BS 5176:2003

Describes a system of classification of solid vulcanized rubbers based on the test values obtained in standard laboratory tests for physical properties.

This British Standard specifies a system of classification of solid vulcanized rubbers based on the test values obtained in standard laboratory tests for physical properties. This classification does not imply that every combination of properties for which a code can be given is technically feasible.

In addition this British Standard seeks to limit the variety of vulcanized rubbers used in industry and Table 6 contains a range of vulcanized rubbers to meet the great majority of industrial needs. To do so, an attempt has been made to align several rubbers with the physical property requirements of other well-established British Standard Specifications (see Annex B).

This standard is not intended for use with thermoplastic elastomers, including those sometimes described as thermoplastic vulcanizates.