Sealant Manufacturers
Sealant Manufacturers provide specialized binding substances for industrial applications like forming, insulating or reinforcing. Their products can withstand extreme temperature and pressure, and are designed to prevent corrosion, leakage, or oxidation in harsh environments. They may also exhibit anti-static and fire resistance properties. Depending on the application, these substances may also act as thermal or acoustic insulators.
Adhesive and sealant manufacturers may use different raw materials depending on the type of product they produce. Some may manufacture their own polymers, such as polyurethane or silicones. Others may rely on external petrochemical resources, such as petroleum distillates or methanol to fabricate their product lines. The latter are often sourced from oil refineries, which may be located abroad. Many industrial adhesives and sealants have high demand, especially in the auto, packaging, and aerospace industries. Therefore, the companies that develop these solutions may employ various marketing strategies to boost their market presence and sales prospects.
Some companies, such as Sika, focus on developing a range of products that meet specific industry needs. Their silicone and polyurethane products are marketed under the names SIKASIL (silicones), SikaFLEX (polyurethanes) or SIKAHYFLEX (hybrid). These are utilized in a variety of applications, such as expansion joints, sanitary installations, window assembly and installation, and underwater sealing.
Most commercial manufacturers offer a range of formulations, with each product targeted at a specific need. This helps to maximize production efficiencies and reduce the need for additional equipment, which can be costly in a business environment. Additionally, most manufacturers offer compromise formulations that can satisfy a wide array of standards relative to movement and other qualities.
The composition of the product is another important factor in a sealant’s performance. A good sealant is liquid or gel-like upon application, allowing it to flow into the joint and fill gaps. It is also resistant to shrinkage when curing, so that it maintains a tight fit.
These requirements can be met with the help of additives, such as thickeners or plasticizers, or with the application of solvents to promote a liquid state. The ability of the sealant to hold its consistency under a stress that would normally cause it to sag or deform is called thixotropy.
In addition, a good sealant must be easy to use and clean up. It should not emit toxic fumes, generate heat, or release excessive vapors. It should also be compatible with various surfaces, including glass and metal, in addition to being water-resistant and non-toxic.
Sealants are usually cured under specific temperatures for the specific product type. However, some can also be cured using ultraviolet or electron beam radiation to speed up the process and consume less energy. Some are even anaerobic, and cure in the absence of oxygen to preserve their strength and toughness.
Many companies specialize in a specific segment of the industry, but they all must comply with the strict manufacturing standards set by the government. The companies that provide these essential building components must have high quality production facilities to ensure their products can withstand the rigorous construction and engineering processes in which they are used. They also must adhere to all local and state regulatory guidelines and laws governing the industry, including environmental regulations.