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31 Jul 2024

Rubber Extrusions in the UK: Industry Overview and Trends

The UK rubber extrusion market is a vital component of the broader European market, which holds a significant share of 49%. The UK's emphasis on advanced technologies and sustainable manufacturing practices positions it as a leader in quality and environmental responsibility. This is driven by magnetic demand from the automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods sectors, all of which present numerous opportunities for innovation and growth.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the rubber market in more detail, globally, and in the UK, with a particular focus on rubber extrusions.

The Rubber Extrusions Market in the UK

We looked at a report by Fortune Business Insights on the rubber extruder market 2024–2032.

Regionally, Europe dominates the market with a significant share of 49%, and the UK contributes to this with its focus on advanced technologies and sustainable manufacturing. The UK's robust regulatory framework, while challenging, advocates high standards that position UK manufacturers as leaders in quality and sustainability within the global market.

Like the global landscape, the UK rubber extrusion market is driven by demand in the automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods sectors, all of which present opportunities for innovation and growth. Compliance with UK-specific regulations such as UK REACH and UKCA marking, along with stringent environmental laws, increases operational costs but also emphasises sustainable practices.

Globally, the rubber extrusion market benefits from the economic efficiency and material wastage reduction inherent in the extrusion process. The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted production and supply chains, but it also highlighted opportunities for UK manufacturers to reduce dependency on imports, particularly from China.

Key market players endeavour to advance by adopting advanced manufacturing technologies, such as 3D printing and automated quality control systems. But, the market also faces unique challenges, notably Brexit-induced trade barriers and regulatory complexities.

Key Manufacturers and Their Contributions

The rubber market is constantly being developed to fortify rubber extrusion applications and offer more efficient, innovative, and higher-quality solutions. Let’s take a look at some key global developments.

3D Printing Integration

In 2019, Dow unveiled SILASTIC™ 3D 3335 Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR), a pioneering 3D-printable LSR, enabling the rapid production of high-performing prototypes and custom parts. This innovation reduces the concept-design-testing cycle from months to days and seamlessly transitions prototypes to mass production via injection moulding. Developed with German RepRap GmbH, this material supports fast prototyping, small manufacturing trials, and the creation of customised designs across industries, including automotive and consumer goods. This technology could revolutionise rubber extrusion by enabling faster design iterations and customised extruded profiles, enhancing efficiency and product innovation.

Advanced Material Formulations

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company announced a breakthrough with the release of a tyre composed of 70% sustainable materials, marking a large step of progress towards their 2030 goal of producing a 100% sustainable material tyre. This innovation includes 13 key ingredients across nine tyre components which aim at improving performance while reducing environmental impact. Notable advancements include the use of carbon black derived from methane, carbon dioxide, and plant-based oils, soybean oil to maintain rubber pliability, silica from rice husk ash for improved grip and fuel efficiency, and recycled polyester from plastic waste.

Sustainability is also a key consideration in rubber extrusion and advanced material production methods such as this bode well for significantly reducing environmental footprint while maintaining high product performance and quality.

Sustainable Rubber Compounds

Teknor Apex's partnership with UBQ Materials introduces a new line of sustainable thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) made from UBQ™, a plastic substitute derived from unsorted municipal waste. This innovation reduces the carbon footprint and promotes circularity by diverting waste from landfills. The inclusion of UBQ™ in TPEs offers a versatile, recyclable material suitable for automotive, consumer products, and construction industries. For rubber extrusion, this development means the potential to create flexible, high-performance rubber products with a significantly reduced environmental impact, aligning with increasing market demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials.

Innovations in Rubber Extrusions Manufacturing

Looking at the wider scope of innovation across the rubber extrusion industry, technology and sustainability take the lead. Here are some examples of the direction innovation is taking.

Aspect of Manufacturing	Innovation
Advanced Material Formulations	Development of new rubber compounds with improved properties like heat resistance, durability, and performance. Integration of bio-based and sustainable materials to reduce environmental impact.
3D Printing Integration	Combining traditional extrusion processes with 3D printing to produce complex and customised profiles. Reducing lead times and material waste through on-demand production.
Automated Quality Control Systems	Use of high-speed cameras and AI-driven software for real-time inspection of extruded products. Increased accuracy and efficiency in detecting defects and inconsistencies.
Energy-Efficient Technologies	Implementation of microwave curing and other energy-saving technologies in the extrusion process. Reduction in energy consumption and operational costs.
Digital Twin and Simulation	Utilising digital twin technology to simulate and optimise extrusion processes. Enhancing process control and reducing trial-and-error in production.
Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0	Integration of IoT and smart sensors for real-time monitoring and data analytics. Improved process automation and predictive maintenance capabilities.
Eco-Friendly Manufacturing Practices	Adoption of green manufacturing processes to minimise carbon footprint. Use of recycled materials and waste reduction strategies.
Enhanced Extrusion Equipment	Development of more precise and efficient extrusion machinery. Incorporation of modular designs for flexibility and ease of maintenance.

Challenges and Opportunities in the UK Market

The UK rubber extrusion market faces several challenges that impact its growth and competitiveness. Brexit uncertainties introduced trade barriers and tariffs, complicating supply chains and increasing regulatory compliance costs. The new customs framework and increased red tape under the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) have made trade with the EU more difficult, leading many UK businesses to diversify their supplier portfolios and seek alternatives in the domestic market.

Stricter environmental regulations further burden manufacturers with higher compliance costs related to waste management and emissions standards. The volatility in raw material prices, particularly natural and synthetic rubber, coupled with a heavy reliance on imports, adds to supply chain vulnerabilities.

Despite these challenges, there are some real opportunities before the rubber extrusion market. There is, for instance, a growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable rubber products, exemplified by previously mentioned innovations like Teknor Apex's use of UBQ™ in TPE compounds. The adoption of automation, AI, and IoT can enhance efficiency and product quality, aligning with Industry 4.0 advancements.

Customised and high-performance products are increasingly sought after in the automotive, aerospace, and healthcare sectors, offering growth potential in niche markets, especially when it comes to bespoke extrusion projects. Expanding into international markets through trade agreements can boost exports, leveraging the UK's reputation for quality. Collaborative efforts with research institutions and participation in government programs can drive technological advancements and innovation. Additionally, government support in the form of funding and grants for R&D and sustainable practices, along with policies promoting domestic manufacturing, can further bolster the industry's growth and global competitiveness.

Regulatory and Environmental Considerations

Here’s a comprehensive table of UK legislation relevant to the manufacture and production of rubber extrusions. It’s important we meet these requirements to produce high-quality products and adhere to our corporate environmental and social responsibilities.

Regulations and Legislation	Detail	Relevance to Rubber Extrusion Industry
BSI (British Standards Institution)	The UK’s national standards body which provides standards for various products including rubber extrusions.	Ensures that rubber extrusion products meet national quality and safety standards for commercial viability.
BS 2751	Specification for acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) used in oil and fuel resistance applications.	Critical for producing rubber extrusions that are resistant to oil and fuel, important for automotive applications.
BS 4443	Methods of testing for assessing the effects of liquids on vulcanised rubber.	Ensures rubber extrusions can withstand exposure to various liquids, crucial for durability and performance.
BS 903	General physical testing methods for rubber.	Standardises testing methods to ensure consistent quality and performance of rubber extrusions.
BS EN 681-1	Concerns elastomeric seals and material requirements for pipe joint seals used in water and drainage applications.	Relevant for producing rubber seals used in plumbing and drainage systems, ensuring material suitability and performance.
ASTM Standards	Various ASTM standards for rubber properties, such as ASTM D2000 for rubber materials and ASTM D1149 for rubber deterioration.	Provides guidelines for material properties and degradation, essential for ensuring the longevity and reliability of rubber extrusions.
ISO Standards	International standards for rubber materials and products, like ISO 3302 for tolerances and ISO 37 for tensile testing.	Ensures global compliance and quality of rubber extrusions, facilitating international trade and standardisation.
OEM Specifications	Original equipment manufacturer specifications for automotive and aerospace applications.	Ensures that rubber extrusions meet the specific requirements and quality standards of automotive and aerospace manufacturers.
Climate Change Act 2008	Commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with UK targets.	Encourages the implementation of energy-efficient processes and the use of renewable energy in rubber extrusion manufacturing.
Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR) 2016	Framework for obtaining necessary permits for emissions, waste management, and water discharge.	Ensures compliance with environmental regulations, minimising the environmental impact of rubber extrusion manufacturing.
Circular Economy Package (UK Policy)	UK government policy promoting the use of recycled materials and designing for longevity and recyclability.	Supports sustainability by encouraging the use of recycled materials and designing products for recyclability.
Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011	Legal requirements for managing and reducing waste, including recycling.	Promotes waste reduction strategies and recycling of rubber waste, crucial for environmental sustainability.
Air Quality Standards Regulations 2010	Regulations setting limits for air pollutants, including VOCs.	Requires control of emissions to minimise air pollution from rubber extrusion processes.
Water Resources Act 1991	Framework for managing water resources and preventing contamination.	Ensures proper management of water usage and prevents contamination of water sources in rubber extrusion manufacturing.
Sustainable Sourcing (UK Policy)	Encourages sourcing raw materials from sustainable and ethically responsible suppliers.	Ensures natural rubber is sourced sustainably, supporting environmental and social responsibility.
Product Stewardship and Lifecycle Assessment (UK Policy)	Evaluates the environmental impact of products throughout their lifecycle.	Encourages the implementation of product stewardship programs to ensure environmental responsibility of rubber extrusion products.

We’re Nufox, a custom rubber extrusion manufacturer. We create a wide range of rubber extrusion products from profiles to tubing, to gaskets, and all manner of rubber fabrications. Get a quote from us today for a bespoke rubber extrusion project or read our blog for more information and insights on the rubber extrusion industry.