Silicone Rubber
Silicone rubber is an elastic material whose main backbone is made of siloxane bonds, and it is a synthetic rubber molded into cord ends and tape ends.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
Silicone rubber is a type of flexible synthetic rubber. In apparel and bag accessory materials, it is molded and used for cord ends, tape ends, and decorative and protective parts around cords. Unlike metal rings and buckles, it is a material name and does not indicate a part shape.
It may also be written as “silicon rubber,” but “silicone” is used in material descriptions. Because hardness, color, surface feel, and molding method differ by product, it is important not to judge feel or strength from the material name alone.
Material and Molding Methods
Silicone rubber is an elastic material that does not rust like metal. However, in products that combine colorants, other resins, metal parts, and so on, there may be discoloration or deterioration originating from each component material.
Millable silicone is a term for the type that is molded by vulcanizing kneaded material. RTV silicone refers to the type that cures at room temperature. These are classifications related to molding and curing methods, and are not terms that indicate the shape of a finished part such as a cord end.
How to Check Sizes
The size of a tape end is checked not only by the outer dimensions, but also by the inner dimensions into which the tape is inserted and the corresponding tape width. If the tape width is larger than the inner dimensions, it will not pass through; if it is too small, it can cause wobbling or coming loose.
For cord parts, check the compatible cord diameter, the inner diameter of the opening, and the fixing method. Even with a flexible material, insertion may be difficult in specifications with thick tape or folded ends, so prototype confirmation is performed with the actual tape or cord.
- Actual dimensions of the tape or cord
- Inner dimensions of the part, hole diameter, and insertion depth
- Thickness due to folded ends or sewing
- Fixing specifications that prevent loosening under tension
Main Applications and How to Choose
Main applications include the ends of drawcords used in outerwear, sportswear, and bags, as well as protection and decoration of tape ends. Taking advantage of the soft feel, they are also used in positions that are likely to touch the body or the product.
When selecting, check not only the appearance, but also the tensile strength of the part itself and after installation. For applications subject to strong pulling, applications that suspend heavy objects, and applications that bear the load of attachment and detachment mechanisms, consider case by case whether silicone rubber parts alone can support the load.
Handling Precautions and Differences from Similar Materials
Because silicone rubber is non-metallic, it is a material that is not easily detected by standard needle detectors. For products that require needle detection management, confirm in advance not only the part itself, but also whether there is any metal contamination, process control, and the response of the inspection machine used.
Rubber is a general term for rubber-like materials and has a broader meaning than silicone rubber. Compared with chloroprene rubber and others, heat resistance, weather resistance, oil resistance, hardness, and adhesive properties may differ. The performance required for the application should be confirmed by the specifications and test results of each part, not by the material name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tape ends made of silicone rubber be selected by tape width alone?
In addition to tape width, check the tape thickness, whether the end is folded back, and the inner dimensions and insertion depth of the part. Even with the same width, ease of attachment and resistance to coming loose change depending on thickness and surface slipperiness, so confirm the combination with the actual item before mass production.
Is silicone rubber compatible with needle detectors?
Silicone rubber itself is non-metallic and is not a material expected to be detected by standard needle detectors. When needle detector compatibility is required, agree in advance with production management on the method for controlling metal contamination in parts, product specifications, and how to verify them with the inspection machine used.
What is the difference between millable silicone and RTV silicone?
Millable silicone refers to the type that is molded by vulcanizing kneaded material, while RTV silicone refers to the type that cures at room temperature. Both are categories of silicone-based materials, but the applications and performance of the finished product differ depending on the formulation, shape, and molding conditions.
