Abstract: An automatic centering system is disclosed for use in connection with any two work stations in an automated assembly line, where the workpiece must be transferred, centered, and manipulated at the second work station. The workpiece is transferred along rollers to a staging area where it is restrained and then moved by items of machinery on the outer circumference and the inner circumference, respectively, of the workpiece. A tire released from the tire press may be restrained and then moved over a post-cure inflator apparatus and accurately centered for inflating. After inflating, the tire is directed from the automatic centering system to the next operation.

Abstract: A tire press bag well is insulated with at least one envelope. The envelope extends substantially around the bag well within the bag well housing and can be inflated. The envelope, in addition to its insulating properties, can have insulation thereon and the ends of the envelope can be fastened to itself. The configuration of the envelope, once installed, desirably conforms to the shape of the bag well housing. Since heat is applied to a tire press via the bag well, insulation thereof considerably reduces heat loss as well as reduces cure time.