EPDM O-Rings
Introduction to EPDM O-ring material properties
Ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) is an elastomer material copolymerized from ethylene and propylene. Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber is an ethylene-propylene terpolymer, with a small amount of a third monomer (usually a diene monomer) introduced into its molecular structure to achieve compatibility with sulfur vulcanization processes. EPDM O-rings have a wide range of applications, covering multiple industries such as automotive manufacturing and water purification systems.
EPDM O-rings possess several core performance advantages: excellent ozone resistance, sunlight resistance, and weather resistance; good flexibility at low temperatures; outstanding chemical corrosion resistance, able to withstand various dilute acids, dilute alkalis, and polar solvents; and good electrical insulation properties. A metal-detectable version is available upon request, with all performance indicators identical to standard EPDM O-rings. EPDM O-rings are typically in their original color and have a long shelf life.
Curing system: Peroxide vulcanization process
Standard EPDM O-rings are typically produced using a sulfur vulcanization process. Sulfur-vulcanized products offer superior flexibility but suffer from drawbacks such as easy hardening and poor compression set performance under high-temperature conditions.
Peroxide-vulcanized EPDM O-rings, on the other hand, exhibit superior heat resistance and compression set resistance, meeting long-term service requirements and proving particularly suitable for applications such as flexible hose systems in the construction industry. It’s important to note that peroxide vulcanization is more expensive and technically more complex than sulfur-vulcanized EPDM. For more technical details on EPDM vulcanization systems, please click here.
Introduction to the properties of EPDM O-ring compounds
| Compounds | Durometer | Color | Temp Range (F) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E70-C101 | 70 | Black | -67 to +257 | General purpose |
| E70-B104 | 70 | Black | -67 to +302 | NSF 61 |
| E70-B105 | 70 | Black | -67 to +257 | FDA Compliant, NSF 61 |
| E70-B108 | 70 | Black | -67 to +302 | UL 157 |
| E70-B502 | 70 | White | -67 to +257 | Medical Grade, PTFE 1% Internal Lubricant, FDA Compliant |
| E80-B901 | 80 | Purple | -40 to +212 | General purpose |
| E90-B101 | 90 | Black | -22 to +302 | R744 Refrigerant Compatible |
EPDM O-ring Recommended Use Environment Guide
Performs Well In:
Medium: Alcohols, dilute acids, dilute alkalis, silicone oils, silicone greases, water, phosphate ester-based hydraulic fluids
Environment: Resistant to ozone, aging, and weathering;
Tolerates steam temperatures up to 204.4℃ (400℉)
Incompatible media: Ketones
Doesn't Perform Well In:
- Aliphatic hydrocarbons and aromatic hydrocarbons
- Diester lubricants
- Halogenated solvents
- Petroleum-based oils and greases
