Here at Viking extrusions, a common question that we get asked is ‘what temperatures can silicone withstand?’ Well, there is not exactly a definitive answer as they have so many unique and general purposes.
Silicone rubber can withstand extreme temperatures, whereas other polymers such as polyurethane, nitrile and polyacrylate can not. Being able to withstand both low temperatures and high temperatures is truly what helps it to stand out amongst other rubbers.
The exact melting temperature of silicone will vary depending on the type (grade) of silicone you use. However, the melting point generally ranges from 1000°F (537.778°C) and 2577.2°F (1414°C). At the same time, you can use silicone for cryogenic applications.
How hot can silicone get before it melts?
Due to its impressively wide temperature range, silicon does not melt as a result of temperature alone.
Most plastics begin to melt when met with high temperatures. Silicone, however, exhibits unique behaviour when in high-temperature environments. Silicone does not have a melting point but instead remains solid until combustion occurs. At extreme temperatures (above 200 C) silicone slowly begins to lose its mechanical properties, becoming harder and more brittle.
This process is further accelerated when met with even higher temperatures of over 300 C. While there is no set temperature for high-temperature silicone auto ignition, it generally occurs at around 450 C.
What are the other advantages of silicone rubber?
Silicone is used across a huge variety of different industries and products. Silicone products can are used in everyday life on a daily basis in everything from the caulk sealants around your bathtubs to the gaskets and sealants around your home appliances.
Silicone is so common due to its many unique properties such as:
- Extreme durability – it’s flame-retardant and excellent resistance to heat help silicone to be impressively durable.
- Low thermal conductivity
- Elastomer – This means that they can stretch and return to their original form.
- Repels water – this is brilliant for making watertight seals and gaskets.
Low Melting Temperature Metal Casting in Silicone and 3D printed Molds
FAQ
What temperature can silicone withstand?
Does 100% silicone melt?
Does silicone melt in hot water?
At what temperature does caulking melt?
What temperature can a silicone melt at?
Special grades are available to further increase silicones already naturally high resistance to heat such as our silicone grade THT which can be used intermittently at temperatures up to 300°C. Silicones melting point auto ignition temperature is approximately 450°C, service at such a high temperature is not recommended.
What is the melting point of silicone?
The melting point of silicone can vary widely depending on its grade and composition. Low-grade silicone typically melts at temperatures below 200°C, while high-quality silicone can withstand temperatures exceeding 300°C. The melting point of silicone is essential in determining its thermal stability, chemical resistance, and durability.
Does silicone burn or melt at high temperature?
Silicone burns and melts but it doesn’t burn or melt at normal high temperature, it requires a high temperature. This is because silicon, which is the main element of silicone, does not let silicone burn or melt easily. The reasons why silicone doesn’t melt or burn easily is given below:
Does silicone melt easily?
Unlike plastic that can easily melt, Silicone does not easily melt. At a high temperature of about 400 – 500 degrees Celcius, Silicone hardly looses its physical properties. Silicone is a metalloid which means it shows properties of metals and non-metals both and is denoted by Si symbol.