Rubber and elastomer products are far more sensitive to storage conditions than metal or plastic parts. An O-ring or gasket stored incorrectly can harden, crack, or deform before it is ever installed. ISO 2230 provides internationally recognized guidelines for the storage of rubber products. This article covers the key rules for proper storage.
Temperature and Humidity Control
ISO 2230 recommends storing rubber products in a cool, dry environment, around 15°C. High temperature accelerates the aging reactions in rubber, while excessive humidity can lead to hydrolysis or mold growth in some materials. Relative humidity is generally best kept below 65%.
Protection from Ozone and UV Light
Ozone causes surface cracking (ozone cracking) particularly in unsaturated elastomers such as natural rubber and SBR. For this reason:
- Rubber products should be kept away from electric motors, transformers, or other ozone-generating equipment.
- Direct sunlight and fluorescent lighting should be avoided, since UV light can harden and crack the material.
- Opaque, UV-blocking packaging or cardboard boxes are preferred.
Correct Storage Position and Avoiding Deformation
Rubber parts should never be stacked or stored in a way that causes compression or deformation:
- O-rings and thin-section seals should be stored flat, without stretching or hanging, whenever possible.
- Stacking heavy parts on top of each other can cause permanent deformation in the parts underneath, similar to compression set.
- A first-in, first-out (FIFO) stock rotation keeps older parts from exceeding their shelf life before use.
Chemical Exposure and Packaging
Contact with solvents, oils, acids, or other reactive chemicals in the storage area should be avoided. Products kept in their original packaging — ideally in polyethylene bags inside light-blocking cartons — get the best protection against external factors.
At Alpin Rubber & Plastic Technologies, we share packaging and storage recommendations with our customers so that the rubber parts we manufacture stay in proper condition both before shipment and in the customer’s own warehouse.