Before we discuss EPDM profiles it is very important to understand what is EPDM. EPDM is Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer and is a type of elastomeric material. EPDM (Ethylene propylene diene monomer is a kind of synthetic rubber that is obtained by the process of copolymerisation of ethylene, propylene and a diene monomer in non-conjugated form. EPDM also contains ingredients like reinforcing carbon black, fillers, processing aids, antioxidants along with vulcanising ingredients. Some properties of EPDM rubber that makes them particularly useful as Extruded products include:

• Stability towards temperature change.
• Excellent resistance to adverse climatic conditions, in the form of ozone, sunlight, or other more severe weather conditions.
• Resistance to chemicals
• Highly elastic as it will return to its original dimensions after elongation.

Parameters to Consider in EPDM Profiles
Following are some of the important parameters that needs to be considered before deciding on EPDM profiles. All these parameters need to be delicately balanced and followed strictly for having products with optimal characteristics:

• Sponge levels
• Relaxed modulus
• Compression set
• Ageing properties

EPDM Vs Thermoplastic Materials
EPDM profiles provide unlimited strength and elasticity. There is virtually no affect whatsoever in terms of shrinkage, melting, hardening or cracking over decades of use. The membrane retains its flexibility at temperatures ranging from -40º C to + 150º C.

Another high point of EPDM is that it is capable of absorbing thermal and structural movements during the course of linear elongation. This can be up to 300%. EPDM also displays multi axial elongation which exceeds 100%, at any given temperature. In a shift away from the thermoplastic materials EPDM shows no yield point. This means that even when EPDM, is deformed to extreme limits, it can get back to its original size, shape and thickness. Another high point over the thermoplastic materials is that due to the viscoelastic properties, EPDM can withstand virtually unlimited pressure load. All this qualities are lapped up by extruders while selecting EPDM profiles for manufacturing Extruded profiles. The following diagram elucidates the above mentioned properties:

• At – 40 degree centigrade, EPDM remains unaffected, Thermoplastics are stiff or brittle.
• At + 150 degree centgrade, EPDM sill remains unaffected, Thermoplastics turn to liquids.
• After considerable Flexing there is no change in EPDM, while Thermoplastics are elongated, cracked or thinner.

Application of EPDM profiles
The EPDM profiles are used in numerous applications. Some of the important categories of application includes Automotive applications like Bus body building. Other categories include construction Industry, Marine Industry, Furniture edging etc. Let's take a look at the products now.

• Automotive Industry
  EPDM profiles great use in automotive sealing profiles. As it is endowed with features of ozone-resistance, cold-resistance, heat-resistance, flex-crack resistance along with excellent appearance. EPDM profiles are used on doors of automobiles for protection against water and dust. It's a perfect sealing option and remains unaffected by climatic changes or varying temperatures. Another popular application of the EPDM profiles are Door Trims. The wear and tear of these applications mean that products manufactured only from high end EPDM compositions would survive.
  
  Another application of the EPDM profiles in automotive industry is the Flocked channels. EPDM profiles can be made with single extrusion with the option of having a layer of nylon flocks or a coating (PU). This gives it a smooth surface thus facilitating a frictionless movement for window glasses.
  
  
• Furniture Edgings
  • Available as Decorative and functional
  • Can be custom made
  
  
  
• Construction/Building Industry
  EPDM profiles are a popular choice in Construction sector. It serves as a sealing component for use between glass and aluminium sections. The EPDM profiles excellent sealing protection from external environment. As EPDM profiles display a high level of ozone resistance, this means that EPDM profiles can be sustained for a very long time. Popular applications include:
  • Curtain walls
  • Structural Glazing
  • Skydomes
  • Water proofing

Extruded Rods and Cylinders: The right mix of EPDM and Neoprene A latest addition in the world of extruded product, Extruded rods and cylinders are now made by blending EPDM and neoprene. Advantages include: High tensile and flexural strength Excellent oil qualities Excellent option for vibration dampening and shock mounts.