EPDM is a synthetic rubber much heralded for its resistance to weathering, UV, and ozone. This low-cost, general-purpose elastomer is particularly noteworthy for its ability to operate in sub-zero temperatures as low as -50°C. Given these favourable traits, what is EPDM rubber used for? TRP Polymer Solutions provides three common examples of EPDM rubber’s uses and why it’s so suitable for a diverse range of applications.
What is EPDM rubber?
The 1960s saw an expansion of unique synthetic rubber materials. One product to emerge during this time was Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, or EPDM, which was borne out of the necessity for a rubber material that combined elasticity with UV and ozone resistance. EPDM fulfils all these criteria. This M-class elastomer is so classified because it is part of a family of rubbers that all feature a saturated chain of the polymethylene type.
EPDM rubber offers a reasonably wide operational temperature range of -50°C to +150°C but really comes into its own in sub-zero environments and with cold materials. As well as its aforementioned environmental characteristics, EPDM delivers excellent tear, abrasion and steam resistance. It is also resistant to compression set, dilute acids, ketones and alkalis. All of which makes it a dependable general-purpose material.
3 typical EPDM rubber uses
EPDM is employed far and wide as a lower-cost elastomer material thanks to its favourable characteristics and good processing abilities. Here are just three typical EPDM rubber uses.
1. Automotive applications
EPDM’s favourable sealing attributes and noise reduction properties have seen it employed across many motorsport seal applications in the automotive industry. Not only is EPDM waterproof and UV-resistant, but it also bonds quickly with metal. As you can imagine, this gives automotive manufacturers a huge amount of scope for weatherproofing and vibration-damping applications. Low-cost but durable, the uses of EPDM in the automotive sector range from window and door seals to hoses and gaskets.
2. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) applications
EPDM rubber is commonly used in the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) industry because of its low electrical conductivity and resistance to steam and water. EPDM’s relatively broad temperature range enables it to perform in HVAC applications for extended periods of time without danger of embrittlement or deterioration due to thermal conditions. Another EPDM rubber usage is in the vibration damping of HVAC fans and motors, which would otherwise be audible. Drain tubes and compressor grommets are two typical EPDM rubber applications.
3. Industrial seals and gaskets
EPDM’s resistance to environmental factors, like moisture, UV light, and ozone, makes it an excellent material for seals and gaskets destined for outdoor applications.
EPDM seals and gaskets maintain their elastic properties even when subjected to repeated warming and cooling. EPDM is also an excellent general-purpose material for custom rubber seals and custom rubber gaskets liable to come into contact with certain chemicals, including detergents, sodium hydroxide solutions, and many other diluted acids. As such, it’s an ideal polymer for chemical processing. However, EPDM seals are not recommended for applications involving mineral oil products.
Custom EPDM rubber components at TRP Polymer Solutions
If you require resilient, durable custom rubber moulding products that are specialised for your industry, TRP Polymer Solutions can work with you to produce your optimal solution. We can supply high-performance EPDM seals that are designed to withstand the demands of your specific application, offering the durability and resistance to chemicals, extreme temperatures, and compression set that you require.
For advice and guidance, or to discuss your application requirements in more detail, contact TRP Polymer Solutions today on +44(0)1432 268899 or email sales@trp.co.uk.
March 12, 2022 • 
March 12, 2022 • 
5 min read
