Thermal Properties of Mosites #1453 Silicone
Silicone rubber has a linear expansion approximately 17 times greater than carbon steel at 350°F. At the same time, it is a good insulator making it necessary to allow extended heat up times for composite molding. Most users of silicone vacuum blankets monitor both tool surface temperature and composite article temperature using thermocouple wire.
Figures were obtained on molded ASTM sheet samples heated from 72°F to 350°F.
- Linear expansion ………… 1.67 X 10-4 in / in / °F
- Volumetric expansion……….. 5 X 10-4 in / in / °F
- Thermal conductivity…….. 1.7 BTU in / hr / ft2 / °F
