Abstract: A method and apparatus for continuously processing fiber into an elastomeric component uses an expanding die (11, 11a) for orienting fibers in other than the processing direction of the extrusion. In one embodiment, an injection mold (50) is used with the expanding die (11), and in another embodiment, an extruder (30) is used with expanding die (11a). Processing parameters may be alteredto control the direction of orientation of fibers (20) in the elastomer component. Orientation of fibers (20) in an extrudate (17) is dependent on the processing speed viscosity of the elastomer, pressure of extrusion, the length l1 and l2 and height h1 and h2 of gate (12) and expansion cavity (14), respectively, of the expansion die (11, 11a).

Abstract: This invention is based upon the unexpected discovery that the reactivity of the most important monomers commonly used in synthesizing tackifier resins with aluminum halide catalysts can be enhanced by conducting the polymerization in the presence of an allylic halide. For instance, the conversions of 2-methyl-2-butene, cis-piperylene, and cyclopentene that are attained in polymerizations that are catalyzed with aluminum halide catalysts are increased by conducting the polymerization in the presence of an allylic halide, such as allyl chloride. Increased monomer conversion is of great commercial importance because it leads to an increased level of efficiency and reactor capacity.

Abstract: A combination rubber injection gate system (24) and method of injection molding rubber to produce desired flow patterns in the rubber is disclosed. The combination gate (24) directs rubber through a first region (26) to flow at cross angles (38, 40) through the injection gate (24), relative to the direction of flow of the rubber (22) through the injection gate (24). The rubber (22) is then directed through an adjacent region (28) to flow through the injection gate (24) at a direction parallel to the direction of flow of the rubber (22) through the entire injection gate (24). The combination gate (24) yields a highly mixed and uniform flow of rubber (22) that is particularly useful when injection molding fiber-loaded rubber where it is desired to orient the fibers in a particular direction.

Abstract: A method for molding short fiber/rubber composite articles having enhanced mechanical properties by aligning short reinforcing fibers during an injection molding process. The method comprises injecting a molding mixture through an injection gate arranged in a predetermined relationship to the molding cavity. The injection gate has a relatively small thickness in comparison to the thickness of the molding cavity. The fibers are associated with a first direction, generally parallel to the flow of the molding mixture as the molding mixture moves through the gate. As the molding mixture passes through the gate and into the cavity, the fiber direction is altered as the molding material fills the cavity.