Silicone products are used in a broad spectrum of industries. As an elastomer, silicone possesses a number of desirable properties that make it ideal for both industrial and commercial applications. Silicone, along with other synthetic rubbers, is engineered to have these unique qualities, and therefore, corresponding applications are kept in mind by silicone manufacturers. Medical, scientific and manufacturing trades are just some examples of firms that utilize this particular synthetic elastomer. Noting this, each unique application possesses its own demands, some which are stricter or more specialized than others. The cost of silicone fabrication is another factor that must be considered, as the applications that are specific to each industry may wish to use either more cost-efficient or more precise methods of cutting.

Fortunately, when it comes to silicone fabrication, there are options available for both large and small consumers. Things such as cost, precision, and turn-around time will need to be considered when selecting a cutting method for your particular project. Silicone products can be cut in four different ways, from flat sheet rubber stock, depending upon an application’s technical and budgetary requirements.

1. Cutting by Hand: Hand cutting is the most fundamental fabrication method and is self-explanatory. After receiving a drawing and dimensions, a silicone manufacturer outlines the appropriate shape onto a sheet of silicone. Using a hand-operated slitting machine, the craftsman can fabricate the product. Hand cutting is suitable for applications with less critical tolerances (1/16-inch to 1/4inch tolerances). It is also ideal for larger or thicker materials that cannot be accommodated by other methods. Hand cutting is a cheaper cutting method and also has a quick turnaround time.
2. Die Cutting: Die cutting is another inexpensive silicone fabrication technique. The process can be equated to using a cookie cutter. A piece of metal is shaped according to the provided drawing and is pressed onto the rubber sheet. Just as with hand cutting, the die cutting method is suitable for less tolerance-critical applications since there is commonly a tolerance of 1/16 inches. Die cutting is usually limited to thinner and smaller products, such as gaskets.
3. Water Jet Cutting: For applications with a stricter tolerance, water jet cutting is a route to consider. In this method, the design of the product is inputted into a computer. The information is then sent to a heavy-duty machine that blasts a high-pressured stream of water through a rubber sheet at 1,000 to 94,000 psi, depending on the grade of equipment. An abrasive substance is sometimes added to the stream of water to ensure an even cleaner cut. Considering the robust equipment and the energy needed to power it, water jet cutting comes at a premium cost. However, this method ensures the tightest tolerances.
4. Laser Cutting: Alongside water jet cutting, a silicone manufacturer can employ laser cutting to fabricate just about any product. After the product design is inputted into a computer, a laser is computer-guided over the material to shape the component. Tolerances are kept very tight with this technique, like water jet cutting; however, it must be noted that the laser may create a heat affected area on the material which may or may not compromise the integrity of the product.

These same cutting methods can be applied to other types of elastomers as well. Whether you are seeking silicon products, or a product obtained from some other type of material, the methods of silicone fabrication will be certain to get the job done. It’s important to speak with your selected silicone manufacturer or other provider of elastomer product before selecting the method of cutting that is best for your needs. Your time and your money are important, as well as the success of your projects, so make sure that you obtain all necessary information before going forth. Every dollar and every inch will certainly make a difference!