Ingress Ratings Sold as Marketing against a Real Test Report
Verify ingress claims using ISO IEC 17025 accredited test reports detailing pre and post electrical insulation checks rather than marketing datasheets.
Form in Place Silicone
Liquid Gasketing
Automated deposition techniques apply liquid sealants directly to housing mating surfaces to create custom gaskets. Form in place silicone involves dispensing a continuous bead of uncured silicone along a programmed path, which then cures to form a seal. This method eliminates the need for pre-molded rubber gaskets and reduces assembly complexity.
The process is constrained by the curing time and the dispensing precision.
Dispensing Accuracy
Automated gantry systems control the nozzle position and the flow rate to ensure a uniform bead profile. When using form in place silicone, the height and width of the dispensed bead must remain within tight tolerances to prevent gaps. Any inconsistency in the path can lead to localized leaks when the housing is assembled.
High-precision cameras often inspect the bead immediately after dispensing.
Curing Phase
The sealant undergoes a chemical reaction that converts the liquid into a flexible, elastomeric gasket. For form in place silicone, this curing can occur via moisture exposure or thermal treatment, depending on the formulation. The material must fully cure before the mating components are bolted together.
This prevents the silicone from adhering to both sides, which would destroy the seal during future disassembly.
Material Advantage
This method fits complex housing profiles and saves costs by reducing material waste. It provides high sealing flexibility.