Dow develops new fluorosilicone rubber bases for “competing demands”

Midland, Michigan - Dow Performance Silicones has unveiled two new fluorosilicone rubber (FSR) bases to meet competing demands for handling performance, high-temperature resistance and fluid resistance.

Silastic LS-4940 and Silastic LS-4960 fluorosilicone rubber bases are specially designed for calendering and extrusion of turbocharger hoses, the company said in a 1 Oct release.

The rubber bases are also suitable for other moulded rubber parts that are be exposed to high temperatures and/or aggressive fluids or fuels.

The products feature good balance of tensile, elongation and tear resistance; low compression set; good heat stability; and high fuel resistance, according to the silicones supplier.

“These new bases are excellent choices for harsh under-the-hood automotive applications,” said Gifford Shearer, silicone elastomers market manager for Dow Performance Silicones.

Additionally, the materials also exhibit reduced stickiness when unwrapping and mill handling, making them easier to handle.

Dow Performance silicones debuted the two new grades during the International Elastomer Conference & Rubber Expo in Lousiville, Kentucky, 9-11 Oct.