Silicone rubber is one of the most popular materials. Here are the most important things to know about it.
There are a number of reasons why silicone rubber is such a popular material for use in a variety of projects. This extremely versatile product works across industries, from the transportation sector to medical and healthcare organisations.
What is silicone rubber?
Silicone is derived from the raw chemical element of silicon. The process of making silicone rubber is complex, but the result is a synthetic polymer, combining silicon, hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen. It creates a versatile and flexible material for use in a number of situations.
What are the benefits of silicone rubber?
- Versatile and durable – Silicone rubber can be customised in a number of different ways, making it an extremely versatile product. It is also durable and is recognised as one of the most durable materials known to man, as it does not compromise its properties when exposed to different conditions.
- Flexible and responsive – Silicone rubber is used in a variety of applications because it is so flexible. It can bend and fit any desired shape, with the ability to retain its form even after extended periods of time.
- Low chemical reactivity – Perhaps one of the biggest reasons people opt to use silicone rubber is that it has a low chemical reactivity. It is less susceptible to chemicals, unlike other forms of rubber, and is resistant to heat and water.
- Hygienic and sterile – We often see silicone rubber used within the medical and food industries. This is because it is a non-porous material. Porous materials are more susceptible to the build-up of bacteria, so silicone is the obvious choice. It is also an FDA-approved material for use in food and drug applications.
What can you create with silicone rubber?
Silicone rubber profiles
Here at Viking Extrusions, we have been creating silicone rubber extrusions for over 30 years. Extrusions have been at the heart of our business since the company’s inception and we have manufactured and developed a range of products to fit your needs.
We have produced over 8,000 silicone rubber profiles for our customers, extruding to ISO 3302-1: 2024 E3 tolerances, although we do offer tighter tolerances depending on your requirements. Contact us now to find out more!
Inflatable seals
With over 20 years of experience manufacturing silicone inflatable seals, you know you are in safe hands with Viking Extrusions. We have pioneered innovative new tooling and manufacturing techniques to deliver you the best product. If you are looking for airtight and watertight seals, inflatable seals are what you need.
Silicone rubber tubing
Silicone tube products can be used for a variety of purposes, making them an extremely popular product. Available in sizes from 0.5 mm inside diameter to 100mm outside diameter, we can work with you to create the ideal silicone rubber tubing for your organisation.
Silicone rubber gaskets
A silicone rubber gasket creates a tight seal, repelling water and ensuring that various materials don’t leak. This is especially important within the transportation industry, and at Viking Extrusions, we can manufacture tight and precise tolerances for superior sealing. We manufacture silicone rubber gaskets through die cutting, CNC cutting, and lathe cutting.
Which industries use silicone rubber?
One of the reasons that silicone rubber is such a popular material is its versatility. This makes it perfect for use in different environments, no matter the industry. At Viking Extrusions, we have experience working with a range of industries and organisations, including Boeing, Aston Martin, and London Underground to name a few.
- Civil engineering
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Food and dairy
- Marine
- Energy generation
- OE prototyping
- Ovens and appliances
- Pharmaceutical
- Rail and mass transit
- LED lighting
Is your industry not listed here? We work with organisations in a variety of sectors so learn about the industries we work with or contact the team today.
ISO 9001 quality assurance
High-quality products are our top priority here at Viking Extrusions. We have been ISO 9001 certified for over 25 years and have recently been ISO 14001 certified. Our team are dedicated to delivering all products to the exacting specifications, depending on your individual requirements, and we are working towards ISO 45001. You’re in safe hands with Viking Extrusions.
Get your silicone rubber questions answered
There are many important factors to consider when it comes to silicone extrusions. This versatile, durable, and hygienic material is popular in many industries. Want to know how your organisation might use it? Contact the team today to discuss your needs.
