EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, a synthetic rubber used in a range of applications. EPDM is used most commonly used in the automotive and construction industries for various seals due to its excellent resistance to environmental factors such as Ozone, UV and general weathering. Typical applications of EPDM are window and door seals (glazing), waterproofing sheets and electrical gaskets. However, EPDM has a disadvantage when up against its closest competing elastomer silicone rubber - temperature resistance. When compared with silicone rubber, EPDM has inferior resistance at higher temperatures as it can only reach maximum temperatures of 130°C (266°F).
Silicone and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomers) are types of rubber that share some truly unique features and uses. Despite this, there are notable differences between them in terms of their properties, which is something to consider when you are choosing between the two.
But Is Silicone better than EPDM? Let’s start with an overview of each, then find out.
EPDM – Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomers is a high density synthetic rubber that is extremely versatile with an ability to withstand high temperatures (up to 215c). Because of this versatility it is used in Automotive, Industrial and several other industries. Within those, EPDM is often used for Seals, O-Rings and Grommets because of its resistant properties against weathering, acids and Alkali’s. Some of EPDM’s key properties include:
Strong acid and Alkali resistance
High temperature resistance up to 215c
Flame retardant
Cost-effective to manufacture
Excellent weathering properties
Tensile range of 500-2500 P.S.I
Silicone – Silicone is a generally non-reactive, flexible rubber that has interesting properties which make it a widely used material in a number of different industries. Silicone has a high temperature resistance of up to 315c and great flame retardant properties. This makes it ideal for Engineering and Automotive companies. It is also commonly used in the powder coating maskingindustry, where it is generally utilized for its recyclability and effective heat resistance to mask and protect areas while they are coated and baked. Some of Silicone’s key properties include:
High temperature resistance of up to 315c
Good flame retardant properties
Tensile range of 200-1500 P.S.I
Excellent weathering properties
What’s more important to consider before deciding between the two?
When it comes to choosing between EPDM and Silicone, there are multiple factors you should consider to ensure you’re making the best choice for your desired application. For example, you must consider if the material is going to be used outside, then it must have good weathering properties. However, Silicone doesn’t have good acid and Alkali resistance, meaning that if it rains the rubber would be damaged and would be rendered useless. Other factors you need to take in to consideration are:
Strength of the material
Flexibility
Overall costing
Resistant properties (chemical, heat, weather, etc.)
Weight
Once you have considered each of these factors, you can be sure the material meets all your desired criteria and has the properties you require. There really is no ‘better’ choice of materials when it comes to Silicone and EPDM. When it comes to your requirements, both have a place in the market for industry uses. Therefore, it’s essential you make an informed decision based on price, strength, properties and so on.
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