A Complete Guide to Inflatable Grade Silicone Rubber
What is Inflatable Grade Silicone Rubber?
Inflatable grade silicone rubber is a highly specialised grade of silicone designed for the manufacturer of inflatable seals in applications requiring inflation and deflation. Its unique formulation allows it to expand and contract repeatedly without losing its structural integrity or elasticity. This material is ideal for dynamic sealing solutions in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare and food processing.
Composed of silicon-oxygen polymer chains, inflatable grade silicone rubber is inherently resistant to extreme temperatures, chemicals and environmental factors such as UV radiation and ozone. It is also highly durable and capable of withstanding repeated mechanical stresses. This makes it the material of choice for applications that demand reliability and precision. Its versatility extends to customisation in terms of shape, size and hardness to suit specific application requirements.
Appearance
Initially translucent but can be pigmented to any RAL colour.
Tear Strength
Resistance to tearing around 41.8N/mm.
Modulus
Elastic
modulus of 1.96N/mm2 at 100%.
Hardness
Available
with a 59ᵒ Shore A hardness.
Tensile Strength
Tensile
strength of 10.1N/mm2.
Elongation at Break
Flexibility
of 584% without breaking.
Temperature Range
Operates
effectively between -10°C and 180°C
Compression Set
Compression
set of 23% after 22 hours at 180°C.
Learn how inflatable grade silicone is formulated, how it differs from general purpose silicone and common applications within the industry.
How is Inflatable Grade Silicone Rubber Made?
The production process of inflatable grade silicone rubber begins with the synthesis of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a silicon-based polymer. This base material is combined with reinforcing fillers such as silica to improve its mechanical properties and stability. Additives are carefully chosen to enhance flexibility and resilience to ensure the material can handle the inflation and deflation cycles without degradation.
Inflatable grade silicone rubber is then cured to achieve a uniform cross-linked structure. This curing process solidifies the material, providing it with the necessary elasticity, strength and durability. The resulting elastomer is non-toxic, chemically inert and suitable for applications that require direct contact with sensitive materials, such as food or pharmaceuticals.
To ensure the material meets specific performance standards, it undergoes rigorous testing for air retention, mechanical strength and environmental resistance. Depending on the required application, we may be able to customise the formulation with additional features, such as enhanced resistance to abrasion or higher temperature tolerances, to meet unique customer needs.
Advantages of Inflatable Grade Silicone Rubber
Inflatable grade silicone offers several advantages that make it indispensable for dynamic sealing applications. Its ability to expand and contract without losing elasticity ensures a reliable seal in applications requiring repeated inflation cycles. This durability reduces maintenance needs and extends the lifespan of equipment, providing cost-effective solutions for manufacturers.
The material’s resistance to extreme temperatures, typically ranging from -10°C to 180°C, allows it to perform in both hot and cold environments without compromising its properties. It is also highly resistant to chemicals, UV radiation and ozone. This makes it suitable for use in harsh industrial or outdoor conditions.
Inflatable grade silicone rubber is also non-toxic and biocompatible which meets regulatory requirements for food-grade and medical-grade applications. Its ability to maintain an airtight seal, coupled with its flexibility and precision, ensures it can adapt to complex geometries and demanding environments.
Common Applications and Uses
Inflatable grade silicone versatility and reliability make it a dependable material across various industries. Below are three key application areas that use inflatable seals;
Industries
Food Processing
In the food processing sector, silicone inflatable seals are widely used in food-grade applications, such as sealing systems for ovens, mixers and packaging machinery. These seals ensure airtight conditions during processing and prevent contamination. The materials resistance to high temperatures and cleaning chemicals ensures compliance with hygiene standards, while its non-toxic properties make it ideal for direct contact with food products. Its ability to conform to irregular surfaces further enhances its utility in food production environments.
Medical, Pharmaceutical & Healthcare
In the healthcare industry, inflatable grade silicone rubber is commonly used in medical devices requiring precision and reliability. Examples include surgical cushions, inflatable seals for diagnostic equipment and patient positioning systems. Its biocompatibility ensures safety for direct contact with human tissues, while its flexibility and durability allow it to withstand repeated sterilisation cycles. The materials ability to create airtight seals ensures consistent performance in sensitive medical environments.
Industrial
In industrial manufacturing, inflatable grade silicone rubber is used in equipment requiring dynamic sealing solutions. Applications include clamping systems, pressure seals for containment chambers and inflatable seals for heavy machinery. The materials resistance to abrasion, chemicals and temperature variations ensures reliable performance in harsh industrial conditions. Its adaptability to complex geometries and ability to maintain air retention make it indispensable for advanced manufacturing processes.
Material Compound Datasheets
Inflatable grade silicone can only be extruded in one hardness. The properties and characteristics of this hardness may determine whether this compound is suitable for your application. Please see the downloadable PDF material compound datasheets for this information.
Looking for a different grade of Silicone?
As well as inflatable grade Silicone, we are also able to manufacture rubber sealing products in a selection of other specialised Silicone compounds. This includes general purpose silicone, metal detectable silicone, high temperature silicone and flame retardant silicone.
Contact Us
With over 50 years' experience in the rubber sealing industry, our team has extensive experience in finding sealing solutions for our customers. Contact our experts via phone or email for sealing advice or bespoke quotations.
Email:
sales@sealsplusdirect.co.uk
Telephone:
01425 617722