I typically prefer silicone or flourosilicone for the sealing applications I'm involved with. Recently someone mentioned EPDM Rubber. From the technical data I have found on vendor websites it seems this should perform equally as well as silicone over temperature and have added resistance to chemicals.

I am mainly trying to achieve IP67, however maintaing a gas seal in our system is not a requirement, but if we can achieve gas tight seals it is added value for our product.

I'm looking for feedback from anyone that has used EPDM in their design and anyone with experience on long term performance of this material as an oring and what their experiences have been.

 

EPDM is a fine material and can be more cost effective than silicone or fluorosilicone. Keep in mind operating temperature range (smaller for EPDM). Do you have specific chemistry that the o-ring will be exposed to? If you do then you should review chemical compatibility charts before making your final decision.

 

I have used EPDM in many applications and never had issues with it. Key things you got to look at is the type of seal, chemical compatibility and temperature. This link has a descent chart comparing some different options to look at: http://www.jjshort.com/Rubber-Properties.php

 

jheckert - thanks for the feedback... Good info. We did end up switching to EPDM rubber on the job we were working on last January, but thanks for posting this...Also looks like an excellent rubber supplier. Thanks!

 

what type of gas are you trying to seal in or out? each material permeates gasses differently. epdm is great for brake and hydraulic fluids. this is my best reference to seal and material guide.
http://www.parker.com/literature/ORD 5700 Parker_O-Ring_Handbook.pdf