Rubber gaskets are used in many industries. They can perform a good sealing role and protect equipment from moisture, dust, and other contaminants. More and more people prefer rubber gaskets among various types. EPDM rubber was chosen primarily for its exceptional durability and ability to resist weathering, ozone, and UV exposure.
EPDM rubber gaskets offer many advantages over other gasket types, such as excellent flexibility, low compression set, and good chemical resistance. They are ideally suited for harsh working environments and can be used in a wide range of applications including automotive, construction, HVAC, and aerospace.
Several factors must be considered when selecting and using EPDM gaskets to ensure the best performance and long service life. Here are some things to know when using these types of rubber gaskets.
Material properties
The hardness of the EPDM gasket is a very important point when you are choosing a product. Softer gaskets conform perfectly to irregular surfaces and provide a better seal. Conversely, harder rubber gaskets can resist deformation and maintain a reliable seal when subjected to pressure.
Another important property to consider is the compression set. EPDM has a low compression set, so the gasket can maintain its original shape to provide a reliable seal. This feature can meet the needs of work in the automotive or construction industries.
Temperature range
EPDM gaskets are also suitable for use in extreme temperature environments and they are able to withstand these extreme environments. They can withstand temperatures from -50 to 150 °C, making them suitable for a wider range of industries. It is important to note that the temperature range a specific EPDM gasket can withstand depends primarily on its formulation and application requirements.
Chemical compatibility
When selecting an EPDM gasket, it is also particularly important to consider the compatibility of the material with the chemicals it will be exposed to. Although they have excellent chemical resistance, contact with certain substances can cause the rubber to degrade or break down, possibly causing the product's sealing capabilities to fail. They are incompatible with petroleum, base oils, fuels, aromatic solvents, and certain halogenated hydrocarbons.
Pressure Level
The pressure rating is the maximum pressure a gasket can withstand without deforming or failing. Pressure ratings will vary depending on the size and shape of the rubber and its intended application. EPDM is available in various pressure grades from low pressure to high pressure applications. Therefore, when choosing, whether the pressure level exceeds the maximum exposure pressure is something that needs to be considered.
Surface treatment
Before installing an EPDM gasket, the surface in contact with the gasket needs to be clean and free of any contaminants. Contaminants such as dust, dirt, and grease can prevent the gasket from forming an effective seal, causing leaks and other problems.
When doing surface preparation, you need to use a suitable product or solution for cleaning. The exact choice depends on the type of material contacting the surface and the chemistry of the contaminant. For example, solvent-based cleaners can remove oil from metal surfaces, but a mild soap solution is suitable for cleaning plastic surfaces.
Choose custom gaskets to get higher quality EPDM rubber gaskets
At Custom Gasket Manufacturing, we are proud to provide precision die-cut and molded EPDM rubber gaskets and seals to applications and industries worldwide! Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated by consistently delivering high-quality products that meet the most stringent standards. We work hard to meet your blueprint specifications and precise tolerance requirements.
