Sealing and Vibration Dampening in Automotive Industry
Engineering any product faces many challenges. Automobile design combines thousands of individually engineered products into one exceptionally complex process. Protecting and securing lighting, sensors, engine compartments, and other crucial components demands high-quality and versatile solutions.
Polymer Science works with a number of Tier 1 suppliers and OEMs to develop adhesives, tapes and coatings for many industries. In the case of the automotive industry, the use of silicone foams has emerged as a durable and effective solution for sealing and gasketing throughout automobiles.
The primary advantage of silicone foam for designers is the capability of protecting components by resisting environmental factors like water, temperature changes, biological growth, and absorbing vibrations from the drivetrain and roadways.
Within the marketplace, the long-lasting performance of silicone foams may increase consumer satisfaction and confidence within the automobile. As drivers scrutinize the form and function of automobiles, Polymer Science works with many partners in the automotive industry to choose the most beneficial seals and gaskets to complement design.
Technology consistently presents challenges for vehicle dependency in the automotive industry. Consumer demand and competitors drive the manufacturers to develop and bring new ideas to market, features like infotainment displays consistently impact the vehicle dependability ratings.
To meet demands and produce high-quality vehicles, automotive manufacturers and suppliers spend $130 billion each year in research and development. There is a clear need to partner with experienced suppliers with innovative and quality solutions. At Polymer Science, our team designs and develops materials for our partners in the automotive industry.
Silicone Foam In Automotive Design
From maximizing performance to increased driver and passenger comfort, materials like silicone foam are replacing less effective materials. Increasing the immediate performance as well as the overall lifespan of seals and gaskets benefits both the manufacturer and the end user.
While cost is most often the determining factor when choosing a material, relying on inferior materials can create real-world issues. The failure of a seal within a lighting system often leads to water egress and failure of the component. This issue can spread beyond the lighting housing damaged wiring and may promote mold growth.
Silicone foam offers premium performance over a long time period. A number of examples include:
Engine Compartment Seals
Silicone foam gaskets may be used to create reliable seals in the engine compartment. In high-heat applications, silicone foam provides a consistent and durable seal. Protecting engine components against moisture, dust and other contaminants, silicone foam gaskets and seals also help thermally insult and absorb vibrations.
Sensor Sealing
Silicone foam gaskets are utilized to seal sensors in automotive systems. As technology advances, vehicles feature many sensors for safety, performance, and comfort. Creating a tight barrier against moisture and other elements ensures sensors function accurately.
Lighting Seals
One of the most effective uses of silicone foam is sealing lighting including headlights, taillights, signal lights, and interior display lamps. Silicone foam is highly durable against environmental factors such as water, dust, ultraviolet light, temperature changes, and chemicals like fuel, oil and other common roadway solvents. Maintaining the longevity and optimal performance of the lighting systems protects the safety and security of motorists.
Battery Enclosure Seals
In both conventional automobiles and hybrid models, silicone foam gaskets are used within battery enclosures. These gaskets ensure a watertight and airtight seal, safeguarding the batteries from external elements and maintaining their performance and safety.
In addition to protecting battery components from contaminants, silicone foam offers mechanical shock absorption during operation. The versatility of these materials helps reduce material use. Reducing material weight can improve performance and fuel efficiency of vehicles.
HVAC System Seals
Silicone foam gaskets are utilized in automotive HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. They provide reliable sealing around vents, ducts, and other HVAC components, ensuring efficient and controlled air circulation.
Door and Window Seals
Silicone foams improve the comfort of motorists. In addition to forming an excellent seal, silicone foams provide an effective barrier from external noise. Dampening drivetrain and roadway noise through window and door seals enhances the interior cabin experience.
Interior Component Seals
Silicone foam is employed to seal various interior components such as instrument panels, center consoles, and storage compartments. Within the interior of vehicles technology continues to adapt. Instrument clusters, navigation and infotainment displays are increasing in size and function.
Protecting the sensitive internal components within these devices is important. Silicone foam is used in many consumer electronics including smartphones, computers and tablets.
Design Opportunities with Silicone Foam
When end users experience real-world issues with automobiles, the impact to brand reputation reverberates throughout the supply chain. As technology advances, the variety of silicone foam gaskets and seals provides engineers and designers new opportunities.
By working with Polymer Science early in the design and planning process, you can gain the full advantages of materials like silicone foam. The versatility of this silicone foam to resist outside contaminants, protect components from vibration and shock, and manage extreme temperatures greatly benefits Tier 1 suppliers and OEMs.
For decades, our talented staff has developed cutting-edge solutions for a wide range of tapes, coatings and adhesives. Our experience with silicone foams helps protect components, enhance durability and improve passenger comfort.