10 Misconceptions About Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR)

Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) has become an increasingly popular material in a variety of industries, from medical devices and automotive to consumer goods and electronics. However, despite its growing use and versatility, there are still several misconceptions surrounding this advanced material. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 myths about LSR and debunk them with expert insights to give you a clearer understanding of its true potential.

1. LSR Is Only Suitable for Simple Parts

One of the most common misconceptions is that LSR is only appropriate for making basic, uncomplicated components. In reality, LSR’s ability to be molded into highly complex shapes and intricate details is one of its key strengths. With its low viscosity, LSR can flow into fine cavities, enabling the production of parts with complex geometries that would be challenging or impossible with other materials.

2. Liquid Silicone Rubber Isn’t Durable

Some people assume that because LSR is soft and flexible, it can’t be as durable as other materials. However, LSR is known for its impressive resilience and longevity. It’s resistant to extreme temperatures, UV exposure, and chemicals, making it ideal for harsh environments, such as in automotive parts, medical devices, and outdoor applications.

3. LSR Is Difficult to Process

While LSR may seem more complicated to work with compared to solid silicone, it’s actually known for its ease of processing. The material is easy to mold using injection molding techniques, which allows for high-volume production of precise and consistent parts. The ability to combine automated processes with LSR means that large quantities of parts can be produced with minimal waste and reduced costs.

4. LSR Is Only Used in Medical Devices

Although LSR is a popular choice in the medical industry due to its biocompatibility and non-toxicity, its applications extend far beyond this sector. From consumer goods like baby products and kitchenware to electronics, automotive, and even wearable technology, LSR is a highly versatile material suitable for a broad range of industries.

5. LSR Doesn’t Bond Well with Other Materials

Many people believe that LSR has poor bonding properties when used with other materials. In fact, LSR can bond effectively with a variety of substrates, including metals, plastics, and glass, through the use of appropriate surface treatments. This ability to create strong, durable bonds opens up a wide range of design possibilities, especially in multi-material parts.

6. LSR Is Not Eco-Friendly

Given the growing emphasis on sustainability, it’s important to address the misconception that LSR is harmful to the environment. Liquid Silicone Rubber is, in fact, highly recyclable, and its manufacturing process produces less waste compared to other materials. Additionally, LSR is non-toxic and does not release harmful chemicals, making it a safer and more eco-friendly choice for many applications.

7. LSR Is Too Expensive

While LSR can be more expensive than some other materials on a per-pound basis, its long-term cost-effectiveness should not be overlooked. Thanks to its durability, resistance to wear and tear, and ability to be processed in high volumes with minimal waste, LSR often proves to be a cost-effective solution in the long run. Moreover, its reduced need for maintenance and replacements can offset initial material costs.

8. LSR Has Limited Color Options

Liquid Silicone Rubber is highly customizable, and this includes a wide range of color options. Through the use of specialized pigments, LSR can be produced in almost any color, offering manufacturers the ability to create products that align with brand aesthetics or function. This flexibility makes it ideal for a variety of consumer products, from medical devices to fashion accessories.

9. LSR Is Hard to Clean and Maintain

Another myth is that LSR parts are difficult to clean or maintain. On the contrary, LSR is easy to clean due to its smooth, non-porous surface, which resists bacteria and dirt buildup. Its inherent resistance to moisture and chemicals also makes it easier to maintain in applications that require frequent cleaning, such as kitchenware or medical equipment.

10. LSR Is Only Used in Molded Products

While LSR is indeed widely used for injection molding, it is not limited to this form of manufacturing. LSR can also be used in extrusion, calendaring, and other methods to create products with diverse shapes and functions. This adaptability makes LSR an excellent choice for both simple and complex applications that require unique material properties.

Bonus Misconception: Silicone Rubbers Cause Disease

A common concern arises from the fact that many silicone rubber applications are in contact with the human body or food. Some worry that the material can cause diseases due to the release of molecules during use. However, these molecules are too large to penetrate tissues. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strictly regulates materials in contact with humans, and LSR has been approved for use in consumables such as food and beverages. Additionally, food-safe silicone is widely used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, further demonstrating its safety.

Choose Wolife for LSR Components

LSR is well-suited for a wide range of applications and aligns seamlessly with various materials and processes. It also boasts one of the most efficient tooling processes for high-volume production, thanks to its quick cycle times. Silicone rubber offers many optimization loops, ensuring maximum efficiency for the parts your operations require.

Wolife brings over 10+ years of expertise in working with LSRs, advanced automation, and technology. Our team of LSR and LIM (Liquid Injection Molding) experts is well-equipped with extensive technical capabilities. We are committed to delivering high-quality, consistent LSR components with simple to complex designs across a wide range of industries. As an ISO 9001, BSCI, FDA Aduit, GSV and FSC certified manufacturer, we ensure your products meet the highest quality standards throughout the production process. Contact us today to learn how Wolife can help optimize your products with LSR materials.