Abstract: An apparatus and method for loading a tread press are provided. More specifically, the present invention provides for loading a tread band onto a tread press while suspending the tread band above the mold elements as the tread band is moved into the proper longitudinal position within the tread press. Lateral positioning can also be provided using the present invention.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for loading a tread press are provided. More specifically, the present invention provides for loading a tread band onto a tread press while suspending the tread band above the mold elements as the tread band is moved into the proper longitudinal position within the tread press. Lateral positioning can also be provided using the present invention.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for loading a tread press are provided. More specifically, the present invention provides for loading a tread band onto a tread press while suspending the tread band above the mold elements as the tread band is moved into the proper longitudinal position within the tread press. Lateral positioning can also be provided using the present invention.

Abstract: An improved autoclave for curing retread tires includes a chamber with circulating air flow having turbulence generating devices located in a middle length-wise portion of the chamber. The turbulence generating devices include apertures to guide air from a supply duct into the chamber, and/or wedge-shaped elements or fins mounted on the interior wall of the chamber to disrupt the air flow and cause turbulence.

Abstract: An improved autoclave for curing retread tires includes a chamber with circulating air flow having turbulence generating devices located in a middle length-wise portion of the chamber. The turbulence generating devices include apertures to guide air from a supply duct into the chamber, and/or wedge-shaped elements or fins mounted on the interior wall of the chamber to disrupt the air flow and cause turbulence.

Abstract: An improved autoclave for curing retread tires includes a chamber with circulating air flow having turbulence generating devices located in a middle lengthwise portion of the chamber. The turbulence generating devices include apertures to guide air from a supply duct into the chamber, and/or wedge-shaped elements or fins mounted on the interior wall of the chamber to disrupt the air flow and cause turbulence.

Abstract: An apparatus for curing retread tire assemblies includes an autoclave in which retread assemblies are placed and a heated water system for heating the autoclave. The heated water system provides heated water under pressure to the autoclave to achieve heat transfer at a rate and capacity sufficient for curing the retread assemblies. A control valve controls the flow of heated water according the heating demand of the autoclave. The system is adaptable for use in curing presses for retread assemblies.

Abstract: A quick adjusting arm for an envelope spreader includes a bar member mounted to an articulated arm of the envelope spreader and a sleeve with a hook installed on the bar member. The bar member has a plurality of adjusting holes to position the sleeve at a selected position. The sleeve includes a single positioning hole, and a quick release pin, for example, a spring ball pin, is inserted through the positioning hole and the selected adjusting hole.

Abstract: A priority valve for a compressed air system in a tire retreading plant includes a solenoid controlled, diaphragm operated valve connected at an inlet to an autoclave. A solenoid controls whether the valve is opened or closed. A switch has a pressure sensor connected to an inlet side. If the pressure falls below a low pressure limit, the switch activates the solenoid to close the valve, thus shutting off the air supply to the autoclave. With the inlet to the autoclave closed, the air compressor is able relatively quickly and easily to raise the pressure in the system above the low pressure limit. The valve remains closed until the sensed pressure rises to a value sufficient to supply both the other equipment and the autoclave.