EPDM Rubber Introduction
EPDM rubber, also known as Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer rubber, is a type of synthetic rubber that is commonly used in various applications due to its excellent resistance to weathering, ozone, UV, and heat. It is a type of elastomer that is made by polymerizing ethylene and propylene with a diene monomer.
EPDM rubber parts have a unique molecular structure that provides it with outstanding properties, including flexibility, durability, and resistance to water, chemicals, and high temperatures. These properties make it an ideal material for use in roofing, automotive parts, seals and gaskets, and electrical insulation.
EPDM rubber is available in different forms, including sheets, strips, and custom-molded shapes. It can be manufactured in a range of colors as well as hardness levels to suit almost any application. Additionally, EPDM rubber is an environmentally friendly material since it is recyclable and can be used in the production of other rubber products.
Applications of EPDM Rubber
Some of the most common applications of EPDM rubber include:
- Automotive parts: EPDM rubber is used in the manufacturing of automotive parts, such as radiator and heater hoses, door seals, and window seals, due to its resistance to high temperatures and chemicals.
- Seals and gaskets: This rubber is used in the production of seals and gaskets for various applications, including HVAC systems, electrical enclosures, and industrial machinery, due to its excellent sealing properties.
- Electrical insulation: It is used in electrical insulation applications, such as cable and wire insulation, due to its high dielectric strength and resistance to electrical arcing.
- Marine applications: The material is used in marine applications, such as boat fenders, dock bumpers, and seals, due to its resistance to saltwater and other harsh marine environments.
Molding EPDM Rubber
EPDM rubber parts can be molded using molding methods, including compression molding, transfer molding, and injection molding. The choice of molding method depends on the specific part design and the production volume.
Here’s an overview of the three most common methods used for EPDM rubber molding:
- Compression molding: This process involves placing a pre-measured amount of uncured EPDM rubber into a heated mold cavity. The mold is then closed, and pressure is applied to force the rubber to take the shape of the cavity. The mold is then cooled to cure the rubber and release the finished part.
- Transfer molding: This process is similar to compression molding but uses a plunger to force the rubber material from a pot into the heated mold cavity. This method is often used for more complex parts or for parts with inserts.
- Injection molding: This process involves injecting molten EPDM rubber into a heated mold cavity under high pressure. The rubber is then cooled and solidified in the mold before the finished part is ejected. This method is ideal for producing high volumes of small, intricate parts with consistent quality and precision.
After molding, the EPDM rubber parts are usually post-cured to improve their physical properties and reduce the risk of surface defects. The post-curing process typically involves exposing the parts to elevated temperatures for a specified amount of time.
Cryogenic Deflashing EPDM Rubber Parts
EPDM rubber parts can be cryogenically deflashed to remove excess flash from the part surface. Cryogenic deflashing is a process that uses a gaseous nitrogen atmosphere to freeze and make the flash brittle on rubber parts, which is then removed using high-velocity media blasting and tumbling.
Cryogenic deflashing is an effective method for removing flash from EPDM rubber parts without causing any damage to the parts. This method is particularly useful for removing flash from intricate or delicate parts that cannot be easily deflashed using hand trimming or abrasive deflashing methods.
It is important to note that cryogenic deflashing is not suitable for all types of rubber parts. The process can cause cracking or damage to some types of rubber, so it is important to consult with an experienced cryogenic rubber deflashing provider such as Nitrofreeze before using this method on your EPDM rubber parts.
Want to send your EPDM rubber parts for a no-cost deflashing evaluation? Contact us at (508) 459-7447 or email us at info@nitrofreeze.com to learn more.