Category: Process
Fixed vs. Closed Dimensions for Rubber Molds
When manufacturing rubber parts, understanding fixed dimensions (machined cavity spaces) and closed dimensions (where mold halves meet) is crucial for proper mold design. Engineers must consider various factors including shrinkage, tolerances, and flash formation to create parts that meet functional requirements while following industry standard tolerance classifications.
Natural Rubber vs. EPDM
The blog post explores the differences between natural rubber and EPDM synthetic rubber, discussing EPDM’s development driven by natural rubber supply limitations and wartime demands. It details EPDM’s superior properties, including weather and chemical resistance, and its diverse applications across automotive, construction, and industrial sectors.
The Three Different Types of Rubber Molding Methods
Rubber molding is a versatile manufacturing process used across industries like off-highway, medical, agriculture, and automotive. The three main types are compression molding, injection molding, and transfer molding, each offering distinct benefits for creating various rubber components with different specifications and requirements.
Deep-Dive Into the Compression Molding Process
Compression molding transforms vulcanized rubber into strong, precision components through a high-pressure process that creates parts vital for reducing noise and friction in machines. This cost-effective method uses heated molds and pressure to produce durable rubber components that meet specific engineering requirements and quality standards.
Custom Solutions: Prototyping and Reverse Engineering
Custom molded rubber parts can be obtained through prototyping or reverse engineering. Prototyping creates new designs through 3D printing or molding, ideal for unique parts or specific material requirements. Reverse engineering recreates existing parts without available specifications, commonly used for discontinued items or material modifications.
Custom Fabrication: Molded Rubber Parts
Custom molded rubber parts allow manufacturers to specify exact components with desired properties, materials, and designs. Various polymers like silicone, neoprene, and natural rubber offer different characteristics for specific applications. Manufacturing methods include injection, compression, and transfer molding, with rubber-to-metal bonding often essential for durability.