Abstract: A method of manufacturing a beadless flexible member for an airspring having a fully molded non-tubular shape. An axially segmented mold with tapered circular end bores is used with conically tapered end plugs which sealingly compress an uncured preform of the flexible member between the conical plugs and the tapered circular end bores. Compressed fluid is injected into the interior of the preform to radially expand it to the desired molded shape. At a rate determined by the radial expansion of the preform, the annular segments of the mold are axially moved together to accommodate the axial foreshortening of the preform during its radial expansion. After full axial closure of the mold, heat and pressure are applied to vulcanize the preform. The beadless, fully molded flexible member may be used for airsprings requiring zero pressure roll capability.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a beadless flexible member for an airspring having a fully molded non-tubular shape. An axially segmented mold with tapered circular end bores is used with conically tapered end plugs which sealingly compress an uncured preform of the flexible member between the conical plugs and the tapered circular end bores. Compressed fluid is injected into the interior of the preform to radially expand it to the desired molded shape. At a rate determined by the radial expansion of the preform, the annular segments of the mold are axially moved together to accommodate the axial foreshortening of the preform during its radial expansion. After full axial closure of the mold, heat and pressure are applied to vulcanize the preform. The beadless, fully molded flexible member may be used for airsprings requiring zero pressure roll capability.

Abstract: A composite piston 40 having a tapered outer sleeve 42 with a separately formed end plug 48 securely fitted into the larger diameter end of the sleeve for use in a rolling lobe airspring 20. Also a method of manufacturing the airspring 20 with a composite piston 40 in which the piston outer sleeve 42 is formed in a mold cavity using a solid inner core. The plug 48 is separately formed and then assembled into the composite piston for a rolling lobe airspring.