C & M Rubber Co. produced this silicone rubber encapsulated ultrasonic sensor assembly for a customer in the manufacturing/packaging industry. This project presented two unique challenges. First, the face thickness of the rubber sensor body needed to be held to a tight ± .003" tolerance to minimize distortion of the ultrasonic frequencies. Second, to maintain the high sheen required on the face of the rubber part, no mold release agent could be used.

Working with customer specifications, our engineers developed precision tooling that would keep the part within the tight dimensional tolerances and have the lubricity to release it with no sticking. Utilizing a 25-ton hydraulic press and silicon rubber with a 30±2 Duro Shore A hardness, we executed a multi-cavity compression molding process to encapsulate the heater and sensor assembly. A manual deflash and inspection process verified that desired high gloss finish was achieved and the tolerances were within specification.

At C & M Rubber, we manufacture this part on an ongoing basis within a 1-2 week turnaround and deliver stock just-in-time to the customer. For more information on this project or to learn how our encapsulation molding expertise can improve your application, request a quote today.

C & M Rubber Co. manufactures four sizes of electrical terminal boots used in products requiring a physical protective cover for electrical terminal posts. Originally designed and predominantly used in the aerospace market, these parts have proven to be a cost-effective off-the-shelf solution for a host of electrical connector applications such as marine batteries, hot tubs, gas-powered residential and farm equipment, and electronic telephone switches to name just a few.

Using rubber silicone Class II, 50 Duro (Shore A) per MIL-R-5847, the terminal boot is manufactured using liquid injection molding (LIM) systems. They are then batch processed in a cryogenic de-flashing system to yield a “whistle clean” finish. Visual in-process and post-process inspections are used to ensure your delivered parts meet Mil-Spec AA-59178 (superseded MS-25171 Mil-Spec).

These terminal boots tolerate temperatures from -85 to 401°F and are resistant to environmental exposure. C & M Rubber manufactures these terminal boots in four standard sizes and certifies them to AA-59178-1, -2, -3, and -4 standards (detailed below). The standard color is white, however, they can be specified in black and brick red. Lead-time for standard colors in quantities less than 20,000 pieces is typically 3 weeks or sooner (ARO) depending upon current in-house order cue. Custom colors are also available at a minimum upcharge and a slightly longer lead-time depending on quantity and schedule requirements. For more information on these silicone terminal boots or a custom designed electrical terminal boot made specifically for your application, request a quote today.

At C & M Rubber Co., we specialize in custom compression molded products for a host of industries. We were recently approached by two pistol target enthusiasts in Ohio who were disappointed with the performance of the current gun grip covers available in retail sporting goods and firearms shops. They cited the lack of durability, inferior feel, poor tear resistance and overall ill fit to a variety of guns as the source of their dissatisfaction. As with many projects, it all begins with: “We can do better.”

The products we developed are composed of a proprietary silicone elastomer and had custom patterns etched onto the grip surface.

The grips were produced using a multi-cavity compression mold, in a standard 25-ton hydraulic press, utilizing cryogenic de-flashing to de-burr and finish the product. The finished grip measures 2.75" in height, 1.25" in diameter, and weighed 0.5 oz., and are molded in black, olive green, tan, pink and red. Custom coloring is also being used for special target markets.

The grip is unique in its ability to snugly fit to virtually all pistol handles and other rifle grips. Additionally, the material allows an end user to cut the grip, customizing the look and feel. This product demonstrates our manufacturing versatility in molding a simple form, yet requiring a flawless finish for consumer sales.

To learn more about this project, see the table below or contact us directly.

C & M Rubber Co. was contracted by a manufacturer of medical equipment to mold a silicone foot shown here. The foot is installed on the supporting legs of their examination tables, and is designed to prevent scuffing of tile or linoleum floors, or skidding on commercial carpeting.

Originally this job was tooled as a transfer mold consisting of 49 cavities; however, after years of service, the tool was scheduled to be reworked to correct a registration issue that had developed over time. It was decided that retooling for liquid injection molding (LIM) was more cost-effective, and would avoid price increase to the customer. The LIM parts eliminated a direct labor cost and the expense of cryogenic de-flashing of the silicone foot.

Composed of LR 3003/60 Shore A Durometer silicone rubber, the foot was manufactured on our Boy 22 liquid injection molding unit, which features a fluid automation pump set. This advanced manufacturing process allowed us to meet tolerances of ±.015". In addition, we were also able to exactly match the customers color specification. Produced in blanket orders, we currently manufacture over 100,000 pieces annually.

To learn more about this project, or the processes used to manufacture it see the table below or contact us directly.