Silicones are one of the most versatile groups of materials currently available. We use them in both solid and liquid forms on an everyday basis, in everything from cosmetics to prosthetics and from aerospace to the seal around your bathtub. Silicone is resistant to extreme temperatures (-65C to 300C+), chemical corrosion, radiation, bacteria, sunlight, moisture, torque and impact. The global market is worth about $15 billion, and fortunately silicone is environmentally benign.
Transport
The ability of silicones to withstand stress and temperature finds countless applications in aircraft, satellites, boats and trains. Car production depends on silicone hose manufacturers for tubing, boots and gaskets. It’s also in headlamps, bearings, cables and shock absorbers, and it increases the durability of tyres.
Toys
Strong yet soft, silicone is ideal for toys. It is washable and bacteria resistant. It helps those superhero stickers peel and stick again, and is the basis of “Silly Putty”.
Construction
Silicone adhesives bond concrete, glass, stone, metals and plastics. Its flex withstands hurricanes and earthquakes and enables architects to innovate. Silicone endows paint with adhesion and consistency.
Electronics
Silicones are used inside components and to hold circuit boards together, resisting heat and corrosion. They’re in printer and copier rollers, fax machines and telephones.
Medicine
Easy to sterilise and hypoallergenic, silicone is skin-like, so ideal in prosthetics, pacemakers, medical tubing and wound seals. In liquid form, it’s in ointments and topical medications.
Household
Silicone gives us non-stick pans, flexible bakeware, the glossy finish of polishes and the softness in fabric conditioner.
Waterproofing
On brickwork, canvas, clothing and shoes, it repels water yet still allows materials to breathe.
Cosmetics
Silicone is the non-sticky ingredient of anti-perspirants and face creams. It helps make-up retain its colour and puts the shine in your shampoo.
Suppliers
To thrive in an industry with such diverse applications requires remarkable knowledge and production line agility. Goodflex Rubber silicone hose manufacturers, in Worcestershire, are experienced and a good place to seek advice about all silicone related production requirements.
3D silicone is coming soon, and this technology is already being used for some remarkable surgical purposes (http://www.3dprinterworld.com/article/3d-printing-with-silicone-revelation).
Injection moulded silicone is the ideal solution for production runs of components, whether with routine or demanding characteristics. It’s the fastest and cheapest way to deliver quality gaskets, hoses, connectors, rollers and non-stick surfaces, either pure or combined with rubber or polyester.