Choosing your snow plough – what’s the difference between rubber and metal blades?
20th January, 2020
As a company or individual, having a snow plough at hand can be very useful in the winter months. Saving manual time and effort, a snow plough is usually attached to a vehicle which can be controlled to remove snow from roads or pavement. Although it’s common for plough blades to be made from steel, they can be manufactured from rubber as well. How do the two compare?
Durability
There’s no denying that steel is durable – it’s commonly used for building structures and in harsh environments. Snow plough blades need to be very durable and long-lasting to avoid replacement every year.
When it comes to upholding in extreme temperatures, this is where rubber can be preferred. Rubber blades are able to withstand temperatures from -20 degrees Celsius to 70 degrees Celsius. When steel reaches these lower temperatures, they become prone to embrittlement and cracks which can hinder the performance of the blades.
Rubber blades do not absorb water and therefore do not rust or perish. This improves the effectiveness of the blade and avoids rust coming into contact with the surface below which could be damaging.
Noise
For those who use snow ploughs in residential areas, noise pollution is a key concern. Although steel can effectively clear walkways, the scratching of the material on the surface is very noisy. Rubber, on the other hand, is a lighter material that glides across the pavement noise-free, this is something to consider ahead of buying your snow plough blades.
Damage to the surface
The downside with steel blades is that they are so sturdy that they are unable to conform to the surface beneath them. This can cause wear of the blade as well as scratching of the pavement which may turn into rust and oxidation. Rubber blades are more flexible and can, therefore, absorb shock and adapt to any bumps in the road.
Each of the materials has its own benefits, and it may depend on the purpose of the blade as to what type you choose. Here at Aquaseal Rubber, we can produce rubber blades in a range of materials and sizing. Don’t hesitate to contact us.
