Natural Rubber for Tire Manufacturing: Raw Materials Guide

Guide to natural rubber raw materials for tire manufacturing. TSR 20, RSS3, and latex specifications for global tire producers.

Types of Natural Rubber for Tire Manufacturing

1. TSR 20 (Technically Specified Rubber)

TSR 20 is the most widely used rubber grade in tire manufacturing. Produced from cup lump and field coagulum, it offers consistent quality and excellent physical properties. Ideal for tire treads, sidewalls, and inner liners. Specifications: Dirt content max 0.20%, Ash max 0.60%, Nitrogen max 0.60%, Volatile Matter max 0.80%, Po (Initial Plasticity) min 30.

2. RSS3 (Ribbed Smoked Sheets Grade 3)

RSS3 is a premium grade natural rubber known for superior tensile strength and elasticity. Used in high-performance tires, racing tires, and specialty rubber products. Produced from fresh latex that is coagulated, sheeted, ribbed, and smoked for preservation.

3. Natural Latex Concentrate

Liquid latex concentrate (60% DRC) is used for dipped rubber products, latex foam, and adhesives. While not directly used in tire manufacturing, it is essential for rubber gloves, balloons, and foam mattresses.

Quality Requirements for Tire Grade Rubber

Tire manufacturers require rubber with: Consistent Mooney viscosity, low dirt content, excellent tensile strength, good elongation at break, and stable curing properties. Thai rubber (STR - Standard Thai Rubber) meets international standards and is accepted by major tire manufacturers worldwide.

Packaging and Container Loading

TSR 20 is packed in compressed bales (33.33 kg each), with 750 bales per 20FT container (25 MT total). Bales are wrapped in polyethylene sheets and plastic bags to prevent contamination. RSS3 is packed in wooden pallets (111.11 kg per bale). Natural latex is shipped in flexitanks (18-20 MT per 20FT) or ISO tanks.

Sourcing from Thailand

Thailand produces over 4.5 million tons of natural rubber annually, primarily from southern provinces (Surat Thani, Trang, Songkhla). The Rubber Authority of Thailand (RAOT) regulates quality standards and export certifications. Work with RAOT-registered exporters to ensure compliance and quality.