Abstract: A damper comprises a generally rectangular frame extending between opposed open faces and defining an airflow region. One or more damper blades comprises a substantially air-impermeable vane pivotally mounted between the sides of the frame and pivotable between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position an edge of the adjacent blade abuts a blade stop surface formed along each end, such that in the closed position one edge of the blade adjacent to each end of the frame extends into a recess and abuts the blade stop surface, to prevent air from flowing between the blade and the end of the frame. In the preferred embodiments the blade stop surfaces are integrally formed in each end panel.

Abstract: Belts used in agricultural applications and particularly in round, hay balers have inherent problems created by their usual process of manufacture. This process involves cutting a large processed sheet of elastomeric into relatively narrow strips which form the core of the belts. The belt disclosed herein utilizes a wrap of fabric affixed around each longitudinal edge of the belt core. This wrapped belt core is then further processed to create belts with improved longevity and performance characteristics.

Abstract: A means and method for encapsulating a mechanically spliced belt, used in agricultural machinery, are disclosed. The encapsulating material protects the mechanical splice from exposure to environmental and operational conditions. The encapsulating material increases the cross-sectional modulus of the mechanical splice while maintaining geometric integrity of the fastening system, thereby increasing the operational life of the spliced belt.

Abstract: A reinforced elastomer cover for use on conditioning rolls in harvesting machines for conditioning crop material. The roll cover comprises one or more layers or plies of reinforcing material interspersed between and bonded to layers of the elastomer. The reinforcing material preferably comprises fibers of synthetic polymers or glass. The reinforced elastomer sheets are placed on roll cores and bonded or otherwise secured to the outer periphery of the roll core. The reinforced elastomer sheets are also molded or machined to possess the desired tread pattern. The sheets may be assembled and bonded directly on a roll core and thereafter vulcanized; or the vulcanized sheets may be bonded or otherwise secured to the cores.

Abstract: A means and method for encapsulating a mechanically spliced belt, used in agricultural machinery, are disclosed. The encapsulating material protects the mechanical splice from exposure to environmental and operational conditions. The encapsulating material increases the cross-sectional modulus of the mechanical splice while maintaining geometric integrity of the fastening system, thereby increasing the operational life of the spliced belt.

Abstract: Belts used in agricultural applications and particularly in round, hay balers have inherent problems created by their predominant process of manufacture. This process often involves cutting a large processed sheet of material into the narrow strips which form the core of the belt. The method disclosed herein produces a belt with a folded edge, a fabric wrapped edge, or an edge that is reinforced with a hard elastomer. These belts have strengthened longitudinal edges and an increased cross-sectional modulus at the edges which alleviates many problems associated with current hay-baler belts.

Abstract: Two-ply belting having improved dimensional stability flexing characteristics and elongation characteristics is disclosed. The belting comprises a first synthetic fabric proximate to the friction rubber surface of said belting and a second synthetic fabric distal to the friction rubber surface. The modulus and flex fatique life of the first synthetic fabric is greater than the modulus and flex fatique life of the second synthetic fabric. Belting with accordance with this invention is useful in agricultural applications.

Abstract: A material for use in agricultural belting. The material includes a center ply fabric with a relative resistance to stretching, and two outer fabric plies in spaced relation to the center ply, these outer fabric plies offering less resistance to stretching, but a greater flex fatigue life, than the fabric of the center ply. The outer fabric plies include fill yarns including extruded monofilament yarns which impart relative transverse stiffness to the material.

Abstract: Three-ply belting having improved dimensional stability, flexing characteristics, and elongation characteristics is disclosed. The center ply of the belt comprises a first synthetic fabric, while each outer ply comprises a second synthetic fabric. The modulus and flex fatique life of the second synthetic fabric are respectively greater than the modulus and flex fatique life of the first synthetic fabric. Belting in accordance with the present invention is useful in agricultural applications.

Abstract: An improved method of splicing multi-ply belting material to form an endless belt. The upstream portion of the splice on each side of the belt has at least two plies of the material which have not been split, while each side of the belt on the downstream portion of the splice presents an overlying flap to a roller.