EPDM Gaskets: 8 Things to Consider Before Choosing an EPDM Gasket

Selecting the EPDM material for your gasket is not enough. The EPDM Gaskets need to be designed with the appropriate specifications to ensure that they can withstand the temperature, pressure, fluids, size, force, and environment in which they will be used. The right specifications can mean the difference between a gasket that lasts for a long time with few leaks and a gasket that is prone to damage and requires frequent repairs.

In this guide, we take a closer look at 8 key aspects that need to be considered when choosing an EPDM gasket. These gaskets are often used, and we describe where they are typically used and how to maintain them.

Why EPDM Gaskets Work Well in Factories

EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer, which is a type of synthetic rubber. Weather, ozone, water, and many other environmental factors are not a problem for seals that are made of EPDM. They are often used for sealing when the seals are exposed to or come into contact with water.

Also, EPDM Gaskets remain flexible at various temperatures depending on the gasket manufacturer and the type of EPDM Gasket.

Why Weather Resistance Matters

Some types of rubber break down rather quickly when subjected to weathering (i.e., exposure to sun, ozone, rain, and dampness) and varying temperatures.

EPDM Gaskets | Why EPDM is Used for Sealing in All Weather

This is especially helpful for:

• Building projects
• Water systems
• HVAC
• Outdoor equipment
• Factory setups
• Roofing and waterproofing

How EPDM Handles Water

There are many water jobs for which EPDM is perfectly adequate, e.g., in pipes, in parts of plant concerned with handling water, and in outside items. Here again, however, one must carefully check whether the selected material is really suitable for the given application.

8 Things to Consider When Buying EPDM Gaskets

Choosing a gasket for any project starts with an understanding of what you plan to use the gasket for. The following points will give you some understanding of how to choose a gasket for any given project.

1. How Temperature Affects Choosing EPDM Gaskets

Temperature affects the properties of a gasket material. The working temperature of a gasket must not be below the minimum service temperature nor above the maximum service temperature for extended periods of time. Over time, the flexibility of a gasket, and its ability to spring back to shape after being compressed, will degrade.

Before you pick a gasket, figure out:

• The lowest temperature it will face
• The highest temperature it will face
• How much the temperature changes
• How long it stays at extreme temperatures
• If heat from nearby machines will affect it

Make sure the chosen gasket matches the real working conditions as opposed to average temperature.

2. Which Fluids Can EPDM Handle?

The choice of gasket must be compatible with the chemicals that will be in contact with the gasket. The majority of water-based liquids are suitable for use with EPDM gaskets. However, there are many other chemicals with which EPDM is NOT compatible.

Oils, fuels, petroleum products, and some solvents are not suitable for rubber gaskets and would require the use of other materials. Check with the gasket maker to see if the chosen rubber will be suitable for these.

3. Why Gasket Size Matters

Gaskets can be leaky or even unseat if not the right size for the parts in question. The gasket needs to fit perfectly in order to seal correctly.

4. How Pressure Affects Gasket Choice

Pressure is another factor to consider in relation to how a gasket works within a joint. In high-pressure applications, the seal has to be stronger and could require a specific design or method of application.

5. What Compression Needs Should You Think About?

This pressure will need to be sufficient to create a seal with the adjoining surfaces. However, excessive pressure could lead to damage to the gasket and also potential problems with installation of the joint. A good sealing system must remain in contact under normal usage while at the same time allowing for any expected movement and change in size.

6. How Does the Environment Affect EPDM Gaskets?

Environmental factors will determine the performance of your gasket:

• Dust and weather
• Direct sun
• Ozone
• Rain and dampness
• Outdoor temperature swings
• Pollution from factories
• Cleaning products

This rubber can be specified in a variety of forms to suit different applications, and it is also worth noting that while EPDM is a good material for outdoor weather-resistant applications, there are different types of material within this category that would be more suitable for certain applications.

7. Why Consider How Long It Will Last?

Rubber ages as it gets older, and the rubber's physical properties can change. Long-term performance can be affected by temperature, the environment, the gasket's compression, the gasket's exposure to chemicals, and physical stress to the gasket. Choosing the right rubber and ensuring it is used in the best working conditions will ensure the longest life.

8. How Installation Conditions Affect Gasket Performance

Also, a technically correct gasket can fail because of a bad installation. Look at the installation area for:

• How easy it is to access
• How clean the surfaces are
• If the flanges line up
• The condition of the joint
• How much compression is needed
• How the fasteners are arranged
• The temperature during installation

It is very important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when installing a gasket to avoid problems.

What Maintenance Tips Can Help EPDM Gaskets Last Longer?

Although EPDM is very durable, the maintenance of EPDM gaskets is very important in order to prevent leaks or even damage to equipment.

How Should Gaskets Be Checked?

Check visible parts of the gasket for:

• Cracks
• Cuts
• Hardening
• Swelling
• Permanent squeezing
• Surface wear
• Loss of compression
• Leaks

Check for any significant changes in the gasket's appearance, and if so, investigate to determine whether it needs to be replaced.

Why is Surface Cleanliness Important?

If dirt, dust, chemical residues, etc. contaminate a surface, it can prevent the gasket from sealing. When maintaining and re-lubricating a gasket, keep surfaces clean. Do not use sharp tools that could scratch or cut sealing surfaces, or damage other components.

When Should an EPDM Gasket Be Replaced?

Whether you need to replace it depends on the gasket's condition and the importance of the application. You might need to replace it if there's:

• Visible cracking
• Bad distortion
• Loss of flexibility
• Constant leaks
• Damage from chemicals
• Physical damage
• Signs it has been used in conditions it wasn't made for

This can be set for critical systems as part of the planned maintenance schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There are many factors that need to be taken into account when choosing a suitable EPDM gasket. Firstly, there is the temperature. Then there are the fluids that the rubber will come into contact with. There is also the issue of the amount of pressure that the gasket will be under.

In summary, EPDM can be suitable for use in various water-based applications, used outdoors in weather-exposed areas where there is a requirement for resistance to ozone and environmental aging. It should, however, be used within the chemical compatibility limits and ideally with the assistance of the EPDM gasket manufacturers.

Using experienced custom gasket makers that know how to make good quality EPDM gaskets for your application will mean you have chosen good quality seals that will last a long time. If you need EPDM gaskets for a factory or infrastructure project, we would be pleased to discuss the size, material, application, and quantity you require.