EPDM Black Rubber NSF/ANSI 61 Gasket Material, 1/16 Thick, 12 x 12 Square - DSC

On January 4, 2011, President Obama signed legislation that redefined the term "lead free" under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). This revision significantly reduced the permissible lead content to just 0.25 percent per weighted average. The stringent new standard had widespread implications for manufacturers and distributors of joining and sealing components, including EPDM black rubber NSF/ANSI 61 gaskets like the 1/16" thick, 12" x 12" sheets (Qty 1).

To facilitate compliance, a grace period of 36 months was provided, allowing entities in the potable water industry to transition their inventories to materials meeting the updated SDWA standards. This grace period concluded on January 4, 2014, after which it became illegal to introduce products into commerce for drinking water applications without meeting the new lead-free criteria.

Products such as rubber gaskets and seals used in potable water systems must demonstrate their ability to prevent leaching of harmful contaminants prior to installation. Certification by NSF International to NSF/ANSI Standard 61 is crucial for gaining acceptance in the market, as the NSF seal is widely recognized and respected within the drinking water industry. In the United States alone, there are over 155,000 public water systems serving more than 286 million Americans daily.

The impact of the revised SDWA extends to various applications, including public drinking water distribution systems encompassing water storage tanks, reservoirs, water meters, valves, filters, hoses, fittings, faucets, drinking fountains, and fire hydrants. Sterling Seal & Supply offers EPDM NSF gasket strips that comply with NSF-61, ensuring they are safe for use in drinking water service.

Specifications for American Biltrite rubber EPDM NSF gaskets include ASTM D2000 standards, with a Shore A hardness of 75 +/- 5, ASTM D1330 grades 1 & 2, polymer composition of ethylene-propylene (EPDM), minimum tensile strength (ASTM D412) of 1500 psi, and minimum ultimate elongation of 250%. These gaskets also exhibit excellent resistance to heat, ozone, sunlight, and superior performance in both hot and cold water environments.

The products are available in various forms including sheets, strips, pre-cut rings, full face gaskets, and full rolls, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of sealing applications in drinking water systems.

This revision ensures that products like EPDM NSF gaskets meet the highest safety and regulatory standards, providing confidence to users in their suitability for use in critical drinking water applications.

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