Key course information
- Course learning format: IN-PERSON COURSE
- More course dates: See below or click 'Register'
- Pricing: click 'Register' to preview
- Course duration: One Day
- Location: Shropshire, UK
- Interactive learning face-to-face with expert tutors
- Electronic course notes
- Gain CPD Credits: Smithers training is IOM3 Quality Assured and counts towards professional development.
To book, click Register and choose a session
Looking for an alternative format?
Upcoming in-person course dates
| Select a session when registering | |
|---|---|
| 5 March 2026 | |
| 10 September 2026 | |
Course overview
Silicone elastomers have distinctive properties and processing requirements that set them apart from other rubbers. This course introduces the main types of silicone elastomer, comparing their chemistry, grades, properties, compounding, processing and applications. You’ll also explore how silicone materials fit within the wider family of commercial polymers.
The course includes enough background polymer science to explain key concepts and makes extensive use of samples and visual aids to support understanding.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:- Understand the chemistry and unique properties of silicone elastomers.
- Recognise the main types of silicone elastomer and their applications.
- Gain insight into processing techniques from compounding to moulding, extrusion and curing.
- Communicate more confidently with suppliers, customers and colleagues about silicone materials and their use.
Course content
Introduction to the major types of silicone elastomers- High temperature vulcanising rubbers (HTV)
- Room (or Low) temperature vulcanising (RTV)
- Liquid (heat curable) silicone rubber (LSR)
- Summary of the core elements of polymer science to support understanding of the other course topics
- Basic structure
- Modifications to basic MQ (VMQ, PMQ, PVMQ, FMQ, FVMQ)
- Compound types, vulcanising
- Fillers, other additives, colourants
- Moulding, extrusion, coating, fabrication, curing
- Concentrating on aspects particular to silicone elastomers
- Drivers for demand
- Electrical and electronic, automotive, aerospace, medical, other applications
- Manufacturers of silicone rubber
- Grades of silicone rubber
Who should attend
This course is ideal for anyone looking to build a practical understanding of silicone elastomers, their properties and uses.
It will be particularly valuable for:
- Product designers, engineers and quality assurance professionals
- Technical support, sales and marketing personnel
- Material suppliers, processors and manufacturers of finished or semi-finished components
- Anyone with an interest in silicone elastomers who wants to broaden their technical knowledge.
Meet your expert tutors
Gary Crutchley – Lead Consultant
Gary is a Lead Consultant with over 30 years’ experience in rubber and elastomer technology. His expertise spans compound formulation, processing, and failure analysis, with a background in tyre R&D for leading global manufacturers. Gary provides consultancy and expert witness services worldwide, supporting clients with material selection, compounding, manufacturing optimisation and technical training.
Phil Hall – Principal Consultant, Rubber and Elastomers
Phil Hall is a Principal Consultant with over 30 years’ experience in rubber and elastomer technology across the aerospace, defence, automotive and manufacturing sectors. He combines deep technical knowledge with leadership experience in design, production and quality, and provides expert consultancy in material selection, compounding, process optimisation and failure diagnosis.
What our delegates say about the course
“Very worthwhile use of a day.”
Michael Carter (Vulcan)
“Very comprehensive and knowledgeable but pitched well to audience, excellent introduction to Silicone Elastomers.”
Andrew Sapsford (Bespak)
Contact us or download a brochure
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