EPDM gaskets are widely used in various industries for sealing applications. Here’s a breakdown of their characteristics and applications:
- Chemical Resistance: EPDM rubber has excellent resistance to many chemicals, including acids, alkalis, and ketones. This makes it suitable for use in environments where exposure to various chemicals is common, such as in the chemical processing industry.
- Weather Resistance: EPDM rubber is highly resistant to weathering, ozone, and UV exposure. This makes it suitable for outdoor applications where exposure to sunlight and weather conditions is inevitable, such as in automotive seals and weather stripping.
- Temperature Resistance: EPDM rubber has a wide operating temperature range, typically from -40°C to 120°C (-40°F to 248°F), although specialty grades can extend this range further. This makes it suitable for use in both hot and cold environments.
- Water Resistance: EPDM rubber exhibits excellent water resistance, making it ideal for sealing applications where exposure to water or steam is common, such as in plumbing gaskets and seals.
- Electrical Insulation: EPDM rubber has good electrical insulation properties, making it suitable for use in electrical enclosures and gaskets where electrical conductivity needs to be minimized.
- Tensile Strength and Durability: EPDM rubber has good tensile strength and tear resistance, making it durable and long-lasting in various applications.
EPDM rubber gaskets find applications in a wide range of industries, including automotive, construction, aerospace, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, and electrical. They are used for sealing applications such as door and window seals, pipe gaskets, O-rings, roofing membranes, and electrical enclosures, among others.