Elasticity Degradation of Rubber Shock-Absorbing Blocks
Rubber shock-absorbing blocks are widely used in machinery, automotive components, and industrial equipment to dampen vibrations, reduce noise, and protect structural parts. Over time, the elasticity of these blocks can degrade, affecting their performance and service life.
1. Causes of Elasticity Degradation
Material Aging: Exposure to oxygen, ozone, ultraviolet light, and high temperatures leads to hardening, embrittlement, and loss of elasticity.
Repeated Mechanical Stress: Continuous compression, tension, or cyclic loading causes fatigue, micro-cracks, and permanent deformation.
Chemical Exposure: Contact with oils, solvents, acids, or alkalis can chemically alter the rubber, reducing flexibility and resilience.
Inferior Material Quality: Low-quality rubber or improper formulation may have inadequate cross-linking, leading to rapid elasticity loss.
Environmental Conditions: Extreme heat, cold, or humidity accelerates material degradation and reduces recovery ability after compression.
2. Effects of Elasticity Loss
Reduced Vibration Damping: The block cannot effectively absorb shocks, leading to increased vibration transmission.
Noise Increase: Hardened or fatigued blocks may generate rattling or squeaking sounds during operation.
Structural Stress: Loss of elasticity transfers more stress to connected components, potentially causing premature wear or failure.
Shortened Service Life: Elasticity loss accelerates overall deterioration of the shock-absorbing block.
3. Prevention and Maintenance Measures
Material Selection: Use high-quality, UV- and ozone-resistant rubber formulations suitable for the operating environment.
Proper Design: Ensure the block is designed to handle expected loads and stress cycles without overstretching or over-compression.
Environmental Protection: Minimize exposure to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and harsh chemicals.
Regular Inspection: Periodically check for cracks, permanent deformation, or surface hardening. Replace blocks showing significant elasticity loss.
Storage Conditions: Store unused blocks in cool, dry, and dark environments to slow aging and degradation.
4. Conclusion
Elasticity degradation in rubber shock-absorbing blocks is primarily caused by aging, mechanical fatigue, chemical exposure, and environmental stress. Selecting high-quality materials, designing appropriately for load conditions, and implementing proper inspection and storage practices can significantly extend block performance and service life.
References
Gent, A. N. Engineering with Rubber: How to Design Rubber Components. Hanser Publishers, 2012.
Lake, G. J. “Fatigue and Fracture of Elastomers.” Rubber Chemistry and Technology, 2000.
ASTM D2240 – Standard Test Method for Rubber Property—Durometer Hardness.
ISO 2230 – Rubber Products—Guidelines for Storage and Maintenance.
ASTM D2000 – Standard Classification System for Rubber Products in Automotive and Industrial Applications.
