Silicone rubber

Silicone rubber differs in many respects from a conventional carbon-based elastomer. Unlike these plastics, the element silicon forms its chemical backbone. By reacting with other organic or inorganic molecules, the properties of silicone rubber can be specifically influenced. Because of this unique molecular structure, silicone rubber has some special properties that distinguish it from other rubbers. These include:

• high resistance to extreme temperatures
• high resistance to weathering
• insensitive to most chemicals
• odorless, tasteless, food-safe
• water repellent
• very good electrical insulating properties
• excellent dimensional stability even after vulcanization

By selectively varying the synthesis, rubbers can be produced that are specialized for specific applications. For example, there is fire-resistant silicone rubber as well as rubber that retains its elasticity even at extremely low temperatures. Sattler SCM is a specialist in the development and production of silicone rubber for extreme applications. Simply contact our silicone experts and let our qualified staff advise you. Because we synthesize silicone rubber in a wide variety of forms and qualities.

To the chemical layman, it seems almost unbelievable that the inconspicuous sealant on the bathtub should be made of the same material that is used to make high-quality baking pans, which are temperature-stable up to temperatures of over 300 °C. The most important specialty silicones include polymers that are steam-resistant, oil-resistant, acid-resistant, gas-resistant, or highly flame-retardant.

In recent years, the product class of electrically conductive plastics has become increasingly important. Silicone rubber is mixed with carbon black particles for this purpose. These tiny carbon inclusions are electrically conductive, so that ultimately the entire material acts as an electrical conductor. This plastic is used in practical applications such as seals, which also provide protection against electrostatic charges.

Metal-detectable silicone rubber plays a major role, especially in the food industry, to ensure production hygiene. Such rubbers are mixed with metal particles to make parts of filling or production equipment. In the event that contamination by these components occurs during production, it can be easily and reliably detected in the final product inspection. An additional safety feature of such rubbers is their blue coloration, since blue food dyes are quite rarely used.

We encounter silicone rubber in a variety of forms in a wide range of applications - from everyday objects to special fittings. Examples of such parts made of silicone rubber are:

• Silicone tubes - for large-lumen feed lines in filling machines
• Hoses - enable flexible connections between individual reaction vessels
• Yarns and cords - for use as sealants or in the food industry
• Extrusion parts with customer-specific profile - in any length and individual shape

These are just a few application scenarios for this special rubber. Just contact our experts. Fulfilling individual wishes is our specialty!