PU Rod 16-400mm Polyurethane Rod
Polyurethane (PU) rod is a versatile, high-performance thermoplastic or thermoset material synthesized through the reaction of diisocyanates with polyols (long-chain polyethers or polyesters). PU rods are known for their exceptional mechanical, chemical, and physical properties, making them suitable for a wide range of industrial, commercial, and consumer applications.
The structure of PU rods consists of alternating hard and soft segments, which contribute to their unique balance of flexibility, stiffness, and durability. The hard segments provide rigidity and thermal stability, while the soft segments offer elasticity and impact resistance. The exact properties of PU rods can be tailored by adjusting the ratio of hard to soft segments, as well as by incorporating additives such as fillers, pigments, and flame retardants.
PU rods are manufactured through processes such as casting, extrusion, and compression molding, which allow for precise control of dimensions, shape, and mechanical properties. The final product can be transparent, opaque, or colored, and it can be formulated to withstand harsh environments, including high temperatures, abrasion, and chemical exposure.
Due to their versatility, PU rods are widely used in industries such as automotive, manufacturing, electronics, construction, and medical devices, where high performance, durability, and resistance to wear and environmental factors are critical.
Performance
Mechanical properties:
High elasticity and toughness, tensile strength can reach 30-50MPa, elongation at break 300-600%.
Excellent wear resistance (5-8 times that of natural rubber), suitable for high friction environment.
Strong tear resistance (tear strength 50-80 kN/m), outstanding impact resistance.
Chemical properties:
Oil resistant (mineral oil, lubricating oil), solvent resistant (weak acid, weak alkali), not resistant to strong polar solvents (such as ketones, esters).
Good hydrolysis resistance, suitable for humid environment.
Environmental adaptability:
Wide operating temperature range (-40℃ to +80℃, short-term resistance to 120℃).
Resistant to UV (when adding stabilizer) and ozone aging.
Other characteristics:
Significant vibration reduction and noise reduction effect, excellent resilience under dynamic load.
Non-toxic (FDA or RoHS compliant)
Advantages
Durability: far exceeds rubber, PVC and other materials, with a lifespan extended by 3-5 times, reducing the frequency of replacement.
Economical: Although the unit price is high, the overall cost of use is low (less maintenance, less downtime loss).
Design flexibility: can be turned, drilled, bonded, easy to process, and supports customized color and hardness.
Safe and environmentally friendly: no plasticizer migration, some models can be recycled.
Scope of application
Industrial field: working conditions with high wear, high impact or shock absorption.
Outdoor application: environment with high weather resistance requirements.
Precision parts: scenarios with strict requirements on dimensional stability and elasticity.
Conclusion
PU rods are a high-performance, versatile material with exceptional mechanical, chemical, and thermal properties. Their unique combination of abrasion resistance, elasticity, impact resistance, and chemical stability makes them suitable for a wide range of industrial, automotive, medical, and consumer applications.
With customizable formulations, ease of machining, and cost-effectiveness, PU rods continue to be a preferred choice for engineers, manufacturers, and designers seeking durable and reliable materials for demanding applications. As technology advances, PU rods are expected to play an even greater role in emerging industries, including aerospace, renewable energy, and advanced robotics.