Applications for EPDM Rubber Molding
Developed initially to help support the growing demand for durable roofing materials in the 1950s, the applications of EPDM rubber molding have swiftly grown to nearly every corner of the industrial world. As the century progressed, manufacturers and OEMs developed additional applications for EPDM and expanded into critical parts for several growing industries, including automotive, aerospace, electrical, and construction. With nearly eight decades of history behind it, EPDM rubber molding continues to play an important role in industrial and commercial manufacturing, and the experienced team at Lake Erie Rubber is capable of handling your unique project requirements. Continue reading to learn more about the special applications of EPDM rubber molding, or reach out for a quote today to get started!
What is EPDM Rubber?
EPDM rubber, known by its full composition name ethylene propylene diene monomer, is a synthetic rubber with a distinct set of properties that make it ideal for specialty applications. Known as one of the most water-resistant and insulating rubber materials, EPDM sheeting was frequently used in place of asphalt-based roofing paper, especially during the 1970s gas crisis. EPDM offers impressive resistance levels to acids, ketones, alkalis, and other chemicals used in manufacturing or processing industries and can withstand consistent exposure to both UV and ozone. To learn more about EPDM and its full set of advantages and disadvantages, please read our “What is EPDM Rubber” article and review the comparison chart below that looks at several properties of EPDM rubber molding.
Comparing EPDM Rubber Molding Properties
| Property | EPDM | Nitrile (NBR) | Neoprene | Silicone |
| Temperature Range | -60°F to 300°F | -30°F to 250°F | -40°F to 275°F | -80°F to 450°F |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent (water, steam, weathering) | Moderate (oils, fuels) | Moderate (oils, weather) | Good (oxidation, ozone, water) |
| Durability & Wear | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| Flexibility | High | High | Moderate | High |
| Compression Set Resistance | Good | Good | Good | Fair |
| Weather & Ozone Resistance | Excellent | Poor | Good | Excellent |
| Cost | Low | Low | Moderate | High |
Specific Applications for EPDM Rubber Molding
Historically, the primary application for EPDM rubber molding has been in the form of sheeted material used in residential and commercial roofing projects. While Lake Erie Rubber does not manufacture EPDM rubber sheets for this purpose, it has considerable experience working with it for other industries. Given EPDM’s resistance to chemicals and ozone in particular, it is especially well suited for products exposed to environmental conditions.
Construction Parts
Much like the roofing membrane mentioned above, EPDM can solve a wide variety of challenges for the construction industry, and Lake Erie Rubber is experienced in manufacturing several distinct components. This includes the various seals and gaskets required for doors and windows as well as consumer goods like hoses and tubing.
Automotive Components
EPDM does not have the necessary resistance to oils, gasoline, and hydrocarbons to be considered for interior engine parts; however, it can be used on exterior-facing automotive applications like door seals, window seals, and any other potential seam that requires weather resistance. Its flexibility and durability allow it to maintain a tight seal even in extreme temperatures, preventing water leaks and reducing noise. Additionally, EPDM’s UV and ozone resistance make it an excellent choice for long-term performance in recreational outdoor vehicles.
Electrical Insulation & Motors
Electrical motors, like those used in vehicles, trains, and other modes of transportation, emit ozone that can degrade other types of rubber. EPDM provides exceptional resistance to both ozone and the environmental conditions typically seen in these applications. The large EPDM bellow mold shown here is specifically designed for injection molding with eighteen pounds of rubber required for each unit.
EPDM Rubber Molding Quotes
With its proven track record for durability and adaptability across industries, EPDM rubber molding remains a crucial service for automotive, construction, and electrical applications. Lake Erie Rubber brings extensive experience and robust rubber molding equipment to their EPDM rubber molding services to manufacture high-quality, custom-molded components tailored to your specific needs. Whether you require precision sealing solutions or specialized rubber parts, our team is ready to assist. Contact us today to discuss your project and explore how our expertise in EPDM rubber molding can benefit your application.
