EPDM vs FKM: Which Material is Better for Industrial Steam Applications?

EPDM vs FKM for Industrial Steam Applications

Material Overview

Selecting the right elastomer for steam applications requires evaluating temperature resistance, compression set, and chemical compatibility. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) and FKM (Fluorocarbon Rubber) are common choices, but their performance differs significantly under steam conditions.

Key Technical Parameters

Both materials must comply with IATF 16949 for automotive-grade quality, ASTM D2000 for material classification, and ISO 3601 for hydraulic seal standards. Below are critical performance metrics:

Parameter	EPDM	FKM
Temperature Range	-50°C to +150°C (short-term 175°C)	-20°C to +200°C (short-term 230°C)
Compression Set (ASTM D395, 22h @ 150°C)	15-25%	20-35%
Steam Resistance (Saturated, 150°C)	Excellent (low swell)	Good (moderate degradation)
この記事を共有 LinkedInメール この技術記事をエンジニアチームへ共有できます。 技術アップデートを購読 材料知見とエンジニアリング事例をメールで受け取れます。 購読 関連記事 2026年4月05日 Commercial Aircraft Interiors: Meeting Smoke and Toxicity Standards (FST). Commercial Aircraft Interiors: Meeting Smoke and Toxicity Standards (FST) Problem Statement Polymer components in aircraft interiors must pass FAR 25.853 flammability tests while maintaining mechanical performance. Standard EPDM fails at 180°C with toxic smoke emission (HCN >100 ppm). Material Science Analysis Chloroprene rubber (CR) releases HCl gas during combustion. Fluorosilicone (FVMQ) provides superior thermal stability […] 記事を読む 2026年4月04日 Carbon Black Fillers: How Particle Size Impacts Reinforcement and Conductivity. Carbon Black Fillers: How Particle Size Impacts Reinforcement and Conductivity Problem Statement Carbon black fillers in rubber compounds face challenges in balancing reinforcement, conductivity, and aging resistance. Smaller particle sizes improve reinforcement but reduce conductivity. Larger particles enhance conductivity but compromise tensile strength and abrasion resistance. Material Science Analysis Carbon black’s reinforcing properties depend on […] 記事を読む 2026年4月04日 Textile Dyeing Machines: High-Temperature Resistance in Acidic Dye Baths. Textile Dyeing Machines: High-Temperature Resistance in Acidic Dye Baths Problem Statement Textile dyeing machines operate in acidic dye baths at temperatures up to 200°C. Standard elastomers degrade rapidly due to hydrolysis and chemical attack, leading to compression set failure and seal leakage. Material Science Analysis EPDM and NBR fail in acidic environments due to their […] 記事を読む 技術相談が必要ですか？ 当社のエンジニアリングチームが、これらの材料インサイトをお客様の特定のプロジェクトに適用するお手伝いをします。 見積もり依頼