Which is better: rubber tracks or plastic tracks? What exactly are rubber tracks? What are plastic tracks? You must have many questions. Let us guide you through an understanding.
Colorful tracks are now a common sight in playgrounds, schools, and gyms, adding a new charm to the landscape over the years. While these tracks may look the same, they are actually made from different materials, categorizing into rubber tracks and plastic tracks. So, which one is better, rubber tracks or plastic tracks?
1. In terms of raw materials, rubber tracks typically consist of two types: natural rubber and synthetic rubber. Natural rubber is processed from the latex of rubber trees and other plant sources, while synthetic rubber is obtained through polymerization reactions of various monomers. The rubber tracks are composed of oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, and other organic or inorganic elements. After processing, the finished product is a solid, which is in a molten liquid state during the production process. Various shapes can be formed through heating, pressure, and cooling.
2. In terms of pricing, rubber tracks require the selection of environmentally-friendly rubber as the main material, while synthetic tracks are composed of polyurethane prepolymers, mixed polyethers, recycled tire rubber, EPDM rubber granules or PU particles, pigments, additives, and fillers. Consequently, rubber tracks are slightly more expensive.
3. In terms of construction methods, rubber tracks require higher ground flatness, typically pre-prepared and directly used for site installation; while synthetic tracks, adjusted to a certain ratio of materials on-site, have lower requirements for ground flatness.
4. In terms of lifespan, rubber and plastic tracks typically last around 10 years when used and maintained properly.
The plastic track is composed of materials like polyurethane rubber, offering elasticity and color. It is recognized internationally as an excellent all-weather outdoor sports flooring material for its UV resistance and aging resistance. It is generally categorized into four types: precast, mixed, composite, and breathable.
Prefabricated plastic tracks have higher requirements for the foundation. Mixed-type on-site mixing and laying has a more challenging construction process. Composite models are slightly cheaper and are more commonly used in some better universities, middle schools, and primary schools. Permeable types are generally more suitable for the southern regions of our country, which are prone to heavy rain, and they are also more affordable.
Rubber materials exhibit superior UV and antioxidant properties compared to polyurethane (PU) and三元乙丙胶 (EPDM) materials. Rubber tracks feature an isoprene foam underlayer and a surface layer composed of EPDM rubber and a ferric oxide blend with high benzene ethylene content. These tracks boast excellent weather resistance, acid and alkali resistance, and elasticity. Despite their high cost, which is significantly greater than that of PU and EPDM, even when recycled rubber is used, the production cost remains higher.
Rubber tracks, commonly referred to as rolled tracks, come in various grades and are significantly more expensive than plastic tracks. Additionally, the costs for laying and leveling the foundation, including material waste, are usually extra. Rubber tracks have higher foundation requirements and are suitable for larger gymnasiums and professional sports venues.
