What are EPDM Seals and where can they be used?

EPDM seals (ethylene propylene diene monomer) are manufactured using an advanced formulation of elastomer with a wide range of uses. EPDM is a versatile elastomer which can be moulded into sealing components for many different applications and industries, with advantageous properties such as its resilience to heat and certain chemicals. Sealing products made with EPDM provide operating temperatures ranging from -60 to 150°C. This range makes EPDM an excellent choice for applications which require temperature extremes and protection against weathering. Temperature resistance One key characteristic of EPDM seals is that they demonstrate excellent heat and steam resistance. While it is true that many other elastomeric polymers are resistant to temperature extremes, few can deal with both high and low temperatures in the same way as EPDM. This property makes EPDM a leading choice for seal manufacturers looking to find solutions for applications in hot and cold operating environments. Chemical resistance EPDM elastomers will withstand the detrimental effect of a broad range of chemical media, including greases, sodium hydroxide solutions and many other diluted acids. However, it is important to note that EPDM seals do not perform well against chemical media with mineral oil products, lubricants and fuels. EPDM is a suitable elastomer for most general sealing requirements, but if in doubt it is always better to seek advice from a sealing expert to ensure that your application isn’t compromised by a non-optimal sealing product. Industry use EPDM seals, specifically O-rings and gaskets, are commonly used across all kinds of applications and industries. These vary from medical devices through to water systems and automotive uses. With its strong combination of thermal and mechanical properties coupled with relative cost-effectiveness, you can also expect to see EPDM elastomer seals in a wide range of household applications, including door/window seals and in refrigerators. Disadvantages of EPDM While the value and versatility of EPDM lends itself well to seal use across various industries, the material does have some notable limitations. The main disadvantage is its poor sealing performance against mineral oil products. EPDM elastomers are not recommended for use with synthetic diester oils and lubricants found in some types of industrial machinery. What other elastomer options are there? As well as EPDM, we manufacture more than 10 different elastomer types to deal with all types of applications, whatever the operating environments. Novotema can offer the choice of over 300 different material grades, many of these materials can be tested against customer specific requirements. For more information on our sealing solutions, please get in touch, or read about our expertise in a wide range of industries.