From RTV to precision LSR Silcone systems
SILICONE
Silicone covers an exceptionally broad range of formulations, from RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanising) sealants and encapsulants through to LSR (Liquid Silicone Rubber) systems used in precision and medical coating applications. Two-component silicone systems cure to form flexible, durable seals, coatings and mouldings across a multitude of applications.
Because RTV and LSR silicones behave quite differently in processing, the right 2KM machine, and the right conditioning options, depend on which type you're working with.
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Material Properties
RTV vs LSR
RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanising) silicones cure at ambient temperature once the two components are mixed, making them well suited to potting, encapsulation, sealing and mould-making. LSR (Liquid Silicone Rubber) is typically used for very different purposes, often in medical and technical coating applications, and may call for more controlled processing conditions.
Typical Viscosities
Low viscosity, under 5,000 mPas, through to very high viscosity, over 1,000,000 mPas - the widest documented range of any material 2KM processes.
Key Processing Notes
Mix ratios commonly range from 1:1 to 10:1.
May need on-board machine de-gassing.
May need a dynamic mixing head.
Mix ratios commonly range from 1:1 to as high as 10:1.
The two components can be very dissimilar in viscosity and ratio - a genuine processing challenge that is perfectly managed by 2KM technology.
2KM Machines for Silicone Processing
Supplier Compatibility
2KM systems are designed to work with materials from a wide range of manufacturers, giving customers flexibility rather than locking them into a single supplier ecosystem.
Rather than being tied to one brand, customers can confidently use approved silicone materials from multiple manufacturers across their operation.
Typical Applications
Silicone's flexibility and unique chemistry make it suited to a distinct set of applications.
Industries Using Silicone
1. Medical - production of soft, lifelike silicone prosthetics, and coating of medical fabrics for wound care and dressings. Industry Knowledge.docx confirms both RTV and LSR silicones as the most common materials in this sector.
2. Electronics - potting and encapsulation of components, where silicone's flexibility and thermal stability are valued alongside epoxy and polyurethane.
3. High Temp Casting - silicone is a great material for producing parts that are both flexible and able to withstand high temperatures.
Silicone - FAQs
What is 2-component silicone used for?
Two-component silicone is used for sealing, bonding, coating, potting, encapsulation, mould-making and casting, and is especially important in medical applications, from prosthetics parts to wound-care dressings.
What 2KM machines are best suited to processing silicone?
The PGM 200 and PGM 320 handle silicone from pressurised vessels up to 50,000 mPas, while the PGM 400 and PGM 420 are built for higher-viscosity RTV and LSR silicones dispensed directly from drums or pails.
Can the machines condition my silicone material to ensure it is optimally processed?
Yes - on-board de-gassing is available where a formulation needs it, and a dynamic mixing head can be specified where the two components differ significantly in viscosity, which is common with some silicone systems.
Which industries rely on silicone dispensing?
Medical is the standout industry for silicone, used for lifelike prosthetics and wound-care fabric coating, alongside electronics, where silicone's flexibility and enhanced mechanical properties suits component potting and encapsulation.
Does 2KM offer access to demonstration units to help validate a new material or process?
Yes - 2KM has a full test facility for process evaluation and proof of concept before purchase, plus lease and hire options for longer-term on-site testing before you commit.
Get In Touch
Discuss Your Silicone Application
Working with RTV or LSR silicone?
Call us today on +44 (0) 1527 834 720 or email us at sales@2km.co.uk
Or complete the form below and a member of our engineering team will be in touch to discuss your specific process requirements.
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With over 50 years of continuous research and development, we stay at the forefront of manufacturing innovation in metering and dispensing technology.
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Our machines are engineered to perform. Supported by exceptional after-sales service from our Bromsgrove facility, ensuring longterm, dependable operation.
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Our expertise spans extreme material behaviours and complex process requirements across wide range of industries - from wind energy to medical devices to subsea applications.
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Our committed team is at the heart of our success. We design, build, and commission every machine from our UK facility in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire.