Smooth rubber sheeting - technical rubber in rolls and rubber sheets

What is smooth rubber sheeting and what is it used for?

Smooth rubber sheeting is a technical rubber without a pronounced relief profile, which is used for the production of various industrial components, protective linings, linings and seals. Compared to profiled rubber, which has ribs, bumps or other distinct patterns on the surface, the surface of smooth rubber sheeting is generally smooth, matte or slightly textured.
Due to its adaptability, elasticity and various material compositions, it is an important material in mechanical engineering, production, maintenance of industrial equipment, transport, construction and many other activities.
Technical rubber in roll is mainly used where we need protection against mechanical damage, moisture, wear or certain chemical influences. We can also make seals, washers, damping elements and other components from rubber sheets.
At M&M Intercom we offer a wide range of smooth rubber sheeting, which includes various material groups. Among the most commonly used are SBR, NBR, EPDM, CR or chloroprene rubber and silicone rubber VMQ.
Individual versions differ in hardness, elasticity, chemical resistance, temperature range and other mechanical properties. Therefore, the choice of the appropriate material is essential for the reliable operation of the final product.

Main features of smooth rubber sheeting

Smooth rubber sheeting combines many useful properties that depend on the base elastomer, the composition of the rubber compound and any additional reinforcements.
Among the more important features are:

• good elasticity and adaptability to different surfaces,
• possibility of protecting the base from wear and mechanical damage,
• use for the production of various sealing elements,
• resistance to moisture in properly selected material,
• possibility of absorbing minor shocks and vibrations,
• choice between different levels of hardness,
• various thicknesses and dimensions,
• possibility of use at low or high temperatures,
• various resistance to oils, weathering and chemicals,
• possibility of reinforcement with textile inserts,
• easier mechanical processing and cutting,
• possibility of supplying rubber in rolls or by the metre.

When choosing, it is important to know that not all types of technical rubber have the same properties. For example, NBR rubber is often suitable for contact with oils, while EPDM rubber is mainly known for its good resistance to weathering, ozone and water.
For high-temperature applications, silicone rubber may be more suitable, but for general protective and mechanical applications, SBR rubber is often used.

Types of smooth rubber sheeting according to material

We offer various technical elastomers that allow the use of smooth rubber sheeting in a wide range of industrial environments.
The correct choice of material is particularly important in the production of seals, use in contact with oils and chemicals and applications with greater temperature loads.

SBR rubber - technical rubber for general industrial use

SBR rubber or styrene-butadiene rubber is one of the most commonly used materials for general industrial applications.
It is characterized by useful mechanical properties and good resistance to wear with a properly selected mixture. This makes it suitable for many protective mats, rubber sheets and other technical products.
SBR is often used for:

• protection of the floor and working surfaces,
• production of rubber seals,
• pads for industrial equipment,
• protective elements in production,
• general rubber coverings,
• selected transport and mechanical applications.

At M&M Intercom we offer various versions of SBR technical rubber in rolls, including the S236 series in various thicknesses and widths.
Versions without textile insert and versions with one or more reinforcing inserts are available.
When using SBR, we must take into account that standard rubber is generally not the optimal choice for long-term contact with mineral oils, fuels or more demanding chemicals.

NBR rubber - oil-resistant technical rubber

NBR rubber or nitrile-butadiene rubber is an important material for industrial applications that require resistance to oils and certain petroleum derivatives.
Because of its properties, it is often used in mechanical engineering, maintenance of industrial equipment, in the production of seals and components that come into contact with lubricants.
The main advantage of NBR is good resistance to many mineral oils and greases, with the actual resistance depending on the rubber compound, temperature and type of medium.
NBR technical rubber is mainly used for:

• oil-resistant seals,
• flange gasket sheets,
• protective mats in workshops,
• sealing elements of industrial equipment,
• underlays for machines and devices,
• applications in contact with lubricants.

Our range offers various versions of NBR, including technical rubber N256 by MTS.
The temperature range, hardness and required tensile strength of the material must also be taken into account when choosing.
Despite its good oil resistance, NBR is not universally resistant to all chemicals, so check compatibility with the specific medium before use.

EPDM rubber - weather and moisture resistance

EPDM rubber is a synthetic elastomer that is characterized by good resistance to ozone, weathering, water and many environmental stresses.
Because of these properties, it is often used in the production of seals, protective linings and components that are exposed to external conditions.
EPDM is suitable for applications where the material encounters moisture, temperature changes and long-term exposure to the environment.
The most common areas of use are:

• seals for external applications,
• protection against moisture,
• sealing tapes and mats,
• construction,
• industrial sealing systems,
• protective and insulating elements,
• various components of machines and devices.

At M&M Intercom we offer both compact and foamed EPDM rubber in various dimensions and designs.
When choosing, we must take into account that EPDM is generally not the most suitable for contact with mineral oils and fuels. NBR is often more suitable for such applications.

Foamed EPDM rubber - for sealing and cushioning

Foamed EPDM rubber has a different internal structure than solid rubber, so it allows greater compressibility and flexibility.
It is mainly used in applications where we need sealing of uneven surfaces, gap filling, cushioning or a flexible insulating element.
In our range we have, among other things, EPDM POR 304/CM products of various thicknesses, from thinner panels to thicker versions.
Available thicknesses include 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 and 20 mm, with selected versions featuring different surfaces or self-adhesive properties where specified.
Foamed EPDM rubber is useful for:

• sealing doors and covers,
• protective and sealing tapes,
• gap filling,
• vibration damping,
• pads between different elements,
• insulation applications,
• protection of sensitive surfaces.

When selecting a material, it is important to know the density, compressibility, compression set and other properties of the specific foam.
In order to prevent the passage of water, the cellular structure and the declared waterproofness of the material must be additionally checked.

CR rubber - chloroprene or neoprene rubber

CR rubber, often called neoprene rubber, is a technical elastomer that represents a compromise between various mechanical, weather and chemical properties.
It is used in the production of seals, protective linings and various industrial components.
Compared to some general rubbers, suitable chloroprene compounds can provide better resistance to certain environmental influences and limited contact with oils.
CR rubber is used for:

• industrial seals,
• protective rubber sheets,
• cushioning elements,
• external applications,
• technical linings,
• various machine elements.

It is important to always check the resistance to oils or chemicals according to the specific design. Namely, CR does not provide the same level of resistance to mineral oils as the corresponding NBR compound.

Silicone rubber VMQ - for high temperatures

Silicone rubber or VMQ is mainly used where good temperature stability and flexibility of the material in a wide temperature range are needed.
Compared to many standard elastomers, silicone rubber retains its useful properties even at higher temperatures.
The M&M Intercom range includes models with a maximum operating temperature of up to approximately +200 °C and a minimum of up to approximately -50 °C.
The actual temperature range depends on the specific mixture and conditions of use.
Silicone technical rubber is used for:

• temperature-resistant seals,
• gasket sheets,
• industrial insulation elements,
• components in thermal processes,
• seals for stoves and other equipment, when the material is suitable,
• selected applications in the food industry.

For food contact, select a grade with appropriate documentation and declared compliance.
Due to its specific mechanical and wear properties, silicone rubber is not always the most suitable for highly abrasive applications.

NR/SBR and NR/BR/SBR - combinations of different rubbers

Our range also includes technical rubbers made from combinations of natural and synthetic rubber.
NR/SBR rubber combines the properties of natural rubber and styrene-butadiene rubber. With the appropriate composition, we can obtain a material suitable for various mechanical and protective applications.
In some versions, we also use the NR/BR/SBR combination, where BR butadiene rubber is present in addition to natural rubber and SBR.
Such combinations make it possible to adjust elasticity, mechanical properties and wear resistance.
We also offer white NR/SBR technical rubber, declared for use in the food industry, with a hardness of 60 ShA.
Suitability for direct contact with food must be checked in the documentation of the specific product.

Technical rubber in a roll for industrial use

Technical rubber in a roll represents a practical form of delivery, as it enables the production of various rubber elements and protective surfaces.
The material in a roll is suitable for applications where we need longer lengths or we want to make several individual components from a rubber sheet.
Our range includes, among other things, rolls of 5 and 10 metres in length and other dimensions, depending on the product.
The widths of the material are different, but the most commonly represented versions are 1000, 1200 and 1400 mm wide.
The advantages of technical rubber in a roll are mainly the possibility of adjusting the dimensions, more rational use of the material and simpler planning of the cut.
When choosing a roll, in addition to the material composition, we must also know the thickness, hardness, number of textile inserts and required mechanical properties.

Rubber sheets for manufacturing industrial seals

One of the most important areas of use of smooth rubber sheeting is the production of rubber seals.
We can make various flat gaskets, washers, sealing rings and other elements from technical rubber sheets.
When choosing rubber for seals, we must take into account the working medium, temperature, pressure, construction of the sealing joint and the required deformability of the material.
We use different elastomers for different applications:

• SBR for selected general sealing applications,
• NBR for seals in contact with appropriate oils and lubricants,
• EPDM for seals exposed to water and weather,
• CR for various general and outdoor industrial applications,
• VMQ for seals at higher temperature loads.

Choosing the right material is crucial, as unsuitable rubber can lose its sealing properties due to temperature, chemicals or mechanical stress.
At M&M Intercom, we also manufacture custom-made flat gaskets, which allows us to adapt the shape and dimensions to the requirements of the individual application.

Rubber to protect floors and work surfaces

Rubber mats are a practical solution for protecting various industrial and work surfaces.
In workshops, warehouses and production areas, rubber lining can help reduce wear and tear and direct damage to the base surface.
Smooth rubber sheeting is used for:

• protection of work tables,
• covering industrial counters,
• protection of storage shelves,
• pads under machines,
• floor protection against mechanical damage,
• various protective linings in production.

When used as a walking floor covering, the adhesion or anti-slip properties of the selected material must be checked, as smooth rubber is not necessarily suitable for all walking surfaces.
For more demanding loads, we choose the appropriate thickness, hardness and mechanical resistance of the material.

Technical rubber for conveyor belts and transport equipment

Smooth rubber sheeting is also used in the production and maintenance of various transport systems.
Suitable rubber compounds can be used as protective linings, components of conveyor belts or elements to reduce direct wear of certain surfaces.
When choosing rubber for a conveyor belt, it is important to check tensile strength, wear resistance, the presence of textile reinforcements and other design requirements.
In our range we have designs with one, two or four textile inserts that can change the mechanical properties of the material.
Technical rubber with reinforcing plies must be distinguished from a purpose-designed conveyor belt. Not every rubber sheet is suitable for use as an operational conveyor belt.

Rubber with textile insert for mechanically more demanding applications

Rubber with a textile insert contains one or more layers of textile reinforcement, which affect the mechanical properties of the material.
Textile inserts can improve dimensional stability, limit elongation and increase resistance to certain tensile loads.
We offer:

• technical rubber without textile insert,
• rubber with one textile insert,
• rubber with two textile inserts,
• rubber with four textile inserts.

Designs with textile inserts are useful in applications where, in addition to elasticity, the mechanical stability of the material is also important.
However, more reinforcing plies do not automatically make a material a better choice. In sealing applications, textile reinforcement can also affect compressibility and sealing behaviour.
Therefore, we must adjust the number of inserts to actual needs.

Self-adhesive smooth rubber sheeting for easier installation

In addition to standard technical rubber, we also offer self-adhesive rubber.
Such designs usually have an adhesive layer installed on one side, which enables easier installation on a suitably prepared surface.
Self-adhesive technical rubber is mainly useful for:

• sealing tapes,
• cushioning mats,
• protection of sensitive surfaces,
• insulating elements,
• gap filling,
• assembly of smaller protective components.

When using, we must take into account the material of the base, its cleanliness, temperature and compatibility of the adhesive with the working environment.
The temperature resistance of the base rubber is not necessarily the same as the temperature resistance of the self-adhesive layer.

Technical rubber thickness and impact on use

Thickness is one of the most important features when choosing smooth rubber sheeting.
In our range, we have designs with thicknesses from 1 to 25 mm, depending on the material and the individual product.
Thinner rubber sheets are useful mainly for seals, protective tapes and applications where a flexible material is needed.
Thicker versions can be used for protective linings, damping elements and other applications where greater material thickness is important.

Thickness of rubber	Use cases
1-2mm	Thinner seals, protective layers, tapes
3-5mm	Gaskets, linings, protection of working surfaces
6-10mm	Thicker pads, seals, cushioning elements
15-20mm	More demanding protective and cushioning applications
25mm	Special applications requiring greater thickness

The choice of thickness depends on the mechanical loads, the type of material, the construction of the element and the expected deformation.

Hardness of technical rubber - what does Shore A mean?

The hardness of the rubber affects its deformability, adaptability and behavior under load.
For solid elastomers, it is often expressed with the Shore A or ShA scale, but for very soft foamed materials, the Shore 00 scale can also be used.
M&M Intercom offers various versions, including solid rubber materials with hardness values of 40, 45, 60, 65 and 70 ShA, as well as softer foam materials.
Softer technical rubber can adapt better to uneven surfaces and is suitable for some sealing applications.
Harder technical rubber usually deforms less under the same conditions and may be more suitable for certain mechanical and protective applications.
When choosing, we consider not only hardness, but also material, tensile strength, elongation, resistance to wear and other technical data.

Temperature resistance of smooth rubber sheeting

Different types of technical rubber have different permitted temperature ranges.
Our range includes products with a declared minimum temperature of approximately -15 °C to -50 °C and a maximum temperature of approximately +70 °C to +200 °C.
This means that we cannot specify a single temperature range for all products in the category.
When choosing, we take into account the temperature during operation, possible short-term temperature increases, the type of mechanical load and the presence of chemical media.
Especially with gaskets, it is important to check how temperature affects elasticity, permanent deformation and other properties of the material.

Chemical resistance of technical rubber

The chemical resistance of rubber is one of the key criteria when choosing a material for industrial use.
Different elastomers react differently to contact with oils, fuels, water, cleaners, acids and other chemical media.
For example, NBR is often a suitable choice for certain mineral oils, and EPDM for applications where water, ozone and weather resistance are important.
Silicone rubber is useful mainly for its temperature properties, but its chemical resistance is not the same in all media.
For more demanding applications, we check the concentration of the medium, the temperature, the exposure time and the technical data sheet of the specific product.
The correct choice prevents premature swelling, hardening, loss of elasticity and other material changes.

Smooth rubber sheeting for the food industry

When using rubber materials in the food industry, in addition to mechanical and temperature properties, appropriate material compliance is also important.
In our range we have certain versions of rubber that are declared suitable for use in the food industry.
They also include white NR/SBR technical rubber with FDA compliance listed.
When choosing, we must check the documentation of the specific product, the intended type of contact with food and the conditions of use.
Not every white or silicone rubber is automatically suitable for food contact. Suitability must be confirmed for the specific material grade and intended use.

Smooth rubber sheeting per metre and custom cut

Many industrial applications require a rubber sheet of a specific size.
That's why at M&M Intercom, we allow technical rubber to be cut to the desired length, which facilitates the preparation of suitable material for further use.
The advantages of such delivery include:

• adjustment to application dimensions,
• reduction of unnecessary material residues,
• easier preparation of protective linings,
• more rational consumption of technical rubber,
• possibility of manufacturing various rubber elements.

When ordering, it is important to specify the required material composition, thickness, width, length and any special properties.
For more demanding applications, we can also advise on the selection of the appropriate material for further processing or the production of seals.

How to choose the right smooth rubber sheeting?

When choosing smooth rubber sheeting, we first determine the conditions in which the material will be used.
If we need rubber to protect the floor or work surface, we will pay attention mainly to mechanical resistance, hardness and thickness.
Elasticity, compressibility, temperature, working pressure and chemical resistance are also important when making seals.
For applications with contact with oils, we will often check NBR, for external use EPDM, and for high temperatures silicone rubber.
It is also important whether we need a solid or foam version and whether the material needs to be additionally reinforced with textile inserts.
The appropriate choice of technical rubber can have a significant impact on the lifetime of components, sealing reliability and maintenance costs.

Wide range of smooth rubber sheeting at M&M Intercom

At M&M Intercom we offer an extensive selection of smooth rubber sheeting for various industrial and technical applications.
Our range includes SBR, NBR, EPDM, CR, NR/SBR, NR/BR/SBR and VMQ, as well as various foamed, self-adhesive and fabric-reinforced versions.
Products from various manufacturers are available, including MTS, Trelleborg, Zenith, Alwin Höfert, Semperit and Stomil.
We offer different thicknesses, widths, lengths, hardnesses and material compositions, which allow adaptation to specific application requirements.
In addition to the supply of technical rubber, we also provide you with professional advice on choosing the material and the possibility of cutting it to the desired length.
With properly selected technical rubber in a roll, rubber sheet or other semi-finished product, we can provide a suitable basis for the production of seals, protective coverings and many other industrial components.

 

Frequently asked questions about smooth rubber sheeting

1. What is smooth rubber sheeting and what is the difference between unprofiled and profiled rubber?
Smooth rubber sheeting is a technical elastomeric material that generally has a smooth, matte or slightly textured surface without distinct relief profiles. It is mainly used for the production of seals, rubber sheets, protective mats, insulating elements and various industrial components.
The main difference between non-profiled and profiled rubber is the shape of the surface and the typical areas of use. Treaded rubber usually has ribs, a diamond pattern, or other relief structures that can improve grip. Smooth rubber sheeting is often used for the production of precisely designed elements and seals, where a uniform material thickness is required.
At M&M Intercom, we offer both types of technical rubber, and the choice depends on the purpose of use, mechanical loads and required material properties.
2. What is the difference between SBR, NBR, EPDM and silicone rubber?
The difference between individual types of technical rubber is mainly in their chemical composition, temperature resistance, mechanical properties and suitability for different media.
SBR rubber is widely used for general industrial applications, protective mats and various rubber elements. As a rule, NBR rubber is more suitable for contact with many mineral oils and lubricants, so it is used for oil-resistant seals and components of industrial equipment.
EPDM rubber is known for its good resistance to water, ozone and weathering, so it is useful in outdoor applications and sealing. VMQ silicone rubber is often used at higher temperatures and in applications where a wide temperature range is needed.
In order to make the right choice, we need to know the actual operating conditions. At M&M Intercom, we help you determine the appropriate material based on the type of medium, temperature and mechanical loads.
3. Is smooth rubber sheeting suitable for making seals?
Yes. Smooth rubber sheeting is one of the commonly used materials for the production of flat gaskets, washers, sealing tapes and various other sealing elements.
We can make seals of various shapes and dimensions from rubber sheets with the appropriate cut. Here, the choice of material is important, as the seal must maintain appropriate properties in the actual working environment.
NBR is often used for seals in contact with oils, EPDM for applications with water and external influences, and suitable silicone rubber for higher temperature loads.
In addition to the material, we must also consider the thickness, hardness, deformability, working pressure and construction of the sealing joint. At M&M Intercom, we offer technical rubber for the production of seals and the possibility of producing custom flat gaskets.
4. Is smooth rubber sheeting resistant to oils, fuels and chemicals?
The resistance to oils, fuels and chemicals depends mainly on the type of elastomer and the specific material composition.
NBR rubber is often suitable for use in contact with mineral oils and some petroleum derivatives. For this reason, it is used in seals, protective mats and industrial components that come into contact with lubricants.
Standard SBR rubber generally does not have comparable resistance to mineral oils. EPDM is better suited for many water- and weather-related applications, but is generally not recommended for long-term contact with mineral oils.
When choosing, we must check the type of chemical medium, its concentration, temperature and exposure time. No type of technical rubber is universally resistant to all chemicals, so the selection is always adapted to specific conditions.
5. What temperature can smooth rubber sheeting withstand?
The temperature resistance of smooth rubber sheeting depends on the type of material, rubber compound and conditions of use.
In the M&M Intercom range, we have various technical rubbers with declared maximum temperatures from approximately +70 °C to +200 °C, and for individual designs the lowest temperatures reach approximately -50 °C.
SBR, NBR and EPDM rubbers are often used for general applications, while silicone rubber may be more suitable for higher temperature loads.
When choosing, we must also take into account the duration of the temperature load, the presence of chemicals, pressure and possible mechanical deformation. The temperature limit of the material in itself does not guarantee suitability for every application. Therefore, before use, check the technical data sheet of the specific product.
6. What does Shore A rubber hardness mean and which hardness to choose?
The hardness of technical rubber indicates its resistance to indentation and is an important measure of its deformability. For solid rubber, it is most often expressed on the Shore A or ShA scale.
A lower Shore A value usually means a softer rubber that deforms more easily and can better adapt to uneven surfaces. A higher value means a harder material that deforms less under the same conditions.
Our range includes rubber materials with hardness values of 40, 60, 65 and 70 ShA. The Shore 00 scale is also used for softer foam materials.
A softer rubber may be more suitable for certain sealing applications, and a harder version for protective linings and mechanically stressed surfaces. The correct choice also depends on the thickness, material, compressibility and construction of the element.
7. Is it possible to order technical rubber per metre or cut to size?
Yes. At M&M Intercom, we offer technical rubber in rolls and by the metre, and the material can be cut to the desired length according to the customer's requirements.
This is particularly useful in the production of protective mats, sealing tapes, rubber linings and other industrial items where a standard roll length is not required.
Different widths and thicknesses are available, depending on the material and the individual product. Among the common widths are 1000, 1200 and 1400 mm, and in many versions the rolls are 10 metres long.
When ordering, we recommend that you specify the material, thickness, width, desired length and intended use. In this way, we can prepare an appropriate solution and reduce the unnecessary amount of waste material.
8. What is the difference between compact and foamed EPDM rubber?
Solid EPDM rubber has a denser, non-foamed structure and is often used for various seals, rubber panels and protective elements where the mechanical properties of the material are important.
Foamed EPDM rubber has a cellular structure, which generally makes it softer, lighter and more compressible. It is mainly used for sealing gaps, filling spaces, dampening vibrations and making flexible insulating elements.
In our range we have various versions of foamed EPDM rubber, including the POR 304/CM series in many thicknesses.
When selecting a foam material, check density, compressibility, compression set and cell structure. Different foams do not have the same water resistance or sealing properties.
9. Why do some smooth rubber sheets contain textile reinforcement?
Rubber with a textile insert contains one or more layers of textile reinforcement, which affect its mechanical behavior.
Textile inserts can help limit material elongation, improve dimensional stability and increase suitability for certain tensile loads.
The M&M Intercom offer includes technical rubber without textile inserts and versions with one, two or four inserts.
Such materials are used in selected industrial coatings, protective elements and other applications where additional mechanical reinforcement is needed.
When making seals, we must take into account that the reinforcement can also change the compressibility of the material. Therefore, choosing a larger number of inserts is not always an advantage. The decision must be based on the requirements of the specific application.
10. How to choose the right smooth rubber sheeting for industrial use?
When choosing smooth rubber sheeting, we must first determine under what conditions the material will work and what task it will perform.
The type of chemical medium, working temperature, mechanical loads, sealing requirements, wear resistance, thickness and hardness of the material are particularly important.
If we need a rubber underlay for general surface protection, SBR rubber may be suitable. We often check NBR for contact with mineral oils, EPDM for weather-exposed applications, and silicone rubber for high temperatures.
We must also check whether we need solid or foamed rubber, a self-adhesive version or a material with textile inserts.
At M&M Intercom, we provide expert advice to help you compare different types of rubber and choose the appropriate material, dimension and form of delivery according to the requirements of your industrial application.