Dow Corning: New
In partnership with Colmec, Dow Corning has developed a patented “in situ”-mixing extrusion system that allows users to mix then extrude uncolored, Silastic® brand high consistency silicone rubber compounds with color masterbatches, or various additives, fillers, and processing aids in a single step on one piece of equipment. Versus conventional practices, the system allows fabricators to increase processing flexibility by reducing raw material inventories since precolored masterbatches no longer need to be purchased, as color can be added on-the-fly. The system also can shorten production times and lower costs by up to 15% annually, while at the same time yielding excellent mixing and a very consistent product. These benefits make it easier to compress delivery times to customers and react faster to changing market demands.