Abstract: Apparatus for handling a plurality of clad elements of a predetermined configuration formed from a sheet consisting of a layer of an elastomeric material bonded to a layer of inert material and deposited in openings of a die corresponding in number and arrangement to cavities of a mold. The apparatus has a transfer mechanism with a plurality of rods having a pickup face with at least one fluid port. The rods correspond in number and array to the die openings and mold cavities. The fluid port is connected to a source of vacuum to retain a clad element on the pickup face when it engages the element in the die openings and to an air pressure source to discharge the clad element in the cavity of the mold. The apparatus further includes a reciprocating punch having a plurality of punch rods for forming the clad elements from the sheet material and depositing them in the openings of the die. The said die and mold are positioned adjacent one another.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for making articles comprised of a body portion of an elastomeric material having a liner of an inert material covering at least a portion of the peripheral surface of said body portion including the steps of bonding a layer of elastomeric material to one face of a layer of the inert material, positioning the bonded layers in a mold cavity with the layer of inert material contacting at least a portion of the surface of a mold cavity, adding additional amounts of uncured elastomeric material to the mold cavity and curing the elastomeric materials. Also disclosed herein is a system and apparatus for making molded articles as well as the molded articles produced thereby.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for making articles comprised of a body portion of an elastomeric material having a liner of an inert material covering at least a portion of the peripheral surface of said body portion including the steps of bonding a layer of elastomeric material to one face of a layer of the inert material, positioning the bonded layers in a mold cavity with the layer of inert material contacting at least a portion of the surface of a mold cavity, adding additional amounts of uncured elastomeric material to the mold cavity and curing the elastomeric materials. Also disclosed herein is a system and apparatus for making molded articles as well as the molded articles produced thereby.