Introduction
Rubber bands, also known as elastic bands and rubber rings, were invented by Stephen Perry on March 17, 1845, and applied for a patent in the UK. Today, rubber bands are among the most commonly used items in work and life. They are not only very convenient but also very cheap, so people love to use them.
The rubber band sizes are significant when choosing a rubber band; if they are not appropriate, the rubber band will break or the object tied to it will be unstable. Next, I will help you understand the rubber band sizes. In addition to the rubber band sizes, I will briefly introduce the types of rubber bands, the use of rubber band sizes, and factors to consider when choosing rubber bands. Keep reading to learn about rubber band sizes!
rubber band measurements
To measure rubber band sizes accurately, you need to determine three key dimensions: length, width, and thickness. The flat length is the total unstretched length. The cut width is perpendicular to the flat length. Wall thickness is usually measured using a tool such as a caliper or pin gauge. Wall thickness determines the strength and durability of the rubber band. Here’s how you can measure each:
Rubber band sizes: Length(Lay Flat Length)
Lay the rubber band flat on a surface without stretching it.
Measure the distance from one end to the other. This is the “lay flat length” or “unstretched length.”
Rubber band sizes: Width (Cut Width)
Measure the width of the rubber band from one edge to the other.
Rubber band sizes: Thickness
Measure the thickness of the rubber band, which is the distance between the inner and outer surfaces, using a caliper or a ruler.
For example, a rubber band measuring 3 inches in length, 1/8 inch in width, and 1/32 inch in thickness would be described as 3″ x 1/8″ x 1/32″. These measurements are typically used to classify rubber bands and determine their suitability for different tasks.
rubber band size chart
The rubber band numbering system is a standardized method to categorize rubber bands by their size. Each number corresponds to specific dimensions of the rubber band, typically including the length, width, and thickness. Smaller numbers (e.g., #8, #10) usually indicate shorter and thinner bands. More significant numbers (e.g., #32, #64) typically indicate longer and broader bands.
Knowing the regular rubber band sizes is essential to choosing the proper rubber band for your task, whether organizing documents, securing items, or making crafts. The numbering system combines length, width, and thickness measurements to help you find the perfect rubber band sizes
| Size | Length (inches) | Width (inches) | Thickness (inches) |
| Size 8 rubber bands | 7/8 | 1/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 10 rubber bands | 1 1/4 | 1/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 12 rubber bands | 1 3/4 | 1/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 14 rubber bands | 2 | 1/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 16 rubber bands | 2 1/2 | 1/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 18 rubber bands | 3 | 1/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 19 rubber bands | 3 1/2 | 1/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 20 rubber bands | 4 | 1/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 22 rubber bands | 2 3/4 | 3/32 | 1/32 |
| Size 23 rubber bands | 3 | 3/32 | 1/32 |
| Size 24 rubber bands | 3 1/2 | 3/32 | 1/32 |
| Size 25 rubber bands | 4 | 3/32 | 1/32 |
| Size 26 rubber bands | 2 1/2 | 1/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 30 rubber bands | 3 | 1/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 31 rubber bands | 3 1/2 | 1/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 32 rubber bands | 4 | 1/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 33 rubber bands | 3 1/2 | 3/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 34 rubber bands | 4 | 3/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 36 rubber bands | 4 1/2 | 3/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 38 rubber bands | 5 | 3/16 | 1/32 |
| Size 42 rubber bands | 2 1/2 | 1/4 | 1/32 |
| Size 54 rubber bands | 3 | 1/4 | 1/32 |
| Size 62 rubber bands | 2 1/2 | 3/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 63 rubber bands | 3 | 3/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 64 rubber bands | 3 1/2 | 3/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 73 rubber bands | 4 | 3/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 82 rubber bands | 3 | 1/2 | 1/32 |
| Size 84 rubber bands | 3 1/2 | 1/2 | 1/32 |
| Size 89 rubber bands | 7 | 1/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 94 rubber bands | 3 1/2 | 3/4 | 1/32 |
| Size 105 rubber bands | 5 | 5/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 107 rubber bands | 7 | 5/8 | 1/32 |
| Size 117 rubber bands | 7 | 1/8 | 1/32 |
Benefits of the Numbering System:
- The rubber band sizing chart provides a consistent way to identify and compare rubber bands from different manufacturers.
- This helps users quickly find the proper rubber band sizes without measuring each band individually.
- Ensures that the selected rubber band will be appropriate for the specific application, whether for bundling, holding items, or other uses.
- If you know either the band number (often written with a # symbol – e.g., #33) or the above three measurements, you can go for choosing.
Types of Rubber Band
There are many types of rubber bands, and different types of rubber bands have different uses. Standard rubber bands can be used for general purposes, such as tying bouquets, newspapers, or magazines with rubber bands; large industrial rubber bands are required if it is a large object. Below, I introduce the three main types of rubber bands.
Latex-Free Rubber Bands
Latex-free rubber bands are specialized rubber bands made from synthetic materials instead of natural latex. They are designed to provide the same elasticity and durability as traditional rubber bands, but they are specifically designed to avoid the proteins found in natural latex that can cause allergic reactions in some people.
- Material: Synthetic rubber
- Features: Safe for people with latex allergies, non-allergenic, environmentally friendly, and safe.
- Uses: Medical applications, food industry, and environments where latex allergies are a concern, daily storage.
Standard Rubber Bands
Standard rubber bands are the most commonly used type of rubber band, made from natural rubber or synthetic materials. They are known for their flexibility, durability, and versatility in various applications. Standard rubber bands are mainly used for bundling, securing items, etc.
- Material: Natural rubber
- Features: Flexible, affordable, and available in various sizes, strong tensile strength.
- Uses: General-purpose tasks such as bundling papers, securing objects, and organizing items
Industrial Rubber Bands
Industrial rubber bands are designed for heavy-duty applications and are large, thick bands used for various industrial jobs. These bands are made from high-quality materials to ensure durability, strength, and reliability in demanding environments. These can stretch two to three times more than their resting lengths.
- Material: High-grade natural rubber or synthetic compounds like EPDM or nitrile.
- Features: Designed to withstand heavy loads, rough handling, and harsh environmental conditions.
- Uses: Used for manufacturing, industrial, agriculture, logistics and shipping, and Construction.
Uses for Rubber Band Sizes
Selecting the proper rubber band sizes is critical to ensuring it performs effectively. Size determines the rubber band’s fit, elasticity, strength, and functionality. Using the proper elastic band sizes prevents breakage, provides a secure hold, and increases task efficiency. Different sizes of rubber bands are suitable for various applications based on their length, width, and thickness. Here’s a breakdown of common uses for different rubber band sizes:
Small sizes of Rubber Bands (e.g., #8, #10, #12)
Organizing Cables: Small rubber bands can store data cables or wired headphones to prevent them from falling apart.
Non-Slip Hanger: Small rubber bands can be tied to both ends of the hanger to prevent the clothes from slipping, saving money on buying non-slip hangers.
Crafts and DIY Projects: Small sizes of rubber bands can be used in various arts and crafts projects. You can use small rubber bands to make a bracelet or a rubber band ball.
Medium sizes of Rubber Bands (e.g., #16, #18, #19)
Prevent Tea Bags From Falling: When making tea, you are worried that the tea bag will ultimately fall into the cup. Just tie a rubber band to the mouth of the cup to prevent the tea bag from falling.
Prevent Soap From Sliding Out: You can tie a medium rubber band around the soap dish a few times so the soap doesn’t slip out.
Open Bottle Cap Easily: For bottle caps of cosmetics, nail polish, canned fruits, sauces, etc., that cannot be unscrewed, you can wrap a rubber band around it a few times and twist it with a little force to open it.
Large sizes of Rubber Bands (e.g., #32, #33, #64)
Make Bookmarks: You can tie a rubber band to the last page you looked at to quickly find where you were last time when you next read the book.
Fixed lunch box: Rubber bands tie lunch boxes, containers, boxes, and any home or office items to keep your outdoor essentials and household items organized.
Mail and Packaging: You can use large rubber bands to bind letters, brochures, magazines, etc.
Extra-Large sizes of Rubber Bands (e.g., #82, #84, #107)
Fixed Garbage Bag: You can use an extra-large rubber band to secure the garbage bag to the trash can to prevent the mouth of the garbage bag from falling into the trash can and making it dirty.
Securing Large Items: Holding large stacks of paper, boxes, or bulky items together.
Moving and Storage: Securing items during transport or storage, such as keeping lids on containers or securing covers.
Benefits of Using Rubber Bands
- Adaptability: There are many different rubber band sizes and types, making them suitable for different tasks, from holding small objects to securing large items.
- Cost-Effective: Rubber bands are generally inexpensive, making them economical for personal and professional use.
- Compact Storage: Rubber bands are small and lightweight, making them easy to store in drawers, boxes, or bags without taking up much space.
- Strength: Many rubber bands are designed to withstand repeated use without breaking, especially those made for heavy-duty or industrial purposes.
- Latex-Free Options: For those with latex allergies, there are latex-free rubber bands made from synthetic materials.
- Biodegradable Options: Natural rubber bands are made from renewable resources and can be biodegradable.
factors to consider when choosing a rubber band
When choosing a rubber band, you should consider not only the rubber band sizes but also the elasticity, elongation, breaking strength, and memory of the rubber band. These factors reflect the quality of a rubber band.
1. Elasticity of a rubber band
Elasticity refers to the ability of a material to deform under stress (such as stretching, compressing, or twisting) and return to its original shape once the stress is removed. In the case of rubber bands, elasticity allows them to stretch when tension is applied and then return to their original length when the tension is released.
A taut rubber band should have a strong rebound when pulled, while a rubber band used to secure fragile items should rebound more gently.
2. Elongation
Elongation refers to the degree to which a rubber band can stretch before breaking. It is typically expressed as a percentage of the original length. For example, if a rubber band stretches to twice its original size, its elongation is 100%. Elongation is determined by the percentage of rubber in the band: the more rubber, the more it stretches. Natural rubber generally offers higher elongation than synthetic rubbers.
3. Breaking strength
Breaking strength is a vital property of rubber bands that determines their ability to withstand force without snapping. The breaking strength of a rubber band depends on its material composition, size, and condition. Natural rubber generally offers good breaking strength; thicker and wider rubber bands have more excellent resistance to breaking than thinner bands.
4. Memory
The “memory” of a rubber band refers to its ability to return to its original shape and size after being stretched or deformed. This property is crucial for the functionality and longevity of rubber bands in various applications. A good rubber band can return to its original size after being stretched, while a poor-quality rubber band cannot return to its original size.
5. Approx. Count Per Pound
“Approx. Count Per Pound” of rubber bands refers to the estimated number of individual rubber bands you can expect to find in one Pound of rubber bands. The count varies based on the size and thickness of the rubber bands, with smaller and thinner bands resulting in a higher count per Pound and larger or thicker bands resulting in a lower count per Pound.
FAQ
Can I custom rubber bands?
Yes, you can custom rubber bands to your specific requirements. You can choose custom rubber band sizes and colors and have your logo, pattern, slogan, etc., printed on the rubber bands or embossed or embossed on the rubber bands.
What types of rubber are used in rubber bands?
- Natural Rubber: Made from latex derived from rubber trees. It offers good elasticity and strength, making it ideal for general-purpose use.
- Synthetic Rubber: Includes materials like neoprene or nitrile. Synthetic rubbers are often used for specific applications requiring resistance to chemicals, extreme temperatures, or oils.
- Silicone Rubber: Known for its high temperature and chemical resistance. It’s less common but used in specialized applications where harsh conditions require durability.
What sizes are available for postal rubber bands?
Postal rubber bands, used for bundling mail and packages, typically come in the following sizes:
- #18: About 2-1/2 inches in diameter, used for small to medium bundles.
- #32: About 3-1/2 inches in diameter, common for medium to large bundles.
- #64: About 4 inches in diameter, suitable for larger packages and heavier tasks.
- #117: About 6 inches in diameter, used for very large bundles and heavy-duty applications.
Do your rubber bands have a smell?
Rubber bands can sometimes have a distinctive smell, mainly made from natural rubber. This odor is often described as slightly rubbery or latex-like. Synthetic rubber bands might have a different, less noticeable smell or none, depending on the materials and manufacturing process used. If the smell is strong or unpleasant, it might be due to the specific chemicals used in the rubber or how it was stored.
How should I store rubber bands at home?
- Keep Them Dry: Store rubber bands in a cool, dry place. Moisture can cause them to degrade or become sticky.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store them away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as UV rays and high temperatures can cause rubber bands to dry out and lose elasticity.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place rubber bands in airtight containers or resealable bags to protect them from dust and environmental factors that can cause deterioration.
- Organize by Size: If you have multiple rubber band sizes, consider organizing them in separate containers or compartments to make it easier to find the right size when needed.
- Avoid Overstretching: Do not store rubber bands stretched or under tension, as this can weaken their elasticity over time.
What size rubber band is best for wrapping around a standard file folder?
What size of rubber band is appropriate for tying a shoe box?
A medium to large rubber band size is usually appropriate for tying a shoe box. A size like #32 or #64 would work well, as these rubber band sizes offer enough strength and flexibility to wrap around the box and hold it closed securely. The exact size might depend on the dimensions of the shoe box and how tightly you want to secure it.
Conclusion
Understanding rubber band sizes is the key to choosing the proper rubber band for your needs. Whether you use rubber bands to fix items in your life, make crafts, or use rubber bands to organize documents in your office, choosing the right rubber band sizes and types can help you improve your work efficiency. As a trusted stationery supplier, Honeyoung hopes you can make a wise choice based on information such as the rubber band size chart so that rubber bands can help you complete your tasks successfully!
2 Responses
rubber bands can help organize daily items
Indeed, latex-free rubber bands are great for people who are allergic to latex.