In the modern elastomer marketplace, the choice of rubbers is vast. The sheer number of choices can cause confusion as to which rubber to choose for certain software. Properties such as temperature resistance, compression set, tear strength and elongation might not be fully comprehended, which consequently effects making the appropriate selection of rubber.
Here we discuss engineers select silicone rubber as a substance over rubbers as well as the advantages the elastomer has when in software.
Primarily we must outline that all rubbers have positives and drawbacks depending on application conditions and as of yet, there’s not 1 rubber which’ticks all the boxes’. This leaves us that we have to delve into the application where the rubber is going to be used to comprehend what stresses the material will face and then give a choice.
As we’re a silicone rubber manufacturer we hold a vast quantity of knowledge in the heat cured silicone arena talk about advantages and the most common features to permit you to understand why the material is chosen by engineers.
Temperature
Silicone is associated with its exceptional resistance to extreme temperatures and this is one of the causes silicone gets selected for application. Since it’s often fever resistance was discussed by us in another blog post.
Some silicone producers publish maximum temperatures of 300°C (572°) which looks impressive however, we know that silicone exposed to the constant temperature will last a matter of minutes which isn’t always explained on datasheets. This would be for short intermittent periods and is something that needs to be indicated to prevent failure although it is accurate, silicone can withstand 300 °C. Our silicone can withstand consistent temperatures of 230°C (446°F) that in most cases is suffice in many high temperature applications. But we do have our elevated temperature grade THT that may achieve a constant 270°C.
Environmental Resistance
Silicone rubber has excellent resistance to environmental conditions, making it the perfect material to be used for sealing applications which may be exposed to the elements. Silicone can withstand Ozone and UV worries which allows the substance protect against degradation and to keep its properties. Silicone also has excellent resistance against general weathering from sleet, rain, snow and snow allowing security to enclosures.
Low Compression Set
One more advantage of silicone (sponge specifically ) is reduced compression set. It recovers and maintains its shape. This is generally linked to a seal or gasket program that is often compressed a doorway or enclosure that requires. After that enclosure or door is opened again the seal must return to its initial shape, not become deformed.
Food Safe
Silicone is an inert plastic, meaning it is. This makes it the go to elastomer from the drink and food industry as it little to no effect on the goods. On a global scale, the silicone of Silicone Engineering is used from dairy tubing to brewery hoses. It is approved to BfR, FDA and WRAS criteria which make it be connected with food or beverages without causing contamination. Go to our Food & Beverage site to read more.
These are just some of the advantages silicone rubber when elastomers neglect, may bring to applications. Silicone can fix and/or reduce replacement costs and prevent a number of sealing issues, which can increase the lifespan of a seal.
