The use of heat-resistant silicone in industrial applications is often crucial, especially in industries where silicone coated flame retardant sleeves are used, such as mining operations, automotive manufacturing, engine rooms in the marine sector, and a whole host of other locations that are exposed to extreme temperatures. Silicone helps to raise safety standards, extends the life cycle of the systems it protects, reducing downtime for maintenance and repairs.
What are the benefits of heat resistant silicone?
Heat resistant silicone features a number of benefits over other materials. It provides:
High levels of resistance to high temperatures
High temperatures are present in a wide range of industrial applications, such as the automotive and aerospace sectors. Where extreme temperatures are challenging, heat resistant silicone provides a safe and effective choice. Ensuring workers and machinery are not exposed to overheating and potential burns is vital in a wide range of industries. In mining, for example, having the right type of insulation and blanketing of engines and pipelines is key to maintaining safe and effective working conditions.
Flexibility
Heat resistant silicone is ideal within areas and applications where there is expansion and contraction. As it is resistant to not only high temperatures but abrasion, vibrations, and tearing, it can be used in a wide range of applications where wear and tear is a concern.
Resistance to Moisture and UV light
Considering its resistance to both moisture and the dangers of UV light, it becomes a great material to use within applications that are outdoors and open to the elements.
Chemical resistance
Where solvents and cleaners are used, heat-resistant silicone is not damaged. The silicone coating of a sleeve protects it against oil and other hydrocarbons, providing optimal functionality in a wide range of industries. This is another benefit that adds to the longevity of the material within myriad applications and locations.
Industries where heat-resistant silicone coated sleeves are used
A silicone coated fire sleeve comes with a range of benefits, as has been noted above. What industries do we find it commonly used in?
Automotive and motorsports – Protective sleeves are used to protect critical engine components from extreme heat and abrasion, such as brake and fuel lines.
Construction and mining – Hydraulic hoses on excavators and other heavy plant machinery requires protection from harsh conditions, extreme temperatures, debris, leaks, and malfunction. It is also used to protect workers with cutting and welding equipment on site.
Marine and offshore – Marine engine rooms have high heat and humidity levels to contend with. A protective sleeve provides heat and moisture resistance to provide safe working practice and optimal function.
Aerospace – Engine control cables and wiring require protection from vibrations and extreme heat. Fire sleeves coated with heat-resistant silicone ensure smooth operation of aircraft and other equipment.
Industrial and energy – Furnaces and industrial ovens pose danger to nearby hoses and cables when in operation. Fire sleeves help to protect these from the intense heat generated. For the energy sector, the protection of pipe systems in energy transition is vital to effective operations.
A company that provides heat resistant protective sleeves for pipelines, cables, and other applications will use heat-resistant silicone wisely. It is important that you can trust the company that you buy heat resistant sleeves and silicone from, as it will be used within applications where there is extreme heat present. Safety without impacting the quality of performance is key within such challenging environments.