Die-cutting and Cutting of Critical Industrial Components: Custom Rubber and Foam
Rubbers and foams are crucial in mechanical engineering, automotive, construction, and the packaging industry, where vibrations, leaks, noise, and transport damage must be prevented.
Materials such as NR, SBR, NBR, EPDM, PUR, neoprene, silicone, bitumen, plus comfort, technical, and insulation foams, provide components that fit perfectly both mechanically and chemically, withstanding high loads, extremes, and aggressive media without assembly issues or rapid wear.
Quick Guide
Overview of rubber and foams for industry
Material
Core Benefits
Applications
Comfort,
Technical,
Insulation foam
- Sound-absorbing
- Insulating
- Acoustics
- Thermal barriers
NR (Natural Rubber)
- Elastic
- Wear-resistant
- Damping
- Shock absorption
SBR
- Acid and salt resistant
- Affordable
- Gaskets
- Insulation
NBR
- Oil and fuel resistant
- Automotive
- Pumps
EPDM
- UV, ozone, and weather resistant
- Outdoor seals
- Roofs
PUR
Neoprene
- Flexible
- Chemically resistant
- Vibration isolation
- Sleeves
Silicone
- Temperature resistant (-60°C to +200°C)
- Food
- Medical sector
Bitumen
- Waterproof
- Tough
- Construction
- Expansion joints
APPLICATIONS
Mechanical engineering applications
In mechanical engineering, everything revolves around reliability, predictable maintenance, and safe operation. Die-cut rubber seals and dampers ensure leak-free connections in hydraulic and pneumatic systems, pumps, gearboxes, and process piping. NBR and SBR are widely used for oil, grease, and coolant-resistant gasket rings, while EPDM or silicone are chosen where heat, steam, or chemical media are involved.
For vibration and shock absorption under machines, compressors, fans, and production lines, support blocks and dampers are die-cut from NR or neoprene. These elements reduce dynamic forces on machine frames, lower noise levels in the hall, and limit the transfer of vibrations to the foundation and surroundings, helping to prevent structural damage and production errors.
Applications in the automotive sector
In the automotive sector, tolerances are small and requirements regarding noise, vibration, and comfort are very high. Die-cut NBR gaskets are used in engine compartments, fuel systems, and transmissions, where oil and fuel resistance is crucial. SBR and EPDM seals provide reliable sealing around doors, trunks, air ducts, and HVAC systems, offering good resistance to weather, ozone, and temperature fluctuations.
NVH control
Foams play a major role in NVH control (Noise, Vibration, Harshness). Comfort foam and technical foam are die-cut or cut to size as interlayers, pads, and strips in dashboards, interior panels, headliners, and wiring harnesses to eliminate rattles, resonances, and creaks. Insulation foams serve as thermal and acoustic barriers in floors, walls, and engine partitions, improving driving comfort and energy efficiency.
Applications in the construction sector
In the construction sector, rubber and foam components are used where waterproofing, expansion, and insulation are critical. EPDM, SBR, or bitumen strips and gaskets provide durable sealing around roof penetrations, facade systems, window and door frames, and joints in parking garages or basements. These materials combine waterproofing with resistance to UV, ozone, acids, and salts, which is essential in exposed and concrete environments.
Insulation and technical foams are used to limit contact noise, vibration noise from technical installations, and heat loss, contributing to energy performance and comfort in buildings.
Packaging applications with foam
Foams excel as shock-absorbing inserts, foam-in-lays, and protective layers for fragile products such as electronics, medical equipment, and machine parts. Custom-made comfort and technical foams protect during transport, presentation, and return logistics and reduce damage claims.
Possible processing by De Kemphaan
Die-cutting, laser cutting, milling, jigsawing, sawing, or assembling: the optimal processing method depends on the material, shape, series size, and tolerances.
By flexibly combining these with laser cutting or milling, we deliver complete solutions tailored to your needs in mechanical engineering, automotive, or packaging.
For even greater precision and complex designs, De Kemphaan presents its CAD digital cutting machine with camera system.
Ready for your custom solution?
Discover how die-cutting, sawing, or assembly can optimize your project. Request your quote or advice today, from prototype to series production. Contact us for a non-binding consultation!
