Questions and Answers

HET Elastomertechnik GmbH is a specialised manufacturer of elastic system solutions for track construction, level crossings and vibration protection. Since 1991, we have been developing and producing standard-compliant systems for:

• Tramway and light rail infrastructure
• Mainline and industrial railways
• International infrastructure projects

Our solutions are in use throughout Europe and comply with current technical standards as well as sustainable procurement requirements.

Modern rail infrastructure places high demands on:

• Vibration protection and structure-borne noise insulation
• Stray current insulation
• Durability and economic efficiency
• Sustainability throughout the lifecycle

HET combines two high-performance material worlds into coordinated system solutions:

• Recycled elastomer systems made of rubber granulate (ELTECPUR® rail)
• PU and epoxy-polyurethane casting solutions (VF Systems)

This results in robust solutions for urban track construction, level crossings, floating slab systems and fixed trackbed installations.

ELTECPUR® rail comprises elastic moulded parts made of high-quality recycled rubber granulate (from certified EU end-of-life tyres), processed into permanently elastic high-performance components.

Typical applications:

• Rail filler blocks
• Continuous rail bearing
• Green track systems
• Level crossing elements
• Floating slab systems
• Vibration protection in urban areas

Technical advantages:

• Permanently elastic bearing and decoupling
• Reduction of structure-borne noise and vibrations
• Improvement of airborne sound insulation
• High electrical insulation (stray current protection)
• Weather and UV-resistant
• High mechanical load-bearing capacity, long service life

VF Systems are reactive PU or epoxy-polyurethane casting systems that are processed on site. They enable:

• Structural grouting under rail fastenings
• Direct rail fastening on concrete
• Elastic embedding and electrical insulation
• Force-fit fixation on concrete structures

The added value arises from the intelligent combination of both materials:

• Elastic decoupling: Granulate ✔ | PU/Epoxy ✔
• High structural load-bearing capacity: Granulate – | PU/Epoxy ✔
• CO₂-optimised solution: Granulate ✔ | PU/Epoxy –
• Permanent electrical insulation: Granulate ✔ | PU/Epoxy ✔
• Rapid installation: Granulate ✔ | PU/Epoxy ✔

HET delivers coordinated system solutions – for maximum safety, economic efficiency and planning reliability.

Recycled rubber granulate combines ecological responsibility with high technical performance:

• Resource conservation through recycling of end-of-life tyres
• Reduction of waste and primary raw materials
• Durable, low-maintenance infrastructure
• Positive life cycle assessment throughout the lifecycle

Yes. Sustainability is an integral part of our product development. Our systems:

• Consist predominantly of recycled material
• Are durable and low-maintenance (low lifecycle costs)
• Are recyclable in many cases
• Support CO₂ reduction throughout the entire lifecycle

Yes. An officially registered and third-party verified EPD is available for our products made of recycled rubber granulate (in accordance with ISO 14025, EN 15804+A2, registered in the International EPD® System).

An EPD provides transparently verified environmental indicators across the entire lifecycle – important for:

• Public tenders and sustainability requirements
• ESG/CO₂ documentation (e.g. GWP)
• Comparability of products
• Compliance with EU taxonomy criteria

According to the EPD, our products typically consist of:

• 90–95% post-consumer recycled material (tyre granulate)
• 5–10% binder

No. The EPD confirms that no declarable SVHC substances from the Candidate List are contained.

The reference service life is approximately 25 years – ensuring stable lifecycle costs and high investment security.

Sustainability criteria are gaining significant importance (CO₂ footprint, EU taxonomy, ESG, procurement procedures). With an EPD, we provide reliable indicators for modern infrastructure projects.

Yes. The granulates used are regularly tested (including PAHs) and comply with statutory limit values. The products are considered safe when used as intended.

PAHs can occur in many materials. What matters is how much can be released. Limit values depend on the type of use and potential skin contact.

Depending on the product, these may include:

• REACH conformity of raw materials
• Emissions/VOC
• PAH analyses / test reports

A typical rubber odour is possible but does not indicate hazardous substances. If needed, regular ventilation is sufficient.

Emissions can be tested e.g. in accordance with ISO 16000 or EN 16516. Assessment is often carried out according to AFSSET (A+ to C). Our products achieve A+ – particularly low emissions.

Yes, with confirmed emission values and proper use, indoor applications are possible.

Rail insulation mechanically and electrically separates the rail from the surrounding structure – for:

• Vibration and structure-borne noise reduction
• Stray current insulation (DIN EN 50122-2)
• Corrosion protection

Elastic moulded parts for the complete filling of the rail chamber. They enable:

• Continuous elastic bearing
• Reduction of peak loads
• Effective structure-borne noise reduction

Standard-compliant electrical insulation.

Without adequate insulation, stray currents can cause corrosion and structural damage – with high maintenance costs. Standard-compliant insulation protects infrastructure in the long term.

• Continuous: continuous elastic bedding of the rail
• Discrete (e.g. multipart): point-based bearing (e.g. on sleepers)

Discrete systems are suitable, for example, where sleeper spacings vary.

Particularly for:

• Urban routes
• Noise-sensitive areas
• Heavily loaded junctions

Advantages: uniform load distribution, less wear, lower maintenance costs, smoother running.

It permanently and safely connects road and rail. Requirements:

• High dynamic load-bearing capacity
• Reduced noise emissions
• Safe flangeway guidance
• EBO/BOStrab compliance

The space to be kept clear on the inside of the running rails so that the wheel flange can pass safely.

Wide flangeways increase accident risks (e.g. for cyclists), noise and wear. Modern systems reduce flangeway widths and improve comfort as well as safety.

Vegetated areas in the track zone – combined with rail insulation. Advantages:

• Noise reduction
• Fine dust binding
• Rainwater retention
• Improved urban climate, higher acceptance

An elastically supported mass-spring system for reducing low-frequency vibrations, e.g. in tunnels or near sensitive buildings (vibration protection in accordance with DIN 4150).

For many ELTECPUR® products, standard tools are sufficient. For PU/casting systems, a hand mixer, cartridge gun, PPE and, depending on the application, additional aids may be required. Our team is happy to assist with more complex applications.

Elastomers react to temperature: before installation, allow the material to reach ambient temperature and store it dry and protected from UV radiation. In case of prolonged storage, it may be advisable to remove the pallet wrapping film. Further details can be found in the product data sheets and installation instructions.

Recommended: 10 °C to 35 °C (minimum temperature at the component: +5 °C).

Yes. When processing diisocyanates, mandatory training in accordance with EU REACH is required.

The proper bonding of rail filler blocks is a decisive factor for the permanent function of the elastic track bearing. Correct adhesive installation ensures:

• Reliable mechanical decoupling of the rail
• Dependable stray current insulation
• Permanent structure-borne and airborne noise insulation
• Protection against the ingress of concrete or asphalt into the rail chamber

Processing must be carried out in accordance with the system and the installation instructions.

Adhesive installation of filler blocks is particularly recommended for:

• TOR elements (up to top of rail)
• Green track applications
• Elements without adequate self-clamping
• Switch areas, transitions and special constructions
• Systems with increased dynamic loads

The bonding is carried out using a continuous bead of a suitable 1-component PU adhesive.

Bonding surfaces for grooved rails (e.g. 60R1)

• On the filler block in the area below the groove and beneath the rail head
• On the rail in the area of the rail foot
• Additionally, on the front faces of the elements to ensure a positive-locking connection between adjacent elements

Bonding surfaces for Vignole rails (e.g. 49E1)

• On the filler block in the area of the rail head
• On the rail in the area of the rail foot
• Bonding of the front faces between adjacent elements

The exact configuration of the adhesive bead depends on the system type and the specific application.

The theoretical adhesive consumption is:

• Approx. 0.15 kg/m of rail in the main track
• Approx. 0.25 kg/m of rail for fastening-free systems
• Approx. 0.25 kg/m of rail in switch areas
• Approx. 0.40 kg/m of rail for systems with increased requirements

The actual quantity depends on the system type, substrate conditions, and project execution.

For a permanently secure fixation:

• The filler blocks must be mechanically restrained until fully cured (e.g. with wooden battens and screw clamps).
• Open areas must be protected against moisture during the curing period.

Errors in adhesive installation can:

• Reduce the elastic decoupling effect
• Deteriorate sound and vibration values
• Impair stray current insulation
• Make subsequent maintenance measures significantly more difficult

• SBR: very good mechanical properties (strength, elongation at break, abrasion resistance), good ageing and temperature resistance, resistant to many media (but not resistant to fats/mineral oils).

• EPDM: very good electrical insulation, excellent UV and ozone resistance, wide temperature range (approx. –40 °C to +150 °C), good resistance to water/steam and many chemicals (but not resistant to fats/mineral oils).

Due to the material properties, slight colour variations and fading may occur in products made from SBR (styrene-butadiene rubber) granulate. The same applies to products with an EPDM top layer, such as EPDM safety tiles. The RAL values specified for EPDM products are approximate values.

The colour intensity of the standard colours (black, red-brown, green, and grey) also depends on the rubber granulate used. The finer the granulate, the more intense the colour appearance of the moulded parts, slabs, and strips.

For moulded parts, slabs, and strips with a multicolour surface, slight colour variations may also occur due to the production process.

Variations in colour appearance within the scope described above do not constitute grounds for complaints or price reductions.

Temperature-related expansion and shrinkage may occur (up to approx. ±2%). For optimal processing, as constant a temperature as possible is recommended. We recommend installing the ELTECPUR® moulded parts at temperatures between 15 °C and 20 °C in order to minimize the influence of temperature-related expansion behaviour during installation.

During installation, the temperature should remain as stable as possible and should not be subject to significant fluctuations. Particular attention must be paid during spring and autumn, when large temperature variations can occur throughout the day.

For the user, this means that these material properties must be taken into account during the installation and processing of the products. Please also refer to the instructions provided in our installation recommendations.

Our products are subject to standard production-related tolerances. Due to the material properties, slight variations in structure and colour shade may occur. Within these tolerances, deviations of approx. ±10% in specific weight, as well as ±2% in the specified dimensions (length and width) and ±2 mm in height, are permissible.

Please note that different tolerances may apply to certain products. These are defined in the respective product drawings or technical documentation. Dimensions and tolerance specifications must therefore always be checked on a project-specific basis and, if necessary, coordinated individually.

General note regarding release agent residues

Soap-based release agents may be used during demoulding. Any residues should be removed before or after installation using water and a brush or a high-pressure cleaner, if necessary.

Disposal is generally via local waste disposal companies; waste code 19 12 04. Small off-cuts can, depending on local regulations, potentially be disposed of via household waste.

Wear gloves and suitable work clothing to avoid injuries and contamination.

Base pads distribute the load of technical equipment evenly and prevent point loads on the roof waterproofing membrane. This helps avoid damage to the insulation and waterproofing system and extends the service life of the roof.

Yes, base pads are self-supporting and allow installation without penetrating the roof membrane. Fixation is achieved either through the dead weight of the system or by mechanical connection to the equipment.

Combination walkway pads are ideal when:

• No bonding is desired
• High wind loads occur
• Additional load-bearing capacity is needed

Their weight provides a stable and permanently secure solution.

Maintenance walkways protect the roof membrane from mechanical damage and ensure safe access. Without defined walkways, uncontrolled loads and consequential damage frequently occur.

• Walkway pad type S1: bonded, lightweight, primarily for maintenance walkways
• Combination walkway pad: heavy, loose-laid, additionally load-bearing

Combination walkway pads offer a clear advantage in terms of wind uplift resistance due to their self-weight.

Not always:

• Walkway pad type S1 → bonding required for secure fixation
• Combination walkway pads → bonding generally not required thanks to self-weight

This saves time, costs and facilitates subsequent modifications.

For combination walkway pads, wind uplift resistance is primarily achieved through:

• High dead weight
• Uniform load distribution

In contrast, lighter systems (e.g. conventional walkway pads) generally require adhesive bonding.

Advantage: reduced intervention in the roof structure.

They prevent:

• Point pressure loading
• Mechanical damage
• Abrasion from foot traffic

Additionally, drainage structures ensure controlled water run-off.

Yes, the surfaces are slip-resistant and ensure safe footing in wet conditions, frost and changing weather conditions.

Drainage prevents:

• Water accumulation
• Moisture penetration
• Frost damage

Modern systems feature integrated drainage structures for reliable water run-off.

Cable ducts:

• Protect cables and roof membrane
• Enable structured cable routing
• Facilitate maintenance

They also meet the requirements for protective layers in accordance with DIN standards.

Yes, wider systems can additionally be used as maintenance walkways, thus combining cable routing and trafficability in a single system.

Marking stones structure roof surfaces, define safe pathways and increase visibility through reflective elements – even in poor lighting conditions.

Common mistakes:

• No defined maintenance walkways
• Incorrect load distribution
• Missing wind uplift protection

Best practice: use heavy, loose-laid systems such as combination walkway pads to avoid damage and the need for rework.

Elastic tiles are compact, generally thicker modules (e.g. 50 × 50 cm) that are particularly suitable for free weight areas and high point loads. Fitness mats, on the other hand, are larger-format products (e.g. 200 × 100 cm) and are ideal for larger training surfaces or functional training areas. Elastic tiles generally offer higher load-bearing capacity, while fitness mats allow large areas to be covered more quickly.

The optimal thickness depends on the intended use:

• 0.5–1 cm: light use, cardio areas
• 1–2 cm: functional training
• 2–5 cm: free weight areas / heavy weights

The thicker the flooring, the better the sound insulation, vibration damping, and impact protection.

Best practice from the market: For deadlifts and heavy barbells, a thickness of ≥30 mm is often recommended.

For temporary use: no.

For permanent use: yes, recommended.

Bonding prevents:

• Slipping
• Gap formation
• Long-term wear

Yes, installation over underfloor heating is generally possible — however, the following points should be considered:

• The thermal conductivity of rubber granulate is lower than that of conventional floor coverings
• Lower material thickness improves heat transfer
• Fully bonded systems provide better thermal conductivity
• The maximum flow temperature should be observed

Recommendation: For underfloor heating systems, thinner fitness mats (0.5–1 cm) are generally recommended.

Very easy to maintain:

• Vacuuming or sweeping
• Mopping with water or mild cleaner

The materials are low-maintenance and durable, which reduces operating costs.

Yes, for certain fall heights the standard DIN EN 1177 prescribes suitable fall protection measures. Fall protection tiles help to reduce impact forces and prevent injuries.

Important: the correct thickness and installation must be selected according to the fall height.

EPDM components offer:

• UV resistance
• Long-lasting colour appearance
• Individual design options

This makes them particularly suitable for design-oriented fitness studios and playgrounds.

Very durable thanks to:

• High material density
• Elastic structure
• Resistance to mechanical loading

With professional use, a service life of 10–15 years is realistic (industry standard).

Stable mats improve:

• Grip and safety for horses
• Joint protection
• Thermal insulation
• Reduction of bedding requirements

This saves costs in the long term and improves the stable climate.

Wall kick protection:

• Protects horses from injuries
• Reduces noise and stress
• Protects stable walls from damage

It provides a calmer and safer stable environment.

Important factors:

• Level, load-bearing substrate
• Dry and clean surface
• Bonding may be required for intensive use

Most common mistake in the market: uneven substrates lead to accelerated wear.

Compared to concrete:

• Shock-absorbing, less risk of injury
• Slip-resistant
• More flexible and durable

Ideal for playgrounds and sports surfaces.

Yes, many products consist of:

• Recycled rubber granulate
• Durable materials

This reduces resource consumption and provides sustainable, economical solutions.

Traffic guidance systems structure traffic areas, increase safety and optimise the use of limited space. They direct traffic flows in a targeted manner and reduce conflicts between cars, cyclists and pedestrians.

Elastic curbs made of rubber granulate are:

• Gentler on vehicles (tyres & rims)
• Easier to install
• More flexibly adaptable
• Durable and low-maintenance

Unlike concrete, they reduce damage upon impact and are ideal for temporary or adaptable traffic solutions.

Curbs elevations are used to:

• Protect pavements and cycle paths
• Prevent illegal parking
• Clearly separate traffic areas

They are particularly effective on level traffic surfaces.

Through:

• Clear physical separation of traffic areas
• High visibility through reflective elements
• Targeted guidance of vehicles

This reduces accidents and provides better orientation in road traffic.

Separation bars are flat, overridable elements for:

• Separation of traffic areas
• Marking of lanes
• Traffic guidance and calming

They are frequently used in multi-storey car parks, on parking areas and in urban areas.

• Separation bars: overridable, guiding, flexibly deployable
• Curbs: more strongly delimiting, stop vehicles

Separation bars are suitable for gentle traffic guidance, kerb stones for clear demarcation.

Yes, they are:

• Pressure-resistant
• Abrasion-resistant
• Weather-resistant (-40 to +80 °C)

They are thus designed for permanent use in urban traffic.

Installation is carried out:

• Mechanically with screws and dowels
• Optionally additionally bonded

A stable, level substrate is a prerequisite for permanent installation. Best practice: combination of mechanical and adhesive fixation.

Yes, elastic systems can be:

• Cut to size
• Relocated
• Extended

This is a major advantage over fixed concrete solutions.

Through integrated:

• Retroreflective films
• Reflective strips
• High-contrast colours

This ensures that the elements remain clearly visible even in darkness.

Yes, they are resistant to:

• Rain and moisture
• Frost and heat
• UV radiation

This ensures a long service life even with intensive use.

• Sustainable and environmentally friendly
• Durable and economical
• Elastic and shock-absorbing

They combine ecological advantages with high technical performance.

Typical applications:

• Car parks and multi-storey car parks
• Traffic islands and roundabouts
• Lane narrowing
• Crossing aids

They optimise the use of space and increase safety.

Through:

• Visual and physical guidance
• Lane narrowing
• Clear structuring

This leads to reduced speeds and greater safety for all road users.

Common mistakes:

• No clear separation of traffic areas
• Insufficient visibility
• Wrong material choice

Best practice: use modular, elastic systems for maximum flexibility and safety.

Elastomer mats are used to:

• Protect machines and components
• Reduce vibrations
• Distribute loads evenly

They help increase system availability while reducing wear and downtime.

• Anti-slip mats: prevent slipping of cargo and machines
• Anti-vibration mats: dampen vibrations and structure-borne noise

In many applications, both functions are combined, e.g. for machine foundations.

Anti-slip mats significantly increase the coefficient of friction between two surfaces.

Typical values are >0.5 to >0.7 µ, depending on material and substrate.

Best practice: reduction of additional securing effort by up to 80%.

• Less additional securing effort
• Faster processes
• Higher safety

They are particularly efficient in logistics, production and transport.

They decouple machines from the substrate and reduce:

• Vibrations
• Structure-borne noise
• Dynamic loads

This extends the service life of machines and improves precision.

Important parameters:

• Machine weight
• Vibration frequency
• Material density (e.g. 650–1150 kg/m³)
• Required damping

The higher the density, the higher the load-bearing capacity and stability.

Density affects:

• Compressive strength
• Damping properties
• Load-bearing capacity

Typical ranges:

• Soft (600–700 kg/m³) → high damping
• Hard (900–1150 kg/m³) → high load-bearing capacity

Best practice: select density according to the specific application.

Yes, they are resistant to:

• Water
• UV radiation
• Diluted acids and alkalis

Limited resistance to:

• Oils
• Fuels
• Hydrocarbons

Building protection mats protect:

• Waterproofing membranes
• Insulation
• Machine foundations

They act as a separation layer and prevent damage from pressure and friction.

Yes, moulded parts and mats can be:

• Custom-manufactured
• Supplied in various thicknesses and formats
• Adapted to specific project requirements

This is particularly important for complex industrial installations.

Through properties such as:

• Impact resistance
• Elasticity
• Weather resistance

They are designed for long-term continuous use and significantly reduce maintenance costs.

Yes, they are:

• Weather-resistant
• Temperature-stable
• Moisture-resistant

They are thus equally suitable for indoor and outdoor applications.

Moulded parts offer:

• Perfect fit
• Optimal load distribution
• Maximum functionality

They are ideal when standard products are not sufficient.

They increase safety through:

• Slip-resistant surfaces
• Stable machine positioning
• Reduced vibrations

This minimises accident risks and improves working conditions.

Common mistakes:

• Wrong material density
• Insufficient load calculation
• Wrong combination of slip and damping properties

Best practice: always select according to the specific application (load + frequency + environment).

Anti-vibration pads are placed under equipment feet and reduce:

• Vibrations
• Noise
• Movement of appliances

Typical applications include washing machines, tumble dryers or speakers.

A washing machine underlay:

• Reduces noise and vibrations
• Protects floors from damage
• Extends the service life of the machine

Especially in flats, the difference is clearly noticeable.

• Pads: point-based solution under the feet
• Underlay: surface-based solution for maximum stability

For strong vibrations, a complete underlay is often more effective.

Terrace pads serve as an elastic underlay for:

• Terrace substructures
• Timber and WPC decking
• Garden and pool areas

They compensate for unevenness and ensure a stable construction.

Without pads, the following often occurs:

• Waterlogging
• Material wear
• Uneven load distribution

Terrace pads create a separation layer and significantly extend the service life of the terrace.

Through their:

• Water-permeable structure
• Point support

Water can drain more easily and no permanent moisture contact occurs. Best practice in terrace construction: ventilation of the substructure for optimal drying.

Yes, they are:

• Weather-resistant
• UV-resistant
• Temperature-stable

They are thus ideally suited for garden, terrace and outdoor applications.

Typical applications:

• Garage (floor protection)
• Workshop (machine underlay)
• Garden (underlay for equipment or structures)

It is a versatile universal mat for indoor and outdoor use.

Yes, they effectively protect against:

• Scratches
• Pressure marks
• Moisture
• Dirt

This is particularly important for sensitive floors such as tiles or wood.

All products are:

• Can be laid without tools
• Individually cuttable
• Ready for immediate use

This makes them ideal for DIY applications.

Yes, many products consist of:

• Recycled rubber granulate
• Durable materials

This makes them a sustainable solution with a long service life.

They improve comfort through:

• Noise reduction
• Fewer vibrations
• More stable appliances

This provides a quieter and more pleasant living environment.

Common mistakes:

• Wrong material thickness
• Missing drainage
• Uneven substrates

Best practice: correct thickness + level substrate + suitable application.

• Homeowners
• DIY enthusiasts
• Garden builders
• Flat owners

They offer a simple, durable and versatile solution for many applications.