TECHNOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF RUBBER COMPOUNDS FOR HYDRAULIC SEALS (Part 1)

This study investigates the technological properties of rubber compounds intended for the manufacture of water lock seals. The formulation is based on a rubber compound in which PN-6SH oil was replaced with an organic component extracted from oil sludge provided by Petro Kazakhstan Oil Products LLP. Additionally, the traditional filler (white carbon black) was replaced with zeolite from the Chankanai deposit, which resulted in satisfactory technological properties. The aim of the work was to study the properties of rubber compounds modified by the introduction of the organic part of oil sludge and zeolite, as well as to determine the optimal dosages of these components to improve the compound’s characteristics. Methodology. The rubber compound was modified by adding the organic part of the oil sludge in an amount of 1.0–6.0 parts by weight. Zeolite was added in amounts of 3.0–20.0 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of rubber. Five samples of rubber compounds were prepared. The technological properties of the mixtures were determined. Results and Discussion. It was established that increasing the content of the plasticizer (up to 6.0 parts by weight) and filler (up to 20.0 parts by weight) leads to an increase in the Mooney viscosity of the mixture. Optimal technological indicators were observed at a dosage of 6.0 parts by weight of the organic part of the oil sludge and 20.0 parts by weight of zeolite. The tests demonstrated that replacing traditional components with the proposed modifications ensures that the properties of the rubber compounds meet the control standards for water lock seals. Conclusion. The use of the organic part of oil sludge and zeolite in the formulation of rubber compounds allows the replacement of traditional plasticizers and fillers without compromising the properties of the mixtures intended for hydraulic seals, as confirmed by compliance with control standards.