Introduction

When it comes to cutting rubber materials precisely, waterjet cutting remains one of the most effective, reliable methods to get clean, accurate cuts to specification. Traditional methods, like sawing, die-cutting, and punching, often come with higher setup costs and longer lead times. With waterjet cutting, MRC Industries provides a faster, more flexible solution that minimizes waste and ensures consistent quality—even for thicker, more challenging rubber materials.

In this post, we’ll cover some of the rubber types and industries we work with, as well as why waterjet cutting stands out as the best choice for rubber cutting projects.

Industries and Rubber Products We Cut

MRC Industries cuts high-precision rubber components for various industries. We specialize in making gaskets and custom rubber components for:

• Automotive – Engine gaskets, seals, and custom rubber parts.
• Motorsports – Fuel system gaskets, copper head gaskets for some of Australia’s fastest teams.
• Pumps – Seals and gaskets to withstand high pressures and varying temperatures.
• Agricultural Equipment – Machine skirts for processing machines

We can handle almost any rubber type up to 200mm thick, including:

• EDPM
• Neoprene
• Natural insertion rubber
• Nitrile
• Rubber wear liners
• Polyurethane

Our cutting bed accommodates rubber rolls or sheets up to 1500x3200mm, ensuring we can meet the needs of large-scale and custom projects alike.

Why Waterjet Cutting is Ideal for Rubber

Waterjet cutting is especially effective for thick rubber and complex shapes. Traditional methods like die-cutting work for thin rubber but require costly die setups. With waterjet cutting, setup is minimal, and we can start cutting as soon as we have a digital file (like a DXF). This allows us to offer same-day service in emergencies, significantly reducing downtime for our customers.

Key Benefits of Waterjet Cutting Rubber

1. Eco-Friendly Process
   • Waterjet cutting uses only high-pressure water (sometimes with a fine abrasive if hard or reinforced) and does not emit fumes, smoke, or hazardous waste. This makes it a safer, environmentally friendly option compared to other cutting methods.
2. Precision and Accuracy
   • Waterjet cutting doesn’t involve direct contact with the material, so there’s less risk of distortion. Our pre-programmed software ensures precise, repeatable cuts with tolerances suitable for even the most demanding applications. This makes waterjet cutting ideal for intricate designs where consistency is critical.
3. Cost Efficiency Through Material Optimization
   • Using nesting software, we optimize each sheet or roll, cutting parts as close as 3mm apart. This minimizes waste and maximizes each piece of material. Unlike die-cutting or punching, which may leave gaps between cuts, waterjet cutting allows us to fully utilize every sheet or roll, saving material and reducing costs.
4. Quick Turnaround
   • Because we don’t need to wait for dies to be manufactured, waterjet cutting is a fast solution. If a customer provides the material and a DXF file, we can start cutting almost immediately—ideal for urgent projects or tight deadlines.

Serving the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne

Conveniently located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, MRC Industries serves a wide range of local industries. Whether you’re based in Bayswater or nearby areas, we’re equipped to handle custom waterjet cutting projects for rubber, gaskets, and more.

Get in Touch

Need high-quality, precise rubber cutting? Contact MRC Industries today! Our expert team is ready to discuss your project requirements and offer a fast, efficient solution tailored to your needs. Let’s make your next project a success—reach out to us to get started!

Examples of rubber material we have cut: