Why Polyurethane?
Novathane Polyurethane is a cast elastomer with the versatility to be molded in a wide range of techniques and properties for improved product performance across many applications.
ADVANTAGES OF POLYURETHANE
- Versatility in hardness levels
- Abrasion and wear resistance
- High impact tolerance
- Wide temperature range
- High elasticity
- Noise and vibration reduction
- Tear resistance
- High tensile strength






Resilience
Unlike rubbers, high hardness polyurethane can be just as resilient as softer materials. In shock absorbing applications, low rebound compounds are usually used in the range of 10-14%. In high frequency vibrations or where quick recovery is needed, compounds of 40-65% resilience are used.
In general, toughness is enhanced by resilience.
Temperature Range
Polyurethane can be used in a wide range of temperatures. When exposed to freezing temperatures they remain quite flexible, are resistant to thermal shock, and can withstand sudden temperature drops without cracking.
Compressibility
When your component must endure a compressive load, this becomes an important property to account for, and Novathane can create a custom solution to fit your needs.
Hardness
Novathane polyurethane elastomers can be altered for a hardness level ranging from 10-15 Shore A to over 80 Shore D.
Tear Strength
Resistance to tearing when tension is applied determines tear strength. Tear strength, along with tensile strength, is critical to predicting an elastomer’s working strength in demanding applications.
Chemical Resistance
Novathane Polyurethanes resist a bread range of liquids such as oil, crease and chemicals.
Flame Resistance
Products made from Novathane Polyurethane can be formulated with additives for flame resistance as needed.
Elasticity
Conventional plastic materials can become brittle and weak over time. Unlike plastic, Novathane Polyurethanes remain elastic and resist fracture. This amount of toughness makes polyurethanes ideal for parts that have to hold against high impact or repeated impingement.
Electrical Resistance
Novathane Potting Polyurethanes are excellent insulators. They are used extensively in potting and encapsulating applications, as well as other areas where electrical isolation is vital.
Damping
Special formulations are available for sound-deadening and anti-vibration applications. These generally have low resilience.
Abrasion Resistance
In many applications of polyurethane elastomers, good resistance to abrasion, and low coefficient of friction are essential characteristics.
In comparison to rubber, plastics, and even some metals, Novathane Polyurethane elastomers have a definite wear advantage.
FDA Approval
Novathane can utilize FDA approved materials for both wet and dry food in food processing industries.
Color
Polyurethane can be manufactured for any customer color requirements.
Coefficient of Friction
The lowest coefficients of frictions are achieved with high hardness formulations. Additives can also increase the COF to achieve a comparable UHMW solution adding toughness to your application.
Tensile Strength
Novathane Polyurethane exhibits a high tensile strength when compared to other elastomers, making it less likely to fail in abrasive environments.