Liquid silicone rubber injection molding is growing at double digit annual rates as the material finds more applications in healthcare, transportation, consumer and other markets, reports major supplier Shin-Etsu Silicones of America Inc., the Akron, Ohio-based subsidiary of Shin-Etsu Chemical Co. of Tokyo.

Shin-Etsu said its workhorse silicone KEG2000 is mixed in a 1:1 ratio to provide optimal physical and processing properties. It is designed especially for cold-runner systems in open- and closed nozzle configurations.

KE2014-KE2018 are engineered for automotive applications and deliver low compression set as molded, eliminating costly post-cure processes. Heat stability and oil resistance are high.

KE2004 provides soft feel, exceptional physical properties and processability. The series is well suited to infant care, healthcare and consumer goods, where tactile properties are combined with fewer defects and higher productivity.

Shin-Etsu’s KE2090 series is aimed at overmolding applications in healthcare, electrical, industrial and consumer end-uses. Overmolding can provide a soft feel, improved grip and impact protection for plastics and other substrates.

Tel. 513-232-8917, email ebishop@shinetsusilicones.com.