Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for processing curable thermoplastic elastomers and particularly to flexible, shaped articles made therefrom which have improved high strength, radiation and temperature resistance and electrical characteristics useful as fluid transmission tubing and/or as electrical insulation. Such articles are made from uncured, thermoplastic elastomer materials -- in the form of selectively hard, radiation sensitive, flowable solids -- which are thermoplastically molded to provide an essentially uncured, dimensionally stable, intermediate shaped article. Such intermediate articles are radiation-cured to provide finished cross-linked articles having such characteristics.

Abstract: A process of forming a tubular member includes rotating a tubular form about a central axis. The form is provided with an interior coating of time-setting, liquid material. A number of lengths or strips of roving, preferably of fiber glass, are introduced serially into the rotating tubular form in a direction substantially chordally of the tubular form so that each roving strip tends to be embedded approximately circumferentially by centrifugal force into the liquid material. The roving strips are approximately as long as the diameter of the tubular form and in effect make a helix. The material hardens with the roving embedded therein. The hardened material and roving are then removed as a tubular member from the stationary form. The product of the invention is a member of tubular shape comprised of a helix formed of substantially circumferentially extending lengths of fiber glass roving, each length being approximately the diameter of the tube, all embedded in a solid matrix of time-setting material.

Abstract: An inner liner for glass-reinforced plastic pipes comprising a nonwoven fabric bonded to each side of a plastic film. In the manufacture of pipe, the composition is saturated with the plastic resin, e.g., polyester resin, and wound onto the pipe mandrel. The resin-glass body of the pipe is then wound over the liner and the entire composition cured.The liner prevents damage to the pipe as a result of corrosive material, e.g., mineral acids.

Abstract: A conductor or casing for shafts and cables, comprising a plastic tubular member having over a portion of its length a plurality of convolutions to permit bending and longitudinal compression and extension without substantial reduction in the internal diameter.