The quick answer is that EPDM is the best choice for substances like water, steam, and brake fluid, whereas Nitrile rubber is better when dealing with fluids like petroleum oils, fuels, and hydraulic fluids.

When choosing a seal for industrial application it is important to understand the fluid that is being handled as not all rubber has the same strengths and weaknesses. EPDM vs nitrile gasket choice depends on environment and application. If you choose the wrong rubber gasket, the gasket will fail. See our full rubber material data sheets.

Is nitrile rubber the same as EPDM?

No,  their core chemical structures are different, which in turn alters their performance against difference fluids. Nitrile is a copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene, this structure ensures it’s resistance to oil. 

EPDM, is known for its excellent resistance to weathering and heat, but cannot withstand oil or fuel. 

EPDM gaskets

Best for outdoor and water based environments.

Properties:

• Excellent weather resistance
• Strong UV resistance
• Performs well with water and steam
• Good temperature range

If your application requires the gasket to stay in place before compression, you may also want to consider a self adhesive option. See What is a self adhesive gasket

Typical uses:

• External seals
• Roofing and construction
• HVAC systems
• Water sealing applications

EPDM has become the standard rubber for applications involving water, steam, ozone, and weathering. 

It is excellent at resisting UV exposure, which makes it ideal for exterior applications where degradation from sunlight is a concern.

EPDM is a highly flexible material it offers great compression set resistance, and holds up well against cold fluids and some mild chemicals. It can handle temperatures between -40 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius.

Nitrile gaskets

Best for oil and fuel exposure.

Properties:

• Strong resistance to oils and fuels
• Good mechanical strength
• Moderate temperature performance

Adhesive selection becomes critical in these environments. The wrong adhesive will fail even if the material is correct. See Best adhesive for rubber gaskets

Typical uses:

• Automotive systems
• Fuel handling
• Oil sealing applications
• Industrial machinery

EPDM vs Nitrile Gasket Comparison

EPDM:

• Handles weather and UV
• Performs well with water and steam
• Not suitable for oils

Nitrile:

• Handles oils and fuels
• Good mechanical strength
• Poor resistance to weather and UV

Quick decision guide

Choose EPDM if:

• The gasket is exposed to weather
• Water or steam is present
• UV exposure is a factor

Choose nitrile if:

• Oil or fuel is present
• The environment is industrial or mechanical

For high volume production, both materials can be supplied in formats that improve handling and speed of assembly. See Kiss cutting explained

Common mistake

Using EPDM in oil environments or nitrile outdoors long term. Both fail quickly when used incorrectly.

How Cutting Industries Limited Supports Material Selection

• Material guidance based on application
• CNC cut gaskets to specification
• Prototype to production support
• Tight tolerances depending on material and design

Send your drawing or sample and get a clear recommendation on:

• Material selection
• Adhesive requirement if needed
• Best production method

Request a quote and get a fast, practical answer based on your application.

Send your drawing or sample and we will recommend the correct material and format. We have a wide range of rubber sheeting in stock available to buy off the shelf. Solid rubber is available in a range of grades to cover oil resistance, chemical resistance, ozone weathering, ageing, abrasion resistance, temperature resistance and tensile strength properties. Compare rubber materials side by side using our rubber material comparison sheet.

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