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The material that you choose for the seal in a waterproof valve is an important consideration for its operation and longevity. EPDM and FKM are among the most common elastomers you will find today for use in something as simple as automotive electronic, FJK and exterior lighting. The different materials have their own advantages, and suitable selection should be based on the application requirements. In this article, the comparison of EPDM and FKM seals is provided to assist the engineers and product designers for a confident decision.
Why Seal Material Matters for Waterproof Valves
It needs to be waterproof but need to allow a controlled exchange of liquid, air or pressure. This is where the seal plays a vital part. Moisture, dust and/or pressure can damage the delicate components inside a valve if the seal material fails. For electronic products, battery packs and outdoor products, this failure can result in product recalls or safety issues. Hence, knowledge of real operating condition behavior of EPDM and FKM is needed.
EPDM Seals and Their Advantages
Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is a synthetic rubber known and valued for its water, steam, and weather-resistant properties. It also has good ozone, UV and aging resistance, suitable for products that are exposed to temperature changes, rain, or sunlight.
For waterproof valve applications, EPDM seals are ideal for outdoor LED lighting fixtures, control boxes, solar energy systems, and home electronics. They have a stable seal in a wet application and are very cost-effective in high-volume production. EPDM, however, does not resist all petroleum-based oils, fuels and some industrial solvents and is therefore not appropriate for all chemical environments.
FKM Seals and Their Advantages
Also known as fluoroelastomer, FKM is a high-performance rubber designed for extreme environments. It is able to withstand continuous temperature of up to 200°C or higher and offers excellent resistance to oils, fuels, aggressive chemicals and acids. In addition, FKM is resistant to compression set, which significantly retains its sealing power during long time under heat and pressure.
In automotive electronics, industrial tools, and telecommunication equipment, waterproofing valves require the highest chemical and thermal resistance, which is provided by FKM seals. FKM seals are ideal for use where the valve is to come into contact with hydrocarbons or where it is to be used in high-temperature areas. The major disadvantages are price and poor performance in low-temperature and steam-rich settings, in comparison to EPDM.
Matching the Material to the Application
There are a number of factors that need to be considered for choosing between EPDM and FKM. The initial consideration is often a temperature range. EPDM is a good choice for cold climates and moderately hot environments; FKM is by far the best choice in hot, chemically harsh environments. Next is chemical exposure. When oils, fuels or solvents are present, FKM is generally the more protective material. EPDM is frequently more durable in water, steam, and weather resistance.
Mechanical requirements are also important. Pressure cycling, vibration and temperature fluctuations are all factors waterproof valves must withstand. As long as the seal geometry and compression are designed correctly, both can be used to good effect. The decision is finalized by cost, availability and production volume, particularly in large-scale manufacturing.
How PUW Supports Your Sealing Needs
At PUW, we know that each application is different. Established in 2010, PUW is a national high-tech company with the main business of waterproof valves, breathable valves and explosion-proof valves. We have two production bases, about 40,000 square meters, located in Jiangxi and Guangdong, four service centers in China and Germany and 22 production lines to provide precision-engineered, customized solutions around the world.
With IP68 protection and fast pressure vent, our products can help battery packs to satisfy the strict security standard. Our innovation is driven by a dedicated research and development team, a CNAS-certified laboratory and over 200 patents. We are certified to the ISO 9001, IATF 16949 and ISO 14001 standards. Our waterproof, breathable membranes, explosion-proof valves, waterproof, breathable valves and fixtures are used across a range of industries including sensors, outdoor LED lighting, battery packs, solar energy systems, automotive electronics and more.
Whether your design requires EPDM or FKM, PUW can engineer a solution and deliver a trusted supply chain. We use smart inventory systems and have a professional customer service team that will make sure that you receive your products on time, and you are fully satisfied with them.
