Known for short as LIM, liquid injection molding is a process we use here at SiTech to craft parts, keypads and components with the highest precision. In fact, our advanced manufacturing capabilities not only allow us to create precise parts, but offer state of the art services such as high-volume production, color matching and rapid prototyping.
Liquid silicone injection molding (LIM) is a way of customizing the molds of two-part, high-viscosity liquid silicone rubber, known for short as LSR. Because of its flexibility, conductive properties, durability, high tear and tensile strength, insulating properties, hardness, and biocompatibility, we only work with LSR and injection molding.
We love the fact that molded silicone rubber retains its stability through extreme temperatures that can reach as low as -75°F right on up to 400°F. This is not easy to do! We also love LSR for its resistance to water, bacteria, rust, chemicals, and stains.
A Snapshot of the LIM Process
As part of the process, we connect this sealed raw material to our machines, metered to a one-to-one ratio. Then we add the pigment chosen by the customer and inject it into a barrel that has been water-cooled. It won’t catalyze when mixed with the material. The material is then injected into a hot-mold cavity, curing in seconds.
Once opened, we remove the part from the mold. From there, the process starts all over again.
The LIM process is desirable for manufacturers because it provides a wide spectrum of cost-effective, consistent, and precise silicone keypads and components.
Why Work With LSR Molding?
There are several benefits to LSR molding. Here are the top four:
- High-Volume Production: The LIM machine is a precision instrument, and as such, we can set the most precise settings when it comes to shot size, temperature, pressure, cycle times and injection rates. This not only minimizes waste, it also ensures repeatability, and leads to a cost-effective and complex product. And with our platinum curing catalyst, this further reduces cycle times so the per-piece price is reduced.
- Uniformity: LIM parts do not require high pressure and heat to achieve material melting, resulting in a more consistent flow of LSR into a given mold.
- Less Risk of Contamination: Because LIM operates on a closed loop system, the raw material has been sealed and untouched until emerging into the final product. You get less risk of contamination with this method.
- Better Automation: Compression molders can’t compete with our LIM machines that are excellent at automating processes. With our faster automation process, you get reduced cycle times, which saves money and reduces the intensity of the labor involved.
Contact Si-Tech
If you would like to know more about our LIM or LSR processes and how they relate to the creation of your product, just request a quote today.
