Neoprene pads are used widely across a number of industries and applications. They can be found cushioning heavy-duty industrial machinery, preventing damage to either the concrete floor underneath or the machine itself. That is a use in which neoprene vibration isolators would be ideal, to prevent the machinery from making movements which could be harmful to its performance. Dance studios can use a neoprene rubber pad as a “floating floor” underneath their tile, concrete or hardwood floor surface. Doing this will protect the floors and increase their lifetimes, as well as make them safer. Fire doors utilize neoprene weather stripping on the doorframe for padding and sealing purposes. The list can go on and on. There are multiple versions of neoprene, each with a different durometer which will determine the application that it is best suited for

The extensive use of this simple neoprene rubber pad raises the question: “What do neoprene pads offer as opposed to other types of rubber?” Here are four reasons why neoprene is so useful in a variety of applications:

1. Broad set of physical properties: Neoprene is commonly known as the “all-purpose” synthetic elastomer. For the most part, synthetic elastomers are engineered to have very specific qualities that are meant to be utilized for particular applications. Neoprene, on the other hand, possesses many traits that are useful in the widest range of applications, but not necessarily suited for some of the more specialized functions. Its strength lies in its balance of characteristics. This is why its designation is completely appropriate. This observation rings true for neoprene’s physical properties; neoprene has a relatively low density with moderate tear and abrasion resistances. They say all great things need moderation!
2. Moderate resistance to oils: As mentioned earlier, neoprene vibration isolators are often found under industrial machinery and other mechanical equipment. Such applications often are exposed to oils and greases. Rubbers, like styrene-butadiene and natural rubber, react adversely when exposed to oil. Neoprene and nitrile are two of the very few rubber products that possess a resistance to oil. Though nitrile is preferred in most instances that oils are present, neoprene is less expensive and more readily available, making it more ideal for application in which oil and grease exposure won’t be the biggest issue at hand, but is still necessary to keep in mind.
3. Moderate resistance to ozone, sun and weathering: A neoprene rubber pad is used in both indoor and outdoor applications due to its resistance to ozone, UV rays and general weathering. It also has good aging resistance, which is one of the reasons why they are often used in the construction of houses and buildings. If you were to find one unique feature of neoprene it would be its combination resistance to oil and ozone, sun and weathering. Nitrile, the other elastomer resistant to oil, has poor resistance to ozone, UV rays and weathering.

Neoprene pads possess the general traits that are characteristic of most elastomers including a large operable temperature range and flexibility. They also have a shock-absorbent capability, which is a reason why they are used as neoprene vibration isolators. What can’t neoprene do? Not much, for it is the “Jack of all Trades” in the elastomers industry. It’s best qualities is its balance of all other qualities. So, whenever you want a cost effective and quick pad to protect parts, then commit to a neoprene rubber pad.