Liquid Silicone Rubber

 Liquid silicone rubber is used in a wide range of consumer products, medical applications, and automotive items. Its versatility allows for intricate components, small parts and high-precision items, and it is often overmolded onto other materials such as plastics. Liquid injection molding is the most common way that manufacturers use LSR for high-volume production of pliable, durable parts.

The manufacturing process is simple, fast, and efficient. The molder heats the mold cavity and uses a pump to distribute the liquid silicone. As the silicone is pushed into the cavity, it undergoes a chemical reaction, which creates cross-linking progression and vulcanizes the material into its final form. The entire process takes less than a day for a typical production run.

Unlike thermoplastic elastomers, which can lose their flexibility at extreme temperatures, liquid silicone rubber maintains its flexibility, even in harsh conditions. It also does not shrink or deform when cured. This makes it ideal for demanding applications where a resilient, durable material is required.

Like many other types of elastomers, LSR can be formulated with additives and fillers to achieve the desired properties for an application. Additive ingredients can provide the elastomer with a stronger bond or improved aesthetics, while fillers can help reduce the cost of the finished part. In addition to being odorless and tasteless, LSR can be formulated for biocompatibility. This type of silicone has passed stringent testing for human skin contact and is suitable for infant products, such as bottle nipples, as well as food and beverage containers.

Most LSR is produced as two-part, platinum-cured elastomers. The A component contains the catalyst, and the B component consists of the crosslinker. It is the combination of these two substances that creates the molded elastomer. This platinum cure is very quick, meaning it can be pumped into a mold and processed in a short amount of time. This process helps to keep costs down for manufacturers.

Injection molded LSR is typically pigmented, allowing manufacturers to match the color of the final product. It can also be formulated with a self-adhesive property. This can eliminate the need for additional steps in manufacturing, such as gluing or other physical assembly methods.

Stockwell Elastomerics offers a range of liquid silicone mold making rubbers for different applications. CopyFlex(r), for example, is an easy-to-use food grade silicone with a simple mix ratio and low viscosity. This enables the mold maker to pour large quantities of silicone rubber with a minimal amount of time and effort. The formula is odorless, tasteless, and non-toxic.

The company also provides the materials and equipment necessary for high-volume production of pliable silicone parts, including metering units, supply drums, and containers for pigment. This allows for efficient processing of liquid silicone injection molding to deliver a consistent quality and ensures that every piece produced meets the customer’s specifications. Contact Stockwell Elastomerics for more information about the company’s manufacturing services and custom formulation options. The company can also apply acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives to molded LSR sheets and rolls for creation of adhesive backed gaskets.liquid silicone rubber