Common Applications for EPDM Rubber

The first synthetic rubber was developed in 1909 by a team headed by German organic chemist, Fritz Hofmann, working at the Bayer laboratory in Germany. Hofmann and his team succeeded in polymerising isoprene, creating the first synthetic rubber.

Despite the invention of synthetic rubber in the early 20^th century, natural rubber continued to be widely used until the 1960s to meet the increasingly complex needs of manufacturers. With an increasing need for a rubber material with UV/ozone resistance, combined with elasticity, scientists developed Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, commonly known as EPDM, a synthetic rubber with enhanced properties when compared with natural rubber.

EPDM properties

EPDM rubber features excellent elasticity and resistance to UV rays, ozone and general weathering, as well as an excellent resistance to extreme temperatures (between -40°C and +130°C), making it an ideal material for outdoor applications.

In addition to great weathering properties, EPDM also exhibits good resistance to water-based chemicals and vegetable-based hydraulic oils. However, EPDM should not be exposed to hydrocarbons such as petrol or kerosene, aromatics, or halogenated solvents.

Where EPDM is used

As a result of its useful properties and longevity, EPDM rubber is widely used in a range of applications and industrial sectors. Here are just a few of the common applications:

Automotive

EPDM is weather, UV and ozone resistant, features excellent sealing and noise reduction properties and bonds well with metals. As a result, it is commonly used as a weather sealing material in the automotive industry. EPDM is also a useful material for vibration isolation and is used as a barrier against road surface and engine vibration.

Lighting

The sealing and weather resistant properties combined with UV and ozone stability make EPDM an appropriate material for lighting. It helps to protect lighting components from the ingress of water and dust, helping to prevent damage and reduce the likelihood of costly repair or replacement fees. EPDM is designed to last.

HVAC and Heating

EPDM is used in a wide range of applications in heating, air conditioning and ventilation, for example, compressor grommets, drain tubes, panel gaskets and seals, and pressure switch tubing. EPDM features many benefits for HVAC systems, including:

• Low electrical conductivity
• Water and steam resistance
• Extreme temperature resistance
• Vibration isolation
• Weather, UV and ozone resistance

Roofing

The properties of EPDM mean that it is widely used for roof membranes and coatings, particularly for flat roof systems.

Other Industrial Uses

EPDM rubber is widely used in industry and construction. For example, in water and plumbing systems, common applications include O-rings and hoses. In industrial applications, EPDM is commonly used in tubing, belts, grommets, and electrical insulations.

CB Frost EPDM Products

We keep EPDM rubber sheet material in stock at all times in a range of thicknesses and shore hardness, ensuring fast turnarounds on orders. Please note that we can also provide thicker specifications on request.

Whether you are looking for EPDM sheet or roll material, EPDM gaskets, washers, extrusions, fabrications, mouldings, or EPDM tape, contact the CB Frost sales team today on +44 (0)121 773 8494 for more information.