PVC dip moulding and Silicone compression moulding
What is PVC dip moulding?
Plastisol vinyl is the material that can be used in the dip moulding process to produce a component. Dip moulding is a process that coats metal parts with polymers. At Essentra, we can mould Plastisol PVC to make a variety of components, such as our PVC Flexicaps. These are available in 5 colours: yellow is the high temperature version and standard versions are produced in white, blue, red and black.
Find out more about PVC material in our guide, What is PVC?
What is vinyl dip coating?
Vinyl dip coating is a method for applying a decorative or functional plastic vinyl coating to a variety of metal parts. For example, materials that are sharp or rough can be softened via the application of a vinyl dip coating. A protective vinyl coat can prevent corrosion of metal parts, or enhance a product’s appearance. Applications for vinyl dip coating include hand tools, medical devices and electrical equipment.
As well as dip coating, vinyl can also be used in the dip moulding process. Understand more about the process in our guide, What is dip moulding?
What is silicone compression moulding?
Silicone compression moulding is used at Essentra to produce some of our components such as caps, plugs , grommets and cable clips in rubber materials. It is a useful process to ensure precision and quality, so it is also used to produce prototypes.
The process starts by putting silicone rubber material into the cavity of each half of the mould. Once the mould is assembled, it is placed into a heated compression moulding press and cycled. Through this process, a part is formed.
What are silicones?
Silicones are polymers that are typically heat-resistant and rubber-like. Silicone rubber is an elastomer, meaning a rubber-like material, containing silicon, together with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Silicone rubbers are widely used in industry.
Learn more about this material in our guide, What is silicone rubber?
They are used in sealants, adhesives, lubricants, medicine and for thermal and electrical insulation. Silicone dip moulding and silicone dip coating processes are used to produce silicone components with properties suited to these applications.
Medical devices can be coated with silicone. The process produces a smooth and bio-compatible finish for medical applications. Learn more about the material standards in medical manufacturing.
Download free CADs and try before you buy
Download free CADs and request free samples, which are available for most of our solutions. It’s a great way to ensure you’ve chosen exactly what you need. If you’re not quite sure which product will work best, our experts are always happy to advise you.
Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast despatch. Request your free samples or download free CADs now.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 0345 528 0474.