Using EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) rubber is the most common form of safety surfacing for playgrounds and outdoor areas. It is used mainly because of its durability and effectiveness in reducing the risk of injury to a child at play. It offers a cushioned landing should a child fall from a height and also is kinder to the human body when jumping and running. It is also used because it is porous, slip resistant and easy to maintain. EPDM Rubber Flooring is installed in two layers; a shock pad and a wearing course. The first consists of large chunks of rubber known as SBR (styrene butadiene rubber) and is the section that provides impact absorbency. It is also available in different thicknesses. The second involves smaller granule EPDM which gives the surface its strength. These two layers are then bound together using a polyurethane resin binder which hardens to form the final playground safety surface.
Rubber Flooring and Playgrounds
Companies that supply EPDM rubber flooring know that safety is of paramount importance in a playground, yet it also is a place where children can learn and have fun. Wet pour rubber is usually in black however it can be ordered in a variety of colors for a higher price. Wet pour sites in black will be recycled EPDM and colors will be virgin EPDM, hence the difference in price. Incorporating colors into a playground surface means that you can add graphics, shapes and patterns, creating a bright and attractive play space. The majority of companies offering safety surfacing also supply playground equipment, from swings and slides to monkey bars and springers.
EPDM sheets are a synthetic elastomer, it stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer and that is a fairly long chemical term. Essentially, the scientific innovations have generated methods of mixing specific atoms or monomers together in multiple proportions, this procedure is known as polymerization. The associations of the atoms are done to fulfil the purpose of acquiring a particular end outcome or to have a material that has a certain set of standards of resistance. In this scenario, the propylene, ethylene, and diene are all mixed together to generate the end product which is the EPDM rubber. The chemicals mixed together give the rubber or the EPDM flooring the great ability to resist ultraviolet rays.
The benefits of EPDM flooring are:
Resistance to ozone, UV exposure, weathering, and many other chemicals makes it great and fit for outdoor applications.
Stability is high as well as low temperatures is the general purpose of the EPDM Flooring material which means that it can be used in the environment where the temperature is from -29C to 177C.
Very low electrical conductivity.
Resistance to water and steam.
Used in the generation of extruded rubber or molded rubber products.
Properties permit it to be widely used and be extremely versatile.
When used in a good environment, the parts of the EPDM flooring will function well and will last for a long time without breaking down or becoming brittle, which will save the user time and money that could be wasted on replacements.
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