Silicone rubber heaters are made of a silicone rubber material that contains a high percentage of silicone. This material has a relatively low coefficient of thermal expansion, which means that it doesn't expand or contract much when exposed to changes in temperature.
However, some silicone rubber heaters may experience a slight contraction upon heating, especially if they are extended or stretched. This contraction occurs due to the internal stresses that are present in the material when it is stretched. These stresses can cause the material to shrink or contract when heated.
Another factor that can contribute to the contraction of an extended silicone rubber heater is the adhesive used to attach the heater to a surface. Some adhesives may have a higher coefficient of thermal expansion than the silicone rubber material, causing the heater to contract when heated.
To minimize the risk of contraction, it is important to use a high-quality silicone rubber material and an appropriate adhesive that is compatible with the material. It is also recommended to avoid over-stretching the heater during installation, as this can increase the internal stresses and lead to contraction upon heating.
