Datwyler to add LSR lines to Mexico facility

SCHATTDORF, Switzerland—Datwyler Group's production plant in Silao, Mexico, is being upgraded to provide liquid silicone rubber (LSR) components to customers in Mexico and the wider Americas region.

This is Datwyler's third production facility to be equipped with LSR production lines, after the plants in Cleebronn, Germany, and Wuxi, China, the Swiss polymer group said in a May 9 news release.

Datwyler launched an initiative two years ago to use the technology across its global manufacturing sites, in response to growing electrification and autonomy trends within the automotive industry.

"LSR provides optimal stability across high and low temperature extremes, ranging from -55⁰ C to 250⁰ C," explained Walter Padro, site director Mexico at Datwyler.

The technology also delivers high levels of resistance to chemicals, water and other environmental influences.

"These properties, in combination with excellent electrical insulation properties, are highly regarded in electronic applications," Padro added.

Datwyler said the initiative to employ the technology in Mexico was in line with its strategy to support local customers in their transition to new mobility.

"Supply chain security will be strengthened to an even greater level, while the local-for-local approach will also drive waste out of both supply and production processes," the company said.

The Silao plant has been a supplier of rubber components to the region for more than 13 years.

Datwyler said the new line is expected to significantly enhance the unit's ability to deliver high-quality components to the local car industry.

One machine at the site is already in operation, with a second one due to come online in 2022.