The silicone hose, as a critical component of automobiles, plays a key role in various systems such as the engine cooling system, intake system, and fuel system. Its material selection directly impacts the performance, lifespan, and driving safety of vehicles. So, how do we choose the appropriate silicone hose material based on different vehicle models and requirements?
Different Vehicle Model Requirements for Silicone Hose Materials
The structure of automotive silicone hoses includes inner and outer rubber layers and a framework layer, with framework materials such as polyester cloth, aramid fiber cloth, and polyester fabric. They come in different shapes such as straight and complex shapes, with variations in pressure such as high pressure, low pressure, and vacuum, and are used for various purposes including oil, water, air, heat dissipation, cooling, and more.
Regular Household Vehicles:
Engine Cooling System: Choose silicone hoses resistant to high temperature, pressure, and chemical corrosion, such as High-Temperature Vulcanized (HTV) silicone rubber.
Air Conditioning System: Select silicone hoses resistant to low temperature and ozone, such as Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR).
Other Areas: Choose appropriate silicone materials based on specific needs.
Racing Vehicles:
Engine Cooling System: Opt for silicone hoses resistant to extreme high temperature and pressure, such as Platinum-Cured Silicone Rubber.
Intake System: Select silicone hoses resistant to oil and high temperature, such as Fluorosilicone Rubber.
Other Areas: Choose silicone hoses with special performance based on racing modification requirements.
Commercial Vehicles:
Engine Cooling System: Choose silicone hoses resistant to high temperature, pressure, and aging.
Air Conditioning System: Select silicone hoses resistant to low temperature, ozone, and oil.
Other Areas: Choose suitable silicone materials based on the working environment of commercial vehicles.
Impact of Different Requirements on Silicone Hose Materials
Oil Resistance: Silicone hoses used in fuel systems need to be resistant to oil, such as fluorosilicone rubber.
High Temperature Resistance: Silicone hoses used in engine cooling systems need to withstand high temperatures, such as high-temperature silicone rubber.
Chemical Resistance: Silicone hoses in contact with acids, alkalis, and other chemicals need to have good chemical resistance.
Weather Resistance and Aging Resistance: Different climates and seasons impose varying demands on the weather and aging resistance of silicone hoses. In cold or humid environments, silicone hoses with excellent weather and aging resistance are preferred.
Comparison of silicone tube material characteristics
| Silicone material | Characteristics | Scope of application |
| Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) | Low-temperature resistance, ozone resistance, good biocompatibility | Air conditioning system, medical equipment |
| Addition silicone rubber (HTV) | High-temperature resistance, chemical corrosion resistance, good electrical insulation | Engine cooling system, electronic appliances |
| Platinum vulcanized silicone rubber | High-temperature resistance, chemical corrosion resistance, stable performance | Sealing in high-temperature environment |
| Fluorosilicone rubber | High-temperature resistance, oil resistance, chemical corrosion resistance | Intake system, seals |
Conclusion
In summary, the selection of silicone hose materials for automobiles depends on the vehicle model and specific requirements, including high temperature resistance, oil resistance, acid resistance, and more. Ordinary silicone materials are suitable for general purposes, while fluorosilicone is used in more demanding environments.