EPDM Rubber - Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer Rubber
EPDM rubber is ethylene-propylene-diene monomer. It is a high-quality elastomeric material belonging to the group of synthetic rubbers. EPDM is a copolymer of ethylene, propylene, and small amounts of unreacted diene monomers, which provide cross-linking sites for vulcanization.
What does the abbreviation EPDM mean?
EPDM stands for ethylene, propylene, and diene. EPDM rubber is formed by the polymerization of ethylene, propylene, and a diene monomer. The presence of a third monomer - diene - in the chain structure allows for cross-linking during vulcanization, giving EPDM rubber its flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance.
EPDM rubber is the preferred rubber blend that is characterized by excellent resistance to weather conditions, ozone, and chemicals. It is a general-purpose material, commonly used for the production of a wide range of rubber seals. It exhibits high resistance to weather conditions, ozone, and UV radiation, making it ideal for outdoor applications. EPDM rubber also has exceptional water resistance and is impermeable to moisture. It offers excellent technical parameters, maintains stability and the same hardness at different temperatures. It does not delaminate or deform, and also retains its flexibility in both low and high temperatures. Due to its resistance to a wide range of chemicals, it is suitable for use in applications exposed to their effects.
EPDM rubber is an exceptionally durable material, resistant to tearing and abrasion. The material properties also include excellent electrical insulation, making EPDM ideal for cable insulation and wire protection in various industries.
Ethylene-propylene-diene rubber is commonly used for industrial seals, production of roof membranes, automotive components, or HVAC systems. Due to its exceptional properties, it is widely used in construction, automotive, industry, energy distribution, and the marine sector.
Like any rubber compound, EPDM rubber compound has its own chemical resistance. In this way, it shows chemical resistance to:
- water, water vapor, moisture
- alkaline solutions (alkalis, lyes)
- alcohols, glycols, ketones
- solutions of inorganic acids of low and medium intensity
- glycol-based brake fluids
- cleaning agents and detergents
- ozone, UV radiation, weather conditions
The choice of EPDM rubber curing method depends on the final application of the material. EPDM rubber can be cured (vulcanized) using peroxides or sulfur. Each of these methods has its unique properties and advantages. EPDM cured with peroxides provides excellent thermal resistance (withstanding temperatures up to 150°C) and chemical resistance compared to sulfur-cured compounds. The material has a lower compression set, making it ideal for applications requiring long-term shape retention and flexibility under load (compression set). Peroxide curing improves thermal stability, resulting in better resistance to aging, hot water, and steam (up to 200°C). During peroxide vulcanization, EPDM rubber better retains its color. Advantages include no dye migration, metal or PVC staining, more stable color, and reduced tendency to create blooms on the surface. The properties of EPDM cured with peroxides make it perfect for various applications in the food industry, automotive industry, HVAC systems, and applications requiring durability at high temperatures and chemical resistance. EPDM cured with sulfur provides higher mechanical strength. It has higher tear and tensile strength, allowing for a wider range of fillers to customize the material based on specific needs. Sulfur vulcanized EPDM provides thermal resistance up to 120°C, making it suitable for general applications. EPDM vulcanized with sulfur is well-suited for applications requiring mechanical strength and flexibility.
In our offer you will find high-quality EPDM products cured with both peroxide and sulfur, including:
- EPDM o-rings
- solid EPDM cords
- porous EPDM cords
- EPDM technical sheets
- solid EPDM gaskets
- self-adhesive EPDM foam rubber gaskets, also with EN 45545-2 railway standard
Our rubber products are characterized by reliability and durability. They work perfectly in various general and industrial applications. We manufacture both standard products and fulfill custom orders according to the customer's technical documentation. Many of our products are available in our regular offer.