A liquid silicone rubber grade that combines improved oil and fuel resistance, self-lubricating performance, and excellent processing properties can be liquid injection moulded.
With the commercial launch of FSL 7586/40 TP3854, GE Advanced Materials is introducing a new liquid silicone rubber (LSR) grade that combines improved oil and fuel resistance, self-lubricating performance, and excellent processing properties. This fast-curing silicone elastomer may be used for gasketing and sealing applications, such as those found in under-the-hood automotive applications. GE's innovative formulation of its new FSL 7586/40 TP3854 grade incorporates tailored fluorine structures that enable it to help deliver processing performance similar to non-fluorinated LSRs, but with greatly enhanced chemical resistance.
The properties of this material may make it suitable for use in applications that require occasional contact with automotive fuels or long-term contact with most automotive oils like connector gaskets and parts in air-intake systems.
'FSL 7586/40 TP3854 LSR offers low compression set and low swelling, helping it to provide excellent long-term sealing,' said Heinz Mueller, industry manager Automotive Elastomers, GE Advanced Materials.
'Also, its much lower volume swell makes this liquid silicone rubber product a versatile alternative to conventional, non-fluorinated grades.' This new grade can be used in liquid injection-molding processes.
The material enables high-performance elastomeric parts with self-lubricating properties.
Its ability to self-lubricate derives from a fluid that exudes from the cured rubber over an extended period, ranging from a few hours to one day.
The practical effect is that FSL 7586/40 TP3854 offers reduced insertion forces for complicated parts.
Available as a translucent two-component silicone rubber, FSL 7586/40 TP3854 also offers colorability for color-coded parts.
Its high temperature stability translates into durable physical properties, potentially allowing extended performance in seals and gaskets.
In addition, this new grade offers low temperature flexibility - down to -50 deg C - ensuring excellent sealing, even at the lower limit of automotive requirements.
* About GE Advanced Materials - GE Advanced Materials is a world leader in providing high-technology material solutions.
Headquartered in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, USA, its businesses include plastics, silicones, quartz, automotive, specialty film and sheet, polymershapes, and sealants and adhesives.