RTV108 vs RTV106 vs RTV102: Which Aerospace Silicone Sealant Should You Choose?

Silicone sealants are used throughout the aerospace industry for applications where flexibility, environmental resistance and long-term durability are essential. Whether sealing electrical components, bonding assemblies or protecting sensitive equipment from moisture and contaminants, choosing the correct RTV silicone sealant is critical.

Among the most widely specified products are RTV108, RTV106 and RTV102. While they share many of the same performance characteristics, there are important differences that engineers and procurement teams should understand before placing an order.

• What RTV silicone sealants are
• The differences between RTV108, RTV106 and RTV102
• Common aerospace applications
• Procurement considerations
• Documentation requirements
• How Aero Distribution Group supports aerospace customers

What Is an RTV Silicone Sealant?

RTV stands for Room Temperature Vulcanising, meaning the silicone cures at ambient temperatures without requiring additional heat.

RTV silicone sealants are valued for their ability to:

• Remain flexible after curing
• Resist extreme temperatures
• Withstand vibration
• Provide excellent weather resistance
• Seal against moisture and contaminants
• Offer electrical insulation

These properties make RTV silicones a popular choice in aerospace, defence, electronics and industrial manufacturing.

Why Are Silicone Sealants Used in Aerospace?

Aircraft operate in demanding environments where materials are exposed to constant vibration, changing temperatures and harsh environmental conditions.

Silicone sealants help to:

• Protect electrical systems from moisture
• Seal cabin and equipment components
• Reduce vibration transfer
• Prevent contamination
• Accommodate thermal expansion and contraction
• Improve long-term reliability

Unlike rigid adhesives, silicone sealants remain flexible throughout their service life, making them ideal for applications where movement is expected.

Comparing RTV108, RTV106 and RTV102

Although these products share a similar chemistry, their colour and intended use often differ depending on customer or manufacturer preferences.

RTV108

RTV108 is a translucent (clear) one-part silicone adhesive sealant.

It is commonly selected where a clear finish is preferred or where visual appearance is important.

Typical Applications

• Electrical enclosures
• Aircraft instrumentation
• Transparent sealing applications
• Avionics
• Environmental sealing

Benefits

• Clear finish
• Excellent flexibility
• Strong environmental resistance
• Good electrical insulation
• Easy room temperature curing

RTV106

RTV106 is a red silicone adhesive sealant.

Its performance characteristics are similar to RTV108, but the red colour makes it easier to identify during assembly, inspection or maintenance.

Typical Applications

• High-temperature assemblies
• Electrical systems
• Engine compartment components
• Industrial equipment
• Maintenance applications

Benefits

• High temperature resistance
• Excellent flexibility
• Easy visual identification
• Moisture resistance
• Long-term durability

RTV102

RTV102 is a white silicone adhesive sealant.

Many manufacturers choose RTV102 where a lighter appearance is preferred or specified within engineering drawings.

Typical Applications

• Aircraft interiors
• White component assemblies
• Electrical insulation
• Sealing lightweight structures
• General aerospace maintenance

Benefits

• White finish
• Excellent adhesion
• Strong weather resistance
• Good dielectric properties
• Long service life

Performance Comparison

For many applications, the primary difference between these products is colour rather than performance. However, engineers should always follow OEM specifications and approved material lists rather than selecting products based solely on appearance.

Common Aerospace Applications

RTV silicone sealants are used throughout modern aircraft in a variety of applications.

Avionics

Sensitive electronic systems require protection against moisture, dust and vibration.

Silicone sealants provide a reliable environmental barrier while maintaining flexibility.

Electrical Systems

RTV sealants help insulate electrical connections and prevent contaminants from affecting critical systems.

Cabin Interiors

Interior panels, lighting systems and other cabin components often require flexible sealing solutions that can withstand repeated vibration and temperature changes.

Sensor Installation

Many aerospace sensors require sealants that provide both adhesion and environmental protection without restricting movement.

Maintenance and Repair

MRO facilities frequently use RTV silicone sealants during scheduled maintenance and component replacement where approved by the aircraft manufacturer.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing an RTV Sealant

Choosing the right sealant involves more than selecting a product code.

Procurement teams should also consider:

Manufacturer Approval

Always ensure the selected product meets the aircraft manufacturer's approved specifications.

Colour Requirements

Engineering drawings or customer specifications may require a particular sealant colour for identification or aesthetic reasons.

Operating Environment

Consider:

• Temperature range
• Moisture exposure
• UV exposure
• Vibration levels
• Chemical exposure

Cure Time

Project schedules may influence the preferred curing characteristics of the sealant.

Packaging Options

RTV sealants are available in multiple packaging formats, including:

• Tubes
• Cartridges
• Larger industrial packs

Selecting the appropriate size helps minimise waste and improve efficiency.

Documentation Matters

In aerospace procurement, documentation is just as important as the product itself.

A specialist supplier should be able to provide:

• Certificate of Conformance (CoC)
• Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
• Batch traceability
• Shelf-life information

This documentation supports quality assurance, regulatory compliance and customer audits.

Shelf Life and Storage

Like all aerospace consumables, RTV sealants should be stored correctly to maintain performance.

General best practice includes:

• Store in a cool, dry location
• Keep packaging sealed until use
• Rotate inventory using FIFO (First In, First Out)
• Monitor remaining shelf life before installation

Purchasing products with adequate shelf life helps reduce waste and supports maintenance planning.

Choosing the Right Aerospace Supplier

A reliable aerospace distributor provides more than competitive pricing.

Look for a supplier that offers:

• Genuine manufacturer products
• Technical product support
• Global shipping
• Fast RFQ responses
• Product traceability
• Flexible packaging options
• Full documentation
• Reliable stock availability

Working with a specialist supplier helps reduce procurement risk and improve supply chain efficiency.

Why Choose Aero Distribution Group?

Aero Distribution Group supplies genuine aerospace sealants, adhesives, lubricants and specialty chemicals to customers worldwide.

We work with airlines, OEMs, defence organisations and MRO facilities to source approved aerospace materials backed by responsive service and technical expertise.

Our customers benefit from:

• Genuine aerospace consumables
• Fast quotation turnaround
• Worldwide sourcing
• Competitive pricing
• Technical guidance
• Certificate of Conformance (CoC)
• Technical Data Sheets (TDS)
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
• Reliable customer support

Whether you're purchasing RTV108, RTV106 or RTV102, our team can support sourcing against the exact product and approval requirements you provide.

Request a Quote for RTV108 vs RTV106 vs RTV102

Aero Distribution Group supports aerospace buyers with genuine materials, responsive RFQ handling, documentation checks and worldwide sourcing support.

Send your requirement to ADG with product code, quantity, packaging, delivery location, required date, shelf-life expectations and any CoC, TDS or SDS requirements.

FAQs

RTV108 vs RTV106 vs RTV102 FAQs

What is the difference between RTV108, RTV106 and RTV102?

The primary difference is colour. RTV108 is clear, RTV106 is red and RTV102 is white. Their performance characteristics are broadly similar, but the correct product should always be selected according to the aircraft manufacturer's approved specifications.

Are RTV silicone sealants used in aerospace?

Yes. RTV silicone sealants are widely used throughout the aerospace industry for sealing, electrical insulation and environmental protection in approved applications.

Can RTV silicone withstand high temperatures?

RTV silicone sealants are designed to perform across a broad temperature range, making them suitable for many aerospace environments. Always check the manufacturer's technical documentation for the specific product.

What documentation should accompany RTV sealants?

Aerospace procurement teams typically require Certificates of Conformance (CoC), Technical Data Sheets (TDS), Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and batch traceability.

Can Aero Distribution Group supply RTV silicone sealants globally?

Yes. Aero Distribution Group supplies aerospace sealants and consumables to customers worldwide, providing technical documentation and responsive procurement support.