Overview
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) flat gaskets are weather-resistant rubber seals used in water treatment, HVAC, and outdoor equipment. EPDM’s outstanding resistance to ozone, UV, weathering, and hot water — combined with a wide temperature range — makes it the leading elastomer for sealing water, steam, and outdoor applications where oil resistance is not required.
ORRO Manufacturing supplies EPDM flat gaskets die-cut and machined to precise dimensions from sheet and molded stock. We control thickness and durometer to deliver consistent sealing compression, and we can add adhesive backing, fabric reinforcement, or custom profiles to match your sealing groove and application.
Material Properties
| Property | EPDM Rubber |
|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 1.10 - 1.20 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 10 - 25 |
| Hardness (Shore A) | 40 - 90 |
| Continuous Service Temperature (°C) | -50 to +150 |
| Compression Set (%) | 15 - 30 |
| Weather / Ozone Resistance | Excellent |
| Water / Steam Resistance | Excellent |
| Oil Resistance | Poor |
Key Advantages
- Outstanding Weathering Resistance: Unaffected by UV, ozone, and long-term outdoor exposure.
- Wide Temperature Range: Service from -50°C to +150°C, including hot water and steam.
- Excellent Water and Steam Resistance: Ideal for water treatment and HVAC systems.
- Good Compression Set: Recovers well to maintain sealing force over time.
- Flexible and Conformable: Conforms to irregular flanges and surfaces.
- Cost Effective: Lower cost than silicone or fluoroelastomers for water and outdoor service.
Typical Applications
Water Treatment and Plumbing
Flange and fitting gaskets for potable water, wastewater, and chemical dosing systems.
HVAC and Refrigeration
Gaskets for air-handling units, ductwork, and outdoor cooling equipment.
Outdoor and Automotive Sealing
Weather-resistant seals for enclosures, lighting, and exterior components.
Machining Capabilities
| Parameter | Capability |
|---|---|
| Tolerance | ±0.1 mm (thickness), ±0.2 mm (profile) |
| Thickness Range | 0.5 mm to 25 mm |
| Hardness Range | 40 - 90 Shore A |
| Key Processes | Die cutting, waterjet cutting, CNC machining, bonding |
Application Case
HVAC flange gasket, EPDM — An HVAC equipment maker needed gaskets that would seal hot water and steam without cracking under years of outdoor UV exposure. ORRO supplied die-cut EPDM gaskets in 60 Shore A, 3 mm thickness, with adhesive backing, delivering 40,000 pieces in 12 days. The gaskets replaced a nitrile gasket that was failing prematurely outdoors.