Silicone Rubber
High-Performance Silicone Rubber for Industrial Applications
Silicone rubber is a versatile elastomer prized for its exceptional heat resistance, flexibility, and durability across various industries. Our premium-grade silicone rubber products meet the most demanding specifications while maintaining consistent quality in extreme environments.
Key Product Specifications:
- Temperature Range: -60°C to +250°C (-76°F to +482°F)
- Hardness Range: 20 to 80 Shore A
- Tensile Strength: 8-12 MPa
- Elongation at Break: 300-700%
- Tear Resistance: 20-50 kN/m
- Specific Gravity: 1.1-1.3
- Certifications: FDA, NSF, UL, RoHS compliant
| Property | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Compression Set | 15-25% | ASTM D395 |
| Volume Resistivity | 1015 ohm-cm | ASTM D257 |
| Dielectric Strength | 20-25 kV/mm | ASTM D149 |
| Flame Resistance | UL94 V-0 | UL 94 |
Silicone Rubber FAQ Section
What makes silicone rubber different from other elastomers?
Silicone rubber stands out due to its exceptional temperature resistance, maintaining flexibility from extremely low to high temperatures where most rubbers would harden or degrade. Unlike organic rubbers, silicone's inorganic silicon-oxygen backbone provides superior UV and ozone resistance, along with excellent electrical insulation properties. These characteristics make it ideal for applications requiring long-term performance in harsh environments.
Available Silicone Rubber Variants
| Type | Features | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|
| High-Temperature Grade | Stable up to 300°C short-term | Gaskets, seals, thermal insulation |
| Food-Grade | FDA compliant, odorless | Baking molds, kitchenware |
| Conductive | Surface resistivity 103-105 ohm/sq | EMI shielding, static control |
| Flame Retardant | UL94 V-0 rated | Electrical components, aerospace |
How long does silicone rubber last in outdoor applications?
Properly formulated silicone rubber can last 10-20 years in outdoor exposure, significantly outperforming organic rubbers. The material's resistance to UV radiation, ozone, and extreme temperature fluctuations prevents the cracking and hardening typical of other elastomers. For critical applications, we recommend our specially formulated weather-resistant silicone rubber compounds that include additional UV stabilizers for maximum longevity.
Processing Methods for Silicone Rubber
- Compression Molding: Ideal for small to medium production runs of precision parts
- Injection Molding: Efficient for high-volume production of complex geometries
- Extrusion: Continuous profiles for seals, tubing, and electrical insulation
- Calendering: Production of silicone rubber sheets with controlled thickness
- Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) Injection: For intricate, high-precision components
Can silicone rubber be colored to match specific requirements?
Yes, silicone rubber can be formulated in virtually any color while maintaining its physical properties. We offer standard colors including black, white, red, blue, and gray, along with custom color matching to Pantone or RAL specifications. Our color compounds include UV stabilizers to prevent fading, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. For applications requiring visual inspection of cleanliness (like medical or food-grade products), we offer translucent options.
Technical Comparison: Silicone Rubber vs. Other Elastomers
| Property | Silicone Rubber | EPDM | Natural Rubber | Neoprene |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Operating Temp | 250°C | 150°C | 80°C | 120°C |
| Min Operating Temp | -60°C | -50°C | -50°C | -40°C |
| Weather Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Poor | Good |
| Ozone Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Poor | Good |
| Tensile Strength | Medium | Medium | High | Medium |
Industrial Applications of Silicone Rubber
- Automotive: Engine gaskets, spark plug boots, vibration dampers
- Medical: Tubing, prosthetic components, seals for sterilization
- Electronics: Keypads, connectors, insulators
- Aerospace: Seals, vibration isolators, thermal protection
- Construction: Expansion joints, weather seals, glazing