Understanding Liquid Silicone Rubber Molding

Manufacturers commonly use Liquid Injection Molding (LIM) to form Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR). Unlike compression molding, the mold is first closed and then the material is introduced into the cavities through a system of sprues, runners, and sub-runners. Once the parts are cured, the mold is opened, parts are removed and the process repeats. Let’s take a look at the step-by-step process. The Liquid Silicone Rubber Process 1. The uncured silicone starts off in two barrels — one marked Compound A and the other Compound B. One barrel contains the cures, while the other holds an accelerant. These two substances are combined and kneaded by an external mixer in a one-to-one ratio, along with any color that is needed. 2. The injection molding machine is programmed and customized to every job. The injection settings are programmed to the proper shot size. The plates and pistons that line up and close the mold have settings for temperature, pressure and cycle time that is ...