2026-08-01
Choose polyurethane (PU) when you need high abrasion resistance and load-bearing capacity. Choose rubber (NBR/NR/EPDM) when you need flexibility, vibration damping or oil resistance at lower cost.
PU outperforms rubber by 3-8x in abrasion tests (DIN ISO 4649). For conveyor rollers, scraper blades and wear blocks that run against metal surfaces, PU typically lasts 3-5x longer.
PU handles 2-3x the compressive load of rubber at the same size. This matters in heavy conveyor systems, press rollers and mining equipment.
Standard PU: -30 to +80C. NBR: -30 to +100C. EPDM: -50 to +130C. If your application runs above 100C continuously, consider rubber or high-temp PU grades.
PU resists oils, greases and most solvents. NBR excels at oil/fuel resistance. EPDM is best for water/steam/weather. NR (natural rubber) has poor oil resistance.
PU raw material costs 2-3x more than standard rubbers, but longer service life often provides a lower cost-per-operating-hour. For high-wear positions, the extra material cost is recovered through fewer change-outs.
| Requirement | Choose PU | Choose Rubber |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasion | Best | Good |
| Load bearing | Best | Moderate |
| Vibration damping | Good | Best |
| Oil/fuel resistance | Good | NBR only |
| Heat (>100C) | Limited | EPDM/NBR |
Bottom line: sliding friction + high loads = choose PU. Vibration damping + high heat = choose rubber. Tell us your operating conditions and we will recommend the right material.