EPDM Rubber Sports Surface Types.
EPDM rubber, initials of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), is a kind of synthetic rubber that has very different application types in today’s modern world. As it has a very durable, elastic, and water-resistant structure, it is widely used for flooring, surfacing, roofing, and other kinds of coatings.
Because it has very suitable characteristics, we use the EPDM rubber sports surface in sports fields, inner sports facilities, parks, and so many other places. As EPDM is an elastic rubber, it is a great absorbent although it seems very solid. EPDM is very successful in preventing sports injuries in cases of unintentional fallings. The elastic structure will make the falls feel like on grass, instead of falling on a rough surface.
EPDM rubber application comprises different layers of materials. The first layer consists of SBR granule and PU adhesive. And the second layer is from PU adhesive again with EPDM. This makes it stronger and more durable. EPDM rubber features are;
- Durability and absorbent,
- A vast color choice,
- Very clean and hygienic,
- Unslippery,
- Have very tiny pores,
- And the water permeability.
EPDM rubber doesn’t fade because it’s material has a structural color, meaning you don’t paint the surface after application. On the other hand, the EPDM rubber is durable against corrosion, so it can last for many years. A proper EPDM rubber sports surface can endure a minimum of 5 years, even the conditions are so severe.
The EPDM Granules
As Hatko Sports Company, we serve in the sports fields and equipment construction market for many years. After long years of experience and our efforts on research and development, we have our innovative Athlon Athletic Systems which is produced for athletes. Our Athlon systems are manufactured from polyurethane and EPDM rubber granules.
Our Athlon products, and our granules, have 8 different kinds of colors which preserve a genuine design and aesthetic. So, here are the colors:
- Traffic yellow,
- Coral red,
- Sky blue,
- Pale green,
- Light green,
- Beige brown,
- Pure white,
- Traffic Black.
These materials are natural with the colors, so they are not painted after the process. This way, they don’t fade even they are exposed to the sun for a long time. This long time can be up to 10 years. Also, the quality lasts just like the first day. The diameter of the granules changes from 1,5 to 3,5 mm. Also, there are different measures of diameter according to customer demand.
EPDM Rubber Sports Surface Application Areas
As we mentioned before, there are so many different types, or areas to use EPDM rubber. The most common application types are below.
EPDM Rubber Surface for Playgrounds
As easily understood from the name, this application is for playgrounds. Kids are at the center of our lives, so we want the best of everything for them. Because of the elastic feature, EPDM rubber is the best material for playgrounds. EPDM rubber elasticity prevents kids from injuries. So, today almost all the new playgrounds are from EPDM rubber. Because it is more beneficial and preferable than concrete and sand.
EPDM Rubber Surface for Parks
EPDM rubber is also a good choice for the parks. Although it would cost too much for EPDM rubber coating all the park surface, it is a useful and clean selection. It can be preferred at all the park, or more economically, used at designated areas, like special walkways, tennis courts, basketball, or volleyball fields. EPDM rubber has an elite view of the observation platforms. Also, it’s easily cleaning feature will provide hygiene all the time.
Colored Surfaces
A well-known definition for the EPDM rubber is “Original colored rubber”. EPDM is the most ideal choice for the vivid, alive colored application. As EPDM material is granule, a special process should be followed in order to have a patterned surface. So, it is possible to have a patterned surface only at the application time. You can shape the granules with special construction equipment like steel trowel or finisher. And, you can shape all the figures like animals or special logos of companies.
EPDM Sports Field Surfaces
EPDM is a very popular choice for sports fields. In these fields, the method is to apply EPDM granules on the SBR layer. In this way, the users can play on a wonderfully elastic surface. The field increases the performance at Basketball, which necessitates a high level of movement. But the winner is athletics. Athletics fields with EPDM is very popular. Because the EPDM rubber granules have a great performance increasing effect on athletes. So, most of the fields around the world are EPDM rubber coating. The structure is 8mm SBR under 5mm of EPDM.
EPDM Tartan Surface
This type is a very improved type of application when compared to the other types of surfaces. Just like the others, this also has a structure of the EPDM layer over the SBR layer. But in this application, the difference is the thickness, which is 13 mm of EPDM. The thickness can be more according to demands. It provides practicing easily under the rain. And also, it is beneficial for preventing injuries. The EPDM rubber surface installations which have the approval of different sports federations are very ideal for multi-purpose sports fields, playgrounds, volleyball, handball, basketball fields, and tennis courts.
For more details: https://www.hatkosport.com/products/athlon/