What is EPDM Foam?

I. UNDERSTADING ABOUT EPDM FOAM

EPDM foam is a cellular variant of solid EPDM, characterized by its porous, air-filled structure. This foam rubber is created using a foaming agent, resulting in an air-filled matrix structure. Cellular EPDM sheets are ideal for thermal, electrical, and noise insulation due to their light, porous nature, which makes them less suitable for abrasive industrial uses compared to solid EPDM. The primary physical properties of foam rubber include being lightweight, buoyant, cushioning, thermally and acoustically insulating, impact-damping, and cost-effective. EPDM foam is inherently weatherproof, making it suitable for outdoor use without concern for damage from UV rays, ozone, or oxidation. It also maintains a broad operating temperature range, ensuring reliable performance even under extreme temperatures. Despite its lightweight and porous structure, cellular EPDM foam retains the same resistance properties as solid EPDM, although open-cell EPDM foam has reduced moisture resistance.

II. EPDM FOAM - CLOSED CELL EPDM

EPDM is available in a closed-cell foam variant, produced by applying pressure and infusing gases into the material during manufacturing. This results in a foam with a dense, tight-knit structure of air pockets. While it is denser than open-cell foam, it remains light enough to float on water. A key feature of closed-cell EPDM foam is its excellent moisture resistance, attributed to its compact cell structure. Instead of absorbing moisture immediately, closed-cell EPDM has an absorption rate of less than 5%, allowing it to retain moisture on its surface without penetration. Additionally, closed-cell EPDM can operate effectively within a temperature range of -40 to 93 degrees Celsius, this characteristic make closed-cell EPDM foam a valuable material, particularly in outdoor and marine applications.

Close-cell EPDM foam avalable at New Edge

III. EPDM FOAM - OPEN CELL EPDM

Open-cell EPDM is a highly porous material characterized by large air pockets that are visible to the naked eye. This type of foam is more permeable and not resistant to moisture, absorbing liquids upon contact. The open cell foams fill with whatever gas surrounds them. If filled with air, they provide good insulation, but if the open cells fill with water, insulation properties are reduced.Open-cell EPDM foam is particularly effective for noise insulation, as its porous structure allows sound energy to dissipate, reducing noise levels. It operates within a temperature range of -40 to 71 degrees Celsius and can withstand abrasive temperatures without damage. Despite its absorbent and porous nature, open-cell EPDM remains a durable material suitable for long-lasting applications in industrial settings.

Open-cell EPDM foam avalable at New Edge

IV. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENT BETWEEN CLOSED CELL EPDM AND OPEN CELL EPDM?

Both types of EPDM foam have their own advantages and are chosen based on specific requirements and application needs.Below is the comparison between these two foams:

Feature	EPDM Closed-Cell Foam	EPDM Open-Cell Foam
Cell Structure	Cells are fully enclosed and not interconnected	Cells are interconnected, forming a network of open pores
Density	Higher density, generally more rigid	Lower density, generally more flexible
Thermal Insulation	Excellent thermal insulation due to trapped air	Moderate thermal insulation; less effective than closed-cell
Moisture Resistance	High moisture resistance; does not absorb water	Lower moisture resistance; absorbs water due to open cells
Sound Insulation	Provides some sound insulation, but less effective than open-cell	Better sound absorption due to the open-cell structure
Durability	High durability and impact resistance	Less durable; can compress and lose shape over time
Flexibility	Less flexible; more rigid	More flexible and compressible
Applications	Construction insulation (walls, roofs)	Acoustic panels and soundproofing
HVAC insulation (ductwork, pipes)	Cushioning and padding
Automotive seals and gaskets	Lightweight packaging and protective gear
Cost	Generally higher due to the more complex manufacturing process	Generally lower due to simpler manufacturing process
Maintenance	Low maintenance; resists environmental factors well	Higher maintenance; can degrade faster due to moisture absorption

V. EPDM FOAM APPLICATION ON PACKAGING INDUSTRY

EPDM foam is widely used in various applications due to its versatile properties, including thermal insulation, acoustic damping, and weather resistance. Here are some key applications:

1. Construction and Building

• Insulation: EPDM foam is used for insulating walls, roofs, and floors. Its thermal insulation properties help improve energy efficiency by reducing heat loss or gain.

• Seals and Gaskets: The foam is employed in sealing windows, doors, and other structural openings to prevent air and water leaks.

Open-cell EPDM with double side tape product - Produced by New Edge

• Vibration Damping: EPDM foam helps reduce vibration and noise in building systems, including HVAC systems and machinery.

2. Automotive Industry

• Weatherstripping: EPDM foam is used in weatherstripping and seals for doors, windows, and trunks to prevent water and air leaks.

• Interior Padding: The foam provides cushioning and acoustic insulation in automotive interiors, contributing to a quieter and more comfortable ride.

• Gaskets: It is also used for engine gaskets and other components where flexibility and durability are required.

3. HVAC Systems

• Duct Insulation: EPDM foam is used to insulate ductwork and piping, helping to maintain temperature and improve energy efficiency.

• Pipe Insulation: It prevents heat loss or gain and protects pipes from condensation.

4. Marine and Outdoor Applications

• Boat Construction: EPDM foam is used in marine environments due to its moisture resistance and durability. It is employed in boat construction and marine equipment.

• Outdoor Seals: It provides reliable performance in outdoor environments, including seals for outdoor furniture and equipment.

5. Packaging and Cushioning

• Protective Packaging: EPDM foam is used for cushioning delicate items during shipping and handling, offering impact resistance and protection.

EPDM closed-cell products for machinery assembly - Produced by New Edge

• Custom Padding: It is utilized in custom padding solutions for various products to prevent damage and secure items in place.

6. Acoustic and Thermal Insulation

• Soundproofing: The foam’s acoustic insulation properties make it ideal for soundproofing applications in studios, offices, and other environments where noise reduction is important.

• Thermal Insulation: EPDM foam is used in applications requiring thermal insulation, such as in appliances and machinery, to control temperature and improve efficiency.

7. Industrial Applications

• Gaskets and Seals: EPDM foam is used in industrial settings for creating gaskets and seals that require resistance to temperature extremes and environmental conditions.

EPDM closed-cell products for electronic packaging - Produced by New Edge

• Vibration Isolation: It helps isolate and dampen vibrations in machinery and equipment, improving performance and reducing noise.

CONCLUSION

EPDM Closed-Cell Foam is known for its excellent thermal insulation, high durability, and moisture resistance. Its rigid structure makes it ideal for applications where temperature control and impact resistance are crucial, such as in construction and HVAC systems. It is less flexible but provides a strong barrier against water and environmental factors while EPDM Open-Cell Foam offers better sound absorption and flexibility due to its interconnected cell structure. It is more suitable for applications requiring cushioning, soundproofing, or lightweight padding. However, it has lower thermal insulation and moisture resistance compared to closed-cell foam.

Both types of EPDM foam have their own strengths advantages. To choose the best EPDM foam for your needs, don’t hesitate to contact us for instant consults, we are always welcome your inquiry and waiting for serving you by our best service in packaging industry.

P.S: New Edge New