What is HTV silicone?

HTV silicone stands for high-temperature vulcanising silicone rubber or solid silicone. It is usually produced on the basis of VMQ (vinyl-methyl-silicone) or FVMQ (fluoro-vinyl-methyl-silicone). In contrast to liquid silicone (LSR), HTV is present as a solid, kneadable mass, which in the Press-, Transfer- or Injection moulding process processed and then heated through vulcanised becomes.

 

Properties of HTV silicone

The properties of HTV silicone lie somewhere between the soft RTV silicones and the flowable LSR-types. It combines the resilience of classic rubber with the durability of silicone:

  • Mechanical strength: Higher than with LSR and RTV. Due to the higher filler content (mostly silica), HTV has greater tear resistance, abrasion resistance and dimensional stability
  • Elasticity in the temperature range from -50 °C to +200 °C
  • Temperature resistance: Comparable with LSR, significantly better than RTV. HTV withstands long-term temperature changes without losing hardness or structure
  • Chemical resistance: Excellent against Oils, greases, fuels and many solvents, especially in the case of FVMQ-types
  • Ageing- and UV resistance: Identically high as with LSR; no embrittlement or cracking even after years outdoors
  • Electrical properties: Good insulation values, but slightly weaker than LSR, which offers advantages for thin-walled parts due to its purity
  • Surface quality: HTV produces a slightly rougher, more matt surface than LSR, which enables very smooth and transparent parts
  • Purity: HTV contains low residues of peroxides or additives, depending on the type of cross-linking

 

HTV is mechanically stronger and more robust, LSR more precise and cleaner, RTV easier to process, but less resilient.

 

Application of HTV silicone

  • Automotive industry: HTV silicone is used for Seals, hoses, plugs and Vibration dampers used
  • Electronics: Due to its electrical insulation properties, HTV is suitable for high-voltage insulators, cable sheathing and connectors
  • Medical technology: HTV is used for tubes in medical components, Seals or membranes. It is biocompatible, odourless and can be sterilised without losing its elasticity
  • Mechanical and plant engineering: HTV is recognised as a Gasket- and moulding material used in machines that are exposed to temperature, pressure or chemicals
  • Composite parts: HTV can be easily combined with appropriately surface-treated metal or plastic inserts