If someone mentions the word “silicone,” plenty of different images can come to mind. However, when it comes to the realm of gaskets and sealing systems, the use of silicone seals is rather specialized. Although its span of applications may be surprising, looking at the characteristics of the material and how it’s utilized, reveals that silicone is the real deal.
For Medical Applications
One of the ways silicone has been found to be useful is in various applications pertaining to the medical world. Organically based, silicone offers thermal stability, biocompatibility, and has a naturally low modulus (meaning that it’s flexible, elastic and soft), which works well for the needs of many devices. In terms of processing, silicone tends to require less additives and can be formulated for medical and FDA applications more easily. Here are a few examples of how it’s used in this case:
- Syringe plungers
- Baby nipples
- IV Connector seals
- Hearing aids (in terms of insulation & fit)
- Drug testing kits & Diabetes glucose level kits
- Device covers
Handling the Heat…& the Cold
Another specialized use of silicone has to do with the aspect of temperature. Due to the fact that silicone rubber maintains excellent heat resistance, it has proven itself suitable for several applications where high/dry heat is a factor. Oven seals and insulation, welding equipment, hot air exhaust systems and manifold seals all can benefit from silicone’s stability and performance in the face of increased temperature.
Even on the opposite side of the spectrum, silicone is still able to retain its physical properties when temperatures get low. Here, silicone reveals its capacity for being used in applications of high temperature range. For example, in electronic actuators, sensors, seals for instrumentation and in lighting applications, silicone is able to provide durability towards either end of the temperature gauge.
Catering to Shape & Aesthetics
Other applications have discovered that silicone rubber suits their aesthetic needs to a tee. Once again, its low modulus provides the softness that applications like button covers, handles, or display bumpers, desire. To enhance silicone’s aesthetic appeal, it typically adds the benefit of being able to be colored with more vibrant and brilliant hues.
Silicone can also be molded into elaborate or complex shapes. As a raw material, silicone can be more expensive than other rubber materials, but its unique properties can more easily cater to molding processes where pliable substances are needed. So, when certain parts like complex connectors are required, many turn to using silicone to get the job done.
Finding a Sound Solution For Your Application
It’s quite likely that now when the word “silicone” is mentioned, even more images will pop into your head. Specialized and unique, silicone rubber is the perfect fit for various applications that require its array of properties and characteristics. Here at Real Seal, we provide solutions that include quality silicone o-rings and silicone rubber to metal bonded gaskets. We also use our knowledge and experience to help develop materials, as a part of our engineering and design support. If you are looking for assistance with a rubber or plastic application, please contact us or call 800-542-6162 today. We’re eager to help you get on the right track to a real solution.
