When you choose a rubber process oil for your production line, one of the smartest and most efficient options is low viscosity Aromatic RPO. It mixes faster, spreads more evenly, and improves compound flexibility better than many traditional oils. Because manufacturers constantly look for a balance between performance and cost, this grade has become one of the most preferred processing oils in rubber, tire, and polymer industries. And since every project demands stability and smooth processing, using the right RPO directly improves your final product quality.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything that matters: what low viscosity Aromatic RPO is, how it works, where it is used, its benefits, technical specifications, quality parameters, and buying considerations. The goal is to give you deep, practical information while keeping the text very easy to read.
Low viscosity Aromatic RPO (Rubber Process Oil) is a petroleum-derived aromatic oil designed to soften, plasticize, and improve the processing behavior of rubber compounds. Because of its lower viscosity, it flows quickly, blends smoothly, and penetrates polymer chains faster than medium- or high-viscosity grades. As a result, manufacturers get better dispersion, easier mixing, and more consistent compounds.
Although it belongs to the aromatic family, this specific grade is lighter, more fluid, and easier to handle. It remains stable during mixing and curing, which means it supports uniform product performance.
Furthermore, because it has a strong compatibility with natural rubber (NR), SBR, PBR, NBR, and recycled rubber, its demand continues to grow in both large factories and smaller workshops.
Viscosity determines how quickly the oil moves inside the rubber matrix. When viscosity is low:
The oil distributes more uniformly
Polymer chains become softer faster
Fillers disperse easily
Processing temperature can be reduced
Mixing time becomes shorter
Therefore, you gain quicker production cycles and lower energy consumption. In industries where speed and consistency are important, a low viscosity Aromatic RPO gives a clear advantage.
Additionally, lower viscosity helps in producing smoother surfaces, better elasticity, and improved flexibility, especially in products exposed to frequent bending or pressure.
To understand how this grade performs, let’s look at the essential properties that influence its behavior:
1. High Aromatic Content
Aromatic oils have a strong solvency power. As a result, they bond easily with rubber chains and improve flexibility.
2. Low Viscosity Level
This property ensures quick and effortless mixing. It also improves filler dispersion, especially for carbon black and silica.
3. Good Thermal Stability
The oil resists evaporation and breakdown at high temperatures. Because of this, the compound remains stable during processing.
4. Excellent Compatibility with Multiple Elastomers
It works effectively with:
NR (Natural Rubber)
SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber)
BR/PBR (Polybutadiene Rubber)
NBR (Nitrile Rubber)
EPDM (limited, depending on formulation)
Recycled rubber blends
5. Dark Color with Strong Solvency
Aromatic RPO is typically darker due to its aromatic content. However, the dark shade does not reduce performance. Instead, it helps improve softening efficiency in many rubber applications.
Because this grade performs extremely well in rubber processing, it is widely used in many industries. Below are the key sectors where low viscosity Aromatic RPO delivers exceptional value:
It improves:
Tread flexibility
Grip and traction
Mixing speed
Uniform dispersion
Tire plants often use it in tread, sidewall, and bead formulations.
2. Rubber Compound Production
It is essential for:
General purpose rubber compounds
Soft rubber sheets
Rubber mats
Footwear rubber
Conveyor belts
The quick flow reduces mixing time and enhances softness.
3. Automotive Parts
Rubber components in vehicles require both flexibility and strength. This oil helps create:
Engine mounts
Hoses
Belts
Seals
Dampers
4. Flooring and Matting Industry
Because it improves elasticity and softness, it is commonly used in:
Gym flooring
Anti-vibration mats
Safety surfaces
Industrial flooring
5. Recycled Rubber Products
Low viscosity RPO increases workability in reclaimed rubber, helping manufacturers produce:
Rubber tiles
Rubber pads
Recycled sheets
Low-cost molded parts
6. Carbon Black Masterbatch
It helps carbon black disperse more evenly, resulting in:
Better color uniformity
Stronger mechanical properties
Improved mixing efficiency
You gain multiple advantages when you choose this grade over conventional RPO types. Let’s explore the most important ones:
Faster Processing
The low viscosity allows quicker blending. Consequently, production lines run smoother and faster.
Better Filler Dispersion
Carbon black and silica mix more evenly. Therefore, the final product becomes stronger, smoother, and more durable.
Enhanced Flexibility
Aromatic content improves elasticity, making rubber flexible even under stress.
Reduced Mixing Temperature
Because the oil flows easily, factories can lower their mixing temperature. This reduces electricity use and prevents heat-related degradation.
Improved Physical Properties
Products made with low viscosity Aromatic RPO usually become:
Softer
More elastic
More resistant to cracking
Cost Efficiency
Since it improves processing speed and reduces energy consumption, it keeps operating costs lower.
Although different suppliers offer slightly different specs, the typical parameters include:
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Dark brown to black |
| Viscosity @100°C | Low range: commonly 5–10 cSt |
| Density @15°C | 0.92–0.96 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point | 190–230°C |
| Pour Point | -10°C to -20°C |
| Aniline Point | 50–70°C |
| Aromatic Content | High |
| Compatibility | NR, SBR, PBR, NBR, recycled rubber |
These ranges provide flexibility for manufacturers choosing the right grade.
Choosing the right low viscosity Aromatic RPO depends on several factors. However, the most important considerations are:
1. Required Softness
If you need a very soft final product, choose a lower viscosity variant.
2. Mixing Equipment
Some machines need faster-flowing oils to avoid overheating.
3. Type of Elastomer
Aromatic oils work best with NR, SBR, and PBR. EPDM may require a blended solution.
4. Color Requirements
Because aromatic oils are dark, they are not suitable for light-colored or transparent products.
5. Cost vs. Performance Balance
Low viscosity Aromatic RPO is cost-effective, but selecting the correct spec ensures maximum value.
Before placing an order, always check:
Flash point (safety during handling)
Viscosity at different temperatures
Aromatic content percentage
Solvent extraction method
Moisture content
Sulfur level
Storage stability
These parameters guarantee you receive a stable, consistent, high-performing product.
Manufacturers often offer several packaging choices, such as:
Bulk tankers (large factories)
IBC tanks
Flexi tanks
Metal drums (180 kg or 200 kg)
You should select packaging based on shipment volume and handling equipment in your facility.
More factories now prefer this grade because:
It boosts processing efficiency
It improves rubber softness without over-plasticizing
It works extremely well with carbon black
It supports recycled rubber manufacturing
It lowers production costs
As industries move toward faster, cleaner, and more efficient operations, this oil becomes even more valuable.
Low viscosity Aromatic RPO is one of the most reliable and efficient rubber process oils for modern manufacturing. It improves mixing speed, enhances dispersion, reduces energy consumption, and delivers high-performance rubber products. Because businesses always want stable, predictable, and long-lasting results, choosing the right grade truly matters.
If you want consistent quality, reliable delivery, and competitive pricing, Basekim supplies premium-grade low viscosity Aromatic RPO to manufacturers worldwide. With strict quality control and global export experience, Basekim ensures you receive the best material for your rubber production needs.
Low viscosity Aromatic RPO blends faster with rubber compounds, reduces energy use, and improves product flexibility compared to heavier oils.
Basekim offers consistent quality, fast delivery from UAE and Turkey, technical support, and sustainable practices, making it a reliable global partner.
The tire, automotive, footwear, industrial belt, and plastics industries gain the most due to improved flexibility, durability, and processing efficiency.