Silicone Parts

We can also CNC machine plastic tools, into which a variety of silicones can be poured.  The process is fast- usually only a few days from when you submit your CAD file until your first silicone part is ready to ship.  We do all the tool design work.  All you need to do is send your .stl file to quotes@protogenic.com and we'll take care of the rest.  

For a list of the silicones we stock click here: 

Most of the molds are machined from acrylic, though other materials may be used.  Single, multi-cavity, and family tools are available, based on quantity requirements.  One distinct advantage of machined tools compared to RTV molding is mold life is essentially unlimited.  This makes machined molding very useful for low-volume production projects. 

CNC Machining also allows us to create thinner features, with tighter tolerances than can be achieved with RTV molding.  Common applications for silicone parts include keypads, gaskets, seals, and bellows.  If you'd like to see some samples of any of our materials, or have a project you'd like to discuss, please let us know!

(4-cavity tool, mold size 9" x 9", part size approx. 2.5" x 3" x 1", .100" thick)

For longer-term, higher quantity projects involving silicone, our Connecticut facility specializes in both Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) molding and Liquid Injection Molding (LIM).  For more information about that, and to download a technical paper about these processes, please see our Liquid Silicone Rubber page.

(image of silicone keypads, cast in a machined mold.)

Which mold do I need?

If you don't live and breathe prototyping like we do, it's understandable it can get confusing which method is the best for your application.  So to help you decide, we've put together the following table, and the comparison between the two in your Shore A part application. 

The statements above are based on typical parts, and may not apply to all geometries.  Ask your Estimator for specific limitations regarding your design, and the best solution for your project.