Leading Industries Utilizing Rubber Manufacturing

Leading industries utilize expertly manufactured rubber products to isolate vibration, protecting equipment and operators. This is especially essential for industries that require highly specialized machinery. 

When equipment breaks down, it represents a direct threat to revenue during downtime, as well as increased costs for replacing parts.

If machines break down too often or operate poorly, it may stem from improper vibration isolation. When equipment vibrates and shakes, the inside components experience significant wear and tear. Rubber components — such as mounts, bearings, and suspension systems — are essential for protecting equipment, increasing longevity, and reducing operator discomfort.

Because of how complex certain types of equipment are, it’s imperative to use rubber mounts designed and installed for specific applications. The rubber manufacturing experts at RPM Industrial Rubber Parts are ready to guide you to the perfect product for your equipment.

Complete Engine Mount Design Guide

There are many industries that need rubber manufacturing services for different equipment purposes. Continue reading for information on the following:


Rubber Manufacturing in Today’s Industries:
  • New Technology in Heavy Equipment
  • Operator Safety in Heavy Machinery
Rubber Manufacturing & Mining:
  • Mining Equipment Types
  • Vibration Isolation for Mining Equipment
Symptoms of Rubber Flaws in Equipment:
  • Rubber Manufacturing & Construction
  • Construction Equipment Types
  • Vibration Isolation for Construction Equipment
Rubber Manufacturing & Mass Transit:
  • Mass Transit Equipment Types
  • Vibration Isolation for Mass Transit Equipment
Rubber Manufacturing & Agriculture:
  • Agriculture Equipment Types
  • Vibration Isolation for Agriculture Equipment
Rubber Manufacturing & Military:
  • Military Equipment Types
  • Vibration Isolation for Military Equipment

Rubber Manufacturing & Medical:

  • Medical Equipment Types
  • Vibration Isolation for Medical Equipment

 

RPM: Providing Expert Rubber Manufacturing for Every Industry

Rubber needs for equipment are different from industry to industry and from company to company. Whether you are looking for replacement critical components or new parts for innovative designs, RPM Industrial Rubber Parts can help.

Ready to talk to one of our knowledgeable experts? Click on the link to contact us: https://www.rpmrubberparts.com/contact 

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Rubber Manufacturing in Today’s Industries

Although there are a vast amount of industries that take advantage of rubber’s usefulness, there are a handful that stand out from the rest. Take a look:

These industries are at the forefront of producing out-of-the-box equipment manufactured to provide ultimate efficiency. From excavators to armored tanks, the larger the emphasis on utilizing rubber, the better the outcome. 

There are some introductory considerations anyone in any industry should understand about the role and importance of rubber for vibration isolation. Using quality isolating rubber parts is so much more than just implementing a design. When vibration frequencies are limited in machinery, it benefits everyone. 

Equipment is designed for longevity, but without the proper vibration control products, parts work incorrectly or wear down fast. Rubber mounts help to isolate vibration and protect valuable equipment, enhancing its long-term use and value. Using machinery with rubber mounts will decrease equipment downtime by putting less stress and wear on critical components, such as engines.

New Technology

As technology improves, people in every industry are looking for efficient, streamlined operation and enhanced automation. This can mean new sensors and electronic systems that provide additional information about the equipment. When sensors are subject to too much vibration, they are more likely to need frequent repairs and replacements. Implementing rubber mounts can make an enormous difference in the continuing effectiveness of these parts.

Operator Safety

Manufacturer Safety

Of course, equipment is useless without an operator. When working conditions are compromised by ill-functioning machines, operators and workers cannot effectively do their jobs. There are health risks associated with prolonged exposure to vibration in the workplace. Not to mention that morale and productivity also decrease when workers experience unpleasant environments.

Ensuring none of these negative outcomes are only a few of the benefits of using high quality rubber parts for vibration and shock control. When OEMs and end users use excellently crafted rubber parts to improve equipment operation, they are putting people first.

Two types of analyses will occur after the Harmony model is created:

  1. Static analysis: for the engine weight and torque to ensure that the mount can handle the load.
  2. Dynamic analysis: for natural frequencies and engine disturbances that can affect how the engine mount works.

After the Harmony model and the two above analyses are completed, our team will have everything they need to choose the best engine mounts for the job. All of this turns into an output form, which summarizes the data and describes which mounts are recommended. Proper analysis is imperative to choosing and designing an engine mount. If it is analyzed incorrectly, then the input can become amplified which makes the problem worse. The analysis ensures that the system is in complete isolation within the operating range. Although it is easy to simply choose a part from a catalog based on what others are doing, it is important to consult with an engineer first to analyze what you actually need.

Analysis is the first step, then the application is the second consideration.

Equipment Durability and Rubber Parts

Sometimes understanding the root of equipment durability issues is not always clear. Knowing what to look for in terms of rubber mounts and possible flaws can simplify troubleshooting. In some cases, there may even be a lack of a mount or isolator that is causing issues. 

Here are some symptoms of worn rubber parts:

  • Component failures due to shock and vibration
  • Operator discomfort or fatigue
  • Engine component breakages 
  • Excessive noise and/or vibration

Overall, you want to look for any issues that may stem from uncontrolled vibration. For example, when multiple components around an engine have broken, that indicates that the engine is not properly mounted and isolated. As the engine vibrates, the parts around it move too much and can break. 

To learn more about vibration isolators, contact us online.

Keep reading to understand the role that rubber parts play in vibration isolation in various industries.

Rubber Manufacturing & Construction

Consider the amount of construction equipment necessary to build an office building or to repair a road. Now, consider the rubber parts necessary to ensure each of those machines are able to efficiently function. When rubber mounts and components are underutilized, installed wrong, or insufficient, equipment requires more repairs, is less comfortable for operators, and decreases productivity. 

Most construction vehicles utilize large, diesel engines. Due to the size of these engines, they can emit high disturbing frequencies. This, in turn, can damage other parts of the machinery and even cause full breakdowns.

The National Association of Home Builders details that a record number of builders report material shortages. 90% of builders reported that there is a shortage of plywood and 70% of builders reported at least a dozen other materials as being in short supply. This is evidence that it is more important than ever to improve uptime and productivity with reliable equipment.  

Additionally, Construction Dive states that there is a half-a-million construction worker shortage. Keeping and attracting workers has much to do with the work environment. High vibrations can severely impact their health and comfort. It is far easier to stay productive in a quiet, comfortable workplace than in a loud, uncomfortable workplace. Workers become fatigued or even fed up if they’re working in tough environments without accommodations.

These problems can be combated with the right vibration-isolating rubber parts. 

Rubber components are an essential part of construction equipment. Different kinds of rubber mounts, such as engine mounts or flex sandwich mounts, keep vibrating frequencies to a minimum and preserve the longevity of the equipment. Want to learn more about engine mounts? Take a look at this blog: What is an engine mount?

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Construction Equipment Types

Construction machines perform many different jobs. There are plenty of specialties and crafts within the world of construction that utilize different tools and equipment. With these differences, a fleet of construction equipment may contain any combination of types of machinery. Here are some of the most common construction equipment types:

  • Backhoe
  • Excavators
  • Graders
  • Pile driving machine
  • Bulldozers
  • Trenchers
  • Wheel loader
  • Compactors

Each of these different kinds of construction equipment have unique operating standards and requirements. From vibration control to suspension, heavy construction vehicles require rubber parts that precisely fit the engine or cab in question, and can safeguard against excessive wear and tear or early deterioration.

Vibration Isolation for Construction Equipment

Vibration control is one of the most important benefits of using high-quality rubber parts. Isolating disturbing frequencies protects equipment, structures, and workers. 

One of the most overlooked dangers of construction and machine vibration is the damage that can occur to construction materials and structures. Vibration can cause cracking in facades and minor structural integrity issues. 

Using rubber mounts and other components keeps crucial equipment parts running smooth. These are some of the systems in which rubber products play a key role in construction machinery:

  • Valve body mount
  • Rear engine mount
  • Axle suspension system
  • Steering stop
  • Transmission mount
  • Viscous cab mount

This list only scratches the surface of the amount of rubber vibration isolating products found in construction equipment. Understanding vibration isolation theory and why it matters is the best way to combat issues and ensure smooth operation. To learn more about rubber in the Construction Industry, read our blog.

Rubber Manufacturing & Agriculture

It is critical that agricultural equipment is ready to roll when harvesting or planting time arrives. According to Frontu, farm machinery and agriculture trends are trending to more sustainable, tech-first, and reliable farming equipment to meet food demands. 

Agricultural machinery is constantly shaking and rattling, which puts wear and tear on the internal components. To ensure that agricultural machinery meets new sustainability goals by lasting longer, manufacturers should include the use of vibration-reducing rubber parts.

The desire for more technological machinery also requires new types of vibration control in equipment. Sensors and screens are extremely sensitive to vibration. Without isolating mounts, these key components can malfunction.

Agriculture Equipment Types

Hydraulic motor mounts contain a combination of rubber elastomer and a fluid filled chamber to dampen energy. In basic terms the mount has a fluid filled internal chamber where the fluid is forced through an orifice in order to dampen energy rather than being only elastomer. The result is a much higher factor of damping characteristics that can be achieved over just using only elastomers.

One of the main benefits is to provide a much more specific damping profile for application as the fluid chamber can be tuned to the application. This requires a bit more analysis and application work. However, it is a great choice for applications that demand specific performance. These engine mounts are much more complex than other kinds of mounts due to the addition of the hydraulic fluid.

Hydraulic mounts are most common in vehicles with three to four cylinders as these provide the greatest amount of noise and vibration challenges.

Vibration Isolation for Agriculture Equipment

The two most concerning issues of vibration in agriculture equipment are similar to any other industry: operator safety and comfort and machine protection. Using vibration isolation parts eliminates these problems simultaneously. 

When farmers have to operate heavy machinery for long periods of time, they can become uncomfortable from the loud noise and the constant vibration. In fact, according to a study completed at the University of Iowa, there is a correlation between agriculture machinery vibration and back pain among farmers. To combat this issue, manufacturers should use high-quality rubber mounts for engines, cabs, the transmission, and other major components of farming equipment.

Less vibration means fewer health risks for farmers and ease of use for equipment for plowing, planting, harvesting, and maintaining land. 

If manufacturers want to ensure that farmers and farming corporations become repeat customers, they need to build equipment that lasts. Using rubber mounts is a proven way to preserve the delicate balance of purpose-built agriculture machines. To learn more about rubber in Agriculture, read our blog.

Mining Equipment Types

Because of the conditions, mining equipment is often very specialized. These are only a few of the equipment types used in the mining industry:

  • Bolter
  • Personnel carriers
  • Utility vehicles
  • Boom lift
  • Rockbreaker
  • Sprayers and cannons
  • Explosive chargers

This list is sure to change in the future as the industry begins to rely more on electric vehicles and robotics for mining. With these changes, there will be adjustments in how rubber is utilized in the industry. At RPM, we plan to be on the cutting edge of new developments, always meeting the twofold objective of operator safety and streamlined machine operation.

Vibration Isolation for Mining Equipment

Electric vehicles and robotics are more sensitive than traditional vehicles, especially when it comes to environmental conditions. Even mining equipment that continues to use diesel engines requires low-frequency conditions to limit damage. Using rubber mounts to reduce shock is the best way to keep these machines in use for as long as possible, with little downtime in between.

Engines and electronic systems are not the only parts of machinery that require vibration isolation. These are some rubber parts that reduce vibration in other components of equipment.

  • Hood mount
  • Drum mount
  • Mirror tuned vibration absorber
  • Battery mount
  • Steering column mount
  • Steer-by-wire feedback device

There are endless ways in which rubber mounts and parts can reduce harmful frequencies. As the mining industry heads towards sustainable machinery, vibration isolation needs will become more focused on protecting electronic components too. To learn more about rubber in the Mining Industry, read our blog.

Rubber Manufacturing & Mass Transit

Billions of people rely on mass transportation every day. Of course, with so many people relying on these vehicles, they must be mechanically sound. In these systems, some of the most important components are the engines, transmission, and brake systems. 

Sensitive components require shock and vibration control, using rubber parts to isolate harsh, naturally occurring rattling and shaking. When mass transit equipment is manufactured with a variety of rubber parts for protection, there are many benefits:

  • Less required maintenance
  • Fewer breakdowns
  • More comfortable passengers and operators
  • Longer lasting parts
  • Fewer replacements

A broken down bus or rail car is an inconvenience to everyone. With RPM Industrial Rubber Parts, manufacturers have the opportunity to ensure that mass transportation is reliable, comfortable, and safe. 

Mass Transit Equipment Types

There are many kinds of vehicles and equipment that the public uses to get around. According to the American Public Transportation Association, here are some of the most common forms of mass transportation:

  • Streetcars
  • Buses
  • Ferries
  • Monorails
  • Subways
  • Commuter trains
  • Light rail
  • Cable cars

Although they all serve a similar purpose, each is designed for its conditions and use case. A monorail may have some similar components to a bus, but they clearly have very different specifications for braking and steering, among other functions and features. The standard need for vibration isolation is a shared trait. 

Vibration Isolation for Mass Transit Equipment

Manufacturing mass transit equipment is an ever-evolving activity. One of the key tasks is designing the vehicle so that riders and operators are equally comfortable. The other is configuring the equipment to keep sensitive parts safe from disturbing frequencies. 

Mass transportation vehicles use all sorts of GPS systems, tracking devices, and other electronic sensors that are able to display relevant information to drivers/operators and passengers. As mass transport gets more sophisticated and technologically advanced, there are more parts that require protection.

Rubber mounts are the perfect tool for this. Mounts work by isolating the part, such as an engine or sensor, so that any natural vibrations only affect the part minimally. Mounts can be used on seats, electronic systems, steering systems, transmission, wheel suspensions, and more. Ready to read more about rubber in Mass Transit? Read our blog.

Interested in learning more but not sure where to start? Take a look at our blog about the top 4 questions we get asked about selecting the right vibration isolation mount

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Rubber Manufacturing & Military

Manufacturing military equipment and machinery may require a higher level of customization and specification than other types of equipment. Defense grade machinery needs to be equipped to handle the following:

  • Rugged terrain and adverse conditions
  • Heavy gunfire and explosions
  • Artillery additions
  • Personnel safety
  • GPS systems and other electronics

Of course, these are not the only specifications that military equipment must meet. Each vehicle has to handle different levels of risk and meet safety criteria. 

Non-combat-related health risks are associated with mechanical shock in military vehicles. The article “Vehicle Exposure and Spinal Musculature Fatigue in Military Warfighters,” published in the Journal of Athletic Training shows this correlation. In fact, the effects are similar to those seen in farmers and construction workers who handle equipment and machinery.

Rubber parts are useful for defense equipment. They can help to protect personnel, artillery, electronic systems, and more.

Military Equipment Types

There is an increasingly large number of different defense equipment types. Each branch of the military has its own specialties that require different machinery needs. For example, the Navy uses amphibious vehicles and water vessels. Here are some more general military equipment types:

  • Jets, helicopters, and other aircraft
  • Ships and submarines
  • Tanks and armored combat vehicles
  • All-terrain vehicles
  • Multipurpose vehicles

These different types of equipment all need protective rubber parts. From the wheel suspension to the seats to firearms/offensive mechanisms, almost every aspect of these machines requires isolating properties. 

Vibration Isolation for Military Equipment

Consider the dangerous conditions that many military vehicles and equipment face. Explosions, gunfire, rough terrain, and weather are only a few of the risks posed to defense equipment. 

Not only does the equipment need to withstand these conditions, it also needs to be designed and manufactured to keep the personnel within it safe. Military equipment is tested using the Department of Defense MIL-STD-810, called the Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests. When equipment is tested using these standards, one of the most important considerations is how well it can withstand shock, noise, and vibration. 

The concept of vibration isolation gains new meaning when applied to military equipment. The extreme forces that these vehicles endure sometimes means that a standard rubber part won’t cut it. 

Custom parts are an excellent option for equipment that handles more than the average vehicle or machine. At RPM Industrial Rubber Parts, we have experts who are ready to work with manufacturers to find the perfect custom parts solution. Want to learn more about rubber manufacturing for the Military? Read our blog.

To turn your ideas into reality, contact our team at (888) 842-5668 or online: www.rpmrubberparts.com/contact 

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Rubber Manufacturing & Medical

The medical industry is at the forefront of producing new, innovative technologies and devices designed to preserve lives. People around the world rely on these medical devices for short-term and long-term care. Each device has manufacturing parameters that are followed to the letter. In order to do the task the device was designed to do, there cannot be any flaws that may cause external interference.

Rubber manufacturing plays an important role in these technologies. In fact, rubber and silicone are two common materials for medical equipment. 

Medical equipment performs or supports life-saving procedures. Standard, time-tested, and well-researched medical devices use rubber of all kinds to achieve absolute precision. Rubber is also at the forefront of new designs in this field: Custom fabrication of molded rubber parts is a key step in manufacturing new medical devices. Rubber parts may include seals, tubing, and mounts. 

As the medical industry continues to implement groundbreaking technologies and devices, rubber manufacturers will mold and fabricate rubber materials.

Medical Equipment Types

Medical equipment seems to constantly evolve and push the limit of what devices can do. The different kinds of medical equipment is an extensive list. These are some of the most common equipment types that utilize rubber in some capacity:

  • Pumps for oxygen and infusion pumps
  • Sensors and electronic systems
  • Precision equipment
  • IV tubing 
  • CT scanners, x-ray machines, and MRI machines
  • Centrifuges and laboratory equipment

Medical professionals save lives and rely on finely tuned equipment to do so.

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Vibration Isolation for Medical Equipment

It’s important that medical equipment can effectively function for a long time without maintenance or parts replacement. Additionally, it’s important that there aren’t any external factors that are negatively impacting the results of the equipment. 

From reducing sound to improving device performance, rubber mounts and bearings are present in all types of medical devices. 

In laboratory equipment, such as centrifuges, excessive vibration can disrupt processes and cause adverse or inaccurate results. Rubber mounts reduce vibration. With the right vibration isolation, devices can do what they were meant to do without interference. 

Medical device issues often stem from flaws in the rubber components. This is why it is so important to consult experts when manufacturing medical equipment. Learn more about rubber in the Medical Industry here.

There are many different rubber sandwich mount applications that are used to improve medical products and devices: learn more here.

RPM: Providing Expert Rubber Manufacturing for Every Industry

There are clearly overlaps of need in all of these industries. The bottom line is that when rubber parts are effectively designed and manufactured, there are benefits across every sector. Using isolation mounts increase equipment durability, improves operator comfort, and reduces downtime. 

Depending on the industry, type of equipment, and stage in the manufacturing process, there are different needs for rubber parts. 

At RPM Industrial Rubber Parts, we can help. Take a look through our standard parts catalog or give us a call to see if we have what you need. If we don’t, let us know how we can help you get it. We have an expert custom rubber part team of engineers and designers ready for you. 

If you have a new, innovative idea and need a partner in rubber design, we can do that too. The experts at RPM love being a part of the design process, especially for inventive equipment that requires creative and advanced solutions. 

With unparalleled customer service and only the highest quality materials, RPM Industrial Rubber Parts is the partner you need. Give us a call at (888) 842-5668 or contact us online.

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If you need rubber, we’ll have it. If we don’t have it, we’ll find it. If we can’t find it, we’ll make it.