Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

If you have been in the cable and power industries then l bet you have heard of the term EPDM. Well if not, not to worry as we are going to finely elaborate all there is to know about EPDM otherwise known as Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomers. EPDM is a kind of rubber with really great features as well as uses. EPDM has continued to be a widely used synthetic rubber not just in specialty applications but also general purpose uses. 

EPDM is formed when the elastomer is cross- linked chemically. EPDM wires and cables can be used as insulators or jackets. The term jacket simply is an insulation that has been extruded around the conductor. This density synthetic rubber is versatile and can withstand up to 2150 C. Versatility in the design of polymers and their performance has seen their usage increase in rubber mechanical goods, electrical insulation, radiator applications and many more.

When choosing cables and wires, a number of factors need to be considered so as to be certain you have made the right decision for your application. Some of the factors to look at include the following;

1.Resistance to properties such as chemicals 
2.Where the material is going to be used 
3.Weather properties 
4.Flexibility 
5.Strength of material 
6.Weight 
7.Total costing 

Benefits of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) 

Great flexibility in high as well as low temperatures. This enables it to be used easily and thus increase its long term use. 
 1.Excellent dielectric strength 
 2.Outstanding resistance to abrasion, heat, weather and ozone 
 3.Excellent resistance to UV 
 4.Great durability 
 5.Excellent resistance to moisture 
 6.It has nominal temperature ratings of -550 C to 1250 C 
 7.Low toxicity 
 8.Not easily corroded 
 9.It has the ability to accept huge amounts of fillers that help to get cheaper end products 
10.Low weight 
11.Excellent insulation properties 

Disadvantages of EPDM 
The advantages of EPDM far outweigh its disadvantages and thus its wide range use. It is highly volatile and has very poor resistance to fire. Its ability to self ignite is also high. To counter this, EPDM cables and wires should be protected using very high percentages of flame retarders. Generally, amounts around 100 phr are sufficient enough to impact EPDM with a great retardancy flame level. Another disadvantage is the fact that it has poor resistance to chemical properties. Also when compared to other rubbers, EPDM is relatively more expensive. But as you can see from the complied information, the advantages are more numerous and weighty as compared to the disadvantages.

Applications of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer 
Generally EPDM is used in areas that require very high temperature applications such as in electrical appliances. EPDM cables and wires can as well be used in medium voltage power cables.

Do not be hoodwinked when it comes to EPDM cables and wires as the only common types available in the market are welding cables, direct burial cables, power cables, appliance wiring and lead wire UL 3340, 3374 and 3399.

There has been lots of controversy between the use of silicone and EPDM. However, EPDM has greater advantages and has been used even in areas when silicone is used. It is also relatively cheaper. Nassau is a leading supplier of EPDM cable insulators. If you need any help with this, please contact us and we’d be glad to help you with it.