Silicone manufacturing in the United States is leading the way in 2021 and convincing many companies to relocate their production back home. Many product developers believe contracting suppliers overseas will save money. This is because overseas manufacturers can generally offer more appealing start-up mold pricing. However, once a company has established a market for their product and demand for the product increases, they often realize the benefits of conducting business in the USA. Some of the advantages of USA suppliers include:
- Painless communication
- Shorter lead times,
- Decreased shipping times & costs
- Product traceability
- Innovative technologies
- Preserved intellectual properties
- Customer preference for products that are made in USA
Don’t sacrifice quality for lower prices. A lower quality product will almost always result in higher costs. Defective components which will need to be returned or replaced will result in lost profits, manufacturing delays, and waste. If you have been sourcing overseas, they are likely using a process called Compression Molding with a High Consistency Rubber (HCR) silicone rather than Injection Molding with Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR). Overseas manufacturers have lower labor costs which makes Compression Molding more practical for them. High Consistency Rubber is mixed at the molder, this opens a window for inconsistencies in color, fillers, and durometer. Comparably, our closed loop Liquid Injection Molding process that utilizes Liquid Silicone Rubber produces extremely consistent, high quality products.
Generally speaking, a US silicone manufacturer will cost more than overseas. This is a result of the liquid injection molding process. This is also because US mold makers will produce much more high quality molds that will last the lifespan of your product. Molds made in the US can last over 10 years and produce over 10,000,000 parts. Developments in processes and technologies are also helping American manufacturers offer sustainable, environmentally responsible products at much lower costs.
Having a manufacturer closer to home will mean you can easily visit them if/when necessary. This also means it will not take weeks to receive your product that is being shipped across an ocean. Time zone differences result in wasted time and resources, slower response times when checking inventory or lead times, and problems when addressing quality control issues. Keeping your silicone injection molded products in the US will ensure both smooth production, and that important deadlines will be met.
Si-Tech uses selective, rather than complete, automation to merge the efficiency and precision of machines, with over 75 years worth of expertise within the injection molding industry. Our combination of advanced technology and quality offers you a competitive domestic supplier of custom keypads and other silicone rubber products. If you are in need of a US based silicone manufacturer, call Si-Tech today at 757-887-8488.
