Some studies on the flow behavior of EPDM rubber in dry and lubricated conditions

Abstract

Different varieties of rubber materials are used now a day in different engineering applications. Its application, particularly as seal, in automobiles is very important. Elasticity of rubber is more than metals. None the less, capacity to damp vibration, internal friction and energy storage capacity are also superior over steel or other conventional metals. Dissipation of energy is achieved due to high inner damping property of rubber under compressive force. This phenomenon is known as hysteretic friction. Rubber friction is associated with many practical advantages as well as limitations. Thus, the related study in this area is need based and of great practical importance.Proposed experimental work is based on compression tests for the determination of the flow behavior of ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM). EPDM with varied hardness values have been compressed dry and under lubrications. Lubrication has been achieved with talc, grease and water. Axisymmetric compressive loads have been applied on the specimens through flat mild steel platens using Instron (UK). The flow behaviors have been computed from the observed data.It has been revealed from the obtained data that the flow characteristics have greatly influenced by the hardness of rubber. The hardness of rubber depends on the proportion of carbon. Hence, flow behavior may be adjusted by adjusting the proportion of carbon black. Comparative studies of flow behavior in dry as well as lubricated conditions have also been made and concluded accordingly.