EPDM rubber, or ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber, is a stable, damage-resistant polymer. It is synthesized from ethylene, propylene, and diene monomers, creating a terpolymer that retains its positive characteristics in extremely adverse environments. As a more durable and weather-resistant alternative to silicone rubber, EPDM is widely used in environments with harsh conditions, including many parts and components in aerospace equipment and aircraft.
RD Rubber Technology Corporation is a leading supplier and manufacturer of critical-to-function custom-molded rubber components for aerospace made from EPDM and other rubber materials. Learn more about the beneficial properties of EPDM and some of the many ways it is used in aerospace applications like seals, gaskets, and electrical insulation.
Key Properties of EPDM
EPDM is an important material for many sealing, insulating, and vibration-reduction applications in aircraft and other aerospace equipment. It has many properties that make it a reliable and versatile choice, including:
Acid and Alkali Resistance
EPDM has good chemical resistance, including resistance to bases, ketones, and non-petroleum-based oils and hydraulic fluids.
Compression Set Resistance
Compression set is the tendency of a material to permanently deform after being pressed on by another component, such as when a gasket or seal is compressed between two panels or parts. EPDM has an excellent ability to resist compression set, which helps it maintain a tight seal over time.
Weathering and Temperature Stability
EPDM can handle temperatures of -40 °F to 302 °F and resist degradation and cracking when exposed to ozone and low temperatures on the ground and at altitude. EPDM products also withstand moisture and oxidation without wear.
Flexibility and Elasticity
EPDM is a flexible material that can bend, twist, and stretch to fit in and around components. It also has excellent tensile strength and tear resistance for use in places with dynamic loading.
Versatility
EPDM is available in both solid and foam formulations and can be modified to add flame retardant properties. It is readily molded into a variety of different gasket and seal shapes, and can also be used to absorb vibrations or impacts, as well as to provide electrical insulation for wires and cables.
Why EPDM Is Used in Aircraft & Aerospace Seals
Aircraft and aerospace seals are used in places where it’s critical to seal fluids in or out of sensitive equipment to preserve function and safety. In addition to a solid and reliable seal, these parts must also be able to withstand continual exposure to low temperatures, UV radiation, chemicals, vibrations, and other damaging conditions, and EPDM offers long-term resistance to these challenges for a lasting solution for door, hatch, and window seals.
More Applications
Additional applications for EPDM rubber include:
- Seals, Grommets, and Gaskets. These components seal gaps between controls, wires, and instrumentation. This helps with maintaining cabin pressure, preventing fluid leaks in hydraulic systems, and adding insulation to solid rocket motors and thermal protection systems for spacecraft re-entries.
- Electrical Insulation. EPDM is electrically non-conductive, making it an excellent material for protecting wires and cables to reduce electrical faults and wear and tear on wiring and circuits.
EPDM vs. Other Aerospace Materials
Two potential alternatives to EPDM are silicone rubber and fluorosilicone. The best material for a specific component depends on the details of the application and its operating conditions.
EPDM vs. Silicone Rubber
Both silicone rubber and EPDM can withstand UV radiation and ozone. However, silicone rubber offers a slight advantage in extremely high temperatures, as it can withstand heat up to 446 °F.
EPDM vs. Fluorosilicone
Fluorosilicone can withstand exposure to fuels and oils with more tolerance than EPDM. However, EPDM can better withstand weathering and offers more cost-effective flexibility.
Quality Engineered EPDM Rubber for Aerospace Components From RD Rubber
EPDM rubber is a long-lasting, damage-resistant rubber that outperforms many other options as a sealing solution in aerospace applications. It provides better resilience, temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and weathering resistance to guarantee the functionality and safety of aerospace vehicles. At RD Rubber, we’re committed to manufacturing quality engineered sealing solutions from EPDM and other high-performance rubber materials. We are ISO 9001:2015 and AS 9100:2016 certified, ITAR registered, and DOD compliant. Request a quote today to start your order.