Polyurethane (PU) is one of the most versatile materials in modern industry. First developed by Otto Bayer in 1937, this polymer material plays a critical role today in countless sectors — from automotive to food processing, textiles to defence.
What Is Polyurethane?
Polyurethane is a polymer material obtained from the chemical reaction of a diisocyanate with a polyol component. By varying the conditions of this reaction, products ranging from very soft sponge to steel-hard structures can be obtained. Cast polyurethane is typically used in industrial applications.
Industrial Advantages of Polyurethane
The key reasons polyurethane is preferred in industrial environments include:
Superior Wear Resistance: Offers 3-5 times higher wear resistance compared to standard rubber. This provides significant advantages particularly for conveyor wheels, guide parts and roller coatings exposed to intensive friction.
Wide Hardness Range: Can be produced at any value between 30 Shore A (very soft — rubber-like) and 98 Shore A (very hard — plastic-like). This flexibility allows a single material family to be used in very different applications.
Temperature Resistance: Operates safely between -45°C and +80°C. Delivers the same reliability in cold storage rooms and hot production lines.
Adhesion to Metal and Rubber: With proper surface preparation, polyurethane can be chemically bonded to steel, aluminium, rubber and plastic surfaces, enabling coating of existing metal parts.
Chemical Resistance: Resistant to many oils, greases, solvents and chemicals, ensuring long-lasting performance in industrial environments.
Industrial Applications
With over 25 years of experience, Beray Makina uses polyurethane across these key industrial applications:
Automotive Industry: Assembly line fixtures, door transport supports, conveyor flange coatings and engine transport apparatus. Manufacturers such as Oyak Renault, Tofaş and Togg make extensive use of polyurethane components.
Paper and Packaging: Safia wheels, printing cylinders and transport wheels for corrugated board lines. Polyurethane's wear resistance ensures consistent performance even during long operating hours.
Steel Industry: Pipe turning equipment, cable pulling reels and heavy-duty conveyor wheels. High load capacity and shock absorption are critical in this sector.
Food Processing: Guides, wheels and conveyor components manufactured with food-grade formulations. Compliance with hygiene standards is essential in the food sector.
Textile: Fabric transport wheels, press roller coatings and yarn guides.
Polyurethane or Rubber?
The answer to this frequently asked question varies by application. Polyurethane outperforms rubber in wear resistance and load-bearing capacity. However, rubber offers a wider temperature range and superior resistance to certain chemicals. At Beray Makina, we are experts in both material groups and recommend the most suitable solution for each application.
Beray Makina has been providing polyurethane production and coating services in Bursa since 1998. For technical consultation and quotes: +90 (224) 411 03 24 | beray@beraymakina.com