RTV-2 silicone, due to its exceptional performance and flexibility, has become the ideal choice for making silicone molds. However, when using this material, changes in temperature and humidity in the environment significantly impact its performance. By understanding these impacts, everyone can better use RTV-2 silicone to make exquisite silicone molds.
rtv2 silicone for mold making
The Impact of Temperature on RTV-2 Silicone
The curing speed of RTV-2 silicone is significantly affected by temperature. In high-temperature environments, the curing speed of silicone increases, meaning the working time is greatly reduced. Conversely, the curing process slows down in low-temperature environments, and the working time is correspondingly extended. It is particularly noteworthy that temperatures below 10°C (50°F) may prevent the silicone from curing properly. Even if curing occurs, the performance might not meet expectations.
Cooling Effect: Low temperatures extend the working time and increase the curing time for platinum-cured silicone, whereas the impact on tin-cured silicone is relatively minor. However, extremely low temperatures may prevent the silicone from curing.
Heating Effect: Increasing the ambient temperature shortens the working time and accelerates the curing speed of platinum-cured silicone, a principle that can be applied to speed up the curing of silicone. For tin-cured silicone, increasing the temperature is only effective up to 40°C/104°F, beyond which the curing will not continue to accelerate.
Temperature changes also affect the physical properties of RTV-2 silicone after curing; typically, high temperatures make the silicone softer and increase its elasticity, while at extremely low temperatures, the silicone becomes harder and its elasticity decreases.
The Impact of Humidity on RTV-2 Silicone
The curing process for tin-cured silicone requires moisture absorption from the air; thus, in high-humidity environments, the curing speed of this silicone type increases. Humidity generally does not affect the curing time of platinum-cured silicone.
Storage Recommendations
RTV-2 liquid silicone should be stored within the recommended temperature range of 15-25°C(60-77°F). Storing at high temperatures can accelerate the thickening of liquid silicone, shortening its shelf life. At extremely low temperatures, silicone materials may freeze and become very thick, but they return to normal use once back to room temperature.
Conclusion
Temperature and humidity are two important environmental factors that affect the performance of RTV-2 silicone. Controlling the environment's temperature and humidity through the use of air conditioning and dehumidifiers can effectively manage the production environment. Understanding and managing these environmental factors can significantly improve material selection and the manufacturing process.
