Silicone rubber properties, Silicone rubber membrane switch

Silicone rubber is a modern material that has completely transformed the way industries think about flexibility, durability, and adaptability. Whether in electronics, medical devices, or automotive systems, the demand for reliable, long-lasting, and high-performing materials is greater than ever.

What are the properties of silicon rubber?

Silicone rubber is not like ordinary rubber. It’s built to endure, flex, and perform under conditions that break down other materials. Its structure is made of silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. This unique makeup gives it extraordinary performance in both hot and cold environments.

Here are the reasons why it was chosen:

• Extreme Temperature Resistance: It can handle temperatures from -60°C to 250°C. That makes it perfect for outdoor, automotive, and high-heat electronics.

• Flexible and Elastic: Even in freezing temperatures, it stays soft and bouncy. That’s why it’s often used in touch interfaces and medical devices.

• Excellent Electrical Insulation: It protects sensitive circuits from electrical noise. This makes it ideal for silicone rubber membrane switches.

• Chemical Resistance: It resists oils, ozone, solvents, and UV radiation. Your devices last longer with fewer failures.

• Low Toxicity and Biocompatibility: That’s why it’s approved for use in food-grade products and medical-grade equipment.

What are the disadvantages of silicone rubber?

Here are some downsides to be aware of:

• Lower Tear Resistance: Compared to natural rubber, it can tear more easily under sharp stress.

• Higher Cost: It costs more to produce than standard rubber. However, the longer lifespan often offsets the price.

• Swelling in Certain Fluids: While it’s chemical-resistant, some types of oils or fuels can still affect it over time.

These limitations rarely outweigh the benefits. In most applications, silicone’s durability, flexibility, and clean performance far exceed what other rubbers can offer.

What is silicone rubber good for?

The answer? Almost everything. Silicone rubber is a workhorse material that keeps industries running smoothly.

• Electronics: It insulates and protects components from heat and moisture. Used in cables, gaskets, and keypads.

• Medical Devices: Soft, flexible, and safe for skin contact. It’s found in respiratory masks, catheters, and surgical tools.

• Automotive: Stands up to engine heat, weather, and chemicals. Perfect for gaskets, seals, and vibration dampers.

• Consumer Products: From bakeware to wearable tech, it’s in products people trust daily.

• Aerospace: Used in aircraft and satellites because of its strength in extreme environments.

If your product needs to last, survive heat, or stay flexible, silicone is the answer.

How does a silicone rubber membrane switch work?

Silicone rubber membrane switch uses the flexibility and rebound strength of silicone to create a tactile button interface. These switches are used in remote controls, industrial keypads, medical instruments, and more.

Here’s how it works:

• Each switch includes a silicone rubber keypad that sits above a circuit board.

• Under each key is a carbon or metal pill that acts as a contact.

• When pressed, the silicone compresses and the contact point touches the circuit, closing the loop.

• Once released, the silicone dome springs back to its original shape, ready for the next press.

This design offers strong tactile feedback, waterproof performance, and a smooth, quiet feel. It’s more than a switch — it’s a user experience upgrade.

Silicone rubber membrane switches are designed for reliability. They resist dust, moisture, and wear. Whether you’re building for a hospital or a factory floor, this type of switch can take a beating and keep performing.

What is the ultimate strength of silicone rubber?

Ultimate strength tells us how much force silicone rubber can handle before it breaks. On average, silicone rubber offers tensile strength between 7–11 MPa (Megapascals).

What does this mean in real life?

• It can stretch and compress without permanent damage.

• It resists deformation under repeated use.

• It holds up in rugged environments without tearing or failing.

Compared to many traditional rubbers, silicone lasts longer under stress. That’s why it’s trusted in high-use equipment, especially in demanding industries.

What is the lifespan of silicone rubber?

Under normal conditions, silicone rubber can last 10 to 20 years, sometimes even longer. If exposed to UV rays, ozone, or chemicals — no problem.

Factors that extend its lifespan include:

• Correct formulation: High-purity silicones perform better over time.

• Environment: It lasts longer indoors, but still thrives outdoors.

• Proper use: Avoiding extreme over-stretching or sharp tears helps.

The lifespan of silicone rubber outpaces most materials in similar use. In membrane switches, that means thousands — even millions — of actuations with no drop in performance.

What is the difference between rubber and silicone rubber?

Not all rubber is silicone rubber. The key differences are in performance, chemistry, and durability.

Silicone rubber outperforms regular rubber in almost every way. For manufacturers, it’s a smarter choice for demanding applications.

Conclusion:

From flexibility to strength, from tactile feedback to unmatched durability — silicone rubber stands out. It’s the trusted choice for long-lasting membrane switches, harsh environments, and high-precision designs.

For high-performance silicone rubber membrane switches, custom designs, and expert manufacturing, reach out to our team.

Contact us at: sales@best-membraneswitch.com