Apr. 26, 2021
Silicone products have become increasingly popular due to their versatility and durability. In the pursuit of achieving exceptional appearance, many products rely heavily on various surface treatment techniques. Just like hardware products and large molds that require polishing, electroplating, and sandblasting to maintain a superior appearance, silicone products also necessitate surface coating technologies. The appearance of a product holds significant importance, and therefore, certain processes need to be employed. Apart from focusing on the appearance of the mold, equal attention must be given to the appearance of the product itself. One of the most crucial processes in this regard is the surface coating process.
Surface coating is the process of applying a thin layer of material on the surface of a product to enhance its properties. In the case of silicone products, a surface coating can improve their resistance to dust, dirt, and other contaminants. The coating forms a protective barrier that prevents these particles from sticking to the surface of the product.
Although the impact of surface coating may not be readily observable to the naked eye, it can be discerned through touch. Silicone products with surface coating are characterized by their smooth handles, high surface finish, flat faces, and resistance to dust adhesion. This process enhances wear resistance and ensures strong adhesion. Conversely, silicone products without surface coating tend to have lower gloss and a less smooth texture, particularly low hardness products that may accumulate dust over time. In humid or wet environments, these silicone products are prone to surface aging at a faster rate. Additionally, they become sticky after a few cleanings. It is worth noting that the surface coating effect is also influenced by the properties of the silicone raw materials and vulcanizing agents used. Therefore, purchasers can use these factors as criteria to evaluate the quality of surface coating effects.
Under normal conditions, silicone products tend to attract dust easily. To counteract this issue during production and manufacturing processes, a thin layer of hand oil is sprayed onto the surface of silicone products. This not only prevents dust accumulation but also ensures a pleasing tactile experience for users. The spraying process is primarily tailored to meet customer requirements regarding the desired feel and appearance of silicone keypads. However, the surface coating process itself can be further categorized into three distinct processes.
Ink spraying involves applying a visible layer of ink to the surface of silicone buttons. The color is adjusted according to customer preferences.
Hand feeling oil is a type of foggy handle ink that resembles PU ink. When applied, it imparts a foggy appearance to the surface of silicone keypads. Moreover, it provides a smoother texture compared to other techniques.
PU refers to a type of ink known for its strong adhesion, wear resistance, and transparency. Silicone keypads sprayed with PU ink exhibit excellent tactile qualities and durability. This technique is commonly employed by silicone products manufacturers.
Surface coatings offer several benefits for both manufacturers and consumers of silicone products. Some of these benefits include:
1. Improved durability: Surface coatings can improve the durability of silicone products by protecting them from damage caused by dust, dirt, and other contaminants.
2. Easier maintenance: Silicone products with surface coatings are easier to clean and maintain, which can save time and effort for both manufacturers and consumers.
3. Enhanced aesthetics: Surface coatings can improve the appearance of silicone products by giving them a glossy or matte finish.
It is important to note that not all products are suitable for surface spraying. The feasibility of this process largely depends on the product's structure. For instance, silicone seal rings, large circular arcs, and large zigzag products may not be suitable for complete surface coating during the manufacturing process. Therefore, silicone product manufacturers must adhere to specific standards when determining the need for surface coating. Ideally, the product should have a flat surface and a compact appearance (similar to round seal rings). The overall shape can be rectangular or square, allowing for surface coating on two or three faces to achieve a dynamic effect. While the surface coating process ensures exquisite product appearance, equal emphasis should also be placed on mold quality. An intricate mold design contributes to the overall structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the product.
Surface coating plays a vital role in optimizing the appearance of many products in various industries. The surface coating process, in particular, enhances the visual appeal and tactile experience of silicone products. By understanding the different techniques involved and considering the product's structure and mold quality, manufacturers can achieve exceptional results while meeting customer expectations for appearance and quality. YEJIA is a high precision silicone products manufacturer, with 100,000 production wrokshop and 2 lines of UV activation for surface treatment of silicone products. If you're in search of a silicone products manufacturer with complete serving capabilities, YEJIA is an excellent choice. Our expertise and experience in surface coating for silicone products make us a reliable partner for achieving outstanding results. Contact us for more information.
