Description: A group of elastomers, made from silicon, oxygen, hydrogen and carbon, Silicones are renowned for their retention of flexibility and low compression set characteristics, within one of the widest working temperature ranges for elastomers.

Temperature Range: Standard Compound: 75 ^oF to +450 ^oF. (Dry Heat Only)

Hardness (Shore A): 25 to 80.

Features: Especially resistant to high, dry heat, in primarily static applications, special Silicone compounds have been manufactured to resist up to 600 ^oF heat for short time durations. Maximum elevated temperature for continuous service, however, remains at 450 ^oF. At the opposite end of the temperature scale, the low limit for Silicone flexibility is 75 ^oF.

In addition to their resistance to degradation at temperature extremes, Silicones are noted for their high resistance to the aging effects of both sunlight and ozone attack.

Silicones are also fungus resistant, odorless, taste less and nontoxic.

Limitations: Poor tensile and tear strength, low, abrasion resistance and high friction characteristics preclude Silicones from effective sealing use in most dynamic situations.

Many Silicone compounds also exhibit higher than normal mold shrinkage, resulting in undersized, molded finished parts (from standard molds).

Unless specially compounded, Silicones swell considerably in aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbon fuels. They should also be considered NON resistant to petroleum oils, although they can be used in high aniline point oils.

Silicones are highly permeable to gases, and are generally not recommended for exposure to ketones (MEK; acetone), concentrated acids, or steam.