Abstract: A method of making a microwaveable hair curler is shown in which a silicone rubber composition is extruded through a die and then cut to a desired length. The silicone rubber composition is blended from a polyorganosiloxane gum, a particulate electromagnetic absorptive material, a filler and a catalyst.

Abstract: A device and method are shown for treating a localized area of pain in the human body. A heating pad is applied to the localized area, the pad having a layer of matrix material which is actuable by exposure to microwave energy. The heating pad is heated by exposure to microwave energy to a temperature above ambient prior to application to the localized area. The microwaveable layer is sandwiched between upper and lower elastomeric layers formed from materials which are non-absorptive of microwave energy.

Abstract: A method is shown for forming a wiper blade in which a continuous length of elastomer is extruded through a die having a die opening shaped to produce a pair of wiper blades joined in edge-to-edge relation. The elastomer is scored in the mid-section thereof to produce a score line and then cured. The scored and cured elastomer is then separated into two separate lengths of wiper blade by dividing the length of continuous elastomer along the score line.

Abstract: A machine to insert strips in expansion joints and concrete surfaces has features to prevent placing the strip in the joint while stretched. The machine includes the frame mounted on wheels. A supply reel mounted to the frame has a quantity of the strip wound about it. An insertion disk is rotatably mounted to the frame and positioned in the groove to push the strip into the groove. A pair of driven pinch rollers pull the strip from the roller. The drive mechanism for the rollers rotates the rollers at a speed selected to eliminate any tension in the strip between the insertion disk and pinch rollers.

Abstract: A machine for inserting a strip into a concrete expansion joint has features to raise and lower insertion disks. The machine has a frame mounted on wheels. The insertion disks are mounted to the same axle as the wheels. The axles are eccentric, having a central offset portion. A control disk mounted to the outside of the axle, rotates the axle to raise and lower the insertion disk. A pair of linkage bars connect the control disk to an upper control disk which is operated by an operator. Another pair of linkage bars connect the rear axle to the front axle for movement in unison.

Abstract: A method is shown for forming a spark plug boot having at least one internal shoulder. An outer tube is first formed of an elastomeric material having an internal bore and a selected length. An inner tube, also formed of an elastomeric material, is inserted within the bore of the outer tube. The inner tube has an external diameter selected to allow it to be slideably received within the bore of the outer tube and has a length which is less than the length of the outer tube. The inner and outer tubes thus assembled are then exposed to electromagnetic radiation for a time sufficient to bond the external diameter of the inner tube to the internal bore of the outer tube.

Abstract: A method for bonding silicone rubber to a metal member is shown in which the metal member is first treated by heating the metal member to a temperature and for a time sufficient to form an oxide layer on the outer surface of the metal member. The treated metal member is then contacted with an uncured silicone rubber composition, and the silicone rubber composition is cured to bond the treated metal member to the silicone rubber composition.

Abstract: An expansion joint is shown for use in joining adjacent concrete sections separated by an expansion slot such as in a roadway having concrete sections and a slot therebetween. The joint includes a preformed longitudinal sealing element which is formed of a resilient material and installed within the slot. An initially flowable adhesive material is applied between the sealing element and opposing side surfaces of the concrete sections making up the joint. The moduli of elasticity of the adhesive material and sealing element are selected so that forces exerted upon the joint by expansion and contraction of the concrete sections result in movement of the central sealing element, rather than exerting strain upon the adhesive bond.