Short answer
NBR, EPDM and SBR are different elastomer families. NBR may be investigated for oil contact, EPDM for outdoor exposure and certain water applications, and SBR for general mechanical and abrasion requirements; however, these tendencies are not product-specific approval of chemical compatibility.
Technical explanation
The material family provides an initial comparison. The actual compound may behave differently because of additives, manufacturing and the target application. Trelleborg's general material description distinguishes NBR's oil resistance, EPDM's weathering resistance and SBR's general mechanical properties. Information about a seal material is not transferred directly to the entire hose assembly. The actual product must be evaluated for the full name of the fluid, concentration, temperature and contact duration.
Topic-specific checkpoints
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| NBR | Family investigated for oil contact; product verification required |
| EPDM | Investigated for outdoor exposure and certain water conditions |
| SBR | Evaluated with general mechanical and abrasion requirements |
| Compound | Actual product definition more detailed than the family name |
How is it assessed in practice?
In the purchasing table, keep the known material family and product code instead of 'rubber'. When switching to a new chemical, do not treat the success of previous use as approval. If the inner tube and outer cover of the hose are different materials, evaluate them on separate lines. An outer surface splashed with oil and water carried inside are different exposures. Have it written to which compound and condition the manufacturer's compatibility response applies; do not turn a general family table into a final selection engine.
Original editorial recommendation; not a clause of a standard.
Frequently asked questions
Does the same material code give the same resistance across all brands?
No. Formulation and product construction can vary; compatibility must be verified with the actual product and conditions.
Source coverage
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S020
Chemical Resistance Chart Gates · accessed 2026-10-19 PDF page 2 / printed page 1: Chemical Resistance Table, notes
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S037
CIP and SIP Trelleborg · accessed 2026-10-19 Aggressive chemicals; CIP facts; research results
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S097
Rubber material portfolio Trelleborg · accessed 2026-10-19 EPDM, NBR and SBR material descriptions; specific compound values not imported