DIN 7716 Standard

The DIN 7716 standard deals with the storage, cleaning, and conservation of rubber products. During prolonged storage of rubber products, their physical properties can change due to contact with external factors (e.g., light, humidity, ozone). This can lead to excessive hardening of the rubber, damage to its surface, softening, and permanent deformation. To increase the lifespan of elastomeric components, it is necessary to adhere to the guidelines for their storage outlined in the DIN 7716 standard. Storing Rubber Materials The DIN 7716 standard provides guidelines on the storage, cleaning, and maintenance of elastomers. # Storage Surface **Long-term storage, over 6 months in enclosed spaces:** The storage area should be cool, dry, clean (free of dust) with moderate ventilation. These guidelines also apply to short-term storage (from 6 weeks to 6 months) in enclosed spaces. **Short-term storage, from 6 weeks to 6 months:** According to DIN 7716 recommendations, rubber articles should not be stored outdoors without sufficient protection from adverse weather conditions. Elastomeric products must be shielded from direct sunlight, snow, pollution, and provided with proper conditions. They should be stored at a safe distance from other materials or machinery that could damage them. The standard also specifies storage conditions for materials intended for vulcanization. The storage area must be dry, cool, free of dust and impurities. The stock of materials for vulcanization should not exceed 6 weeks. In both situations, products should be stored on pallets, on a horizontal, flat surface. # Temperature The storage temperature of rubber products should range from +5°C to +25°C. Direct contact with heat sources (e.g., radiators) and sunlight should be avoided. The temperature should never exceed +25°C. # Heat and Humidity Rubber elements should be protected from all heat sources at a distance of at least 1 meter and water condensation. The relative humidity in warehouse premises should be less than 65%. It is advisable to avoid extremely humid or extremely dry conditions. # Light Rubber products should be stored in conditions that shield them from light exposure. Light can damage elastomeric products, so direct sunlight, strong artificial light with high ultraviolet intensity should be avoided. Storing products in hermetically sealed, light-proof packaging or equipping warehouse windows with red or orange curtains can prevent light-induced damage. # Oxygen and Ozone Rubber products should be shielded from ozone and, if possible, from air circulation, especially drafts. It is best to store them in airtight packaging or containers. # Deformation According to the standard guidelines, elastomers should be stored in a relaxed state, without factors that could cause tension or permanent deformation. Avoid contact with metals, foil containing softening agents, and packaging or containers containing harmful ingredients for the product. # Storage Environment The storage environment should be checked for the presence of fuels, lubricants, solvents, disinfectants, and other chemicals that could accidentally damage the elastomer. If rubber articles contain additional metal elements, ensure they are free from rust or other visible defects. It is recommended to inspect rubber products for cracks, discoloration, or other surface damage upon removal from the shelf. When the rubber product has undergone proper inspection and meets all storage conditions, its storage period may be extended. However, failure to comply with the DIN 7716 recommendations may shorten this period. For rubber articles with added metal elements, it is essential to verify their condition to maintain quality. You can find rubber products conforming to the DIN 7716 storage standard at Power Rubber store. For any inquiries, contact our specialists at +48 22 292 40 24 or +48 505 16 03 03, via email at power@powerrubber.com, or through our [contact form](/kontakt/).