LSR(Liquid Silicone Rubber) is a versatile two-part silicone material used in a variety of industries. The liquid silicone is poured or injected into a mold and then cured. LSR is used in medical, automotive and consumer product applications due to its ability to produce complex geometries in a short amount of time and its excellent sealability. Advantages of LSR include excellent biocompatibility due to its low toxicity, resilient in extreme temperatures (-90°F – 500°F) and UV resistance. Disadvantages of LSR include high costs and long curing time.
RTV2 (Room Temperature Vulcanizing Silicone) is an alternate form of silicone that is used in various applications. This two-part silicone system is mixed thoroughly before use and reacts upon contact after cured. It can be used in situations where an extremely durable rubber is required. Advantages of RTV2 include immediate curing time and resistance to extreme temperatures (-65°F – +400°F). Disadvantages due to the curing process include lower tensile strengths and a limited number of colors to choose from.
HCR (Heat Cured Rubber) is a one-part silicone material used in the manufacture of a variety of products. This silicone material is cured with heat, thus eliminating the need to mix a two-part system. HCR is perfect for mass production as it is faster, less expensive, and requires minimal post-curing. Advantages include resistance to extreme temperatures (-65°F – +400°F) and a range of colors. Disadvantages include poor chemical resistance and low durability.
HTV (High Temperature Vulcanizing Silicone) is a two-part silicone system that reacts after exposed to heat. It is used in the production of high-performance parts and offers the benefits of a fast curing rate, high tensile strength, and extreme temperature resistance (-90°F – +500°F). Advantages of HTV include a wide range of application varieties and excellent electrical properties. Disadvantages include expensive set-up costs and limited working time due to the cure cycle.