Areas of application for EPDM seals in industry & construction

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene rubber) is one of the most frequently used synthetic elastomers. It stands out for its high resistance to ozone, UV radiation and external weathering influences. Even in damp or changing climatic conditions, the material remains dimensionally stable and elastic.

A decisive advantage is also its resistance to numerous chemicals, including many acids, alkalis and cleaning agents. The temperature range of approximately -40 °C to +120 °C covers many typical operating conditions and enables use both outdoors and indoors. In addition, EPDM is odour-neutral, does not release plasticisers and can therefore also be used in sensitive areas.

This combination of physical stability, elasticity and chemical resistance ensures that EPDM seals function reliably in practice over decades without significantly losing their properties. Even under continuous exposure to pressure, movement or moisture, they retain their shape and sealing effect.

Use of EPDM seals in construction

In construction, seals made of EPDM have been a proven standard for many years. They are used both in above-ground and below-ground construction and make an important contribution to building safety, energy efficiency and living quality.

Façade construction and window sealing

In façade construction, EPDM profiles are used to seal joints between glass and metal structures. These areas are exposed to high loads from wind, temperature differences and moisture.

EPDM ensures that neither water nor draughts can penetrate and thus protects the building fabric from damage. In windows and doors, EPDM is used to minimise heat loss and achieve reliable sound insulation – a decisive factor for modern living comfort.

Roof waterproofing

Flat roofs are considered particularly susceptible to weathering influences. Here, large-area EPDM membranes are used, which are characterised by high elasticity and durability. They last for decades without becoming brittle or losing their sealing effect.

EPDM is also a preferred material for green roofs or roof areas with photovoltaic systems, as it responds flexibly to loads and requires very little maintenance.

Sealing of pipelines and joints

In construction projects with complex building services, EPDM seals take on the sealing of pipe penetrations, foundations and floor joints.

They compensate for movements caused by settlement of the structure, prevent the ingress of moisture and thereby provide lasting protection against mould or building damage.

Doors, gates and garages

EPDM profiles are also indispensable in large building openings such as garage doors, industrial gates or external doors. They not only keep out dust and water, but also improve the sound insulation and energy efficiency of buildings.

Particularly in industrial halls, they contribute to stable climatic conditions and protect machines from external influences.

Areas of application in industry

In industry, EPDM seals are a true all-rounder. They are used in numerous sectors and applications and make a decisive contribution to the safety and functionality of systems.

Mechanical engineering

In mechanical and plant engineering, EPDM seals serve to reliably seal moving components. They prevent leaks, protect sensitive components from dust and dirt and compensate for vibrations.

Thanks to their high flexibility, they remain functional even under continuous mechanical load. EPDM seals are frequently found in pumps, compressors, housings and hydraulic systems.

Automotive industry

In vehicle construction, EPDM is almost ubiquitous. It is found in door and window seals, engine compartment components, air conditioning systems and cooling systems. EPDM ensures that vehicles remain weather-resistant and low-noise.

Thanks to their good ageing resistance, seals retain their elasticity over many years – even with frequent opening and closing of doors or large temperature fluctuations.

Chemical industry

In systems where acids, alkalis or cleaning agents are used, the material must exhibit the highest chemical resistance.

EPDM is a reliable material here, as it withstands many aggressive media. It is therefore used in pipeline systems, tanks, valves and seals of chemical apparatus.

Food and pharmaceutical industry

For sensitive areas, there are specially certified EPDM grades that are food-safe and meet hygiene requirements. They are used in production facilities, filling stations and packaging machines.

Resistance to frequent cleaning cycles with disinfectants is also a decisive advantage here.

Comparison: EPDM, NBR and silicone

Property	EPDM	NBR	Silicone
Temperature range	-40 °C to +120 °C	-20 °C to +100 °C	-60 °C to +250 °C
Weather resistance	Very high	Low	High
Chemical resistance	Good against acids & alkalis	Good against oils & fuels	Limited
Mechanical load capacity	High	High	Medium
Typical areas of application	Construction, mechanical engineering, automotive	Oil & fuel systems	High-temperature applications

Advantages of EPDM seals compared with other materials

A key advantage of EPDM is its outstanding resistance to weathering influences. While NBR ages quickly and becomes brittle on contact with ozone and UV light, EPDM retains its elasticity even after decades of use. Compared with silicone, EPDM stands out for its better mechanical load capacity and lower costs, which makes it particularly attractive economically.

Furthermore, EPDM offers a balanced ratio of chemical resistance and flexibility. It is resistant to many cleaning agents, diluted acids and alkalis and is therefore suitable for applications where cleanliness and hygiene are decisive.

A further advantage is its high recyclability and the fact that EPDM is free from harmful plasticisers. This makes it not only durable but also environmentally friendly.

Processing, cutting to size and individual adjustments

EPDM seals are not only available as standard products but can also be flexibly adapted. Manufacturers offer cut pieces to measure, complex profiles and even custom-specific shapes.

Processing can be carried out by bonding, vulcanising or mechanical fixing. This enables individual solutions that are tailored precisely to the respective requirements – from small O-rings to large-area roofing membranes.

In addition, EPDM seals can be easily combined with other materials. This creates hybrid solutions that, for example, join metal carriers with elastic seals or use plastic profiles with EPDM sheathing.

Future trends and developments

Development in the field of EPDM seals is constantly progressing. Manufacturers are working on new formulations that enable even higher temperature and chemical resistance. This expands the range of applications to include more demanding industrial processes as well.

A further trend is the growing importance of sustainability. EPDM is regarded as a durable material that, in contrast to many other plastics, is very resistant and therefore needs to be replaced less frequently.

Recycling processes are being optimised in order to improve the recyclability of EPDM waste. EPDM is also gaining importance in electromobility – for example in battery systems, charging infrastructure or components for hydrogen technology.

In addition, EPDM is increasingly being used in future sectors such as wind and solar energy, where seals are required under extreme environmental conditions. Intelligent sealing systems with integrated sensors that monitor the condition of systems could also play a role and make EPDM an even more versatile material of the future.

Why EPDM seals are so versatile

EPDM seals are indispensable in industry and construction. They offer a balanced combination of resistance, flexibility and economic efficiency. Whether in façade construction, on flat roofs, in vehicles or industrial systems – they make a decisive contribution to the safety, efficiency and durability of structures and machines.

The possibility of individual adaptation and the high environmental compatibility make EPDM a material that will continue to play a key role in numerous sectors in the future.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between EPDM and NBR? EPDM stands out for its weather and ozone resistance, while NBR is primarily used for oil-based media.

What temperatures can EPDM seals withstand? They are suitable for a range of approximately -40 °C to +120 °C, with special grades also beyond that.

Are EPDM seals food-safe? Not all of them, but special variants are approved for use in food and pharmaceutical applications.

How long do EPDM seals last outdoors? Thanks to their resistance to UV radiation, ozone and weathering, they can often be used outdoors for several decades without loss of function.

Where are EPDM seals used particularly frequently? Typical places of use include façades, windows, doors, roofs, mechanical engineering, vehicle technology and chemical systems.

Our rubber sheets

For industry and trade, we offer a wide variety of rubber sheets.

SBR rubber sheet

Our high-quality SBR rubber sheet (styrene-butadiene rubber) is the solution for numerous industrial and commercial applications. This rubber sheet is manufactured from first-class styrene-butadiene rubber and is characterised by its outstanding physical properties.

EPDM rubber sheet

Discover the versatility and reliability of our EPDM rubber sheet, which is made from ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). This high-quality elastomer solution has been specially developed to meet the most demanding industrial and commercial applications.

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The NBR rubber sheet is a high-quality industrial product that has been specially developed for applications requiring excellent resistance to oils, greases and various chemicals.

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The FKM rubber sheet is a high-quality technical product that is ideal for use in demanding industrial applications. Manufactured from fluoro rubber (FKM), it stands out for a wide range of outstanding properties that make it the optimum choice for extreme operating conditions.

Silicone rubber sheet

The silicone rubber sheet is a first-class technical product that has been specially developed for applications placing high demands on temperature resistance and flexibility.

PUR rubber sheet

The PUR rubber sheet, manufactured from high-quality polyurethane, is a technically advanced product that has been developed for applications placing the highest demands on abrasion resistance and mechanical load capacity.

Neoprene rubber sheet

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