How to store rubber products

During long-term storage, rubber materials may change their physical properties - harden, soften, crack or undergo other forms of surface degeneration. This is caused by one or more influences such as deformation, oxygen, light, ozone, heat, moisture, oil or solvent. Basic guidelines for storage, cleaning and preservation of rubber products are laid down in DIN 7716 and ISO 2230.

The informative storage time for rubber products is directly dependent on the type of base rubber used to produce the rubber. If a combination of rubbers is used for the rubber, the informative storage period applies according to the rubber with the lowest storage period.

For optimal storage, the following conditions are recommended

Heat

The storage temperature for elastomers should be between 5 °C and 25 °C. Avoid direct contact with heat sources such as radiators or sunlight.

Humidity

Relative humidity in the storage area should be below 70%. Extremely humid or dry conditions should be avoided.

Light

Elastomer seals should be protected from light during storage. Direct sunlight and especially strong artificial light containing UV radiation should be avoided. We recommend covering windows in storage areas with red or orange materials.

Oxygen and ozone

If possible, elastomers should be wrapped or placed in airtight containers to protect them from circulating air.

Deformation

Elastomers should, as far as possible, be stored loose without stretching, compression or other deformation. To save space, O-rings with large dimensions may be stored in a coiled condition.