At Rockeypad, we often receive inquiries from customers about the shelf life of our molded silicone keyboards and components. While the answer may seem straightforward, determining the shelf life of silicone parts involves a range of factors that manufacturers need to consider. The way silicone rubber components are stored plays a critical role in maintaining their quality, durability, and performance over time. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key storage guidelines and industry recommendations to help manufacturers ensure the longevity and reliability of their silicone products.
Shelf Life vs. Service Life
Before we dive into storage practices, it’s important to clarify the difference between shelf life and service life, as they are often confused but refer to different aspects of a product’s lifespan.
- Shelf Liferefers to the duration a product can be stored while still being fit for use, sale, or consumption. Essentially, it is the time during which the product can be kept in storage without compromising its quality or functionality.
- Service Life, on the other hand, is the period during which the product performs effectively in its intended application. Service life is affected by factors such as operational conditions, stress, and wear.
Both shelf life and service life are contingent upon a variety of environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, and light exposure, as well as the handling and usage of the product.
Best Practices for Storing Silicone Rubber Components
The Society of Aerospace Engineers (SAE) has established best practices for storing elastomers, including silicone rubber, in their document ARP5316. These recommendations provide a comprehensive framework for proper storage to ensure the long-term viability of silicone components. The three most important factors that impact the shelf life of silicone products are temperature, humidity, and exposure to light. Let’s explore each of these in detail:
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Temperature Control
One of the most critical factors in preserving the integrity of silicone components is controlling the storage temperature. According to the SAE guidelines, silicone elastomers should be stored in a temperature range between 59°F and 100°F, with an ideal temperature being around 68°F.
- Why Temperature Matters: Extreme heat or freezing temperatures can significantly alter the physical properties of silicone, including its flexibility, hardness, and overall structural integrity. Prolonged exposure to high or low temperatures can result in the degradation of silicone’s performance, causing issues such as brittleness or loss of elasticity.
- Best Practice: Store silicone components in a controlled environment where temperature fluctuations are minimized. Avoid direct exposure to extreme heat or cold, which could lead to material degradation.
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Humidity Management
Humidity is another factor that can adversely affect silicone parts. Excess moisture can lead to contamination, mold growth, and the breakdown of silicone materials. As such, it’s important to ensure that silicone components are stored in an environment where moisture levels are carefully controlled.
- Ideal Humidity Levels: For silicone rubber components, the humidity level should be kept below 75%. If silicone parts are not stored in moisture-proof sealed bags or containers, maintaining this humidity level is critical in preventing degradation.
- Why Moisture is a Concern: Moisture can cause silicone rubber to swell or lose its flexibility. Furthermore, moisture can also affect any adhesives or coatings used on the silicone parts, potentially leading to premature failure when the components are put into service.
- Best Practice: Store silicone components in a dry, climate-controlled space where condensation is avoided. When feasible, store the parts in moisture-proof, sealed packaging to further protect them from humidity.
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Protection from Light Exposure
Silicone rubber is sensitive to both UV rays and intense artificial light. Over time, exposure to sunlight or harsh artificial lighting can cause silicone to degrade, discolor, or lose its mechanical properties.
- Why Light Exposure Matters: UV radiation can break down the chemical bonds within the silicone, leading to reduced elasticity, cracking, or brittleness. Similarly, prolonged exposure to intense artificial light can have similar effects, particularly with materials that are colored or coated.
- Best Practice: Store silicone components in opaque, sealed containers or bags to shield them from direct sunlight and intense lighting. This simple step can significantly extend the shelf life of your products.
How Long Can Silicone Components Be Stored?
Under the proper storage conditions, silicone rubber has an unlimited shelf life according to SAE ARP5316. However, while the material itself can remain stable indefinitely, practical industry recommendations suggest that components should ideally be used within 20 years of manufacture to ensure their performance.
It’s essential to note that the actual shelf life of a silicone part may vary depending on factors such as:
- The specific formulation of the silicone rubber.
- The type of coatings or adhesives used.
- The design and application requirements of the component.
Even with optimal storage conditions, regular inspections are recommended to assess the condition of silicone parts. Signs of wear, including cracking, discoloration, or changes in flexibility, should be checked for during these inspections.
Rockeypad’s Expertise in Silicone Storage and Manufacturing
At Rockeypad, we specialize in producing high-quality silicone rubber keyboards and components. With our extensive experience working with liquid silicone rubber (LSR), we understand the importance of maintaining the integrity of silicone parts through proper storage and handling.
We’re committed to helping our clients maximize the shelf life and service life of their silicone components. Whether you’re planning long-term storage or preparing products for immediate use, our team can provide expert guidance on the best storage practices for your specific needs. Our custom storage strategies are designed to optimize the performance and longevity of your silicone products, ensuring that they remain reliable and effective when needed most.
Conclusion
Proper storage of silicone components is a crucial step in ensuring their durability, performance, and reliability over time. By following industry best practices, such as controlling temperature, managing humidity, and protecting parts from light exposure, you can significantly extend the shelf life of your silicone rubber keyboards and components. At Rockeypad, we’re here to provide the expertise and guidance you need to store your silicone components properly and maximize their potential.
If you have any questions about the best practices for storing silicone rubber components or need assistance with your silicone products, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to request a quote online. We’re happy to assist you with all your silicone storage and manufacturing needs.