You may have seen many tutorials on the Internet about using 3D printed molds to make silicone parts. Most of these methods use simple casting methods to fill the mold. This relies on careful degassing and gentle pouring to reduce the presence of bubbles in the final result. [Jan Mrázek] However, another method has been researched, This allows injection molding at low cost in home stores.
This process relies on the use of printed resin molds. [Jan] Note that this usually requires the use of condensation-curing silicones, because the additive type does not cure well in the resin mold. Mix the condensed silicone rubber, degas and pour it into a standard filter element. From there, it is installed in a silicone delivery air gun, which uses compressed air to extrude silicone from the nozzle and into the waiting mold.
It basically uses a bunch of household DIY equipment to create an inexpensive injection molding solution for silicone parts. [Jan] Note that the mold design requires some mods to adapt to the process, and 400-800 kPa is a good pressure for injecting silicone.
Injecting silicone under pressure is very suitable for complex mold designs because it forces the material into all difficult corners and gaps. Of course, we have seen other methods of making silicone parts before. Be sure to use your own favorite technology for producing high-quality silicone parts to make your voice heard in the comments. Video after the break.