Aging and Cracking of Rubber Anti-Slip Pads on Jack Support Blocks
Rubber anti-slip pads on jack support blocks are essential for ensuring stability, grip, and safe load transfer during lifting operations. Over time, these pads may experience aging and cracking, which compromises their effectiveness and poses safety risks.
1. Causes of Aging and Cracking
Environmental Exposure: Prolonged contact with UV light, ozone, heat, or moisture accelerates rubber degradation, leading to hardening, brittleness, and cracking.
Chemical Exposure: Oils, greases, or other chemicals can react with rubber compounds, weakening the material and promoting surface cracks.
Mechanical Fatigue: Repeated compression, load cycles, or sliding motion can create micro-cracks that grow over time.
Poor Material Quality or Compatibility: Inappropriate rubber formulations or low-quality compounds are more susceptible to aging and surface cracking.
2. Effects on Performance
Reduced Friction: Cracked or aged pads lose grip, increasing the risk of slippage during lifting.
Load Concentration: Damaged pads fail to distribute load evenly, leading to deformation of the jack or vehicle contact points.
Shortened Service Life: Cracks propagate over time, making the pad ineffective and unsafe.
Safety Hazards: Loss of stability can result in sudden slips or vehicle shifts, posing injury risks.
3. Preventive Measures
Material Selection: Use high-quality, UV- and ozone-resistant rubber compounds suitable for automotive applications.
Environmental Protection: Store jacks in cool, dry, and shaded areas; avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or chemicals.
Regular Inspection: Check pads for signs of cracking, hardening, or surface damage, especially before heavy lifting operations.
Timely Replacement: Replace aged or cracked pads promptly to maintain safety and performance.
Proper Usage: Avoid overloading and minimize abrasive contact with sharp or rough surfaces.
4. Conclusion
Aging and cracking of rubber anti-slip pads on jack support blocks are primarily caused by environmental factors, chemical exposure, mechanical fatigue, and poor material selection. Selecting durable materials, protecting from harsh conditions, regular inspection, and timely replacement are essential to ensure grip, stability, and safety during vehicle lifting.
References
Gent, A. N. Engineering with Rubber: How to Design Rubber Components. Hanser Publishers, 2012.
ASTM D2000 – Standard Classification System for Rubber Products in Automotive and Industrial Applications.
ISO 7619-1 – Rubber, Vulcanized or Thermoplastic — Determination of Indentation Hardness.
Lake, G. J. “Fatigue and Fracture of Elastomers.” Rubber Chemistry and Technology, 2000.
ISO 2230 – Rubber Products—Guidelines for Storage and Maintenance.
