Rubber Industry

High Quality Products and Personalized Service

For over 30 years, CFI has supplied high-quality products and personalized service to rubber manufacturers, including global leaders in the tire industry. In addition to cost savings benefits, rubber manufacturers achieve end-product advantages including improved air retention, increased processability, and reduced odor.

End-Product Advantages

Increased Profitability

Thanks to its low specific gravity, Austin Black 325 can fill up to three times as much volumetric space as other mineral fillers, creating more finished product at a significantly lower per pound volume cost.

As one of the most cost-effective pigments and mineral fillers available, it has a specific gravity of 1.30. When compared to the specific gravity of carbon blacks at 1.80, and other mineral fillers at 2.60 to 2.90, Austin Black 325 helps manufacturers lower compound costs, which ultimately leads to increased profitability.

Improved Air Retention

The platy structure of our signature product–Austin Black 325–helps create an air barrier within rubber compounds to reduce air permeation and improve air retention.

In applications such as tire inner liners and inner tubes, formulas containing Austin Black 325 have been shown to retain air longer with lower usage of halobutyl rubber, resulting in lower compound costs and increased profitability.

Increased Processability

Austin Black 325 works as a mixing aid and facilitates air release in compound mixing, resulting in a reduction of bubble and blister issues.

Its small particle size allows Austin Black 325 to readily disperse in natural rubbers, synthetic rubbers, and plastics, which reduces mixing time without causing agglomeration or sacrificing the dispersion of other ingredients. Additionally, the 17% to 20% volatile matter in Austin Black 325 contains inherent oils that act as an internal plasticizer and dispersing aid.

Reduced Odor

For rubber and plastic manufacturers using a Di Cup cure system, adding Austin Black 325 to formulas has been shown to eliminate the disagreeable odor produced during processing.

What CFI customers are saying:

We chose CFI over the competition for their quality. Since working with them we have benefited from on-time deliveries and cost savings.”

– Rubber Parts Manufacturer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of carbon black in the rubber industry?

Carbon black is widely used as a reinforcing agent in rubber compounding. It improves strength, elasticity, and resistance to abrasion, heat, and UV radiation—key requirements in rubber products like tires and hoses.

Which rubber products benefit most from carbon black?

Carbon black is essential for tires, conveyor belts, industrial hoses, gaskets, seals, vibration isolators, and rubber-coated fabrics. It ensures long-term performance under tough conditions.

How does carbon black improve tire performance?

In tires, carbon black increases tread durability, traction, and resistance to wear and tear. It also helps dissipate heat, enhancing the safety and longevity of the tire.

Can carbon black be used in both natural and synthetic rubber?

Yes, carbon black is compatible with a wide range of rubber types, including natural rubber, SBR, EPDM, and NBR. We offer specific grades designed for optimal performance with each rubber type.

What makes CFI Carbon Products a trusted partner for the rubber industry?

We offer high-purity carbon black products with consistent quality, technical support, and efficient logistics. Our solutions are tailored for performance and cost-efficiency, making us a preferred supplier for rubber manufacturers.

Does carbon black offer environmental benefits in rubber production?

Yes, using high-quality carbon black can extend the life of rubber products, reducing waste and resource use. Our manufacturing practices also focus on sustainability and regulatory compliance.

How does carbon black improve rubber's durability?

Carbon black reinforces the rubber compound by increasing its tensile strength and resistance to wear and tear. It acts as a filler that helps rubber products maintain their shape, resist abrasion, and perform better under stress. This makes it especially valuable in applications like tires, gaskets, and industrial rubber goods.

What are the benefits of using Austin Black 325 in rubber manufacturing?

Austin Black 325 is a low-cost, high-performance carbon black alternative known for its consistent particle size and excellent dispersion. It enhances processing, provides UV protection, improves product uniformity, and reduces formulation costs—all while maintaining the rubber’s flexibility and performance.