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Solid Silicone Rubber Rod

Updated: 2026-07-22

Overview

Solid silicone rubber rods are extruded profiles made from high-performance elastomers, primarily polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with reinforcing fillers. Unlike porous sponge rubber, these solid rods offer uniform density throughout their cross-section, making them ideal for precision sealing applications. First developed in the 1940s, silicone rubber's unique molecular structure gives it exceptional stability across extreme temperatures while maintaining flexibility. Modern manufacturing techniques allow for precise diameter control (±0.1mm tolerance) and custom formulations to meet specific industry requirements.

Physical and Chemical Properties

These rods typically exhibit Shore A hardness between 40-80, with tensile strength ranging from 8-12 MPa. Their elongation at break exceeds 400%, allowing significant deformation without permanent damage. The material retains elasticity even at -60°C and resists hardening or cracking up to 230°C. Chemically, silicone rubber rods demonstrate excellent resistance to oxidation, UV radiation, and ozone exposure. They are non-reactive with most acids, alkalis, and polar solvents, though swelling may occur in non-polar hydrocarbons like gasoline. The dielectric strength (15-20 kV/mm) makes them valuable for electrical insulation.

Main Applications

In industrial settings, solid silicone rods serve as compression seals in HVAC systems, autoclaves, and food processing equipment due to their FDA-compliance and steam resistance. The automotive industry uses them for engine gaskets and vibration dampeners where temperature fluctuations are extreme. Medical applications include sealing components for diagnostic equipment and implantable device housings, leveraging the material's biocompatibility (ISO 10993 certified grades available). Smaller diameters (2-5mm) are precision-cut into O-ring cord stock for on-site gasket fabrication.

Safety and Storage

While cured silicone rubber is chemically inert, uncured material may cause mild skin irritation during handling. Use nitrile gloves when cutting or machining rods to prevent particulate inhalation. Ensure adequate ventilation when laser marking or high-temperature processing. Storage life exceeds 5 years when kept in original packaging at <30°C. Avoid contact with sharp metal edges during transport to prevent surface nicks. For critical applications, perform compression set tests (ASTM D395) on aged samples to verify performance retention.

B2B Procurement Guide

Specify these key parameters when ordering: rod diameter (standard range 1mm-50mm), durometer hardness (typically 50A-70A for most applications), and color requirements (standard white/black/red). FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 or UL 94 HB certifications add 15-20% to base costs. For large-volume purchases (500+ meters), request material certificates with batch-specific physical property data. Lead times vary from 2 weeks for stock sizes to 6 weeks for custom formulations. Sample testing under actual operating conditions is strongly recommended before full procurement.

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