As a leading silicone product manufacturer, we offer a comprehensive range of silicone materials with varying hardness levels to suit diverse applications across multiple industries. This guide will help you understand the silicone hardness scale, the characteristics of different hardness levels, and how to choose the right material for your specific needs. We will also discuss the benefits of working with an experienced silicone product manufacturer and how to get in touch with us for customized solutions.
Silicone materials are typically measured using the Shore A hardness scale, which ranges from 10° to 80° Shore A. Each increment of 5° Shore A indicates a change in hardness, providing a wide array of options for various applications. As a silicone product manufacturer, we offer materials across the entire Shore A hardness scale to cater to different requirements.
The softest silicone material available at 10° Shore A is extremely pliable, making it suitable for certain applications. However, due to its softness, the extrusion process may cause a minor “snakeskin” effect on the material’s surface. While this does not affect the product’s quality, it may impact its appearance; therefore, if aesthetics are a concern, we recommend opting for a slightly harder material.
With a hardness comparable to a rubber band, 20° Shore A silicone material offers a smoother extrusion process and is an excellent option for softer, visible applications. Though it is not our most popular compound, it may be the right choice for specific requirements.
Silicone materials with a hardness of 40° Shore A exhibit flexibility similar to a pencil eraser. This versatile material is suitable for a wide range of seals and applications across various industries.
As a silicone product manufacturer, the most commonly requested material is 60° Shore A silicone. This material is ideal for tubes, profiles, gaskets, and our inflatable seals, as it expands more evenly than softer materials. Softer materials tend to create “bulbs” in the profiles during inflation, while harder materials may not be as malleable.
The 70° Shore A silicone material exhibits hardness similar to tire treads. While still malleable, it is an excellent choice for applications requiring a harder sealant. Its durability and abrasion resistance make it suitable for o-rings and other sealing applications in extreme conditions.
The hardest silicone material we offer is 80° Shore A, which has a hardness comparable to an average shoe heel. This rigid material is an ideal replacement for plastic components in certain applications, providing a robust yet more flexible alternative.
Selecting the appropriate silicone hardness for your specific application can be a challenge. To assist you in making the right decision, we offer sample kits showcasing the various Shore A hardness levels available. Silicone rubber is a highly versatile polymer, offering a resilient and cost-effective solution for numerous applications across a wide range of industries.
For engineering applications, silicone materials can be used to create simple edging strips, offering a durable and flexible solution for various components.
In the automotive industry, silicone materials are often used to produce complex hatch profiles and other sealing components, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the vehicles.
Silicone materials are also widely used in the pharmaceutical, marine, nuclear, aeronautics, and packaging industries for producing inflatable seals and other custom components that require high-performance materials.
As a silicone product manufacturer, we understand the importance of efficient prototyping and production processes. Our tooling costs for new prototype extrusions are affordable, and we can easily scale up to larger production orders. In many cases, we can turn around orders within a matter of days, ensuring that you receive your custom silicone components as quickly as possible.
At our silicone product manufacturing facility, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, customized solutions for your unique requirements. Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist you in selecting the right material, hardness, and design for your specific application. To request samples, discuss your project, or learn more about our silicone materials and services, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are eager to work with you to develop the ideal silicone components for your needs.
DX provides you with all-around silicone product customization services for valued customers like you.
