Rubber Process Oil (RPO)

Rubber Process Oil (RPO) Definition

Rubber Process oil is produced by Crude oil distillation process obtained from the composition and chemical interactions and isolation material extracted called Raffinate. The primary characteristics is the presence of the double bonded mix ring carbon structure.It serves various functions such as enhancing the processability of rubber compounds, improving the dispersion of fillers and additives, reducing viscosity, and providing flexibility to the final rubber product. RPOs are typically derived from petroleum fractions and are tailored to meet specific requirements of rubber processing. Aromatic extracts procured from refineries are suitably blended to meet stringent specifications with different Viscosity. Heavy RPO is also an aromatic process oil with higher viscosity and is specifically developed for use as an extender oil in the manufacture of polystyrene butadiene rubber. This aromatic type of rubber process oil is dark in colour and has good solvency. It is compatible with most rubber polymers and suitable for use in the manufacture of automobile rubber tyres, belting, battery case etc. where colour is not an important parameter. Heavy RPO was specially developed for use in SBS rubber.

Iran is one of the biggest RPO producers in Middle east and zumrut company has a huge share of this production.

Uses of rubber process oil

Rubber process oil (RPO) is utilized in various ways within the rubber industry:

• Improving Processability: RPO helps in the mixing and processing of rubber compounds by reducing viscosity and enhancing flow properties, making it easier to handle during manufacturing processes such as mixing, extrusion, and molding.
• Enhancing Rubber Properties: It improves the physical properties of rubber compounds, such as flexibility, tensile strength, and elongation, leading to better performance characteristics in the final rubber products.
• Facilitating Vulcanization: RPO aids in the vulcanization process, which involves curing rubber compounds to achieve desired properties like elasticity, durability, and heat resistance. It acts as a carrier for sulfur and accelerators, which are essential components of the vulcanization process.
• Improving Rubber Product Performance: By optimizing the dispersion of fillers, reinforcing agents, and additives within the rubber matrix, RPO contributes to the overall performance and quality of rubber products, including tires, hoses, seals, belts, and industrial rubber goods.
• Reducing Costs: RPO can be used as a cost-effective alternative to more expensive additives and processing aids, helping manufacturers to achieve desired performance standards while maintaining competitiveness in the market.
• Customization: Different grades and types of RPO are available to suit specific requirements of different rubber formulations and manufacturing processes, allowing for customization and optimization of rubber compound properties.

There are three different types of rubber process oils

1. Naphthenic RPO: Derived from naphthenic crude oil, this type of RPO offers good solvating power and low volatility. It’s suitable for applications requiring excellent low-temperature properties and compatibility with natural rubber and synthetic elastomers.
2. Paraffinic RPO: Produced from paraffinic crude oil, this RPO type offers good thermal stability, oxidation resistance, and low volatility. It’s commonly used in applications requiring higher viscosity and compatibility with certain synthetic rubbers.
3. Aromatic RPO: Derived from aromatic crude oil, this type of RPO offers high solvating power and excellent compatibility with carbon black. It’s often used in applications requiring reinforcement of rubber compounds and improved abrasion resistance.

Each type has its unique properties and is chosen based on the specific requirements of rubber processing and end-product applications.

Packing of Rubber Process Oil

Rubber process oil packed in new or used 180 kg drums, Iso tank, Flexi tanks, and bulk shipments. Each 20-foot container takes 80 drums.

 

Technical Data Sheet of Light RPO:

 

TDS of light RPO

 

 

Technical Data Sheet of Heavy RPO:

 

 

TDS of Heavy RPO

 

 

TDS of Heavy RPO