Industrial-grade silicone is a versatile material that has a variety of applications across various range of industries such as adhesives, coatings, and lubricants. The manufacturing process of industrial-grade silicone is a bit different from other silicones. It is available in a wide range of formulations, each with its unique properties.
Industrial-Grade Silicone
Industrial-grade silicones are mainly used in non-medical and non-food-grade applications. This type of silicone is developed from low-purity raw materials, making it less expensive and more flexible. The inclusion of low-purity raw materials makes industrial-grade silicone non-viable for use in the medical and food industry.
Properties Of Industrial Grade Silicone
- Temperature Resistance:
- Flexibility And Elasticity:
- Chemical Resistance:
- Electrical Insulation:
- Water Repellency:
- UV and Ozone Resistance:
Temperature resistance is one of the key advantages of industrial silicone. It is capable of withstanding high and low temperatures, thus appropriate for usage where severe temperature fluctuations are common.
Industrial-grade silicone is well-known for its stretch and elasticity. It can withstand stretching or compression without losing its original shape; thus very suitable for applications that generate movement or deformation.
Silicone has strong chemical resistance properties and can tolerate a variety of substances, including acids, alkalis, solvents, and oils. This feature makes industrial-grade silicone appropriate for chemical processing, automotive as well as other industries in which various harsh environments are prevalent.
Silicone serves as an excellent electrical insulator in such situations where electrical conductivity needs to be isolated. It is used extensively in the creation of electrical insulation parts, such as wires, cables, connectors, etc.
Silicone has an in-built water-repelling property, this characteristic makes it impervious to moisture and humidity. Such a trait is especially useful in outdoor settings or places where the risk of water exposure is significant.
The industrial-grade silicone has demonstrated a high degree of UV radiation and ozone resistance, making it suitable for various outdoor applications that are prone to sunlight and atmospheric conditions.
Applications
Industrial-grade silicones are widely used in construction industries in the manufacturing of adhesives, and sealants due to their excellent adhesion and weather-resistant properties. In the automotive industry, industrial-grade silicone is used in lubrication and coatings to enhance the performance and durability of engines and transmissions. Some of the other well-known applications include electrical insulation, mold making, and release agents.
Types Of Industrial-Grade Silicone
- High-Temperature Silicone: With the capability to be used in applications where high-temperature issues are involved, high-temperature silicone maintains the properties of resilience above 500°F (260°C). This kind of silicone is most widely applied in the glass industry and aeronautics.
- Fluorosilicone: Fluorosilicone comprises two components: silicone and fluorine. The combination of these two elements allows fluorosilicone to stand out from other materials in terms of chemical, fuel, oil, and solvent resistance. This is the reason why it is widely used in automotive and aerospace applications where other materials are susceptible to harsh chemical reactions.
- Electrically Conductive Silicone: Developed for use in sectors where electrical conductivity is essential, this silicone is vital, especially in electronic components and industries where static dissipation is a problem.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, industrial-grade silicone is the most common type of silicone available in the market. Its development cost is very less as compared to other types of silicones, and it is much more flexible. It is crucial to consider the fact that silicone can withstand extreme temperatures, and resist even harsh chemicals. In the current scenario, industries are expanding their businesses, and an increase in the use of silicone is contributing to making the objects sturdier and more durable.