Compression Molding of Fluorosilicone Control Buttons with Light Pipes

At Elastomer Technologies we continually push the boundaries of technology to innovate new and unique methods for producing molded parts. For this project, we used our process ingenuity to create a dual-color control button with integrated light pipes.

This project involved compression molding two different colors of fluorosilicone to create a product that would simplify downstream assembly operations. Fluorosilicone offered the advantages of high and low temperature resistance, superior color stability, and resistance to fuels and solvents. Our challenge was to create a strong bond between the two materials while not allowing them to blend or blur into each other.

Our process engineers developed a two-stage compression molding methodology that was labor intensive, but with a low annual production volume, that worked to our advantage. We capitalized on the technical capabilities of our trained workforce to execute a highly detailed set of steps on our 25 ton vertical compression press. When completed, the part measured 2.0″ in length x 1.0″ in width x .400″ in height and exhibited an excellent distinction between the semi-transparent and custom-colored gray fluorosilicone. One-hundred percent inspection confirmed we upheld tolerances of ±.005″ and met the client’s high standard of quality.

This project was a win-win. The dual color molding made assembly operations more clear and straightforward for the client. Since we were the only vendor willing to tackle this project, they presented us with additional opportunities to quote and manufacture this as well as many other parts.

To learn more about this process and how it can benefit your operations, contact us today.