EPDM Temperature Range Specifications
EPDM Temperature Range Specifications
EPDM’s saturated backbone makes it the elastomer of choice for hot water, steam, and outdoor weather exposure. Use this guide to map compound options to the temperature window your equipment must survive.
## Temperature Bands
| Grade | Formulation Notes | Temperature Range | Typical Use |
| — | — | — | — |
| General purpose EPDM | Sulfur-cured | -50 °C to +135 °C | Potable water, HVAC gaskets |
| Peroxide-cured EPDM | Improved heat/steam | -45 °C to +150 °C | Steam sterilisation, boiler gaskets |
| High-temperature specialty | Filled, peroxide, stabilised | -40 °C to +160 °C | Solar thermal, chemical washdown |
| Low-temperature EPDM | Plasticiser-modified | -60 °C to +120 °C | Outdoor equipment in cold climates |
## Factors Affecting Temperature Capability
– **Cure system** – peroxide cures deliver better compression set at high temperature; sulfur cures favour low-temperature flexibility.
– **Fillers & stabilisers** – dedicated anti-oxidant packages extend life under steam and chloramine exposure.
– **Cross-section & compression** – thicker cross-sections retain heat; design grooves to avoid excessive compression set.
– **Media** – hot oils/hydrocarbons degrade EPDM rapidly; reserve EPDM for water/glycol/steam.
– **Cycle rate** – rapid temperature swings may require specialty grades with improved thermal shock resistance.
## Design Guidance
– Target 20–30 % compression for static seals; adjust for system pressure.
– Use 70–80A hardness for hot water applications; 80–90A for high-pressure steam flanges.
– For potable water, confirm NSF-61 or WRAS compliance.
– Plan for periodic inspection—steam exposure can harden seals over time.
## Testing Recommendations
– Compression set at +150 °C / 22 h for peroxide grades.
– Heat aging (ASTM D573) at operating peak.
– Steam/hydrolysis testing for sterilisation cycles.
– Chloramine/chlorine resistance testing for municipal water.
– Low-temperature flexibility (TR-10) when sub-zero exposure is expected.
## Related Pages
– [EPDM Gasket Manufacturer Scorecard](/materials/epdm-rubber-gasket-manufacturers/)
– [Silicone vs. EPDM Comparison](/materials/viton-vs-epdm/)
– [Design Services](/services/design-services/) – verify groove sizing and backup hardware.
Need to confirm whether EPDM can survive your temperature profile? Submit media, peak temperature, and cycle rate via the [custom quote form](/quote/custom/) for a tailored recommendation.
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