Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) thin-walled diaphragms are molded to offer high strength and flexibility features for healthcare applications. The custom injection-molded LSR diaphragm sealing devices from Minnesota Rubber and Plastics, Minneapolis, are designed to offer improved functionality and cost efficiency compared with similar components that were molded of lesser-grade compounds. Designed for seal applications that require long-term seal life, the thin-walled diaphragms can be used in such applications as dispensing, fluid-filtration, and purification systems. Because these applications demand parts that can withstand temperature variation, resist aging, and operate for extended periods, the LSR diaphragms have heat resistance to 180ºC and good flexibility down to –45ºC.

Manufactured in a clean molding process with no material preprocessing, the diaphragms also can resist radiation and weathering and have good electrical insulating characteristics. The LSR material has repeatable, short cycle times and reduces or eliminates the need for secondary operations. Depending on part complexity, LSR components like the diaphragms can be molded with minimal flash. Other compounds that are compliant with ISO 10993 and USP Class VI are also offered.