EPDM O-Rings
Exceptional weather-resistant elastomers offering superior ozone, steam, and water resistance for outdoor and industrial applications.
Key Properties & Advantages
- Weather Resistance: Outstanding ozone, UV, and weathering resistance
- Temperature Range: -50°C to +150°C (-58°F to +302°F) continuous service
- Water/Steam Resistance: Excellent for hot water and low-pressure steam
- Chemical Resistance: Resists polar fluids, alkalis, and mild acids
- Electrical Properties: Good insulator with low conductivity
- FDA Options: Available in FDA-compliant formulations
EPDM Grades & Formulations
Standard EPDM
General purpose
Excellent weather resistance
Good compression set
Food-Grade EPDM
FDA 21 CFR 177.2600
NSF 51 Certified
3-A Sanitary Standard
High-Temp EPDM
Extended temp range
Improved steam resistance
For automotive underhood
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Standard Values | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Shore A) | 40-90 | ASTM D2240 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 10-20 | ASTM D412 |
| Elongation at Break (%) | 100-500 | ASTM D412 |
| Compression Set (% @ 100°C) | 15-30 | ASTM D395 |
| Tear Resistance (kN/m) | 20-50 | ASTM D624 |
Limitations & Considerations
- Hydrocarbon Resistance: Poor resistance to oils, fuels, and greases
- Abrasion Resistance: Lower than NBR or polyurethane
- High-Pressure Steam: Not suitable for high-pressure steam above 150°C
- Adhesion: Requires special primers for bonding
- Not Universal: Not recommended for petroleum-based applications
Common Applications
- Automotive: Coolant systems, brake systems (non-petroleum), weatherseals
- Plumbing: Water supply systems, faucet seals, water heaters
- HVAC: Seals for chillers, cooling towers, and air handling units
- Electrical: Insulating seals for electrical enclosures
- Food Processing: Beverage dispensing, clean-in-place systems
- Outdoor Equipment: Seals for marine, solar, and construction equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, EPDM is excellent for drinking water applications when:
- Formulated to meet NSF/ANSI 61 standards
- Using WRAS-approved grades for UK water systems
- Properly certified for potable water contact
- Not exposed to petroleum-based lubricants
| Property | EPDM | Silicone |
|---|---|---|
| Weather Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Temperature Range | -50°C to +150°C | -60°C to +230°C |
| Tensile Strength | Higher | Lower |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Compression Set | Better | Worse |
EPDM is generally excellent with water-glycol mixtures:
- Ethylene Glycol: Up to 50% concentration at 100°C
- Propylene Glycol: Full compatibility in most concentrations
- Best Performance: With peroxide-cured EPDM formulations
- Avoid: Glycol mixtures containing petroleum additives