Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber: Key Features, Applications, and Buying Tips
Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber (HNBR) is a high-performance elastomer known for its exceptional resistance to heat, oil, and chemicals. Widely used in automotive, oil & gas, and industrial applications, HNBR offers superior durability compared to standard nitrile rubber. This article explores its key characteristics, market availability, and practical selection criteria for buyers.
How to Find Reliable Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber from China in 2025
China remains the leading global supplier of HNBR materials, with over 60% of production capacity. When sourcing:
- Verify manufacturer certifications (ISO 9001, IATF 16949 for automotive grades)
- Request material test reports for key parameters like tensile strength (≥20MPa) and compression set (≤25%)
- Check production capacity - top Chinese factories can produce 5,000+ tons annually
- Confirm lead times (typically 4-8 weeks for custom formulations)
Platforms like Alibaba show 137 active Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber suppliers, with 82% offering OEM services.
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber from China
Critical considerations include:
- Pricing trends: Current FOB prices range $8-15/kg depending on acrylonitrile content (18-50%)
- Minimum order quantities (typically 500kg for standard grades)
- Export documentation requirements (REACH, RoHS compliance certificates)
- Customs clearance processes for rubber products
Case study: A German auto parts manufacturer reduced costs by 32% switching to Chinese HNBR while maintaining OEM specifications.
Types of Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber
Three primary classifications:
- Standard HNBR (Temperature range: -40°C to +150°C)
- Peroxide-cured HNBR (Improved heat resistance up to 170°C)
- Specialty grades (FDA-approved, low-temperature, or high-acrylonitrile variants)
Functions and features of Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber
Key technical advantages:
- Oil resistance 3-5x better than standard NBR
- Weather/ozone resistance surpassing most rubbers
- Tensile strength retention >80% after 1,000hrs at 150°C
- Excellent mechanical properties even at -30°C
Scenarios of Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber
Primary applications:
- Automotive: Timing belts, fuel system seals (accounts for 45% of HNBR usage)
- Industrial: Oilfield equipment seals, roll covers
- Energy: Downhole tool components in oil/gas extraction
How to Choose Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber
Selection matrix:
| Parameter | Standard Grade | Premium Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature Range | -30°C to +150°C | -40°C to +170°C |
| Oil Resistance | ASTM #3 Oil, ≤20% swell | ASTM #3 Oil, ≤15% swell |
| Cost Difference | Base Price | +25-40% |
Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber Q & A
Q: How does HNBR compare to FKM (Viton) rubber?
A: HNBR offers better mechanical properties at lower cost, while FKM has superior chemical resistance.
Q: What's the typical lead time for HNBR orders from China?
A: Standard grades: 4-6 weeks. Custom formulations: 8-12 weeks.
Q: Can HNBR be used for food contact applications?
A: Only specific FDA-compliant grades (look for 21 CFR 177.2600 certification).
Q: What's the shelf life of HNBR raw material?
A: 3-5 years when stored properly (below 30°C, away from sunlight).
Q: How to test HNBR quality upon delivery?
A: Key tests include hardness (Shore A), tensile strength, and compression set per ASTM D2000.
