If you own or manage an industrial business, you’ll most likely need urethane products for everything from durable cast parts to cutting surfaces. Thermoset polyurethane, in particular, is extremely versatile and suits a variety of applications in fields such as agriculture, product development, after market automotive, high tech aerospace, and even movie special effects. Read on to learn more about thermoset polyurethane’s uses and benefits. 

Your Guide to Thermoset Polyurethane

Overview

 Thermoset polyurethane is a polymer that can be formulated to produce soft and pliable rubbers all the way up to hard and rigid plastics, depending on how prepolymers are chosen during the manufacturing process. It is known for being both durable and flexible, due to its combination of both hard and soft segments, which consist of hydrogen bonds and polyol, respectively.  Typically, Thermoset Polyurethane comprises of two separate A and B liquid components that are mixed together as liquids and will cure within a given time after cast into a mold.  Mold materials can be made from metal, silicone, 3D prints, or machined plastic.  Due to the aggressive adhesion qualities, a mold release is typically used in conjunction with cast polyurethane to avoid parts sticking to the mold.

Benefits 

In addition to extreme flexibility, toughness, and elasticity, thermoset polyurethane resists abrasion, so it’s unlikely to incur damages as a result of rubbing, scraping, cutting, or harsh impacts. Some systems withstand temperatures over 250 degrees Fahrenheit and can hold substantial load capacities as well. It’s also available in a wide range of hardness levels (Durometer), from shore OO (soft, gel like) to shore D (rigid plastic). It is typically resistant to water and has versatile shock absorbance capabilities.  Some flexible systems have rebound values of anywhere from 5-75%. In certain applications it has a longer life expectancy and outperforms products made from typical rubber, plastic, and metal.  Many rigid polyurethanes work great to simulate injection molded plastics without the expense and hassle of expensive tooling.  There are also Fire Retardant variants that help with UL certification for some parts and applications.

The next time you need dependable polyurethane products for your industrial operations, get in touch with BJB Enterprises. Since 1970, this Tustin, CA-based business has provided polyurethane, epoxy, silicone, and adhesive products to clients throughout the west coast, midwest, and south. Call (714) 734-8450 to place a custom order, and visit them online to learn more about their inventory of equipment and accessories.