Difference between liquid silicone rubber and rubber injection molding

Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) molding and rubber injection molding are both processes used for manufacturing rubber and silicone products, but they differ in several key aspects. Here are the main differences between the two:

1. Material State:
   • LSR Molding: Involves the use of liquid silicone rubber, which is a two-part platinum-cured silicone elastomer that is mixed and injected into the mold in liquid form.
   • Rubber Injection Molding: Utilizes solid rubber materials, typically in the form of pre-compounded pellets or strips, which are heated until they become molten before being injected into the mold.
2. Curing Process:
   • LSR Molding: The curing of liquid silicone rubber occurs at room temperature or with the application of heat, and it is catalyzed by the addition of a platinum-based catalyst.
   • Rubber Injection Molding: The curing of solid rubber involves the vulcanization process, where the rubber material is heated and chemically cross-linked to achieve its final elastic state.

   • 

     liquid silicone rubber injection molding process

3. Precision and Complexity:
   • LSR Molding: Known for its ability to produce intricate and detailed parts with high precision. It is often used for products requiring complex geometries or thin-walled sections.
   • Rubber Injection Molding: Suitable for producing parts with less intricate designs compared to LSR. It may be more commonly used for larger and less complex rubber components.
4. Cycle Time:
   • LSR Molding: Generally has shorter curing times, allowing for faster cycle times in the production process.
   • Rubber Injection Molding: The curing process for solid rubber materials can take longer, which may result in comparatively longer cycle times.
5. Material Characteristics:
   • LSR Molding: Liquid silicone rubber exhibits excellent flexibility, biocompatibility, and high thermal stability. It is often used in applications where these properties are crucial, such as in medical devices or baby products.
   • Rubber Injection Molding: Solid rubber materials offer a broad range of hardness, chemical resistance, and physical properties, making them suitable for various industrial applications.
6. Automation and Control:
   • LSR Molding: Generally involves more automated and controlled processes, contributing to consistent and high-quality production.
   • Rubber Injection Molding: May require more manual intervention and monitoring, especially in handling solid rubber materials.

In summary, while both LSR molding and rubber injection molding are techniques used for producing rubber and silicone products, the choice between them depends on factors such as the desired material properties, part complexity, and production efficiency.