HVAC systems often face challenges like leaks, UV exposure, and temperature swings. A poor gasket choice can ruin system efficiency and increase maintenance costs.
EPDM gaskets offer excellent resistance to weather, ozone, and steam, making them ideal for sealing joints, flanges, and panels in HVAC systems—especially those exposed to outdoor environments.
Let me explain why EPDM is the most reliable, cost-effective gasket material for many HVAC professionals, especially in Europe.
What makes EPDM weather-resistant and suitable for HVAC?
Most gasket failures happen outdoors due to UV and ozone exposure. EPDM was developed to handle these exact conditions.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) rubber has outstanding resistance to UV rays, ozone, wind, rain, and general weathering, making it perfect for rooftop or exterior HVAC applications.
✅ Key Environmental Advantages of EPDM:
- Withstands sun, ozone, and acid rain exposure
- Maintains elasticity across seasons
- Ideal for sealing duct joints and AHU flanges on rooftops
- Certified to EN45545 and UL94 for fire and safety compliance
EPDM Weather Durability Comparison:
| Property | EPDM1 | NBR | Silicone | FKM (Viton) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UV/Ozone Resistance2 | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Weather Durability3 | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Cost-Performance | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Clients in the Netherlands often choose EPDM because rooftop HVAC units there face cold winters, wet springs, and bright summers. EPDM handles it all.
How does EPDM perform in temperature extremes?
Some materials become brittle in winter or too soft in summer—EPDM remains stable throughout.
EPDM gaskets perform well from -40°C to +120°C, ensuring long-term sealing even under fluctuating thermal loads.
EPDM Temperature Performance:
- Retains flexibility in sub-zero conditions4
- Won’t melt or deform under heat from rooftop exposure
- Excellent compression set resistance5 under changing temps
Temperature Resistance Table:
| Material | Min Temp | Max Temp | Flexibility @ Low Temp | Compression Set Stability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EPDM | -40°C | +120°C | Excellent | Excellent |
| NBR | -30°C | +100°C | Moderate | Good |
| Silicone | -60°C | +200°C | Excellent | Excellent |
| FKM | -20°C | +250°C | Moderate | Excellent |
I’ve had clients replace NBR gaskets with EPDM after cold weather caused sealing cracks. They never looked back.
Is EPDM compatible with HVAC fluids and steam?
HVAC systems can release steam and moisture—gaskets that absorb or break down under these conditions fail quickly.
EPDM is highly resistant to water, steam, and mild acids/alkalis, making it suitable for humid airflows, condensate handling, and steam-side sealing in HVAC systems.
EPDM Fluid Resistance Benefits:
- No swelling when exposed to water or steam
- Does not degrade from glycol-based fluids
- Used in AHU doors, steam duct joints, and humidification modules
✅ Not recommended: EPDM is not compatible with petroleum-based oils or refrigerants. For those, use NBR or FKM.
What certifications does EPDM meet for HVAC use?
Regulatory and safety compliance is essential for HVAC systems in public buildings or industrial facilities.
EPDM gaskets can be manufactured to meet EN45545 (fire protection in transportation), UL94 HB (flame resistance), and RoHS/REACH environmental compliance.
Certification Summary:
| Certification | Description | HVAC Application Area |
|---|---|---|
| EN45545 | Fire safety standard for rail/transport | Train HVAC, public HVAC ducts |
| UL94 HB6 | Flame retardancy for industrial use | Rooftop AHUs, ventilation in electronics |
| RoHS / REACH7 | Chemical/environmental safety for EU compliance | All commercial HVAC installations |
We regularly provide EPDM gaskets8 with UL94 HB certification for European OEMs in the ventilation industry.
Why is EPDM cost-effective for HVAC projects?
Not every project can afford silicone or FKM. EPDM offers the right mix of price, durability, and compliance.
EPDM delivers excellent sealing at a fraction of the cost of silicone or Viton, making it ideal for budget-conscious commercial or industrial HVAC projects.
Cost-Performance Breakdown:
| Material | Cost Level | Outdoor Suitability9 | Certifications Available10 | Typical Lifespan11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EPDM | ★★★☆☆ | Excellent | EN45545, UL94 HB, RoHS | 10–15 years |
| Silicone | ★★☆☆☆ | Excellent | FDA, UL94 V-0 | 15–20 years |
| NBR | ★★★★★ | Poor | UL94 HB | 5–8 years |
| FKM | ★☆☆☆☆ | Excellent | UL94 V-0, REACH | 15–25 years |
✅ Tip: EPDM balances performance and cost for mass-produced HVAC gaskets like flange seals, foam tapes, and molded profiles.
Summary Table: EPDM Gasket Advantages for HVAC
| Feature | EPDM Performance |
|---|---|
| UV/Ozone Resistance | ★★★★★ |
| Temperature Stability12 | -40°C to +120°C |
| Water/Steam Resistance13 | Excellent |
| Compression Set | Low (Good long-term elasticity) |
| Cost-Performance | High |
| Certifications | EN45545, UL94 HB, RoHS, REACH |
| Best Applications | Rooftop AHUs, duct flanges, steam ducts |
Conclusion
EPDM gaskets are a top-performing, cost-effective solution for HVAC systems exposed to the elements, moisture, or varying temperatures. Their durability, certifications, and versatility make them an HVAC industry favorite.
Need custom EPDM gaskets for your HVAC project?
Contact Julong Rubber or Request a Quote to get EN-certified EPDM parts tailored to your application.
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Exploring temperature stability will inform you about the gasket's performance in extreme conditions, ensuring reliability in HVAC systems. ↩
Learn about the significance of water/steam resistance to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your HVAC systems. ↩
