During the car manufacturing process, silicone is employed for its flexible and durable properties. But which parts of the car require silicone?
Tyres
The first car part that comes to mind when thinking of silicone is tyres – yet they don’t actually contain silicone. However, tyres require silicone during the production process. Tyres are initially shaped in a mould with an internal inflated bladder. To remove the bladder and the tyre from this mould, silicone is used, as it’s a slippery material, enabling a smooth release.
LEDs
LEDs are held in place by silicone fittings – this is because it can save them from vibration when driving, exposure to the elements and also hot and cold temperatures.
Paint
The paint used on the car’s body will be mixed with silicone to provide a coating of weather-resistant and waterproof protection.
Engine
Silicone hoses are integral to the car’s engine (such as https://www.goodflexrubber.com/pages/silicone-hose-manufacture/ ). Silicone is also used for seals and gaskets throughout the car engine, because of its heat resistance and insulating properties. The silicone can also provide an effective sealant.
Sensor technology
Sensors in the car, for example, rain sensors or headlamp sensors, are held in place with silicone fixtures. These fixtures mean that the sensors, while being snugly encapsulated, held still, and protected from the car’s vibration, are also allowed to expand or contract with the heat and cold. The silicone will move with the size of the sensor, as needed, due to the silicone’s flexibility.
Interior
The fabric on the seats, flooring and roof of the interior of the car can be coated in a layer of silicone. This protects the material from basic spills and stains. The silicone can allow the interior of the car to look fresher for longer, and to age better. It is recommended that you do not use silicone spray on the hard surfaces of the interior, to avoid glare.
Airbags
In the case of collision, airbags will be released at high speed to protect the driver and passengers. During the release of the airbag, it is exposed to extreme temperatures, increasing chances of tearing or ripping. To prevent this, a silicone coating acts as a safety barrier. This can, in turn, protect the passengers or driver from suffering burns to the face when the airbag is deployed.
