2022

ArticlesFeaturedSilicone & Medical

Surface modification of aluminum trihydroxide to enhance arc and acid resistance of silicone compounds

High temperature vulcanization (HTV) silicone rubber is the polymer of choice with regard to housing material for high voltage applications. The requirements are challenging due to harsh environmental conditions like UV irradiation, humidity, industrial pollution, etc. The tracking and erosion performance of the compound needs to be evaluated to ensure the long term performance of the high voltage insulator. Another key aspect to increase the durability of the insulator is the resistance against nitric acid, as this is formed by a combination of unavoidable corona discharges in overhead power lines and atmospheric humidity.

Read More
ArticlesFeaturedSilicone & Medical

Evaluation of crosslinking coagents in HCR silicone

CR silicone՚s unique properties allow it to be used in many niche ways. These unique properties include temperature stability, weatherability, compatibility and processing ease. Silicone has a very low starting durometer in its raw state. High levels of reinforcing filler are typically needed to obtain high durometer specifications. Additionally, physical properties of silicone are generally lower than most other elastomers. This can often cause difficulties in meeting tear, modulus, compression set or dynamic property application requirements. Application segments for silicone include automotive, wire and cable, architectural,
aerospace, consumer products and medical devices.

Read More
ArticlesFeatured

Design and process parameter definitions

ond interview (published in the April 2022 issue of Rubber World) detailed the development and characterization of polymers for polymeric development through computer modeling. This third interview discusses parameters needed to guide product development. Future interviews will discuss polymer product design, analysis and optimization using finite element analysis, and product manufacturing establishment, simulation and fine tuning in molding, extrusion and thermoforming of thermoplastics and thermosets, rubber and plastics

Read More
ArticlesExtrusionFeatured

Optimizing cost savings in EPDM extrusion compounds

EPDM has not been immune to significant price increases, material shortages and allocations. As extrusion expenses are dominated by material cost and throughput, price and efficiency are of the essence. One of the most common ways to improve cost efficiencies in extrusion compounds is to lower material cost by extending the polymer as much as possible using high amounts of filler, for which EPDM is perfectly suited. The other option to decrease costs is to run more product in the same amount of time, requiring a material with higher extrusion rates.

Read More