Silicone Rubber Extrusions
Silicone rubber extrusion is a manufacturing process used to produce continuous lengths of tubing, cord, seals and profiles with a consistent cross-sectional shape. It combines precision tooling with carefully controlled mixing, extrusion and curing processes. The result is a flexible silicone component designed to perform reliably in industrial, regulated and performance-critical applications.
Advanced Materials has expanded its silicone rubber extrusion manufacturing capability with the acquisition of a new production unit in Littlehampton, West Sussex. The investment increases the company’s total extrusion capacity by 50% within four years and forms part of a structured, long-term UK manufacturing growth strategy.
Silicone rubber yellowing is a concern for many buyers and engineers specifying extrusions. However, while it may look like a sign of material degradation, in most cases it is only an optical effect and not a performance issue. With the right manufacturing controls and expert advice, yellowing silicone can be minimised or avoided. This article explains what causes it, why it matters and how suppliers like Advanced Materials help customers prevent it.
If yellowing is an issue in your current supply chain, contact Advanced Materials to discuss suitable non-yellowing silicone solutions.
Silicone rubber is used for seals, gaskets and extrusions because it remains flexible in both hot and cold conditions. But in high-temperature applications, the critical question is not just can it cope today but how long will it last over prolonged use? Our test data shows that a general-purpose grade can harden by more than 15 Shore A points after just 28 days at 200°C, while a high-temperature grade under the same conditions remains almost unchanged. This process is known as thermal ageing of silicone rubber and it’s the hidden factor that determines service life in high-temperature applications.
For purchasing managers, design engineers and production teams, this is a practical concern. Premature hardening leads to seals that leak, gaskets that crack and unplanned downtime in general. This article explains what thermal ageing is, how it affects silicone rubber and how to specify the right grade for longer performance.
Food grade silicone is a type of silicone rubber specifically developed for direct contact with food and drink. It meets strict safety criteria to ensure it does not release harmful substances, even when exposed to heat, cold or repeated use. Because of its stability and resistance to chemicals, it is widely used in bakeware, kitchen tools, food processing seals and transfer tubing.
This blog explains what food grade silicone is made of, how it differs from commercial grades, what certifications to look for and how to identify compliant material. It also covers the advantages of using food grade silicone in both domestic and commercial settings, along with essential maintenance advice.
In the world of silicone rubber manufacturing, understanding the importance of the post-curing process is crucial for achieving the desired performance characteristics in final products. This blog will explain the process, why it is necessary and the significance of fully post cured parts in specific applications.
By examining these aspects, manufacturers and stakeholders can make informed decisions that optimise production efficiency while maintaining the quality and reliability required for use across different industries.
Advanced Materials is excited to announce our recent Made in Britain Trademark accreditation and associated membership of the Made in Britain organisation. With growing recognition of the benefits of reshoring manufacturing to the UK, we outline what this accreditation means for us as a UK-based manufacturer and the positive impact it will have on our valued existing and prospective customers.
As a Purchasing Manager, Product Designer or Product Engineer, you understand the pivotal role that identifying the optimal shore hardness of silicone rubber plays in the product development process. Drawing upon our expertise in silicone rubber extrusions and a multitude of previous applications, we can help you determine the appropriate shore hardness for your application.
Through this blog, we bring you real world insights and address all of your shore hardness related questions, including:
The new machinery enables customers to improve functionality, quality and traceability of their silicone rubber extrusions.
If you’re a Purchasing Manager whose role it is to procure silicone rubber extrusions either for resale, or on behalf of your company, then building a reliable and robust relationship with your supplier will be paramount. A strong supply partner will give you the reassurance that the silicone rubber profiles you are purchasing are right for your requirements. Read more
