ACO Pipe® sockets are fitted with EPDM seals as standard for regular drainage applications. For particularly aggressive applications, FPM and NBR seals are available. Refer to the table below to assess suitability and contact ACO.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
EPDM was originally developed during the 1950s for vehicle tyre applications. It reached wider applications because of its suitability for outdoor use.
FPM (Fluoroelastomer)
FPM is a fluorocarbon and the best material for resistance to hostile chemical and oil environments at normal and elevated temperatures. This material is widely used in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, but is significantly more expensive than EPDM.
NBR (Nitrile rubber)
NBR has good water resistance, excellent chemical resistance and durability.
Seal Assembly Replacement or Upgrade
The double lip seal is easily removed and replaced from the female end of all ACO Pipe®, pipes and fittings. This allows easy on-site upgrade of the seal material.
Seal Installation Notes
- If changing the seal, ensure the correct size and grade of seal is selected for the application (see table below).
- Ensure the seal itself and the zone around the pipe and/or fitting receiving the seal is clean, dry and free from dust, grit and any metallic particles.
- Insert the dry seal into the pipe and/or fitting recess. NOTE: the seal MUST be inserted so the double sealing lips face away from the opening of the pipe and/or fitting.
- Do not use tools to aid the assembly process otherwise damage to the pipes, fittings and seals may occur.
| EPDM | FPM | NBR | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water Resistance | Excellent | Good | Good | |
| Chemical Resistance | Acids Bases |
Good Good |
Excellent Good |
Excellent Good |
| Solvent Resistance (20°C) | Alcohol Acetone Benzene |
Good Good Unsatisfactory |
Good Unsuitable Good |
Good Unsuitable Unsuitable |
| Oil Resistance | ASTM Oil No. 1 @ 20°C ASTM Oil No. 1 @ 100°C ASTM Oil No. 3 @ 20°C ASTM Oil No. 3 @ 100°C |
Fair Unsatisfactory Unsatisfactory Unsatisfactory |
Excellent 150°C Excellent Excellent 150°C Excellent |
Excellent 150°C Good Excellent 150°C Good |
| Fuel Resistance | ASTM Fuel B @ 20°C | Unsatisfactory | Excellent | Excellent |
| Resistances | Oxidation Ozone & Weathering |
Excellent Outstanding |
Outstanding Outstanding |
Outstanding Low |
| Heat Resistance | Maximum Continuous Maximum Intermittent |
130°C 150°C |
205°C 300°C |
80°C 100°C |
| Low Temperature Resistance | – 50°C | – 20°C | – 30°C | |
| Gas Permeability | Fairly Low | Very Low | Very Low | |
| Physical Strength | Good | Good | Good | |
| Compression Set Resistance | Good | Good | Good | |
| Tear & Abrasion Resistance | Good | Good | Good | |
| Cost Factor (1 = low) | 1 | 20 | 2 |