Cord impregnation.

An innovative process for reinforcing rubber extrusions is said to improve their performance and help the never-ending quest to drive down costs in the automotive industry. Certain molded rubber goods are said to benefit from the inclusion of reinforcement in the form of individual fibers or textiles. In the case of rubber seals for doors and windows, this reinforcement restricts stretching during processing and installation. This is said to ensure that any joints will be stable without a tendency to open up and cause leakage, yet leave other beneficial properties such as flexibility unaffected. In order to achieve reasonable adhesion between the rubber and the cord during manufacture, the reinforcement is treated with a suitable material that will bond it strongly to the rubber. By replacing the current resorcinol-formaldehyde latex (RFL) technology with reactive impregnation, far greater levels of adhesion are said to be achieved. This is said to bring about a number of benefits for manufacturers, including extended product life and better resistance to heat, chemicals and oil. (NGF Canada)

Circle 108 on card