Mixing silicone rubber involves combining the two main liquid components, Part A and Part B, often followed by the addition of any desired additives. The process is straightforward and ensures the silicone cures correctly.
Here's a breakdown of the steps based on the provided reference:
Essential Silicone Mixing Steps
To properly mix liquid silicone rubber, follow these key actions:
1. Initial Mixing of Part A and Part B
- Using a new, clean mixing stick, combine the liquid Part A and Part B components directly in their container.
- Mix the two parts thoroughly for 3-4 minutes.
- During mixing, carefully scrape the sides and the bottom of the container. This ensures that no unmixed material remains, as improper mixing can lead to uncured spots in the final product.
2. Adding Pigments or Additives
- After the initial mixing of Part A and Part B, you can add any pigments or other additives to the silicone mixture.
- Common additives include:
- Pigments (for color)
- Deadener (to soften the cured silicone)
- Thickener (to increase viscosity)
- Fillers (to add bulk or change properties)
- Mix again thoroughly to ensure the additives are evenly dispersed throughout the silicone.
3. Optional Double Mix
- An optional step is to perform a "Double Mix."
- This usually involves transferring the mixed silicone from the first container into a second, clean container and mixing again for a short period. This helps to ensure maximum homogeneity and catch any potential areas that were missed during the initial scrape-down.
By following these steps, you can effectively mix your silicone rubber components, preparing the material for its intended use in molding, casting, or other applications.
