Ethylene-Propylene based elastomers offer excellent chemical and thermal resistance. These materials can be compounded in a variety of ways for use in a wide range of demanding applications. Ethylene-Propylene elastomers are generally available as EP, a copolymer of ethylene and propylene, and EPDM, a terpolymer. They have similar properties and sometimes the references EP and EPDM are used interchangeably.
EP elastomer can only be Sulphur cured. EPDM can be either Sulphur or Peroxide cured.
Sulphur cured elastomers are often considered as standard and are less expensive and easier to process. However, the product may be slightly ‘sticky’ and may exhibit bloom’. Peroxide curing gives stable carbon to carbon bonds. This compound generally performs better at high temperatures and offers good resistance to heat ageing and compression set. Sulphur cured material will often provide better tensile and tear strength.
Key Uses: EPDM is a versatile and relatively inexpensive material. It is often used in drinking water systems (NSF61, KTW, WRC/WRAS) due to its Chlorine and Chloramine resistance and in hydraulic and braking systems due to its excellent Glycol resistance.
Outdoor weather resistant uses. Automotive brake systems. Automobile cooling systems. Water applications. Low torque drive belts. EP is often used in hot water / steam applications up to +150°C (peroxide cure types).
Ethylene propylene has excellent resistance to ozone, weathering and sunlight. It has good heat resistance, low compression set and good flexibility at low temperatures. It has good chemical resistance.
When compounded using peroxide curing agents, high temperature service can reach +150°C (+302°F). Good resistance to acids and solvents (i.e. MEK and Acetone). EP is good for use in phosphate-ester based hydraulic fluids and glycol based fluid systems.
General specifications (actual specifications may vary)
ASTM D1418 Designation
- EPDM
Standard Colour
- Black / Red / Yellow / Green / White / Blue / Purple
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Ethylene-Propylene is not resistant to petroleum products (mineral oils, greases and fuels) and offers no resistance to hydrocarbon fluids.
Please note: This Material Data Sheet section is to be used as a professional guide only. GL-Provent S.L. may source their products from a variety of Quality Approved Suppliers and the data shown should not be relied upon by any purchaser without verification of material source.