When our customers come to us with a manufacturing need, sometimes they know exactly what they want, and sometimes they are looking for guidance. (“Here is the problem I am trying to solve. What do you think is the best way to do it?”) Our team asks specific questions to uncover all the information needed to choose the best manufacturing method, material, or both for our customers’ projects. For many reasons, ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) is often a very good material choice for certain situations.
What is it?
EPDM is an extremely durable synthetic thermoset rubber. It is cured by heat, rather than cooling. It has a consistency like thick taffy, but it flows and can be shaped into a mold to produce parts.
When and how is it used?
EPDM is frequently used in the automotive industry. It works well in sealing applications, and is an excellent material whenever durability and flexibility are required. This material’s ability to provide cushioning make it useful when vibration or noise reduction are needed. Midwest Rubber purchases EPDM in long, taffy-like strips which are fed into a press on an injection cycle to manufacture parts.
Why is it a good choice?
EPDM has a number of features that make it an excellent choice for the projects we’ve mentioned. In addition to being more affordable than natural rubber, it is ozone, weather and age resistant. It is flexible, does not tear or crack, is not subject to ultraviolet decay, and provides strong sealing and good traction. EPDM is resistant to chemicals and maintains durability when in contact with oils. It’s also excellent for outdoor use because it is water and steam resistant, provides protection from the elements, and is color stable. Choosing EPDM as a material provides peace of mind that the manufactured parts will endure and perform as expected.
If you think EPDM could be the right choice for your manufacturing need, please get in touch, and let’s talk about your project.
