wear industrial rollers, wheels, buffer blocks
– Anti-collision rubber parts, wear pads, vibration damping components
– Custom compression molded PU rubber parts for machinery and automation