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Product Spotlights
| Custom Bonded Rubber-To-Metal Components |
This company provides rubber to metal bonding of components such as rollers, cleats, bumpers and wheels for heavy duty conveying applications including mining and large industrial applications. Using specially designed processes, these components are chemically bonded to ensure permanent seal of the bonded components. The company regularly custom designs assemblies from a full spectrum of elastomer materials and bonds them to a broad range of metals including iron, steel, aluminum and plastic. The company is said to be an expert in determining the ideal process that results in a bonded assembly with cost effective, high performance features that meet customer’s performance requirements. The firm offers a full range of custom formulated materials and hundreds of standard materials, to meet correct functional, environmental and color requirements of the bonded assembly. Virtually any application requirement can be met with this vast amount of formulations, including resistance to heat, cold and the harsh environmental conditions. Specific performance requirements such as hardness, fluid resistance, abrasion resistance, shrinkage, elongation, modulus and cost are addressed for specific rubber-to-metal bonding applications.
The firm provides these custom components with unique performance features in prototype through large volume quantities using injection, transfer, compression molding and LIM (liquid injection molding) processes. The company has complete in-house capabilities for turnkey rubber-to-metal bonding including design assistance, tool design and building, prototype molding, production molding, deflashing, and packaging.
Rubber Industries
www.rubberindustries.com |
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| Tool Cart Program |
This company has a customized tool cart program to accompany its complete line of advanced tooling plus replacement parts. The tool cart program enables reduced set-up time, easier maintenance and better organization of tools and replacement parts. Customers who want to improve tooling maintenance, service ability, and bottom line results are now purchasing tool carts to support and handle their tooling equipment, supplies, and spare part orders. The advantage of the tool cart set-up is when a die requires cleaning it can be easily and accurately swapped out. A clean new die can just as easily be swapped in quickly regardless of its size or weight. That is said to be especially important when a large self-contained extrusion system, weighing as much as 7,000 lbs. or more, needs to be changed, cleaned, or moved. Whether it is a large or small tooling application, the firm utilizes FEA design and tests all equipment to meet the most exacting extrusion performance standards, thereby adding more overall profitability to the bottom line for customers. In the cart program, the following components are available: Swing Gates allow components that are unbolted to swing freely to the side for cleaning or replacement; rails allow large plate dies that are unbolted to slide apart for cleaning or replacement; catenary adjustment allows the die to be tilted on the fly for extrusion at a downward angle, compensating for the sagging effect due to the force of gravity; hoists allow parts to be safely loaded and unloaded; stress analysis FEA design and testing are utilized for all equipment to meet the exact extrusion application required. Optional equipment includes screw jacks, hydraulics and pneumatics to fit the specific tooling application. Special removal tools are available to allow parts to separate easily, despite their tendency to adhere to components, especially on long/close tolerance diameters.
Guill Tool & Engineering
www.guill.com |
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| Moisture Content By Karl Fischer Methodology |
This company is now able to perform Karl Fischer titration to determine the water content of gases, liquids and solids, including polymers. Molding wet polymers can cause degradation, so moisture content information can be very important when processing hygroscopic polymers (water absorbing) like nylon. When trying to verify the moisture content of a product or compound, this method offers the highest level of accuracy and precision because it specifically determines the water content independently of other volatiles. Based on the material being analyzed, the Karl Fischer technique involves heating samples (which can be as small as 0.05 grams) in an oven for a specific period of time at a predetermined optimum temperature. The water in the sample is then vaporized and carried into a reaction vessel containing a methanolic solution. The water molecules are then dissolved in the methanol and titrated to an end point with a Karl Fischer reagent to measure the water content from a nearly unlimited range of 10-4% to 100% (results can also be provided in parts per million).
Akron Rubber Development Laboratory
www.ardl.com |
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| Modular Vision Sensor Platform |
A complete modular vision sensor platform of hardware and software components under the FireSync brand has been developed. The system allows fast and easy integration of components into a scalable machine vision system along with microsecond synchronization. The FireSync platform allows developing a single unified design for building vision applications ranging from smart sensors to complex web scanning systems anywhere from specification to final assembly. FireSync is said to solve the classic problem of synchronization between lighting, camera and processing components, and allows developing a fully scalable design. FireSync is said to give system integrators and OEMs the capability to quickly design and build simple to complete systems at a low cost of ownership. It develops image processing modules across a network of processing modules and results in rapid time development of the product to market. The FireSync platform consists of a number of tightly integrated OEM hardware and software components. Components include sensor controllers, camera and embedded sensors, machine vision software, industrial computers, lighting and others. Components selected can be configured in a number of different ways, depending on the need and application. With high performance image streaming, these components are combined with
proportional/functional control of sub-components, the synchronization of image collection to within microsecond accuracy, simple cabling and impressive stitching.
LMI Technologies
www.lmitechnologies.com |
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| Low Temperature System |
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For rubber materials, there are said to be three important standardized test methods for low temperatures, including the Gehman test (relative stiffness), the TR test (temperature retraction) and the brittleness test. The company's instrument can combine all three methods. Only one base unit with a cooling batch is used, and the rigs are mounted on a carousel. No lifting is necessary when switching from one method to another. The instrument can be delivered with one, two or all three methods,and is managed from a computer with software configured for each method.
Elastocon
www.elastocon.se |
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| In-Process Non-Contact Sensors |
The Selcom SLS 5000 series is a line of in-process non-contact sensors. Industrial proven and robust, the high performance Selcom SLS 5000 sensor offers ultra high performance, even in hostile environments. With an extremely fast automatic light control circuit, this sensor measures on varying surfaces from mat topography to shiny black materials such as rubber. The Selcom SLS 5000 sensor provides high-speed (16 kHz) data with real time control of laser intensity to provide accurate measurement data from most surfaces with varying degrees of texture, color and reflectivity. Available in various models, the SLS 5000 sensor is industry-proven and robust, has a measurement range of 1,250 mm and can provide resolutions down to 0.15 micron, according to the company. The SLS 5000 sensor is designed for high accuracy measurement of difficult target material commonly found in the tire and rubber environment. Compared to older capacitive sensors and older triangulation devices, the 16 kHz SLS 5000 provides the user with more data, has a higher sample rate, can measure smaller features due to a smaller spot size and is physically smaller. Frequently used for non-contact in-process thickness measurement of products such as calendered rubber, the SLS 5000 controls and improves raw material costs and material use, reduces set up time and improves product quality and consistency, according to the company. Other in process rubber applications where the sensor is used include tire profiling, splice monitoring on tire build drums, green tire lateral and radial runout measurement and tread wear inspection of finished tires for research and development product safety verifications.
LMI Technologies
www.lmitechnologies.com |
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| Durometer Operating Stand |
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The Model OS-2 compact operating stand has been introduced for durometers in the A, B and O scales. The stand, used in conjunction with the company's durometer, eliminates operator error sometimes associated with shop floor durometer testing. The stand features a load weight for the proper testing pressure as noted in ASTM D2240, and a quick-lock column for easy adjustment. It can be used with either the provided specimen holder or the optional o-ring fixturing set (sold separately).
Rex Gauge
www.durometer.com |
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| Viscometers |
This viscosity specialist offers process viscometers specially designed for use with polymer melts and other high-viscosity materials, giving users valuable insights into the characteristics of their materials, as well as a useful tool for monitoring product quality. Said to be quick to install and easy to use, the company’s XL7 on-line viscometer provides continuous real-time dynamic viscosity measurement with practically unlimited range. The instrument is factory-calibrated to certified viscosity standards traceable to NIST and requires no further calibration. It is only necessary to complete the simple wiring, bolt on and the viscometer is ready for immediate use. As there are no moving parts, routine maintenance requirements are virtually nil. The special high-load design gives reliable, uninterrupted performance under high temperature, pressure and viscosity conditions. Regardless of flow rate, the XL7 can measure viscosities over 10 million centipoise (100,000 poise) at pressures of 168 bar (2,500 psi) or more. The viscometer can run at temperatures as high as 450°C (842°F) without requiring any special cooling, the advantage being that the presence of the transducer does not affect the temperature of the material and thereby alter its viscosity. With an all-welded 316-stainless steel construction, the solid, crevice-free sensor is shaped to present minimal disruption to flow, reducing virtually to zero the chances of material entrapment and minimising the risk of contamination. The architecture of the system naturally rejects typical plant vibration frequencies, giving a very high output stability, which makes it possible to achieve high sensitivity and excellent repeatability, even in extremely noisy industrial environments. The XL7 can be supplied with any process fitting (e.g., flanged or threaded) and comes complete with its own digital readout unit. All instruments are certified intrinsically safe for use in hazardous areas up to and including Class 1 Division 1 Group A. Outputs include a 4-20 mA fully configurable analog viscosity signal and a serial data link for continuous viscosity monitoring and control. Calibration is completely unaffected by installation or environment, making it possible to install the viscometer in any orientation in pipelines or vessels of any size or capacity.
Hydramotion Ltd.
www.hydramotion.com |
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| Rubber Analysis |
Routine analysis does require automation due to the increasing demand for shorter analysis times, higher throughput and cost reduction. The Pyromat allows users to load up to 24 samples for unattended analysis. All parameters such as temperature, pyrolysis time and GC conditions can be defined for each sample, if required. The Curie-Point-Pyrolyser can be installed or removed from the GC in just a few minutes. In this way users can easily change between pyrolysis and liquid injection. Despite the power of modern analytical instruments techniques of analysis such as gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, one of the most important challenges is said to remain that of sample preparation, especially far non-volatile, insoluble materials and chemicals. Sample preparation can require a lot of time and expertise, particularly when dealing with small sample amounts. Pyrolysis is a well-established method for the analysis of complex non-volatile, chemical materials, and provides a time saving alternative. With pyrolysis techniques it is not necessary to perform sample preparation. In addition, small amounts of sample (micrograms) may be sufficient for an analysis. The advantage of Curie-Point-Pyrolysis is the use of ferromagnetic material which heats up in a very short time inside a magnetic field to a defined Curie-Point temperature. With increasing temperature the permeability of ferromagnetic materials decreases. At the Curie-Point the relative permeability of the sample carrier falls suddenly and the status changes instantaneously from ferromagnetic to paramagnetic. Pyrolysis temperature may be controlled by selection of the composition of the sample carrier, e.g., pure iron has a Curie-Point temperature of 770 degrees Celsius and nickel 358 degrees Celsius. Through the selection of different alloy compositions Curie-Point temperatures can be provided from 160 to 1,040 degrees Celsius in ca. 15 degree steps. Following pyrolysis the fragments are transferred by the carrier gas into the gas chromatograph for separation and detection. Applications for pyroylsis include polymers, co-polymers, elastomers, synthetics, rubber, Lacquers, paints, resin, wax, pigments, biological-/geological materials and microbiological assays.
GSG Mess- und Analysengerate
www.gsg-analytical.com |
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| Flow Monitors |
CoolPoint vortex shedding flowmeters offer a temperature transmitter for measuring and monitoring both flow and temperature in tire and rubber industry applications. CoolPoint flowmeters with an optional temperature transmitter are designed for flow applications involving heat removal. The flowmeters efficiently measure and monitor the flow rates of cooling water to molds, mixing calenders and temperature control units (TCUs), according to the company. Meters with the transmitter have the added capability of monitoring temperature readings and transmitting them to a process controller. CoolPoint flowmeters with brass flow bodies, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) sensors and Viton fluoroelastomer seals are available with a temperature transmitter in 3/4 inch to 4 inch pipe sizes. Maximum 4-20 mA transmitter flow rates range from 25 gallons per minute (95 liters per minute) for the 3/4 inch size to 600 GPM (2271 LPM) for the 4 inch size. Temperature readouts range from 32 degrees F to 210 degrees F, which can be expressed in either Fahrenheit or Celsius on the local LED readout. The CoolPoint flowmeters provide the repeatability and accuracy that help achieve process control, according to the firm. Flow and temperature repeatability of +/-.25 percent (1/4 of 1 percent) of indicated flow is standard. Flow accuracy of +/-2 percent full-scale and temperature accuracy of +/-1 percent FS are standard. The company also offers a temperature transmitter on its stainless steel CoolPoint flowmeters in 3/4 inch to 2 inch pipe sizes. The corrosion-resistant meters with 316 SS bodies are designed for measuring and monitoring corrosive fluids and water with chemicals added. The stainless steel meters have PVDF sensors and Viton seals as standard equipment and can be equipped with Kalrez perfluoroelastomer seals for added reliability in harsh chemical environments. CoolPoint is an electronic meter that can measure water and fluids which may contain particles. The meter has no moving parts to stick or coat, eliminating potential for clogging. It is sold by pipe size, and all other features are selectable by pushing buttons on the meter face. Selections include a set point for flow and temperature alarm. Wiring is simplified by use of a pin connector optionally sold with the product. Totalizing capability is available to increase the CoolPoint flowmeter's ability to measure, monitor and control the total amount of liquid used in a process. A flow totalizer with reset button and six-digit LED is offered as a special option. The flow totalizer features a pulse output and a display in either liters or gallons.
Universal Flow Monitors
www.flowmeters.com |
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| Fluoroelastomers |
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This company manufactures, markets and sells high performance fluoroproducts under the Fluon and Aflas brands. Aflas fluoroelastomers are copolymers of tetrafluoroethylene and propylene. This combination gives Aflas fluoroelastomers unique properties over conventional FKM-type fluoroelastomers in demanding applications found in the oil/gas, chemical process, wire and cable, heavy equipment, food handling/pharmaceutical and automotive industries, according to the company. Aflas fluoroelastomers are said to display outstanding resistance to heat, bases, many solvents, ozone and steam, and are classified by ASTM D 1418-01 as FEPM. In the oil/gas industry, seals and fluid handling components based on Aflas hold up exceptionally well when exposed to hydrogen sulfide, amines and steam commonly found down hole. Aflas also has a high resistance to explosive decompression. Today’s high performance engines run hot and long. As a result, automotive fluids, such as oil and coolants, need increasing amounts of amine stabilizers that can damage FKM fluoroelastomer seals. Aflas fluoroelastomers are engineered to thrive in these harsh environments.
In addition, Aflas has been tested against the rigorous USP Class VI protocol and is suitable for pharmaceutical applications.
AGC Chemicals Americas
www.agachemicals.com |
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| Oil Grade For Tire Compounds |
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Nytex 4700 is said to perform well in tire compounds with its glass transition temperature close to -50˚C, and it naturally meets the discussed health and safety criteria. The total amount of the eight defined individual PAH is well below 10 ppm. Nytex 4700 is said to fit well in the company's broad range of non-labelled tire oils. The firm is said to offer a competitive solution for polymer and tire companies that need to replace their high aromatic oils before 2010. The new grade conforms to the high viscosity naphthenic oil specification set by the IISRP Americas section.
Nynas
www.nynas.com |
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| Accelerator |
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TiBTD is a non-staining ultra accelerator for EPDM, SBR, nitrile and natural rubber that produces very low levels of nitrosamines (100 times less than common thiurams). Accelerator TiBTD is a fast curing accelerator that creates shorter sulfur-sulfur crosslinks in rubber vulcanizates. TiBTD increases cure rate, but with greater scorch safety than comparable thiurams. The good scorch protection combined with good cure time of the TiBTD allows for higher processing temperatures and mold temperatures which may translate to shorter cycle times or allow successful molding of hard-to-process stocks. TiBTD is also said to be remarkable in that it results in less reversion of natural rubber compounds than comparable accelerators. In natural rubber compounds, TiBTD can be used in combination with Cure-Rite 18, to provide good scorch safety and can be made with flat-plateau cure curves at 350°F.
Akrochem
www.akrochem.com |
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| RoHS Compliant Thermoplastic Elastomers |
This class of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compounds is fully RoHS-compliant and meets stringent UL criteria for fire retardance, while providing flexibility and toughness over a broad temperature range. The new additions to the Elexar product range are available with hardnesses from durometer 56A to 90A and recommended by the company for insulation, jackets and molded parts for flexible cords, coil cords and cables in power tools, appliances, industrial robots, welding equipment and entertainment audio and lighting systems. Besides providing enhanced flame retardance, these compounds are said to deliver excellent performance at temperature extremes and in outdoor environments, exhibit rubber-like flexibility, are oil-resistant and are available in a broad range of hardnesses. Key characteristics of the new materials include RoHS-compliance, enhanced flame retardance, a broad service-temperature range, good electrical properties and oil-resistance.
Teknor Apex
www.teknorapex.com |
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| Fluoroelastomer Extrusions |
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Hoses, seals and o-rings, custom extruded from high-performance fluoroelastomers, are designed for use in hostile service conditions. The extruded products withstand extreme temperatures; resist attack by over 750 corrosive chemicals and liquids, including oil, gasoline, hydraulic fluids, hydrocarbon solvents and sulfuric acid; resist the effects of thermal cycling; and exhibit excellent abrasion resistance. Other properties include: hardness of 60-90 durometer A; maximum tensile strength of 3000 psi; good to excellent compression set; excellent resilience; and resistance to ozone, sunlight, UV radiation, salt spray and fungal growth. Ideal applications include automotive and aerospace engines, chemical processing, pulp and paper processing, and other industrial applications distinguished by aggressive environments.
Pelmor Laboratories
www.pelmor.com |
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| CPE Elastomer |
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Weipren CPE 6035 is the company's latest grade of chlorinated polyethylene elastomer. It is designed for extruded parts such as wire, cable and hose. It is capable of high filler loading while maintaining robust physical properties. In addition, the company offers a full line of CPE grades for rubber and vinyl applications. Weipren CPE is manufactured by Weifang Yaxing Chemical and distributed in North America by this company, which also provides technical support. The firm also offers peroxides, coagents, blowing agents, bonding agents, silica, desiccants and other specialty chemicals.
Lianda
www.liandacorp.com |
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| Silicone Extruder |
Based on detailed input from many silicone processors, this company has developed a proprietary opening feed roller that, for the first time, enables fast and easy cleaning of the feed throat and/or removal of the feed roller. Beyond this primary benefit, there are two additional benefits to the new design. The scraper blade is said to be easily and precisely adjusted for optimal contact with the feed roll. Additionally, the feed roll itself can be internally cooled via a rotary union assembly to improve feeding and processing of difficult strip-fed materials. The Ultra R/S silicone machines range from .75” to 2.5” with a 12:1 L/D and can be completely customized to the customer’s specifications. The feed roll torque is fully adjustable with an included magnetic particle or pneumatic clutch powered from the gearbox input shaft. All drive components are off-the-shelf and commercially available. Ultra R/S extruders also come standard with a three-year warranty and complete set of mechanical and electrical spare parts included for the lowest possible long term cost of ownership.
American Kuhne
www.americankuhne.com |
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| Hydraulic Hopper |
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The firm's hydraulic hopper enhances the capabilities of its Intermix and Banbury mixers. The design is said to offer both smooth motion and rapid response to the positioning of the ram. The working pressure of the ram on the batch becomes a constant, and is not affected by variations in the plant air supply. This is said to result in improvements in product uniformity, process repeatability and further increases the performance of the batch mixer. The hydraulic hopper features a dedicated power unit specifically designed to maintain the working nature of the traditional pneumatic systems. This proprietary feature allows the system to supply uniform batch pressure and rapid ram motion, while still allowing the hopper to absorb pressure spikes inherent in the mixing process. This design is said to result in batch pressure consistency and improved dust stop performance over rigid hydraulic systems.
Farrel
www.farrel.com |
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| Rubber Extrusion Pump |
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Extrex RB and RV gear pumps are said to be finding increasing use by rubber extruders and compounders. Long used in the plastics industry, gear pumps are said to increase throughput, improve quality and allow straining without the limitations of conventional extruders. Extrex RB and RV pumps are said to be much more efficient pressure builders than extruders, reducing product temperature, and the pressure produced is much more uniform, providing better gauge control. They also eliminate scorching and backflow of material into the extruder.
Maag Pump Systems
www.maag.com |
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| Flywheel Cutter/Puller System |
Expanded capabilities are offered for the Model 50 flywheel cutter/puller systems. Model 50 systems utilize a flywheel with up to eight knives to cut extruded plastic or rubber parts at extremely high production rates. The new system design has an expanded cutting range. Systems can now perform any cutting rate from 75 to 12,000 parts/minute. Model 50 systems are used to produce washers, spacers and other small parts. The system can hold cut length tolerance to +/- 0.003” on many products. The Model 50 system's electronically linked flywheel and puller drives are said to assure consistent part length accuracy. A color touch screen interface is said to make set-up and operation quick and easy. The operator enters the number of knives installed, cut length and line speed. Systems are available with either pinch roll or caterpillar puller assemblies. Other options include drip lubrication for the cutter bushings, air opening/closing of the puller booms, a digital puller gap indicator, and bushings bored for round products, or custom made for profile products.
Versa Machinery
www.versamachinery.com |
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| Rubber Injection Molding Machines |
Based on increasing costs for energy, energy saving is not only an environmental topic. The company's cure system allows for savings on heating times of more than 50%. Curing technical rubber parts in half the time means doubling the production amount with the same consumption of energy. The energy costs are cut in half and additionally all the other resources are more efficient. Energy consumption during the curing process is optimized by side insulation of the heating platens. The machines can be equipped with further options to reduce energy consumption. An energy saving motor allows for reduction of the power consumption during all parts of the process. Special electronic devices provide shut off of the electric main motor when it is not needed. During idle flow periods, the consumption of the motor is reduced to the absolute minimum. A power facter correction directly at the machine itself at low costs is more efficient than a central compensation unit.
Maplan
www.maplan.at |
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| Benchtop Rheometer |
The Minitester rheometer is said to introduce a new standard in benchtop rubber testing instruments. This compact and lightweight design features a unique and patented drive system which does not have traditional bearings, and so maintenance is kept to an absolute minimum. A fully functional PC running Windows XP has been integrated into the design of the Minitester. This removes the use of an external PC, monitor, mouse and keyboard, saving valuable space in the laboratory, and also removes the need for trailing cables. The operator has full control of the Minitester via the built-in touchscreen, but a traditional mouse and keyboard can be fitted via the available PS2 or USB ports. A network port is standard equipment, making it easy to share data within the company LAN, according to the manufacturer. Also, the non-sealed die system means there are no expensive seals to replace, and keeps the sample preparation to a minimum. The temperature control is said to be the best in its class, and by way of an internal three term PID control algorithm, it is said to give accuracy better than 0.03°C. Because of its portable nature, the Minitester can be commissioned in just a few minutes without the need for complicated setup procedures. It can be shipped back to base for repairs and updates. The Labline software is a fully functional, intuitive application, giving automatic pass and fail test data with full recall of historical curves and on-line control charts.
Prescott Instruments
www.prescott-instruments.com |
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| Cure Reducing System |
The company's 968.560 Benchmark rubber injection machine is equipped with a high pressure Flow-Control+ injection unit. This 2,450 ccm (approximately 6.5 lb. shot) FIFO A (first in, first out) injection unit is capable of more than 42,000 psi (or 2,850 bar) injection pressure designed elastomers with de-manding processing requirements. This trial press is equipped with the company's FlowControl+ system, a fully adjustable cure-enhancing technology. The FlowControl+ actively controllable nozzle technology allows the capability to preselect the material outlet temperature from the injection nozzle very precisely. The system is already in production use and is said to convince with a high reproducibility and cure time reductions of 40% and more. Purpose-built software is said to simplify the material-depending pressure drop matrix determination and enable this directly on the injection machine. Then, an exact temperature of the elastomer at the injection nozzle outlet can be preselected for each compound and variably defined for each injection stage. Thus, a temperature input into the compound is realizable, depending on the article profile. The FlowControl+ concept was developed by combining the company's FlowControl cold runner technology with its patented FIFO injection units. The result is said to be an innovative, cure enhancing technology that has a fully adjustable nozzle which adds frictional heat energy to the rubber compound as it is being injected into the mold. The location of this technology at the interface of the injection unit to the mold is said to be the key to its success.
Desma KDE Sales and Service
www.desma-usa.com |
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| Seal Ring Production |
This company supplied a manufacturer of seal rings for plumbing applications a fully hydraulic horizontal rubber injection molding machine, the HSEF-E 4500/4000. This machine has 450 metric tons clamp force and 4,000 ccm injection volume. This horizontal rubber injection molding machine is designed for the fastest possible cycle time, floor space reduction and automation. The mold size is defined by the molded product and its large wall sections, consequently, the clamp specification needed to be adapted to accommodate these requirements. The heater platen size is 1,100 mm x 730 mm, the maximum distance between platens is 1,195 mm and the clamp travel stroke is 945 mm. Considering the large opening stroke and the fact that the 4,000 ccm injection unit has a 400 mm carriage stroke, the overall machine length of 6,700 mm provides the customer with a compact and space saving production unit.
LWB Steinl
www.lwb-us.com |
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| Horizontal Injection |
This provider of rubber, liquid silicone rubber, thermoplastic elastomer and dual material injection technology offers the H58, a horizontal machine with advanced control and improved clamping systems onboard. The H58 is a 255 metric ton press that accommodates molds to 450 mm (17.72") thickness, has heating platens measuring 550 mm x 550 mm (21.65" x 21.65") and shot capacities of 1,000/2,000 cc (34/58 oz.) as standard, with others available. Key improvements on this horizontal press include the G8 control, which comprises an onboard PC acting as the HMI, as well as Thermotrac 3 temperature control and Mastertrac auto calculation of the press/mold conditions for each designated part run on the machine. Dis-played conditions are in plain language and real time. Onboard fault diagnostics and programmed maintenance alerts are also provided. Optimal Curetrac 2 software to adjust cure time for process and ambient conditions, as well as RepNet-win, a Windows-based system of absolute process and production data management, are also available. The H58 is said to offer a documented 25% reduction in cycle times over the previous generation of presses. Piece part removal can be achieved from three sides.
Rep
www.rep.tm.fr |
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| Burn-Off Oven |
The company's hybrid radiant tube burn-off oven system is available for stripping rubber from metal. This oven system is said to reduce rubber to ash while controlling temperatures to a safe level for steel, aluminum and other metals. Oven temperatures are very uniform to ±10°F so that there are no hot or cold spots. The integral afterburner controls the smoke and fumes so that the process is environmentally friendly. The RT system is manufactured for long life using heavy duty construction, according to the manufacturer. The photo shows a batch load of rubber rollers after cleaning. The rubber has been reduced to a powdery ash. The rollers come out ready for remanufacturing.
Armature Coil Equipment
www.armaturecoil.com |
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| Rubber Injection Unit |
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The VREF-E 6300/6300 is an in-jection molding machine with a frame design clamp having 630 metric ton clamp force and 6,300 ccm shot volume, and features the company's Rapid Cure technology. This machine has a total weight of 25 metric tons and combines the industry-wide known benefits of the extreme stiff steel frame clamp construction, the full hy-draulic clamp force introduction, which is distributed equally over most of the clamp area and therefore reduces platen deflection to an absolute minimum, plus the EF-E injection unit, with its Rapid Cure technology, generating extremely short vulcanizing times. This machine is customized to meet the customer's needs and requirements. For customers using very thin but large tools, this machine is equipped with oversized heating platens measuring 900 mm x 1,000 mm and a special clamp stroke of 600 mm and a maximum daylight of 670 mm. This allows customers to use molds with mold heights as low as 70 mm. To allow fast mold changes, the machine is equipped with a quick mold clamping system, which is mounted to the top and bottom platen, as well as to all separators. This allows the customer to reduce the mold change times to a minimum. RapidCure technology is said to achieve the shortest possible cycle times.
LWB Steinl
www.lwb-us.com |
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| Trimmer/Deflasher |
The Model 242 vertical dual-head trimmer/deflasher has been introduced for any elastomer, thermoplastic or bonded metal insert part. The Model 242 cutting operation is said to offer the speed and accuracy to virtually eliminate problems with breakage or compromise on critical part dimensions for cryogenic deflashing. The Model 242 also features digital touchscreen controls and digital operating components that are said to provide quieter operation, closer tolerances, easier set-up and lower operating costs. The trimmer/deflasher is equipped with two digit-controlled oscillating knife blade units on top of a multi-task head plate. The blade angles are set by micrometer level in .1" increments of ±45° from the vertical with fast and easy adjustments, according to the company. The trimmer/deflasher can cut parts from 1" to 9" diameters with a .002" repeatable accuracy, according to the manufacturer.
Mitchell
www.mitchell-inc.com |
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| Belt Conveyor Oven |
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The No. 937 is a gas-heated, 500°F belt conveyor oven, currently used for curing rubber. Workspace dimensions measure 36" w x 68" d x 15" h. A modulating natural gas burner with 175,000 btu/hr. installed heats the unit, while a 3,300 cfm, 2 hp recirculating blower provides vertical downward airflow to the workload. This oven features a 6" long open belt loading zone, a 12" long insulated, unheated entrance vestibule, a 60" long insulated heating zone with recirculated airflow and a 12" long insulated unheated exit vestibule. The unit has 4" insulated walls throughout, an aluminized steel interior, a stainless exterior with #4 brushed finish and a 30" wide, 1" x 1" flat wire conveyor belt with a 1.4 hp motor drive, variable from 1-20 inches per minute. The oven also includes a digital indicating temperature controller.
Grieve
www.grievecorp.com |
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| Square Point Knives |
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Square point knives are available from the company with plastic handles in two styles. Plastic handles are said to eliminate the possibility of contamination from wood. The large, oval-shaped, cushion grip handle has a softer surface, making the knives easier to grip and reducing stress on the hand, according to the company. The more heat-resistant than wood handles are said to increase the useful life of the knife. These knives are recommended for use with the company's heaters. The knives are also available without the cushion grip or guard. The cushion grip and guard handle and plastic handle styles are offered with the company's 4" x 1", 6" x 1" and 8" x 1" blades.
Everhard Products
www.everhard.com |
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| Batching System |
The company's 16-ingredient rubber compound batching system is said to be designed to accurately process powdered chemicals and precisely weigh each ingredient, and to complete the final batching. The batching system consists of 13 two-speed electromagnetic vibratory feeders and three two-speed precision volumet-ric screw feeders made of 304 stainless steel. It also includes eight weigh stations that feature weigh bases with individual, electrically powered rollers. The company's Model MTU-2500 bulk bag unloaders supply the chemicals to the feeders. For optimum system performance, each powdered chemical was tested at the company's processing and testing center, and the system's feeders were selected based on accuracy and flowability of the product. During processing, materials are fed into a 2.5 cubic foot bin and weighed within ±0.01 pounds, with the final batching accuracy of ±0.05 pounds. The final batch is ready for the internal mixer. This company also supplies Allen Bradley system controls designed and built in the company's on-site UL-listed panel shop. The company is said to be a leading manufacturer of precision-engineered equipment, systems and controls for the rubber, plastics, chemical, recycling and other dry powder and solids processing industries.
Metso Minerals Industries
www.bestvibes.com |
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| Extrusion Die |
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The Series 819 EZ is a low-volume precision MediFlow extrusion die utilized by OEMs/medical/industrial manufacturers for fast, easy cleaning. When customers require the capability of producing advanced tubing that is sometimes as fine or even finer than a single human hair, the residue left in the chamber can create unnecessary and unwanted downtime because of the complexity of its cleaning and reassembly. In the Series 819 EZ, the company is said to be addressing these major concerns with easy cleaning and fast reassembling of the tooling. Specially engineered for the tiniest applications required by today's medical/OEM applications, in-cluding the latest minimally invasive arthroscopic surgical procedures, the Series 819 EZ for the next generation of medical tubing is said to have minimum concentricity, and wall thickness tolerances of just 0.0002" (0.00508 mm). This die is able to extrude products at sizes from 0.005" to 0.250" (0.0127 cm to 0.63500 cm). With the Series 819 EZ, a two-stage bolt system with the company's FeatherTouch, adjustment is said to be easy, with outstanding sealing capabilities, according to the company. After cleaning the die, reassembly is said to be simple.
Guill Tool & Engineering
www.guill.com |
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| Rubber Cutting Scissors |
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Airshirz Magnum pneumatic scissors are said to increase worker productivity while reducing muscle fatigue in rubber-cutting operations. These air-powered scissors are said to provide more than twice the cutting force of other pneumatic scissor models, and are said to provide welcome relief for sore hands. Lightweight yet powerful Airshirz Magnum scissors are said to provide clean, accurate cutting, snipping and trimming, resulting in less waste and a better-looking finished product, according to the company. Yet Airshirz scissors require approximately 90% less muscle activity to operate when compared to manual scissors, while at the same time maximizing operator control over both the blade position and the cutting speed. In addition to being ideal for rubber-cutting operations, Airshirz Magnum scissors are designed for use with other hard-to-cut materials.
Bettcher Industries
www.bettcher.com |
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| Conveyor Systems |
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Frequently referred to as a rope and disk conveyor, Aero-Mechanical Conveyors (AMC) are said to be ideal for transporting material from 10 to 85 feet at rates of up to 120 tons per hour. Benefits of the AMCs are said to include low energy requirements, dust-free transport with minimal product degradation and virtually no separation of mixtures. Besides total batch transport, AMCs are said to offer totally contained, dust-free delivery and operation at any angle, including vertical at heights up to 85 feet without any loss in capacity. The system can be set up as a straight-line operation or in a variety of around-the-corner configurations. Aero-Mechanical Conveyors consist of several evenly placed polyurethane discs attached to a wire rope. The rope and disks travel in a continuous loop and move at high speed within parallel steel tubes. An air stream fluidizes and conveys the product.
Spiroflow Systems
www.spiroflowsystems.com |
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| Twin Rotary Feeders |
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According to the company, vibratory energy is one of the most economical methods of conveying and screening material if it is applied correctly. The result is said to be an economical and energy efficient operation for added reliability, gentler product handling, optimum flexibility and significant savings due to enhanced productivity. Twin rotary feeders are primarily used for applications beyond the scope of an electromagnetic drive, and especially when the system needs to be over five feet in length or over 18 inches in width. The twin rotary motors enable the customer to process materials from 50 to 3,500 cubic feet per hour. Equipment ranges in size from 12 inches long and six inches wide to 28 feet long and four feet wide. Depending on the application, the system can be used to feed, convey, screen or elevate material. Other twin rotary equipment available from the company includes tubular conveyors, Vibraflo circular screens that complement the firm's line of vibrating screens, and vibratory plastic pellet screens. The twin rotary vibrators and screens powered by dual motors are said to be powerful, yet gentle for handing a variety of materials.
Gough Econ
www.goughecon.com |
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| All-Electric Molding |
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An all-electric tiebarless machine features a fully integrated six-axis robot, and can be used to process an original application with Viton fluoroelastomer. The E-Motion 310/110 US machine can run a 64-cavity valve-gated mold with in-mold slitting, according to the manufacturer. The part being molded is an OEM check valve, which would traditionally be compression or transfer molded. Traditional molding methods are said to be high labor/high waste, according to the company. By utilizing the accuracy of the firm's all-electric machine, and the addition of a fully-integrated six-axis robot, the company offers a solution which is said to eliminate labor, reduce waste and provide the consistency and accuracy required for today's manufacturing environment. Additional benefits are said to include the ability to switch between strip rubber, liquid silicone rubber and even thermoplastics with simple screw and barrel change-over, giving ultimate molding flexibility; repeatability and reliability of an all-electric machine; 30-40% energy savings compared to traditional hydraulic machines; and touch screen control, according to the company.
Engel
www.engelglobal.com |
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| Water-Based Mold Release |
MoldWiz 985JB is a concentrated water-based mold release that is said to provide value, while reducing hazardous volatile emissions in SMC/BMC molding operations. The proprietary mold release formula is said to be an easy wetting, quick drying solution that is 36% active. MoldWiz 985JB can be diluted with plain tap water and minimal agitation, permitting the molder to fashion an economical and effective mold release, while avoiding storage and handling of hazardous and flammable solvents. Once diluted, the mold release will remain fully emulsified, and does not require constant agitation, according to the company. A 5% solution of MoldWiz 985JB is said to provide easy release in SMC/BMC operations, yielding clean parts that are ready for secondary operations. The formulation of MoldWiz 985JB concentrate contains no hazardous materials, making it friendly to both the user and the environment. The product's neutral pH and quick drying nature are said to make it non-corrosive, and therefore suitable for use on steel and aluminum molds, as well as most other mold substrates. MoldWiz 985JB is simple to use, accor-ding to the manufacturer.
Axel Plastics Research Laboratories
www.axelplast.com |
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| Liquid Silicone Rubbers |
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Silbione brand soft liquid silicone rubber (LSR) products for the healthcare market are said to combine strong physicals and easy processing at 5, 10 and 25 durometer A hardnesses. These low durometer products are said to incorporate the distinctive advantages of the company's established Silbione 30 to 70 durometer A LSR product line, including easy processing, easy release and high performance physical properties. The company's 10 durometer LSR, Silbione LSR 4310, is said to be a breakthrough product offering higher elongation and 50% greater tear strength than other 10 durometer A LSR products currently available. The high tear strength, elongation and resiliency of the company's 25 durometer LSR, Silbione LSR 4325, are said to make it ideal for stretch and return type applications like balloon catheters. The company's 5 durometer Silbione LSR 4305 is said to offer soft, tacky, gel-like features ideal for cushioning applications. The superior tear strength and easy processing of these products are said to offer molders the advantages of improved productivity by reducing scrap and defects in the production process, according to the company. These LSRs are said to be ideal for healthcare applications.
Bluestar Silicones
www.bluestarsilicones.com |
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| HNBR Alternatives |
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This company is said to be providing viable hose and seal solutions for the latest generation of biodiesel fuels and high performance engines with its newest grades of Therban hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR) polymers, including Therban AT A 5005, Therban AT C 5065 and Therban A 5008 (standard Mooney viscosity). Therban products are said to have excellent mechanical, dynamic and low temperature properties, as well as a high resistance to heat, oils and abrasion. Therban AT grades have an average Mooney viscosity of only 39 (ML [1+4] @ 100°C), compared to a typical Mooney of 70 or more for standard grades. The ultra high acrylonitrile (ACN) content of these Therban AT products is said to be especially valuable for dealing with biodiesel fuels and high performance engines because they allow for maximum resistance to the fuel, according to the company. Therban AT A 5005 and AT C 5065 polymers are said to be especially distinctive for combining three unique performance characteristics for a fast and cost-effective process. First, the ultra high ACN content is said to allow for maximum fluid and fuel resistance. The products' improved processability is said to offer the benefits of easier mixing, faster injection molding cycles, faster extrusion rates and smoother surfaces/edges of extruded parts. The increase in filler levels is said to lower costs.
Lanxess
www.lanxess.com |
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| Triallyl Isocyanurate |
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This global specialty chemicals manufacturer has introduced SR533R, a scorch-retarding version of triallyl isocyanurate (TAIC). This coagent allows formulators to mitigate the rapid onset of scorch, and increase in-process and cure scorch safety while maintaining cured physical properties. SR533R scorch-retarding coagent is said to be effective in the peroxide cure of elastomers for demanding applications such as oil and gas exploration, aerospace seals, and automotive and off-road gaskets that encounter sustained high temperatures and pressures. This U.S.-based company provides a variety of specialty chemicals, including more than 700 monomers and oligomers, polybutadiene resins, styrene maleic anhydride resins and other specialty chemicals, designed to enhance processing and performance characteristics of a variety of materials.
Sartomer
www.sartomer.com |
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| Mold Releases |
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A family of light-colored terpene phenolic resins is offered in varying softening point ranges. These ISO-certified resins are said to be ideally suited for both EVA/SBC-based hot melts, as well as solvent-based acrylic and natural rubber-based PSAs. The lower softening point grades are used in sealants based on butyl rubber and polyurethane. The higher softening point grades are said to impart excellent heat stability and superior green strength in both PSA and contact cement formularies, according to the company. This specialty chemical distributor specializes in the adhesives, coatings and rubber industries.
Loos & Dilworth
www.loosanddilworth.com |
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| Tertiary Amine |
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Vulcofac ACT 55 is a tertiary amine complex with a high catalytic effect. It has been developed for use in ACM and AEM elastomers with acidic pending groups, and it activates the reaction between acidic groups and diamine crosslinkers. Vulcofac ACT 55 is a safe, non-carcinogenic accelerator developed and commercialized by Safic-Alcan in 2006 as a replacement to guanidine accelerators, i.e., DOTG and DPG. Used proportions are in the range of 1.5 to 2.0 phr. This company is the exclusive distributor of this product for North America.
ChemSpec Ltd.
www.chemspecltd.com |
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| Nanofiber Matrices |
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This company, formed from a partnership of Struktol Company of America and the University of Akron, has started production of Nanosan, a nanostructured nonwoven. SNS is said to combine Struktol's experience with additives and the polymer expertise of the University of Akron to develop a unique niche in nanofiber production. What differentiates Nanosan from other nano-nonwovens is the incorporation of particles into the nanofiber matrix. Using proprietary technology, various types of particles, or additives, can be either entrapped in the nanofiber matrix or encapsulated within the nanofibers. By varying the type of polymer nanofiber, as well as the additive, virtually any characteristic imaginable can be achieved, according to the company. Nanosan nonwovens are said to be suitable for many diverse applications. Nanosan can be produced in larger quantities at a substantially lower cost than conventional nanofibers, according to the firm.
SNS Nano Fiber Technology
www.snsnano.com |
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| Phthalate-Free TPU |
A phthalate (plasticizer)-free, very stretchable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) alloy is said to offer enhanced product design and application parameters for medical product and other designers and manufacturers. With a vertical elongation of 800% and higher, plus a high tensile strength, the Neuthane soft-grade N8511 H Series of TPU alloys makes the new material ideally suited for applications that include disposable thin-wall extruded tubing used in laparoscopic surgery procedures. Favorable stretch characteristics are said to enable instruments of various sizes to be inserted into the molded product. Shore A hardness can be between 65 or 75, depending on the formulation, giving the end product an additional benefit, i.e., preferred softness. The compounded materials crystallize quickly to offer molding characteristics similar to plasticized TPUs of the same hardness. The TPU is not sticky or tacky. Prior to the introduction of this type of TPU, plasticizers had to be used to make the material softer, although use of plasticizers can often result in gradual rehardening.
New England Urethane
www.neuinc.com |
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| Thermoplastic Olefin Elastomers |
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Telcar OBC thermoplastic olefin (TPO) elastomers are said to exceed by a wide margin the performance and softness limitations of conventional TPOs, and exhibit processing and physical property advantages over a wide range of other thermoplastic elastomers, according to the company. Telcar OBC TPO compounds are blends of a rigid polyolefin and Infuse olefin block copolymers (OBC) from Dow. Conventional TPOs have rubber phases consisting of EPDM rubber or random ethylene copolymers. Olefin block copolymer technology from Dow is said to yield elastomers that bridge previous cost-performance gaps and that represent a true alternative to styrenic block copolymer TPEs. Telcar OBC TPOs are said to exhibit substantially enhanced physical properties, exceptional processability, and a versatility, in terms of hardness range and fabrication techniques, that is truly remarkable, according to the manufacturer. Telcar OBC compounds are said to exhibit pronounced advantages over standard TPEs.
Teknor Apex
www.teknorapex.com |
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| Adhesive Technology |
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Stern Industries, a polymer components developer and manufacturer for the automotive, recreational vehicle, medical, electronic, heating and cooling, agriculture and plumbing markets, sought assistance from this global developer and manufacturer of products and technologies that provides superior adhesion and bonding, controls motion and minimizes the effects of shock and vibration. Stern uses the company's Chemlok adhesives to bond rubber to metal in many demanding applications, from aerospace to recreational applications, using a wide variety of substrate and elastomer combinations. Traditionally, Stern applied the adhesives using a hand lay-up and spray system. After a variety of trials, including process control for thickness, viscosity and environmental impact, it was determined that a semi-automated dip system would allow Stern to supply their products in a faster and more cost-effective manner. The dip system utilizes a proprietary cleaning system to degrease the substrate. The product is then brought to a primer tank, dipped, allowed to dry on custom racking, brought to an adhesion tank, dipped, and then dried before going to the molding operation. Stern worked with this supplier to determine how the adhesives may react in different processing scenarios. The dip system was chosen due to the geometry of the casting and ease of implementation.
Lord
www.lord.com |
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| Gasket/Stopper TPEs |
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This manufacturer of high-performance, custom-formulated thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) is launching a portfolio of specialty Versaflex TPEs engineered for dynamic-seal gaskets and static-seal stoppers for the healthcare industry. This product line is said to be the first component of a complete, phthalate-free fluid delivery packaging platform that will leverage the enhanced performance, design flexibility and systems cost benefits of TPEs vs. traditional thermoset elastomers. The materials are said to support regulatory and eco-initiatives by avoiding halogens, polynuclear aromatics (PNAs), nitrosamines, 2-MBT and other controversial additives. In addition to providing a range of properties, the TPE grades can be customized for specific customer requirements. In addition to exceptional cleanliness, low permeation, leachables and extractables, and formulation without potentially harmful additives, the Versaflex TPEs are said to provide highly effective sealing performance to safeguard the integrity of medical fluids, according to the company. They are also said to be ideal for overmolding onto polyolefins to avoid points of failure from discrete components. As a superior alternative to traditional thermosets, these TPEs can help device manufacturers meet the increasingly stringent demands of today's healthcare market, according to the manufacturer.
GLS
www.glscorporation.com |
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| Performance Colorants |
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The company's high performance (HP) colorants are available for replacement of traditional heavy metal based pigments. The HP dispersions can be utilized where weathering, exterior exposure and high temperature have precluded the use of normal organic pigments. In the past, this kind of color space could only be filled with lead chromates, cadmiums and molys, according to the company. The firm's HP colorants are said to be a proven way to formulated "green." Many of the HP products have FDA status. All are said to be free if heavy metals. Expert colorant consultants are available from the company to help customers design products to satisfy the most demanding applications.
Akrochem
www.akrochem.com |
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| HT-ACM Grades |
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Two grades of HyTemp HT-ACM are said to give engineers added options for designing high-performance automotive parts. HyTemp AR214 and HyTemp AR13FR are said to be innovative polyacrylate elastomers developed to suit an even wider range of demanding heat and oil resistant applications. HyTemp AR214 is designed for use in transmission oil cooler hoses and other automotive parts requiring advanced properties, including the improved compression set and sealing force retention provided by HT-ACM cure site technology. Combining many of the benefits of Nipol AR14 with improved processing safety, HyTemp AR214 is said to offer a broad service temperature range from -40°C to 160°C, and has been optimized for extrusion and injection molding applications. HyTemp AR13FR was developed for powertrain seals and gaskets, and is said to offer significantly improved fuel resistance over traditional ACMs and HT-ACMs. With a service temperature range of -30°C to 160°C, HyTemp AR13FR is said to combine the heat resistance of an ACM with fuel resistance approaching NBR levels, a significant improvement over AEM and traditional ACMs. Like AR214, it features the improved compression set and sealing force retention achieved by polymerizing with the HT-ACM cure-site technology. This company offers a complete line of Hy-Temp high-temperature ACMs developed for challenging projects. HyTemp AR212HR was designed to withstand continuous heat to 180°C and intermittent heat to 200°C, with a superior scorch safety factor for improved processing in charge air cooler and transmission oil cooler hoses, air ducts and more. HyTemp AR12 is also said to offer excellent compression set, sealing force retention and long-term retention of physical properties for a variety of automotive parts, according to the company.
Zeon Chemicals
www.zeonchemicals.com |
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| Hardness Test Stand |
The CL-150R1 (for Type A and Type Asker C durometers) is a hardness test stand for printer rollers with pneumatic speed control and a v-block specimen holder. The CL-150R1 constant load stand is said to eliminate speed and load variables which occur when hand-testing samples with a durometer. The test speed and load the durometer applies to the sample are kept constant with pneumatic speed control and a standard weight. Round objects are said to present other problems. The CL-150R1 is equipped with a unique coupling which allows the durometer foot to self-align and make complete contact with the specimen surface, regardless of angle, according to the company. The specimen holder with v-blocks se-cures the roller and can be adjusted so that the roller may be tested at any point. An anti-rotation feature holds position, even after measuring. The CL-150R1 hardness tester allows precise measurement of various types of rubber rollers used in printers and copiers, according to the manufacturer. This company is said to provide top quality measurement instruments, including durometers, stroboscopes, digital tachometers, digital torque testers and data acquisition software, at the lowest prices to meet the needs of engineers and quality control personnel across a broad range of industries. All calibrations and repairs done in the firm's laboratory are performed using properly calibrated equipment.
Hoto Instruments
www.hoto-instruments.com |
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| Durometer Testing |
The Max-Hand Model 2000 durometer is the company's latest innovation for the testing of specimens with creep. The Model 2000 has a max-hand and an active hand for observing the creep characteristics of a specimen. What makes the Model 2000 unique is the magnetic-drag maximum reset mechanism, according to the company. The user simply rotates the reset knob on the front of the gauge to clear the previous reading. The simplicity of the reset mechanism is said to ensure a lifetime of use, and makes the Model 2000 the most affordable durometer for testing specimens with creep. Features of the Max-Hand Mo-del 2000 durometer are said to include the ability to read maximum and creep; cost-effective and hand-operated use; the ability to hold maximum reading until reset; a custom carrying case; a one-year warranty; and it conforms to ASTM D-2240 and is NIST traceable. The company's analog and digital durometer models are used to measure the hardness of non-metallic materials, such as rubber, plastic, foam, etc. A durometer works by measuring the penetration of the gauge's indentor under the specific conditions of a given durometer standard.
Rex Gauge
www.durometer.com |
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| Precision Weighers |
The ongoing business relationship between this company and Planters Clayton has continued recently with the supply of three weighers for the expansion of a rubber crumb production plant in Europe. Precision weighing and reliable operation are said to have been the hallmark of thousands of E55 installations for 27 years. The simple, uncluttered design is said to have made the E55 the first choice weigher for process industries worldwide. Baling press manufacturer Planters Clayton had a special requirement for a robust system to weigh precision batches of rubber crumb into their high capacity balers. The EE39 version of the company's weigher was built to meet exacting requirements. The EE39 is said to feature a robust, reliable design for trouble-free operation, reduced downtime and lower maintenance costs. The innovative weigh hopper design on the EE39 is said to provide clean, rapid discharge of the warm rubber crumb. Current EE39 projects with Planters Clayton utilize SpeedAC NXT controllers for enhanced operating accuracy for every weighment, and compliance with the most stringent international regulatory weighing requirements. EE39 weighers are said to be simple to install and calibrate, and provide heavy duty weighing cycles, batch after batch, according to the company.
Chronos Richardson Ltd.
www.chronosrichardson.com |
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| Concentricity Testing |
This provider of testing equipment designed to evaluate mechanical properties of materials and components offers its enhanced AlignPro system for real-time concentricity and angularity adjustment under load. AlignPro effectively measures unwanted specimen bending due to loadstring misalignment. This is said to improve the accuracy of test data by ensuring the load string is correctly aligned before testing. The software and electronics are fully compatible with the existing AlignPro fixture and strain-gauge specimens. The AlignPro system consists of an alignment fixture, a strain-gauged specimen, software and electronics. For increased testing flexibility, the compact and portable electronics can be carried around the laboratory from machine to machine. Additionally, the system supports both eight and twelve gauge alignment cells. The alignment cells are said to have a durable and rugged design. They are said to feature improved protection of the strain gauges, making handling easier, superior robust gauge attachment and clear cell marking, making installation quicker and simpler, according to the manufacturer.
Instron
www.instron.com |
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| Automated Viscometer |
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An automated relative viscometer (ARV) system is offered for the determination of relative, intrinsic, inherent, specific and absolute viscosity, as well as molecular weight. The automated RV system features the company's relative viscometer, a patented, dual-capillary viscometer specifically designed to measure the viscosities of dilute polymer solutions. The relative viscometer is said to provide faster analysis, greater accuracy, better precision and less solvent exposure when compared to conventional glass tubes. The system consists of the Vortex integrated autosampler/autopreparation module.
Viscotek
www.viscotek.com |
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| UV Curing Cells |
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This company is said to offer competence in UV curing cells for rheometers by extending its accessory range. This is said to meet an increased industry trend to replace thermal curing in UV-assisted thermal curing processes to improve product properties or increase productivity. Customers can select between three UV measuring set-ups. The standard version of a UV measuring cell can be mounted onto a temperature control unit and is suitable for UV curing materials such as inks at ambient temperature. A UV cell for thermal assisted curing processes at higher temperatures is available for the Haake Mars. It is integrated into the rheometer's controlled test chamber and covers a temperature range from -150 to 600°C. A customizable UV cell with freely configurable distances is offered for optical components.
Thermo Fisher Scientific
www.thermo.com |
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| Intelligent Camera |
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The VCSBC4012 camera has been introduced, thereby extending the company's VC BoardCam range of intelligent cameras without a housing suitable for demanding industrial applications. Available in large quantities, the Smart Cameras are said to provide an optimal price/performance ratio. The 5 mega pixel units are designed especially for OEM manufacturers. Two digital in-puts and four outputs are available on-board.
Vision Components
www.vision-comp.com |
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| Temperature Measuring Sensors |
All-purpose infrared thermometers are available from the company. The single wavelength Gold Series is a non-contact temperature measuring sensor with either fiber optic or laser aiming, and is used for very diverse applications. The sensors are protected in stainless steel enclosures and include a built-in digital display for local viewing. The temperature monitoring limits for these sensors are 0-4,500°F (20-2,500°C). The Gold 30 uses a small fiber optic cable that consists of a bundle of infrared fibers in a sealed stainless steel sheathing to view the target while the sensor is mounted in a remote or more convenient location. It is used for accessible targets and in hostile environments. Fiber optic cable lengths can vary from 3 to 30 feet (1-9 m). In addition, the fiber optic cable can survive ambient exposures up to 400°F (200°C), and with Teflon jacket protection it will survive very harsh environments of dirt, smoke, water and oils, plus it is immune to induction fields (EMI). It has a built-in aim light option for precise and easy alignment, according to the company. The Gold 20 has the option of laser aiming to accurately pinpoint the target area up close or at a distance. The basic design has line-of-sight aiming for large targets. This sensor has selected infrared filtering for rubber, plastics and general purpose low temperature applications. The company's Gold series has a calibration accuracy of 0.25% of reading, repeatability of 1°C, a response time of 10-50 ms and a variety of field of view (optical) configurations. It is available as a stand-alone sensor for direct computer interface or as a system with remote 1/4 DIN display that includes output options of 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, and RS232 and RS485. Accessories are also available.
Williamson
www.williamsonir.com |
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| Viscometer |
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The redesigned DV-II+Pro viscometer features an updated shape, color scheme and keypad layout. The DV-II+Pro provides continuous viscosity sensing, temperature measurement and data display. It features bi-directional communication when used with a dedicated computer. Utilizing the company's Rheocalc32 software, the instrument can be totally controlled by the computer. The DV-II+Pro viscometer is said to offer simplicity of operation for single point viscosity measurement, or it can be configured to run automated tests in standalone mode for comprehensive flow cure characterization.
Brookfield Engineering
www.brookfieldengineering.com |
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| Video Measurement |
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The Galileo AV350 video measurement system is an intermediate travel multi-sensor metrology instrument offering a large, square, 14" x 14" (350 mm x 350 mm) X/Y work area and extra Z-clearance at 8" (200 mm). The large Z-clearance, combined with extra rigidity, is said to provide the necessary space for multi-sensor attachments, including vision, contact probe and laser scanning. The Galileo AV350 is said to be ideal for use in QC labs, research, engineering and manufacturing environments.
L.S. Starrett
www.starrett.com |
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| Circulators |
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An extensive line of thermostatically controlled low temperature baths and circulators is available from the company. These precision cooling systems are said to be ideal for many routine applications, as well as sensitive analytical procedures, including spectrometry, viscometry, refractometry and electrophoresis. A choice of four thermostatic controllers and five refrigeration units is said to enable the configuration of an efficient, cost-effective system.
Grant Instruments
www.grantsci.com |
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| Force Testing |
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The Chatillon TCD225 Series is an advanced force testing system that can be set up in seconds to perform virtually any type of test. The TCD Series is said to be the answer for customers who want to perform simple or multi-variable testing without relying on a personal computer or complex software. The system was designed to match the needs of production personnel, providing them with a graphical interface for setup, large, easy-to-read displays, help prompts and intelligent messaging, according to the company. The TCD225 Series collects data at a true 1,000 samples per second, and is said to offer the ultimate in security.
Ametek Measurement & Calibration
www.ametek.com |
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| Rotational Rheometer |
Development of the Kinexus rotational rheometer platform is said to have been shaped by extensive market research and a fresh approach to addressing the real needs of users. Designed entirely from the ground up, Kinexus is said to redefine the rheometer, according to the company. It enables users to spend less time learning how to interact with their system and more time investigating ways to characterize and enhance a material's performance. Kinexus incorporates technological innovations in the most critical areas of rheometer design, from sample preparation and loading, through measurement set-up and operation, to data analysis and reporting. Adaptive intelligence allows Kinexus to actively guide users at every stage, according to the manufacturer. Fully integrated into the company's materials characterization range, Kinexus is said to deliver high performance measurement supported worldwide by experts in rheology applications, and informed by the company's expertise in complex materials, including particulate, macromolecular and multiphase systems. Kinexus Pro is a high end rheometer, and Kinexus Ultra is for the most demanding low torque applications.
Malvern Instruments
www.malvern.com |
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| Extensometer |
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The requirements for an extensometer are determined primarily by the characteristics of the material to be tested. This includes its shape and dimensions, test requirements, and the formal standards which must be met. These define the gauge length, accuracy, test sequence and environmental conditions. However, the right choice of ex-tensometer cannot be limited to the basic material characteristics, such as specimen dimensions, stiffness, strength and plasticity alone. It is also necessary to decide whether an extensometer can be connected directly to the specimen without influencing the load measurement or mechanically damaging the specimen itself. Contact type extensometers measure extension extremely accurately and are very cost-effective. Non-contact extensometers are required when the specimen is sensitive to notching knife edges or when the extensometer might be damaged at specimen break. In short, there is no such device as a universal extensometer. The large range of applications demands various, different devices. Users of the company's testing equipment are said to benefit from the wide range of extensometers available, as well as expert advice and consultation, together with the possibility to carry out pre-testing in the applications laboratory before purchase to make sure that the optimum device is chosen for each testing application.
Zwick Roell Group
www.zwick.com |
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| Quality Control Systems |
Mixing facility control systems that focus on customer needs, ease-of-use, service and 24/7 on-line support are provided by this company. These systems typically control the mixer, automatic and manual weigh systems, mill, drop-extruder and batch-off. Integration of inventory control, laboratory testing, scheduling, historical data, reporting and analysis, and business systems links can also be provided by the company. The Mix Vision software runs on the Microsoft Win-dows platform, which can be tailored to coordinate all stages of the mixing process. Mix Vision provides users with secure access to all the real-time and historical data for the entire mixing process. Systems are designed to provide complete mixing process control with maximum flexibility and ensured consistency, according to the manufacturer.
Mesabi Control Engineering
www.mesabicontrol.com |
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| Tire Audit System |
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This developer of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology for supply chain applications focusing on the tire management industry announced its assistance in creating and implementing a fully electronic, paperless system for auditing fleet tires, said to be the first of its kind in Europe. The company's U.K.-based subsidiary entered an agreement to provide its FastCheck tire products to Entyrety Ltd., a provider of training and support services for the automotive and related industries. The paperless system uses FastCheck software, and is said to have automated the old, manually compiled, paper-based report, taking days and significant costs out of the fleet audit process. Deploying this advanced system is said to have brought substantial improvements to the firm's ability to deliver far higher levels of service to its fleet customers. They are able to complete a fleet audit in the morning, and using the newly automated reporting, deliver the full audit report to the customer in the afternoon.
Advanced ID
www.advancedidcorp.com |
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| Shop Floor Software |
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D2W and EasySCP are software packages for factory floor management. D2W stands for "door to workshop," a name said to summarize the concept of a door that is always open on the raw material and production departments. The basic idea is to create a network for sharing the data recorded by the single monitoring systems on the various machines. A user company obtains processed data, statistics, analyses, reports, and predictions on the trends of single machines and on the general trend of the production department. A primary advantage of D2W is said to lie in reducing the time and cost of human control. A video surveillance system monitors the production trends and, in the case of codified extraordinary events (e.g., machine stoppages, foreign bodies in the production line, power failures, accidents on the production line), it is activated and sends alarm signals to the personnel responsible. With the software, company managers are promptly in-formed of danger or alarm situations.
Brandywine Technology
www.brandywineonline.com |
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| Mobile SPC |
The wireless mobility needs of quality assurance professionals are said to be met with a mini-notebook computer and real-time statistical process control (SPC) software application for a combined package price of under $1,000. The Synergy 200A bundle features a compact 2.2 lb. computer pre-loaded with the company's entry level Synergy SPC software for personnel who want to conduct quality checks as they move freely about their production facility. The Synergy SPC software application is designed for data collection, charting, and process monitoring, analysis and reporting of an unlimited number of variable (dimensional measurement) characteristics for each manufactured part, assembly or process. When not performing SPC, Synergy 200A users can access email, the internet, spreadsheet, word processing, presentation software or other business applications they care to install on the ample hard drive. Based on the latest networking technologies, Synergy 200A includes 10/100 ethernet and Wi-Fi wireless connectivity.
Zontec
www.zontec-spc.com |
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| Batch Control |
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With the release of the Centum VP integrated production control system, the company's platform for the VigilantPlant Operational Excellence initiative, Centum VP batch control capabilities have also been upgraded and enhanced and provided as an addition to the core platform. Centum VP for batch control is said to provide features and functions suitable for the chemical and specialty chemical industries, and any other batch applications. Based upon ISA-88 and IEC61512 standards, the batch functionality provides recipe management and process management functions layered upon the unit supervision and process control activities within Centum VP. As with its predecessor, Centum CS Batch 3000, the function of unit supervision is a standard feature of the Centum VP system and is tightly integrated with the controller and operator interface. One enhancement to Centum VP for batch is the configurable unit faceplate that allows monitoring and execution of the batch utilizing a unique interface, according to the company. Using the custom faceplate feature of Centum VP, the unit faceplate provides a dashboard for a unit. It supports the ability to display different types of unit information and control options, including trends, unit status, allocation status and commands/statuses from a customizable unit state model. Centum VP maintains core features of running the unit recipe in a dual redundant controller environment.
Yokogawa Corporation of America
www.yokogawa.com |
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| Tire Valve Testing |
This provider of tire and wheel testing services for passenger cars, sport utility vehicles, and light and commercial trucks since 1970 is capable of testing the performance and quality of rubber snap-in tubeless tire valves. The firm tests rubber snap-in tire valves in accordance with SAE J1205 and J1206 specifications, which state that a rubber snap-in valve is a tire valve having a rigid housing adhered to a resilient body designed to retain and seal the valve in the rim hole. These requirements are intended for, but not limited to, highway applications, and the company conducts more than a dozen tests over a period of one week to determine the properties of manufactured tire valves. Although they are a relatively small component in tires, rubber snap-in tubeless valves must operate properly or else risk damage to the whole tire, according to the company. Recent recalls of millions of rubber snap-in valves are said to demonstrate the crucial need to inspect these components for surface cracks or other types of malfunction. As an independent test facility, this company is said to have the experience and resources needed to determine if tire valve properties meet the necessary safety requirements established by engineering experts.
Standards Testing Laboratories
www.stllabs.com |
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| Custom Molding |
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Intricately shaped parts and products, custom molded from today's most advanced elastomers, are one of this company's specialties. Unlike molders which focus largely on the mass production of standard items from traditional elastomers, this company concentrates on the custom development and production of precision-finished small parts distinguished by their complex geometries and tight tolerances. Although the company works routinely with traditional natural and synthetic rubber compounds, such as urethane or silicones, this firm is often said to be called upon to mold products from today's ad-vanced elastomers, such as fluoroelastomers and polyphosphazene. From its 8,500 square foot plant, this company manufactures a wide range of parts varying in size, shape, color and hardness. Capabilities are said to include injection, transfer and compression molding, robotic processing, post-production trimming, cryogenic deflashing and rubber-to-metal bonding. This company also maintains, under one roof, a full array of complementary services embracing every phase of product development, from formulation and mixing of the rubber compound, through design and machining of tools, dies and molds, to construction of a prototype and full production. As an example, the firm produces elastomer dust seal rings for use in helicopter precision rotor bearing assemblies.
Pelmor Laboratories
www.pelmor.com |
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| Autoclave Parts |
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This designer, manufacturer and installer of rubber curing and vulcanizing autoclaves offers replacement parts and gaskets for rubber curing autoclave systems. Gaskets are available from stock and normally shipped within 24 hours. Special orders for custom fabricated gaskets can be filled. The firm can also arrange for the tooling of a custom extrusion die or source a special gasket compound for specific applications.
McGill AirPressure
www.mcgillairpressure.com |
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| Medical Testing |
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This rubber testing laboratory has expanded its current array of medical testing capabilities with an all-new GMP compliant facility. This laboratory, dedicated to clients in the medical and pharmaceutical fields, enables the firm to help minimize clients' risks inherent in bringing new medical, pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical products to market. Available services include extractable/leachable profiles of any polymer-based product; compendial testing to USP 381 and 661 standards; permeation of chemotherapy drugs through medical gloves and other elastomeric film products; elastomer and plastic component exhaustive analyses, and more.
Akron Rubber Development Laboratory
www.ardl.com |
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| Rubber Recycling |
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Process technology is said to, for the first time, truly recycle mixed and dirty rubber and plastic trash into monomers and solvents. The end product is said to be an alternative to crude oil and natural gas for feedstock for engineering polymers, and can reduce the USA's dependence on foreign oil by 3.5% (and up to 7%) when fully implemented, according to the company. The Polyflow product is said to eliminate particulates and reduces by 70% the greenhouse gas emissions produced by the incineration of rubber and plastic waste. Development of the patent-pending Polyflow process is complete and is run in 1/2 ton batches.
Polyflow
www.polyflowcorp.com |
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| Servohydraulic Maintenance |
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This provider of testing equipment solutions designed to evaluate mechanical properties of materials and components has launched its servohydraulic maintenance program, designed to minimize downtime, increase the operating life of a system, and ensure the accuracy and repeatability of test results. The four-point program includes an oil analysis and preventative maintenance.
Instron
www.instron.com |
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| Liquid Coating |
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