How rubber is bonded to metal
In order to bond rubber to metal, you first need to take a look at the elastomer type in question. Most mounts use either natural rubber or synthetic neoprene, and various fillers need to be added to get the right level of properties into the rubber. These are evened out throughout the material and then made into pellets or strips, depending on how the rubber will be used in the moulding process.
To start the bonding procedure, the metal enclosures are initially are ready in body for production utilizing a degreasing system to keep away the parts of any contagion before the glue is applied. Furthermore, the heat activated glue is put to the metal enclosures utilizing a method same as to spray painting. Once the metals are all set, they are all prepared for production.
The material at this point is considered to be in an uncured state and will now need to go through the curing process as part of the moulding further along.
Once the metal enclosures are all set, they are then physically kept, one at a time, into each pocket of the mold. For enclosures on the top of a part, particular magnets are integrated into the mold to keep them in position while the mold is being loaded. For enclosures being summarized into the rubber, particular chaplet pins are executed into the mold to sling the enclosure in the mold and let the rubber to flow around the metal.
Pellets
Natural rubber will have the best resistance to tearing and works well with metal bonding adhesives. Synthetic neoprene is close in comparison to natural rubber, and it has better oil resistance.
These are best used in industrial equipment, including the compressor, motor, pumps, and other parts.
Before the bonding process, it is best to prepare the steel surfaces for the best results. Remove all grease and rust from the surface and then keep it in a clean, damp-free environment with as little handling as possible to reduce the risk of oils passing from hands. Cotton gloves should be worn to minimise any contamination at this point in the metal bonding process.
Metal Bonding Adhesives
The metal bonding adhesives can now be applied between the rubber and the steel with a primer. This is usually sprayed on, and it can be dried at room temperature. Gloves need to be worn, and care should be taken not to contaminate the adhesive during this part of the process as it can result in poor-quality adhesion.
The rubber parts are then moulded. The metal parts are loaded into the mould, which is then heated. The rubber pellets are loaded into the heated pot of the transfer mould and filled. The mould is then left under pressure for the time needed to cure the elastomer. The metal reacts to the pressure and temperature, creating a bond between the rubber and metal.
Any excess material pushed out from the pressures is carefully cut off. The samples are then tested for their strength and durability to ensure that the adhesives have bonded correctly before being passed on to the customer.