Even quality rubber products can deteriorate with improper storage. Here's how to avoid it.
Storage temperature: optimal +5°C to +25°C. Don't store near heaters or below -20°C.
Humidity: 50-70%. Too dry causes cracking, too humid causes mold and surface deterioration.
Light protection: UV radiation is the main enemy of EPDM and natural rubber. Store in dark places or opaque packaging.
Ozone protection: electric motors and welding equipment emit ozone. Store rubber products away from such sources.
Deformation: don't store in compressed or stretched state. Rings and cuffs should lie flat.
Storage life: NBR — up to 3 years, EPDM — up to 5 years, Viton — up to 10 years, silicone — up to 10 years.
Store closed, away from light and ozone, without stretching rings. Order for the next need: after approval a standard batch is typically 3–5 business days — not a year of stock.
Storage kills rubber more quietly than the machine. Welding ozone and window UV crack parts before fitment. Do not leave bags open or hang rings stretched on a nail.
Keep near room temperature, away from radiators and “just in case” frost. Sunlight is hostile to both silicone and NBR.
Copper, oils and solvents on the shelf are a separate risk. Do not park gaskets on oily plywood.
After months in stock, flex and inspect. Cracks on bending mean the part should not go into a critical circuit.
