Silicone rubber
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Silicone rubber is a polymer that has a "backbone" of silicon oxygen linkages, the same bond that is found in quartz, glass and sand. Normally, heat is required to vulcanise (set) the silicone rubber; this is normally carried out in a two stage process at the point of manufacture into the desired shape, and then in a prolonged post-cure process. It can also be injection molded.
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[edit] Properties
Silicone rubber offers excellent resistance to extreme temperatures, being able to operate normally from minus 100°F to plus 500°F. In such conditions the tensile strength, elongation, tear strength and compression set can be far superior to conventional rubbers.
Silicone rubber has excellent high temperature properties. Organic rubber has a carbon to carbon backbone. This can leave them susceptible to ozone, UV, heat and other aging factors that silicone rubber can withstand well. This is why it is the material of choice in many extreme environments.
[edit] Specialist grades
There are also many specialist grades of silicone rubber that offer the following qualities: Steam resistance, metal detectable, glow in the dark, electrically conductive, chemical/oil/acid/gas resistance, low smoke emission and flame retardant.
[edit] Applications
Once milled and coloured the silicone rubber can be extruded into tubes, strips, solid cord or custom profiles within the size restrictions of the manufacturer. Cord can be joined to make "O" Rings and extruded profiles can also be joined to make up seals. Silicone Rubber can also be moulded into custom shapes and designs.
