In the production process of silicone products, choosing the appropriate molding process is of vital importance, as it directly affects the performance, cost and production efficiency of the products. As a source factory of silicone products, we are often asked by customers: "Which process is more suitable for my products, molding or extrusion?" Today, we will make a detailed comparison of these two techniques to help you make a wiser choice.
1. Compression Molding process
Technological characteristics
Compression molding involves placing solid silicone rubber raw materials into molds and vulcanizing them under high temperature and high pressure conditions. It is suitable for products with complex structures and high precision requirements.
Applicable products
Silicone keys (such as remote control and keyboard keys)
Sealing rings, O-rings
Medical silicone components (such as breathing masks, catheter accessories)
High-precision industrial parts
Advantage
✅ High precision: Mold forming, stable dimensions, suitable for complex structures
✅ Smooth surface: The product has a fine appearance and requires no secondary processing
✅ High material utilization: Low waste, suitable for small batch or custom production
Limitations
❌ High mold cost: Suitable for mass production, higher cost for small batch
❌ Long production cycle: Each product needs to be vulcanized separately
2. Extrusion Molding process
Technological characteristics
Extrusion molding involves heating and softening silicone raw materials through an extruder and then continuously extruding them into shape through a mold. It is suitable for long strip-shaped or tubular products.
Applicable products
Silicone tubes (for medical and industrial use)
Silicone sealing strips (door and window, car sealing)
Silicone cable sheath
Special-shaped silicone strips (such as anti-slip strips, decorative strips)
Advantage
✅ Continuous production: Suitable for large quantities of long size products, high efficiency
✅ Low cost: Simple mold, suitable for standardized products
✅ STRONG flexibility: can produce silicone strips of different cross-sectional shapes
Limitations
❌ Lower precision: slightly weaker dimensional control compared to die pressing
❌ Secondary processing requirements: Some products need cutting or vulcanization post-treatment
3. Conclusion: Which process is more suitable for you?
Choose compression molding: If your product has a complex structure and high precision requirements (such as silicone keys, seals), and the order quantity is moderate.
Choose extrusion molding: If your product is in the form of long strips or tubes (such as silicone tubes, sealing strips), large-scale continuous production is required.
Of course, some products may require the combination of two processes (such as molding + extrusion followed by assembly). As the original factory of silicone products, we can provide the best solution based on your needs.
If you are still hesitating about which process is more suitable, please feel free to contact us. We will offer you professional advice and free sample support!