A Jacobs & Thompson Company

FAQs

Since 2002, Alanto has specialised in the conversion of Foam and Rubber into products such as coils, pads, tapes, seals, gaskets, rolls and more. We supply our full range of products both to direct customers and converters, for use anywhere, from packaging to automotive, from marine to construction, there’s not a sector we don’t supply.

Rubber and Foam FAQs

What is the difference between Neoprene and EPDM?

Neoprene is formulated to allow resistance and low swell when in contact with environments containing certain Oils and Chemicals. EPDM is formulated to allow resistance to External Weather, U.V Light and Ozone. Neoprene and EPDM are also available as a combination of the two polymers. This material has low resistance to oil, UV, and Ozone, however it remains flame retardant.

Neoprene and EPDM are also available as a combination of the two polymers, known in the trade as a blend.

Which is the most expensive Neoprene or EPDM?

Dependent upon density, Neoprene is the more expensive of the two.

What is the difference between closed cell and open cell materials?

Closed cell materials do not allow ingress of Air, Dust, Moisture or Water. They do not recover after compression as good as open cell materials. Open cell materials allow ingress of Air, Dust, Moisture and Water but have superior recovery after compression in comparison to closed cell.

EPDM sponge Rubber sheet is closed cell, a key feature is the materials air and watertight structure. This provides excellent thermal sealing as well as preventing the build up of bacteria and mould. Whereas Solid Rubber is an example of an open cell material.

Which Foam Rubber products in your range are the cheapest to buy?

Expanded Polyurethane open cell Foam and Expanded Polyethylene closed cell Foam are the lowest cost products.

What does Density mean?

Density is the weight of the material normally expressed in terms of kilos per cubic metre.

Does Density relate to hardness?

No, Density is measured by weight, whereas, Hardness is measured by compressibility. For example, Neoprene sponge has a lower hardness rating than Rubber gaskets, as it can be compressed easier.

How do I decide which adhesive is best for my product?

There are 2 main product categories for laminating pressure sensitive adhesives to cellular materials;

Rubber Resin Adhesive:
Provides high initial tack or bond strength with temperature performance up to a high of 60°C. Not suitable for environments containing high moisture or water content.

Solvent Acrylic Adhesive:
Provides lower initial tack but bond strength improves over time. Performs in applications requiring high temperature performance up to 120°C. Suitable for environments where high moisture or water is present.

Are Rubber materials Flame Retardant?

Certain materials are formulated with Flame Retardant additives so that they can be supplied under certification to recognised FR Specifications.

Our flame retardant materials include Neoprene sheeting and rolls, a combination of Neoprene and EPDM Rubber sheet, a combination of Nitrile and PVC, and open cell Polyurethane Foam.

Which of our Rubber fabrication materials are most suitable for Body Protection?

Our range of Vinyl Nitrile closed cell Foam products have been designed and formulated to provide Impact Body Protection to minimise Blunt Trauma in numerous markets.

This material is commonly used as body protection for equestrian riders, the police, and the military. This means that it is vital that it is manufactured and tested properly; these materials have been tested and certified by recognised bodies within market segments.

Are your Rubber materials available in sheets and continuous rolls?

This is dependent upon the material grade, however, most cellular Rubber materials manufactured in sheet format can be converted into continuous rolls by Alanto Ltd.

Some of our materials available in sheets and rolls include:

Get in Touch

We have a devoted team of experts ready to take your call and answer any further questions you have about our company, products and solutions - please do not hesitate get in touch.

Alternatively, stay informed with our latest news, updates and social media activities.