1. Preparation and refining of raw materials
The main raw materials for the production of silicone rubber include siloxane compounds such as octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (DMC), as well as auxiliary materials such as head seals and catalysts. Before production, these raw materials need to be strictly inspected and refined to ensure that their quality meets production requirements. The refining process may include steps such as dehydration, filtration, etc., to remove impurities and moisture from the raw materials.
2.the polymerization process
Polymerization is one of the key steps in the production of silicone rubber. In the polymerization process, the refined raw materials are added to the polymerization kettle in a certain proportion, and the polymerization reaction is carried out under the action of a catalyst. Conditions such as temperature, time, and pressure of the polymerization reaction need to be tightly controlled to ensure that the molecular weight and performance of the polymerization products meet the requirements. After the polymerization is completed, the polymerization product needs to be post-processed, such as delowing molecules, to further improve its quality.
3. Molding process
The molding process of silicone rubber mainly includes extrusion molding, compression molding, calendering molding and injection molding. Extrusion: The mixed silicone rubber raw material is put into the hopper of the extruder, and under the extrusion of the screw, it is extruded into a regular shape of long strips and tubular products. Representative products include silicone tubes, sealing strips, etc. This process is highly productive, capable of mass production and high dimensional accuracy.
Compression molding: The raw material of the mixed silicone rubber is put into two mold cores, and the pressure is applied by the vulcanizing machine and vulcanized at high temperature to make the raw material of the silicone rubber molded into a solid. The shape of the mold determines the shape of the product, and it is suitable for sealing elements with complex shapes that require high precision and quality. Representative products include sealing rings, buttons, etc. This process has high dimensional accuracy, beautiful appearance, and stable product quality.
Calendering: The mixed silicone rubber is pressed into a film of a certain thickness and width by a calender. It is suitable for the manufacture of simple sheet and plate products. Representative products include silicone gaskets, silicone sheets, etc.
Injection molding: An injection molding machine is used to inject heated silicone rubber raw materials into a mold, which is then cooled and cured. The product has high flexibility and excellent comfort, which is very suitable for mid-to-high-end products. Representative products include feeding bottles, nipples, medical catheters, etc.
4. vulcanization process
Vulcanization is another important step in the production of silicone rubber. Vulcanization can make the performance of silicone rubber products more stable, improve their strength, heat resistance and aging resistance. The silicone rubber vulcanization process is usually carried out in two stages: first-stage vulcanization (or shape vulcanization) and second-stage vulcanization (or post-vulcanization).
First-stage vulcanization: silicone rubber products are heated and shaped under pressure or atmospheric pressure. Molded vulcanization, direct steam vulcanization of vulcanization tanks, etc. belong to pressure vulcanization, and continuous vulcanization of hot air belongs to atmospheric vulcanization.
Two-stage vulcanization: high-temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber products in the oven to further stabilize their physical properties.
5. Other processes
In addition to the main processes mentioned above, the production of silicone rubber products may also involve other processes, such as foaming, gluing or welding.
Foaming: A foaming agent is added to the silicone rubber compound, and then heated and vulcanized under pressure to foam the rubber, and the silicone rubber sponge can be prepared.
Gluing or welding: For silicone products with complex shapes, gluing or welding of multiple parts may be required. This step often requires highly sophisticated equipment and processes to ensure that the different components are connected securely and sealed.
In summary, the production process of silicone rubber involves multiple steps and links, each of which requires strict control of conditions and operating parameters to ensure that the quality and performance of the final product meet the requirements.
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