Silicone rubber is an extremely versatile material that can be used across a wide range of applications and industries. Its extensive popularity is due to the number of practical benefits that it offers, and these properties enable it to be used effectively even in harsh environments.
Forms of silicone rubber
There are different types of silicone rubber, including those used by silicone hose manufacturers, and these are categorised based on the curing method that has been used.
High Consistency Silicone Rubbers (HCR) are heat cured with platinum catalysts or peroxides to create a single component compound.
Liquid Silicone Rubbers (LSR) are two-compound systems. They have an extremely low viscosity compared to standard silicone rubbers.
Room Temperature Vulcanizing (RTV) silicone rubbers are created from single or two-compound liquids to give a highly elastic material.
The properties of silicone rubber
The unique properties of silicone rubber come from the tough silicon-oxygen chemical structure, which allows it to be used for long periods of time in very tough environments, including by silicone hose manufacturers Goodflex Rubber.
Age- and weather-resistant
Silicone rubber is very durable, and it can withstand extensive use even in the harshest of conditions due to its resistance to moisture, steam and water.
Thermal stability
Silicone rubber is a better option than standard rubber for applications that involve very high temperatures as it can operate effectively in conditions ranging from -75 degrees C to 300 degrees C.
UV resistance
Another benefit of the silicone is that it’s resistant to sunlight and ultraviolet light in addition to oxidation, so it won’t fade over time.
Elasticity
The silicone rubber used by silicone hose manufacturers is extremely flexible and has a high tensile and tear strength, along with elongation properties.
Low volatility
Silicones have the ability to keep a low vapour pressure, which means they are less likely to vaporize and will maintain their softness forever.
Electrical insulation
Silicone is non-conductive, so this type of rubber has great insulating benefits and exceeds the levels of all other materials when used for electrical applications.
Microbial Resistance
Silicone rubbers are tasteless and odourless, which provides them with an excellent level of biocompatibility. This enables them to be fitted into food and pharmaceutical environments because they won’t have any adverse effects on the products being produced.