Trelleborg advances small-batch production of LSR parts

Trelleborg, Sweden – Trelleborg Sealing Solutions has developed a new manufacturing process for product development and small batch production of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) parts, the company announced 21 April.

The iCast LSR process, it said, offers “a cost-effective way for manufacturers to develop product variations or try out different design concepts before investing in serial production tools.”

Furthermore, by enabling the start of pre-series and series production with small batches, the technology can “close the gap between low and high-volume production,” Trelleborg added.

The process is an adaptable five-step modular process that utilises digitisation and new manufacturing techniques, according to Felix Schädler, project manager innovation & technology at Trelleborg Sealing Solutions,

“It can dramatically cut concept to production time for prototypes from several weeks to a few days for the average part,” claimed Schädler.

“This helps manufacturers meet the pressures of rapidly moving markets that are demanding faster new product introductions, improvements, and advancements,” the Trelleborg manager added.

The iCast LSR process starts with the submission of 3D part data and order details which triggers an AI-based feasibility study to confirm if the process is suitable for production of the part.

The part design is then analysed and an individual digital mould layout created based on 3D data, th company release explained.

If necessary, it noted, the layout undergoes mould flow simulation to identify the optimum production process for the use of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies.

With the technology, quick and multiple design iterations of components in standard industrial grade two-component platinum-cured LSR can be made, continued Trelleborg.

Currently suitable for production of one to 2,500 parts, Trelleborg said its process can be used to produce a wide range of 2-D and 3-D LSR parts including O-rings, profile seals, diaphragms and custom-mouldings.