What is the Difference Between NBR and EPDM?

NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) are two types of synthetic rubber materials with different chemical and physical properties. Here are the main differences between NBR and EPDM:

1. Chemical Composition: NBR is a non-aromatic polymer compound, while EPDM is an aromatic polymer. NBR is made using acrylonitrile and butadiene monomers, while EPDM is made using ethylene, propylene, and a diene comonomer.
2. Resistance to Oils and Solvents: NBR is known for its resistance to oil, grease, and gasoline, making it suitable for applications in the petroleum and automotive industries. EPDM, on the other hand, has poor resistance to oils and non-polar solvents.
3. Outdoor and Weather Resistance: EPDM has excellent resistance to UV rays, ozone, and oxygen, making it a popular choice for outdoor applications. NBR, however, is more sensitive to aging from environmental factors and abrasion.
4. Operating Temperature Range: EPDM has a wider operating temperature range of -50 °C to +150 °C, while NBR's operating temperature range is -40 to +212 °F.
5. Strength Properties: NBR has excellent tensile strength, tear resistance, abrasion resistance, and compression-set resistance, making it easier to install and more durable over time. EPDM, in contrast, generally has poor tear and abrasion resistance.
6. Applications: NBR is commonly used for hydraulic hoses, hoses used to fill cars with petrol, and hoses for delivering heating oil. EPDM is often used for outdoor hoses or hoses for chemical transfers or high-temperature applications.

In summary, NBR is more suitable for applications involving oil, grease, and gasoline, while EPDM is better for outdoor applications and chemical transfers. Each material has its strengths and weaknesses, so the choice between NBR and EPDM depends on the specific requirements of the application.

Comparative Table: NBR vs EPDM

Here is a table comparing the differences between NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer Rubber):

NBR is a versatile and reliable material with good resistance to gasoline, diesel fuel, motor oil, acids, and non-polar solvents, making it widely used for general-purpose 'O' rings in automotive applications. In contrast, EPDM offers excellent resistance to ozone, sunlight, steam, compression set, tear, abrasion, and UV rays, making it suitable for outdoor industrial applications.