When deciding on which method of production to choose for silicone production, one must take into account many factors. The exact dimensions and complexity of the part help depict which method of production is most efficient. Other factors that need to be considered are the volume of parts per order and how long the part will be in production. With these factors in mind, silicone rubber injection molding tends to be the preferred method of production for most silicone rubber needs.
Silicone rubber injection molding lends itself well to most manufacturing projects and has the added benefit of utilizing a closed automated system. A closed automated system means that the raw silicone is sealed, as well as any pigment that may be added. The reason this is important is to avoid contamination from dirt and debris which can wreak havoc on the production process and produce inferior parts. With proper setup and implementation, this process can also prevent air from being trapped in the silicone and the final part being produced.
The raw silicone rubber is contained in two parts, with one containing a platinum based catalyst and the other containing an inhibitor to prolong the working life of the material. These materials are connected to a dispensing machine that seals the material and uses pressure to pump the material from the original containers into the injection machine. Silicone pigment in liquid form is sealed under pressure and precisely metered into the silicone at this point to achieve the exact color needed. Once mixed, the material is housed in a water-cooled barrel to avoid catalyzation.
The characteristics of silicone rubber allow for fast curing and cycle times.
Silicone rubber injection molding allows for a fully enclosed, semi-automated system, which impedes any debris or contaminates from entering the process. Injection molding allows for short cycle times which fill high volume orders more efficiently. The ability to operate at lower injection pressure because of the viscosity of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) materials, means little to no variation, tighter tolerances and consistent quality. These factors make silicone injection molding inherently clean and efficient over other methods of molding.
At SiTECH, we utilize the latest in technology and silicone injection molding machinery to produce the highest quality silicone rubber components the industry can offer. We use the latest innovations in injection molding including both vertical and horizontal molding machines; advanced quality control systems and tracking, and decorating and coating for abrasion and chemical resistance. With the knowledge and expertise to fulfill all your silicone rubber needs, from small to large volume jobs, you can trust the experience and reputation that SiTECH has to offer.
