Abstract: An improved clamping mechanism for clamping the cover to the base of a tire curing press is provided. The clamping mechanism includes a plurality of arms located at spaced intervals about the periphery of the base of the housing. Each arm is articulated about a joint located between its ends so that it is length adjustable between an extended configuration and a shortened configuration. A drive mechanism is provided for engaging the clamping arm to effect articulation about its joint to extend and shorten it as required in order to facilitate release of the cover from the base member in use.

Abstract: An improved seal is provided in a tire curing press by means of a flexible seal member which is retained as an interface between the base and the cover. The seal member has a flexible body and is arranged to form a pressure chamber which is inflatable in response to an increase in pressure in the tire curing chamber so as to be driven into sealing engagement at the interface.