What is EPDM rubber?

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a terpolymer of ethylene, propylene, and a small amount of a third monomer (a diene). It was first commercialized in 1963, and today global consumption exceeds 800,000 tons per year.

Chemically, it belongs to the polyolefin family and features a chemically stable saturated backbone. This means it does not readily degrade from ozone or UV attack like natural rubber or SBR. Its low density (0.87) also makes it lighter than many other rubbers on a volume basis.

EPDM: What It Can and Cannot Do – Chemical Compatibility Guide

Typical Applications

Thanks to the above properties, EPDM is irreplaceable in three main areas: 1.Applications Requiring Weather Resistance: Building window seals, roofing membranes, automotive door and glass run channels. It resists UV, ozone, and rain. 2.Heat / Steam Resistance: Automotive radiator hoses, HVAC system seals, industrial high‑temperature steam hoses. 3.Electrical Insulation: Wire and cable jackets, high‑voltage cable accessories. Clear Limitations When selecting a material, knowing what it cannot do is often more important than what it can. EPDM is NOT recommended for contact with: 1.Petroleum‑based oils: Mineral oil, fuel, gasoline. Exposure causes excessive swelling and drastic loss of physical properties. 2.Aromatic solvents: Benzene, toluene, etc. 3.Diester lubricants.

Procurement Advice: How to Avoid "Buying Wrong"

When communicating with suppliers, be sure to clarify the following three points: 1. Curing System: Peroxide vs. Sulfur    Peroxide cure: Offers better heat resistance and lower compression set; ideal for high‑temperature dynamic applications.    Sulfur cure: Lower cost, higher physical strength, but slightly inferior heat resistance.    Knowing which cure is used directly affects the service life in your equipment. 2. Industry Compliance Certifications Depending on your industry, verify that the material meets the relevant standards:    Potable water contact: NSF‑61 or WRAS certification.    Food contact: FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 certification.    Electronics/electrical: RoHS, REACH compliance.    Flame retardancy: UL 94 certification. 3. Grade and Mooney Viscosity Different processing methods (compression molding, extrusion, injection molding) require grades with different Mooney viscosities. High‑Mooney grades can accept high loadings of oil and carbon black, helping to reduce part cost while maintaining performance. Always ask the supplier for a technical data sheet (TDS) to confirm.

Conclusion

EPDM is not a universal material, but for applications requiring weather resistance, heat resistance, or water/steam resistance, it is one of the most cost‑effective choices. Its low density and high filler acceptance also allow for cost optimization in finished parts. Are you looking for EPDM sealing solutions that meet specific industry certifications? Or do you need material recommendations for a high‑temperature steam environment?

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