Ever wonder what silicone is and why it lends itself so well to so many applications? Got other pressing questions about silicone? In today’s blog, we address some popular questions. Read on.

What Is Silicone?

It’s a synthetic (man-made) plastic that has found countless uses because of its strength, flexibility, and reliability, all due to its molecular composition. As a polymer, silicone consists of large molecules made up of repeating units, creating a specific pattern. As a synthetic plastic, it’s bendable yet strong, and highly durable.

Which Household Products Contain Silicone?

You’ll find silicone in many areas of your home, in such everyday items as soup ladles and nonstick bakeware. Do you wear contact lenses? They are made of silicone. Bandages often contain this material, too. The personal care products you use, from shaving cream to hair conditioner, also contain some variety of silicone (just check the ingredients list).

Is Silicone Expensive?

Not at all! Especially when compared to metals, silicone is very affordable.

Can Silicone Come Into Contact With Food?

Yes, it can. It can also come into contact with the ingredients found in medicines and cosmetics without degrading the quality, since silicone does not leach or disintegrate in the presence of these ingredients. What’s more, silicone will not affect the quality of water or beverages, so silicone hoses and tubing are often used in water treatment processes as well as in breweries and bottling companies.

Will Silicone Degrade In Water?

As we covered in the previous question, silicone and water go well together. The material will not degrade in the presence of water. Silicone hoses can be completely submerged in water and be fine; what’s more, if you have an application where hoses and connectors are needed in high-humidity environments, silicone is a great choice.

What About Microbiological Growth On Silicone Parts?

Silicone doesn’t support microbiological growth, in part because it is a synthetic material. What’s more, silicone products can be treated in such a way that any harmful bacteria that comes into contact with the product is killed, making it effective in clinical and medical settings.

Does Silicone Work Well In Refrigeration-Related Applications?

Yes it does, because it can handle low temperatures without being affected. In fact, silicone is a great choice for hoses and tubing in both high and low temperatures, since it can maintain the contents flowing through them at a consistent temperature even when external temperatures fluctuate. It can also handle very hot and very cold liquids well.

Why Are Silicone Sealants Often Used In Caulking Applications?

They’re used for these types of applications largely because of the reasons we’ve already touched upon. Silicone is flexible, so it can bend easily and adhere to uneven surfaces to seal holes and gaps. It’s strong and durable, so it won’t disintegrate after just a few months. It’s inexpensive, and it’s easy to use. It resists humidity and holds up in a wide range of temperatures. What’s more, it will hold its shape and not shrink the way some other materials do.

To Learn More

We hope you’ve enjoyed learning a little more about silicone, including its properties. Perhaps now you can see why we choose silicone for our quality hoses and tubing products. 

What’s more, we have the technical expertise to help you with any solutions you need. If you can’t locate a part, or you have very specific requirements, our designers and engineers will customize parts for you.

For all your silicone hose questions and needs, contact Flex Tech today!