🧩 AEM – Ethylene-Acrylic Rubber (Vamac®)
(A high-performance synthetic elastomer obtained from the copolymerization of ethylene and acrylic esters, featuring excellent resistance to oils, heat, and ozone. AEM offers superior flexibility and stability at high temperatures up to 180 °C.)
🔹 What is AEM
AEM combines the chemical resistance of acrylates with the elasticity of ethylene copolymers. At ReplastMD, we treat AEM as the superior alternative to NBR or EPDM in environments where both oil and high heat are present. It is compatible with modern synthetic oils and additives, making it a preferred material for hoses and seals in high-efficiency engines.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Polymer Base: Ethylene-acrylic copolymer (AEM).
- Density: ~ 1.15 – 1.25 g/cm³.
- Operating Range: Up to +180 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Excellent (synthetic oils, ozone, aging).
- Visuals: Matte black, grey, or light cream rubber; smooth and compression-resistant.
🚗 Where it is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Turbo / Oil / EGR Hoses | Renault, Hyundai, VW | Resists pressure up to 180 °C |
| Oil Pan / Valve Gaskets | BMW, Toyota | Double the lifespan of standard ACM |
| Engine Boots / Sleeves | Ford, Dacia | Resistance to ozone and motor oils |
| Vacuum / Vent Tubes | Peugeot, Nissan | Dimensional stability during thermal cycles |
🔧 Welding and Bonding Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | ✅ 170 – 190 °C | Partial melting, fine weld on clean surfaces |
| Chemical Bonding | ✅ Recommended | Specialized acrylate adhesives (Loctite® 480/495) |
| Heat Plate | ⚠️ Limited | Possible only for thin-walled parts |
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: For professional repairs, use acrylic-specific adhesives combined with light thermal activation (~180 °C). AEM is the perfect choice for hoses and elastic parts exposed to hot oil and steam, offering double the resistance of EPDM.