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#Advanced manufacturing

Silicone Overmolding

Silicone overmolding is a technique where a layer of silicone rubber is molded over a substrate to provide protection. The silicone can be molded into various shapes and thicknesses, and is commonly used to produce protective covers for electronic components.


There are three primary kinds of silicone overmolding: two-shot overmolding, insert overmolding, and multi-shot overmolding.


1. Two-shot overmolding is the most commonly used type. First, a rigid plastic substrate is molded, and then a soft silicone is molded onto or around the substrate.


2. Insert overmolding is similar to two-shot overmolding, but insert overmolding involves placing a pre-formed insert into the mold before injection molding. The insert can be made from any material, but is typically made from metal or plastic.


3. Multi-shot overmolding is a method of overmolding that involves the use of three or more different types of silicone.

silicone overmolding

Advantages of Silicone Overmolding

1

Improved Product Function

Silicone rubber overmolding can enhance the functionality of a product in various ways. Specifically, it can be employed to:

  1. Create a seal or gasket around the component.

  2. Improve a handle or knob's grip.

  3. Insulate electrical components, please.

  4. Protect yourself from noise and vibration.




2

Enhanced Aesthetics

Silicone overmolding can not only improve the product's functionality but also enhance its appearance. For instance, overmolding can be used to:

  1. Add color or texture to a product.

  2. Make a two-tone appearance.

  3. Make a seamless, slick finish.



3

Increased Durability

Silicone overmolding can also make a product more durable. This is because products that have been overmolded are less prone to the following issues:

  1. Chipping or cracking.

  2. Fading or color change.

  3. Deformation or warping.


How Does Silicone Overmolding Work?

Firstly, the substrate is introduced into the mold and subsequently solidifies, the substrate may be silicone or another material. 


It is then placed within the same mold, following which molten silicone rubber material is injected to overmold the substrate part. 


Upon cooling, it can combine securely and smoothly to the substrate. Generally, the combination process can be accomplished in a mere 30-60 seconds.

How Does Silicone Overmolding Work?

How To Design for
Silicone Overmolding

When you design for silicone overmolding, there are several factors that you need to take into account.


1. The parts that will be overmolded should have an even wall thickness to ensure that the layers bond correctly.


2. To achieve a seamless finish, it is imperative that the surfaces intended for overmolding are smooth and devoid of any defects.


3. The design needs to ensure enough space between the two components to be molded together so that the silicone doesn't leak through and cause an untidy appearance.


4. The silicone overmolding process must be meticulously planned and tested to guarantee adequate coverage and bonding between the layers.

Applications of
Silicone Overmolding

Simple analysis using Silicone Overmolding products for: 

  • Baby products, maternal and infant supplies, baby bottles, bottle cases. 

  • Kitchen ware, kitchen utensils and appliances and related auxiliary utensils.

  • Ornaments used in beauty products, daily necessities, such as silicone heart rate band, silicone bracket, silicone watch band, etc.

  • Conductive silicone, medical silicone, foam silicone, silicone mold-making, etc.

  • Silicone  pad, silicone plug and silicone sealing.

  • Photocopiers, keyboard, electronic dictionaries, remote controls, toys, silicone buttons.

  • Gasket, electronic accessories packaging materials, automotive electronic accessories. 

  • Aviation, cutting-edge technology, special materials and construction of military technology department.

Applications of Silicone Overmolding
#muiltiple shot molding #advanced injection molding

FAQs of Silicone Overmolding

What is Silicone Overmolding?

Silicone Overmolding is a technique where a layer of silicone rubber is molded over a substrate to provide protection.

How Does Silicone Overmolding Differ From Plastic Overmolding?

The main difference is the material used. Silicone overmolding utilizes silicone materials, which offer different properties compared to traditional plastics. Silicone has excellent heat resistance and flexibility, making it suitable for applications involving high temperatures or dynamic movements.

What Kind Of Surface Finishes Can Be Achieved With Silicone Overmolding?

Silicone overmolding can achieve a variety of surface finishes, including smooth finishes, textured finishes, and even soft-touch finishes. Surface treatments such as polishing, sandblasting, and laser etching can be applied during the overmolding process to achieve the desired appearance and texture.

Can Silicone Overmolding Be Used for Food-Grade Applications?

Yes, silicone overmolding is commonly used in food-grade applications due to its non-toxicity, flexibility, and resistance to food ingredients. It is used for manufacturing food storage containers, kitchen utensils, and baby products.

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