Available Hardness, Viscosity and Cure Options
Available Hardness, Viscosity and Cure Options
Shore A Hardness
Silicone hardness affects mold flexibility, support and demolding performance.
A softer silicone can be useful when:
- The mold contains deep undercuts
- Easy demolding is important
- The model has complicated geometry
- Flexibility is a priority
A harder silicone can be useful when:
- The mold requires more support
- The model is relatively simple
- Dimensional stability during handling is important
- The mold needs greater structural rigidity
The ideal Shore hardness depends on the model, mold size, geometry and casting process.
Not sure which hardness to choose? Contact our technical team with your application details.
Viscosity
Viscosity affects how easily the liquid silicone flows around a model and how easily trapped air can escape.
Low-viscosity silicone may be preferred for:
- Fine details
- Intricate patterns
- Pouring applications
- Complex geometries
Higher-viscosity formulations may be considered for:
- Vertical surfaces
- Brush-on applications
- Specialized mold-making processes
- Applications where greater body is required
SIMOST can help customers select an appropriate viscosity according to their manufacturing process.
Working Time and Cure Time
Working time determines how long the mixed silicone remains workable before it begins to cure.
Cure time determines how long the material needs to develop its final cured properties under specified conditions.
The appropriate balance depends on:
- Mold size
- Production speed
- Mixing method
- Degassing process
- Ambient temperature
- Manufacturing process