Abstract: A method for consolidating an annular ring of uncured elastomeric material in a tread ring mould comprising a set of rigid segments in sliding end-to-end relationship to form a consolidation ring having a first small diameter for insertion of the segments into the elastomeric material in the tread mould and a second larger diameter at which the segments form a smooth, continuous consolidating surface, mechanical means for moving the segments from the first diameter substantially to the second diameter and a fluid pressure inflatable bag means which may be inflated behind the segments to apply consolidation force at the second diameter.

Abstract: A mould particularly as used in the manufacture of a product from elastomeric material which is required to be heated.Preferably the heating is carried out by means of an electric current which may be induced electromagnetically.The product may be a tire.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method of manufacture for a tire component comprising a sheet of reinforced unvulcanized rubber compound having two parallel main surfaces comprising pre-coating the reinforcement material fabric of the component with unvulcanized rubber compound, placing the component in an open mould shaped to accommodate the component arranged to contact one of said surfaces, positioning a pressurizing member to contact the other said surface, maintaining the time/temperature conditions of the mould and the component below those required to cause vulcanization, operating the pressurizing member to apply substantial compressive force to the component so that the rubber compound is pressed into intimate contact with the reinforcement and removing the unvulcanized component from the mould. The method provides real penetration of the rubber compound into the reinforcement and is particularly valuable for tire breakers which are steel cord reinforced.

Abstract: A moulding apparatus and a method of moulding for components of unvulcanized elastomeric material which forms a spew free component and provides for handling the component for subsequent use. The apparatus as shown in the Figures comprises a first mould member having a mould cavity for part of the component and a feed port for material and a second complementary mould member which includes a detachable component carrying insert. The two mould members and are relatively movable to provide two different volumes for the mould cavity, the change to the smaller volume being used to return some material through the feed port and to complete moulding of the component.

Abstract: Apparatus for the manufacture of fabric, especially tire building fabric ply material, in which a pair of rotatable parallel spindles are each surrounded by a helical member rotatable in the opposite direction to the respective spindles. The opposite rotation of the spindles and the helical members helps to ensure a uniform winding as fabric is built up from filamentary material applied around the spindles from a feeding head rotating around the spindles.

Abstract: An apparatus for consolidating an annular ring of uncured elastomeric material in a tread ring mould comprising a set of rigid segments in sliding end-to-end relationship to form a consolidation ring having a first small diameter for insertion of the segments into the elastomeric material in the tread mould and a second larger diameter at which the segments form a smooth, continuous consolidating surface, mechanical means for moving the segments from the first diameter substantially to the second diameter and a fluid pressure inflatable bag means which may be inflated behind the segments to apply consolidation force at the second diameter.

Abstract: An apparatus for expanding an annular tire component into a ring comprising an inflatable, expandable annular pressure vessel formed by an inflatable bag or diaphragm attached to a cylindrical carrier drum and guide means for accurately controlling in a predetermined manner the axial position of the bag with respect to the carrier drum. The guide means are preferably radially extending pins sliding in bearings.