A lot of sub-contractors or Aluminium Fabricators will come across a variety of specified Standards pertaining to EPDM Rubber Gaskets to be used in various projects. The consultants normally use ASTM Standards or BS Standards. In some rare cases, one may come across DIN Standards. A brief synopsis of each of the Test Standards is elaborated below -
BS 4255: Part 1:1986
RUBBER USED IN PREFORMED GASKETS FOR WEATHER EXCLUSION FROM BUILDINGS
SCOPE OF THIS STANDARD
This part of BS 4255 specifies requirements for the classification, physical properties and markings of solid (non-cellular) rubber used in preformed gaskets for sealing applications in buildings where resistance to weathering, ozone and permanent deformation under load are of prime importance. This Standard does not cover the EPDM Sponge Rubber Gaskets.
ISO STANDARD-ISO 5892-2013
RUBBER GASKETS- MATERIALS FOR PREFORMED SOLID VULCANIZED STRUCTURAL GASKETS – SPECIFICATION.
SCOPE OF THIS STANDARD
This International Standard specifies material requirements for preformed Solid Vulcanized Rubber Structural Gaskets used in sealing applications where both resistance to stress relaxation and resistance to weathering are essential. It is related particularly to gaskets of the lock-strip type.
However, this standard does not give the material requirements for gaskets used for sealing glazing and panels, which are the subject of ISO 3934.
ASTM STANDARD C864-05
STANDARD SPECIFICATION FOR DENSE ELASTOMERIC COMPRESSION SEAL GASKETS, SETTING BLOCKS, AND SPACERS
This is the most common specification being used in the industry. This specification covers preformed dense elastomeric compression gaskets and accessories for use in sealing and glazing applications. These materials are generally used to seal or serve as components of compression sealing systems between mechanically restrained surfaces in building constructions.
The elastomeric materials shall be manufactured from a high-quality ozone-resistant compound that, when properly cured, will comply to the requirements specified. The cured compound shall be suitable for use where resistance to sunlight, weathering, oxidation, and permanent deformation under load are of prime importance.
The preformed gaskets or shapes shall be free of porosity, surface defects, and dimensional irregularities that may affect serviceability. The specimens shall be subjected to the following test methods: hardness test, compression set test, ozone resistance test, tensile strength test, elongation test, heat aging test, tear strength test, brittleness temperature test, non-staining test, and flame propagation test.
DIN 7863-1 : 2011-10
ELASTOMOR GLAZING AND PANEL GASKETS FOR WINDOWS AND CLADDINGS - TECHNICAL DELIVERY CONDITIONS - PART 1: NON CELLUAR ELASTOMER GLAZING AND PANEL GASKETS
SCOPE OF THIS STANDARD
This is a German Standard. The material standard DIN 7863-1 specifies requirements for elastomer materials for the manufacture of elastomer gaskets for use in window and façade construction. The standard consists of two parts, whereby Part 1 describes the requirements for non-cellular gaskets and Part 2 specifies the requirements for cellular elastomer gaskets. Part 2 of the standard is currently under preparation. The standard has been prepared by NA 045-02-10-01 AK "Fensterdichtungen" ("Window gaskets").
ASTM STANDARD C542-90
FOR LOCK-STRIP GASKET
SCOPE OF THIS STANDARD
This specification defines the required properties of lock-strip gaskets where resistance to sunlight, weathering, flame, oxidation, permanent deformation under load, and diminution of gripping pressure are prime essentials.
Gaskets shall be manufactured from an ozone-resistant compound and shall not be dependent for ozone resistance on surface protection which can be removed by abrasion, detergents, or other means.
The tensile strength test and elongation test shall be performed to meet the requirements prescribed.
Tear resistance test, hardness test, compression test, brittleness temperature test, ozone resistance test, heat aging effect test, flame propagation test, and lip pressure test shall be performed to meet the requirements prescribed.
KASTRADE follows the above mentioned International Test Standards for EPDM Rubber Gaskets which are currently governing the building construction Industry world-wide. These Test Standards govern and control the quality of the Rubber Gaskets required for a specific application in Façade/Building Construction. All KASTRADE Gaskets are supplied with the necessary Test Certificates which show the conformance of the various Standards. In many cases, upon request, KASTRADE also provides 3rd Party Test Certificates.
In case you need the above mentioned Test Standards you can download directly from www.astm.org or www.iso.org or www.shop.bsigroup.com
In case you need any further information or technical clarification, please feel free to write to info@kastrade.com