Built to endure: How silicone materials support long term performance in energy, electrical and industrial rubber components
by Nicolas Imlinger, Wacker Chemical
Failures in electrical and industrial rubber components rarely trace back to one condition. Heat affects a cable jacket, but so do flexing, aging, flame performance requirements and the need to maintain dielectric properties after processing. Moisture may challenge a connector seal, while compression and temperature cycling determine whether it protects the assembly. A conductive gasket faces a similar test. Initial conductivity gives the design team a starting point; although the part also has to recover after compression and retain the mechanical properties needed in the enclosure.
That challenge follows rubber and polymer manufacturers into energy infrastructure, electrical systems and industrial equipment.