Rubber bonding to metal is a means by which rubber is mechanically bonded to a metal insert during the molding process.
Step 1:Preparation
To begin the bonding process, the metal inserts are first prepped for production using a degreasing system toremove the parts of any contaminants such as dust, oil, rust, etc. before the adhesive is applied. Next, the heat activated adhesive is applied to the metal inserts or outside using a technique similar to spray painting. Once the metals are prepared, they are ready for production.
Step 2:Bonding Process
Once the metal inserts or outside are prepared, they are then physically placed, one at a time, into each cavity of the mold. For inserts on the top of a part, special magnets are incorporated into the mold to hold them in place while the mold is being loaded. For inserts being encapsulated into the rubber, special chaplet pins are incorporated into the mold to suspend the insert in the mold and allow the rubber to flow around the metal.
Once the metal inserts are in place, the normal rubber molding process commences. After the mold is closed, and the molding begins, the adhesive on the metals is activated, allowing the metal to bond to the rubber.
Application Rubber to Metal Bonded Parts
Typical applications for rubber bounded metal include any part requiring the flexibility of rubber and the stability of a metal. Applications range from bonding natural rubber and butyl to metals like steel and aluminum. Components ranging in size from small mounts for motors to large locomotive suspension parts are just a sampling of rubber to metal bonded parts produced using this process.