You're not alone if you've never heard of liquid silicone rubber. This great substance is only now beginning to gain recognition for its many uses and benefits.

Liquid silicone rubber is a clear, viscous liquid derived from silicone. It is non-toxic, non-reactive, and has a wide range of applications.

Keep reading to learn more about the seven incredible benefits of liquid silicone rubber!

What is Liquid silicone rubber?

Manufacturers use plastics in various sectors during the injection molding process. Because they are durable, lightweight, and easily moldable into the right shape, plastics are a popular choice.

For example, thermoplastic elastomers cannot resist high temperatures without warping and losing their form. Liquid silicone rubber is becoming increasingly popular among producers because of this.

Liquid silicone rubber, combines two silicone-based polymers bonded by a strong chemical link. It is often used to produce injection molded components for commodities utilized in sectors like consumer goods, automotive, food, appliances, and textiles.

The catalyst starts a cross-linking process when the polymer is heated and injected. Following the curing phase, this evolution offers the material enduring strength and form.

The final substance is robust and long-lasting, making it perfect for several items, such as:

• Appliance Hardware
• Auto components
• Interfaces in electronics
• O-rings

The Benefits of Liquid silicone rubber

It flourishes in extremely high temperatures. LSR resists flames, has great thermal stability, and won't lengthen at elevated temperatures. It is also used in extremely cold temperatures and maintains its elasticity at -40 C. These factors make it a popular option for heavy-duty industrial applications and consumer goods like muffin tins and ice cube trays.

It is adaptable. LSR is the preferred material for a wide range of products, including some medical and automotive devices, electrical parts, bakeware, and other home items. LSR can be over-molded onto other components or be utilized in single- and two-shot injection molding. It may produce everything from basic components like an O-ring or gasket to instruments and system pieces with more intricate designs.

It is flexible. LSR is incredibly flexible and can take on almost any shape. In addition, it has a low creep and compression set, is easily vibration-absorbing, and does so without sacrificing performance. These features make LSR an excellent option for automotive parts and other items that need to be long-lasting.

It works well outside. LSR is excellent for prolonged outdoor usage, including thermal stability. Even after being exposed for a long time to wind and rain, LSR components will maintain their mechanical strength and other qualities. LSR is also resistant to UV radiation, germs, mold, and mildew.

It is non-allergic. Unlike other materials, LSR is free of allergens and plasticizers that can irritate the skin. It is, therefore, perfect for toys and infant items. Additionally, food-grade LSR is offered, and LSR components are essential for businesses to follow HACCP best practices and FDA rule 21 CFR 177.2600.

It conducts electricity. Liquid silicone rubber also has the benefit of being very insulating and corona discharge resistant. However, LSR can also have conductive components that make it appropriate for electrical components like keyboard contact points.

It resists moisture. LSR can be submerged in hot or warm water without experiencing any detrimental effects. It won't dissolve, disintegrate, or undergo any other type of degradation over time. LSR is also impervious to chemicals and oils. These qualities make LSR a viable option for medical equipment and plumbing components like gaskets and valves, which must be frequently autoclaved or chemically sterilized.

Key Takeaways

The aforementioned is only a small sampling of the many benefits of using Liquid silicone rubber for injection molding. Contact Nice Rapid and chat with one of our professionals immediately if you have any questions or need help deciding whether LSR is the right material for your project.