Silicone Extrusions

Processes Used to Create Silicone Extrusions

Silicone extrusions can be produced using various processes. Some of the more common methods such as liquid injection molding, compression molding, and transfer molding, and their specific application, are discussed in greater detail below.

Liquid Injection Molding (LIM)

LIM involves injecting uncured silicone rubber into a mold cavity, where it is heated and cured to form a solid silicone rubber part. This process is best suited for small to medium-sized parts with complex geometries.

Compression Molding

This process involves placing a pre-formed silicone rubber billet into a mold cavity, where it is compressed and heated to form a solid silicone rubber part. This process is best suited for low volume, high precision parts with simple geometries.

Transfer Molding

This process is similar to compression molding but involves transferring the uncured silicone rubber from a pot into a mold cavity, where it is compressed and heated to form a solid silicone rubber part. This process is best suited for medium to high volume parts with complex geometries.

Design Variations of Silicone Extrusions

Silicone extrusions come in various designs and types. Solid extrusions, for example, are used for sealing applications where a watertight seal is necessary. Sponge extrusions are used to provide cushioning and insulation in applications such as automotive and aerospace. Co-extrusions, which involve two or more materials being extruded together, are used for applications where multiple functions are required. For instance, a co-extruded seal with a rigid carrier may be used to provide structural support and a watertight seal.

Considerations Regarding Silicone Extrusions

When designing silicone extrusions, several considerations must be taken into account. For example, environmental considerations for silicone extrusions include the impact they have on the environment during their production and disposal. Meanwhile, economic considerations include their cost, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility. Transportation costs and lead times must also be factored in when considering the economic viability of using silicone extrusions in a particular application.

Benefits of Silicone Extrusions

The benefits of silicone extrusions are numerous. They are flexible, which makes them ideal for use in applications that require movement and deformation. They are also resistant to extreme temperatures, chemicals, and UV rays, which makes them ideal for use in harsh environments. Additionally, they have excellent electrical insulation properties and are non-reactive to most substances, which makes them ideal for use in the medical industry and elsewhere.

Applications of Silicone Extrusions

Due to these benefits, silicone extrusions are used in a wide range of applications, including:

Automotive

Silicone extrusions are widely used in the automotive industry for sealing, insulation, and noise reduction. They are also used in engine components, such as gaskets, seals, and hoses, where they must withstand high temperatures and resist exposure to oils and chemicals.

Construction

In the construction industry, silicone extrusions are commonly used for weather sealing, insulation, and vibration dampening. They are also used in glazing systems and curtain walls, where they provide a durable and long-lasting seal against the elements.

Medical

Silicone extrusions are used extensively in the medical industry due to their biocompatibility and resistance to sterilization methods. They are used in medical tubing, seals, and gaskets, as well as in implantable devices.

Aerospace

Silicone extrusions are used in the aerospace industry for insulation, vibration dampening, and sealing in high-temperature environments. They are also used in engine components and fuel systems, where they must resist exposure to extreme temperatures and chemicals.

Electronics

Silicone extrusions are used in the electronics industry for sealing and insulation of electronic components, as well as in cables and connectors.

Food and Beverage

Silicone extrusions are used in the food and beverage industry for sealing and gasketing applications in equipment and machinery. They are also used in food processing equipment due to their resistance to high temperatures and chemicals.

Marine

Silicone extrusions are used in the marine industry for weather sealing, insulation, and vibration dampening. They are also used in marine engine components, such as gaskets, seals, and hoses.

Energy

Silicone extrusions are used in the energy industry for sealing and insulation in power generation equipment and transmission systems. They are also used in solar panel and wind turbine applications due to their resistance to UV exposure and extreme temperatures.

Choosing the Correct Silicone Extrusions Manufacturer

To ensure you have the most beneficial outcome when purchasing silicone extrusions from a silicone extrusions manufacturer, it is important to compare several companies using our directory of silicone extrusions manufacturers. Each silicone extrusions manufacturer has a business profile page highlighting their areas of experience and capabilities, along with a contact form to directly communicate with the manufacturer for more information or to request a quote. Review each silicone extrusions company website using our patented website previewer to quickly learn what each company specializes in. Then, use our simple RFQ form to contact multiple silicone extrusions companies with the same form.