EPDM is softer and makes a better sealing material (conforms better to rough surface

finishes). Teflon is stiffer and slicker, which might hold up better in a dynamic or abrasive
application. Both could care less about sea water from a chemical attack/corrosion standpoint.

RE: PTFE vs EPDM

GrahamBennett (Materials) 19 Mar 09 04:21
I agree with btrueblood, either would be good depending on the application. Are you talking
about 60C or 60F water temperature? Even at 60C, natural rubber would be suitable too (and
has the added advantage of being a sustainable resource and relatively easily recycled at
the end of the part's life).

RE: PTFE vs EPDM

MJFH (Petroleum) 16 Jul 09 12:52
Have you considered Gore-tex? It is an expanded PTFE, with an amazing chemical resistance. The
only substance it will not support are rare alkalide metals or temperatures over 500f. At that
temperature the PTFE will evaporate into fluorine gas. Also, the material is very resistant to
abrasive material. It is a very clean material to work with and comes in a wide variety of styles.
My favorite being the joint sealant. Just don't let the price turn you off from it.....
www.gore.com

RE: PTFE vs EPDM

GrahamBennett (Materials) 17 Jul 09 04:22
The decomposition temperature of PTFE is >490C (>910F) and the main decomposition
products are hydrogen flouride gas (extremely corrosive) and carbon dioxide. It is unsuitable for
use where it will come into contact with acetone or hot alkaline applications.

RE: PTFE vs EPDM

Kuzmicnr (Materials) 17 Jul 09 11:14

Btrueblood gives an excellent response, id give the same advice.

If you want the parts to seal use EPDM or Natural rubber, the PTFE material will not seal well at
all. It is harder, yet more durable & certainly more costly but it most likely will not seal as well as
an elastomer
Hope this helps confirm the previous post!