EPDM Rubber Seal vs. Silicone: Which One Should You Use?

When choosing a rubber seal, two of the most common materials available are EPDM rubber and silicone rubber. Both provide excellent sealing properties, but their characteristics make them better suited for different applications.

This blog will compare EPDM rubber seals and silicone seals, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and the best applications for each to help you make an informed decision.

What is an EPDM Rubber Seal?

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a synthetic rubber known for its weather resistance, water resistance, and durability. It is widely used in outdoor applications and industries requiring long-lasting seals that can withstand environmental exposure.

Key Features of EPDM Rubber Seals

  • High resistance to UV rays, ozone, and weathering, making them ideal for outdoor use
  • Resistant to water, steam, and some chemicals
  • Temperature tolerance from -40°C to 120°C
  • Flexible and durable, with a long lifespan
  • Commonly used in automotive, construction, and HVAC systems

What is a Silicone Rubber Seal?

Silicone rubber is a high-performance material known for its exceptional temperature resistance and flexibility. It is often used in applications requiring heat resistance, food safety, or medical-grade materials.

Key Features of Silicone Rubber Seals

  • Withstands temperatures ranging from -50°C to 200°C
  • Highly flexible and elastic, even in extreme cold
  • Resistant to many chemicals, oils, and greases
  • Safe for food and medical applications
  • Commonly used in kitchenware, medical devices, and high-temperature environments

EPDM vs. Silicone: How Do They Compare?

Weather and UV Resistance

  • EPDM rubber seals are highly resistant to UV exposure, ozone, and weathering, making them the best choice for outdoor applications.
  • Silicone rubber seals provide some UV resistance but degrade faster when exposed to long-term weather conditions.

Best choice: EPDM rubber seal

Water and Moisture Resistance

  • EPDM seals are highly resistant to water, steam, and moisture, making them ideal for roofing, windows, and water pipes.
  • Silicone seals provide water resistance but are more porous, making them slightly less effective in high-moisture environments.

Best choice: EPDM rubber seal

Temperature Resistance

  • Silicone rubber seals withstand temperatures up to 200°C, making them suitable for high-heat applications like ovens, engines, and manufacturing.
  • EPDM seals have a lower temperature range of -40°C to 120°C, making them less suitable for extreme heat environments.

Best choice: Silicone rubber seal

Chemical and Oil Resistance

  • Silicone rubber seals provide excellent resistance to many chemicals, oils, and greases, making them ideal for industrial and automotive applications.
  • EPDM seals are resistant to water-based chemicals but do not perform well when exposed to oils and petroleum-based substances.

Best choice: Silicone rubber seal

Flexibility and Durability

  • EPDM seals are highly durable, especially in outdoor environments, and can last for decades without cracking or hardening.
  • Silicone seals remain flexible at both high and low temperatures but are generally softer and less tear-resistant than EPDM.

Best choice: EPDM rubber seal for durability, silicone for flexibility

Cost Considerations

  • EPDM rubber seals are more affordable than silicone, making them a cost-effective choice for most sealing applications.
  • Silicone rubber seals tend to be more expensive due to their specialized properties and higher production costs.

Best choice: EPDM rubber seal

Which Seal Should You Choose?

Choose EPDM Rubber Seals If:

  • The seal will be used outdoors and exposed to weather and UV rays
  • High water and steam resistance is needed
  • Durability and cost-effectiveness are priorities
  • The application is in construction, automotive, or HVAC systems

Choose Silicone Rubber Seals If:

  • The seal will be exposed to extreme temperatures (above 120°C or below -40°C)
  • It needs to be highly flexible for delicate applications
  • The material must be resistant to oils, greases, and certain chemicals
  • It is for food, medical, or industrial use where high purity is required

Why Buy EPDM Rubber Seals from Silicone Rubber Products?

At Silicone Rubber Products, we supply high-quality EPDM rubber seals designed for maximum durability and performance. Our products are:

  • Manufactured from premium EPDM rubber for long-lasting protection
  • Custom-cut to fit specific application needs
  • Suitable for automotive, industrial, and commercial use
  • Competitively priced to offer great value

Browse our range of silicone and rubber sealing solutions today.

When deciding between EPDM rubber seals and silicone rubber seals, the right choice depends on your specific needs.

  • EPDM rubber seals are the best option for outdoor use, water resistance, and affordability.
  • Silicone rubber seals are better for high-temperature applications, chemical resistance, and food safety.

For high-quality EPDM rubber seals, contact Silicone Rubber Products today for expert advice and tailored sealing solutions.

Phone: 01903 732088
Email: sales@silcoproducts.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is EPDM or silicone better for outdoor use?

EPDM is the better choice for outdoor use because of its superior resistance to UV rays, weathering, and moisture.

Can EPDM rubber seals handle high temperatures?

EPDM can withstand up to 120°C, but for applications requiring higher heat resistance, silicone rubber is a better option.

Are silicone rubber seals waterproof?

Yes, silicone rubber seals are water-resistant, but EPDM seals are generally better for prolonged water exposure.