High-temperature mold making. Dow SILASTIC RTV-3120 Base is easily mixed and poured, and it cures at room temperature, providing accurate reproduction of masters for mold making when used with primer. Dow recommends this general-purpose silicone mold-making rubber for high-temperature applications, offering a wide service temperature range and absorbing mechanical shock and vibration.
Series behavior. RTV-3120 is part of the SILASTIC RTV-3100 series of mold-making rubbers. When combined with a compatible catalyst, it cures into a firm, flexible silicone suited to reproducing detailed masters. The red color distinguishes it from other RTV-3100 bases such as the white RTV-3110.
Two-part system. This product is supplied as base only and must be combined with a compatible curing agent, such as a SILASTIC RTV-3 series catalyst. As with the series, RTV-3010-S and RTV-3000 F catalysts should not be used when molding polyesters, as polyesters can inhibit cure; a different catalyst is recommended for polyester molds.
Handling notes. Like other RTV-3100 series materials, RTV-3120 may depolymerize if overheated in total confinement, so confined high-temperature pottings require appropriate post-cure design. Surfaces to be reproduced should be clean; a release agent aids demolding. Review the product and Safety Data Sheets before use.
Recommended For
High-temperature mold making
Reproduction of detailed masters
General-purpose flexible molds
Applications needing shock and vibration absorption
Encapsulation and potting where suited
Product Details
Product type: Two-part RTV silicone mold-making rubber (base only)
It is a general-purpose silicone mold-making base that Dow recommends for high-temperature applications. When mixed with a compatible catalyst, it cures at room temperature to a firm, flexible rubber that reproduces detailed masters and absorbs shock and vibration across a wide service temperature range.
How is RTV-3120 different from RTV-3110?
Both are RTV-3100 series mold-making bases, but RTV-3120 is red and is recommended by Dow specifically for high-temperature applications, whereas the white RTV-3110 is a general-purpose low-viscosity base. The color difference also helps distinguish the two on the shop floor.
Does RTV-3120 come ready to use?
No. It is supplied as base only and must be combined with a compatible SILASTIC RTV-3 series catalyst before use. The catalyst is purchased separately, so plan to order the matching curing agent alongside the base, and follow the recommended mix ratio for consistent results.
Are there materials it should not be used with?
As with the RTV-3100 series, the RTV-3010-S and RTV-3000 F catalysts should not be used when molding polyesters because polyesters can inhibit cure. Dow recommends a different catalyst for polyester molds. When unsure, test a small area for full cure before making a complete mold.
Any precautions for high-temperature use?
RTV-3100 series materials may depolymerize if overheated in total confinement, so confined high-temperature pottings require a graduated post-cure that allows volatiles to escape. Keep master surfaces clean and use a release agent to aid demolding. Review the technical data sheet and Safety Data Sheet before production.
