Datwyler to add LSR capability at Chinese factory

SCHATTDORF, Switzerland—As the mobility industry makes tectonic shifts toward electrification, demand is increasing for liquid silicone rubber—especially in China.

Datwyler Holding Co., a supplier of elastomer and polymer components for a range of industries, said Nov. 24 that it will invest in new technology in its LSR processing capabilities in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province. LSR component production is set to begin there in early 2022.

"China is a region of key strategic importance to all of our customers and is a driving force in the move toward new mobility applications," said Maurice Senden, business development manager for LSR at Datwyler. "The decision to enhance our capabilities there has been straightforward and our approach remains one of global service and support at a local level.

"The move to Wuxi will enable us to further support our customers inside China and also those outside of the country that have customers of their own in that geographical area."

Datwyler said it expects to reach the general Asia-Pacific region as well as China with the Wuxi transition.

In the world of future mobility, LSR is prized for its wide temperature range, low temperature flexibility and excellent electrical insulation properties, all traits important in electronics.

LSR is hydrophobic and typically resistant to a range of chemicals, and do not create an environmental hazard.

LSR—which can withstand temperatures ranging from -55⁰C to 250 ⁰C—can be used in HV-connectors, E-motors and advanced driver assistance systems, all while these systems continue to evolve.

"This transfer of technologies will enable our customers the local-to-local support they require, backed by our global support network and engineering and production capabilities," Senden said. "LSR is not new to this market, but our ability to give customers access to our advanced material and simulation expertise, for example, will add significant value."

Datwyler added that the production shift to Wuxi will shorten the supply chain, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing speed-to-market for the demanding autonomous and electric vehicle industries.

Datwyler said it looks to maintain efficiency along its production lines, and LSR delivers this, as it is a complex compound that provides high-quality parts—but with zero waste.

"As a company we have closely supported our Asia-Pacific customers for many years in existing, developed technologies," Senden said. "Now, as the tide is shifting toward new mobility applications, we are proud to be adding that same level of support and service to emerging technologies in the very region that is driving them forward."