Bonding Elastomers: A Review of Adhesives and Processes

The art and science of adhesive usage can differ from the above processes according to what type of item is going to be manufactured. These sections address some of those areas by market segments.
For over 40 years, adhesive systems have been successfully used to bond rubber rolls. The markets include rolls used to transport various types of materials in consumer goods, agriculture and mining industries. Other applications include graphic arts and printing, where the rolls transfer inks and process pulp and paper products. Additional applications include coating and lamination rolls that transfer adhesives, coatings and packaging labels to various goods. In all these applications, the adhesive plays a very important role in maintaining a strong, durable bond between the core and the rubber for the service life of the manufactured roll. The intent of this chapter is to provide an overview of the manufacturing process, which provides details on core preparation, adhesive selection and application, vulcanisation and a troubleshooting guide.
The most common core constructions used in the industry are steel or aluminium. Occasionally, magnesium, brass, copper, titanium and nickel-plated thin wall cores are used in special applications. Additionally, non-metallic cores, such as glass-reinforced composites or other engineering plastics, are employed for weight reduction and chemical compatibility.
The majority of roll manufacturers reprocess their serviced cores because of the expense of the cores. This is accomplished by removing the used rubber and adhesive with machining lathes, sanders, grinders, and/or high temperature...