Abstract: A method and system for retreading tire carcasses (10) with precured treads utilizing time and temperature in conjunction with an envelope pressure system. A precured rubber tread (12), is applied to tire carcass (10) having a cushion gum (16) disposed therebetween. An envelope system is placed over the tread/carcass and this assembly is placed within a pressure chamber. Heat and fluid pressure are then supplied to the chamber. Fluid pressure is then supplied to the chamber after both a predetermined length of time and after a predetermined temperature of the chamber has been reached.

Abstract: A method of retreading a stitched tire having a cushion layer of uncured rubber between its buffed surface and the undersurface of it uncured rubber curable at temperatures above 200.degree. F. utilizes tensioned bands including its margins of the tread material. The bands are of a prestressed, long chain synthetic polymer which becomes elastic with reduced tensile strength at temperatures above 200.degree. F. The bands are tensioned to an extent such that the underlying margins of the cushion layer are forced into such intimate contact with the buffed surface of the tire and the undersurface of the tread material as to form temporary gas impermeable seals at the interfaces and at the same time insure that, while the cushion layer is being cured at tempeatures above 200.degree. F., the tread material is held in place by the bands with a compressive force inadequate to cause extrusion of the cushion layer rubber in excess of a bead which is approximately one half the thickness of the cushion layer.

Abstract: A cover is used to replace worn tread of a lawnmower tire without requiring replacement of the entire wheel and tire unit. The cover includes a sidewall section formed of nylon stretch material, and a tread section formed of rubber or the like. Pressure sensitive adhesive covers essentially the entire inner surface of the tread section and affixes the cover to the tire being retread when forced against the tread section of that tire. Backing material is in sections and covers the adhesive for storage. One of the sections is approximately ninety degrees in arc length.

Abstract: A method for retreading and partially replacing the belt of a pneumatic vehicle tire, possibly accompanied by the interposition of binder layers and the use of coatings. First the replacement belt ply or plies, and then the finish-vulcanized profiled tread strip, are placed upon the tire body. A pressure treatment, possibly at an elevated temperature, is then effected. In order, along with a relatively short vulcanizing or processing time in the vulcanizing apparatus, to be able to dispense with the use of steel bandages or sleeves, the replacement belt ply or plies are vulcanized prior to placing these plies on the tire body.

Abstract: A method of clamping an annular tread to a pneumatic tire casing comprises mounting the casing on a wheel, mounting the annular tread on a tread expander assembly. The assembly expands radially and stretches the tread to a size allowing the tread to circumferentially surround the casing. The stretched annular tread then is moved axially toward the casing to a position where it circumferentially surrounds and is centered on the casing. The casing and stretched tread is encircled with a clamping assembly and, with use of such assembly and without rotating the casing or tread relative to such clamping assembly, the stretched, annular tread is clamped to the casing at a number of points. Pads in the clamping assembly then are retracted, and the annular tread is transferred from the supporting device onto the casing by moving the supporting device axially away from the casing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for centering an annular tread on a pneumatic tire-casing is described. The method, preferably put into use with the apparatus, comprises mounting a casing on a wheel, locating the equatorial plane of the casing or wheel, mounting the annular tread on an axially-moveable tread expander assembly, and positioning the tread on the tread expander assembly such that its circumferential center line is located a fixed distance from and parallel to the equatorial plane of the casing or wheel. The distance between the annular tread and the casing or wheel is reduced by an amount equal to the fixed distance so that the annular tread encircles the casing and the circumferential centerline of the tread becomes coincident with the equatorial plane of the casing or wheel.

Abstract: A tire and method of making a tire by attaching a rubber material to a foam core to form an intermediate composite, placing the intermediate composite in mold, then heat during the composite so that the rubber fills the mold and fuses to the surface of the foam core. The tire can be made on a wheel by gluing a foam strip around the wheel, then sanding the foam to a desired tolerance, gluing with rubber cement at least one layer of the rubber material and then curing at a temperature between 180 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 to 60 minutes. For small scale tires such as those used on remotely operated race cars, the tires are preferably partially cured to increase traction.

Abstract: A process of bonding two bodies of rubber by vulcanization of a connecting layer of vulcanizable rubber provides essentially a new manner of organizing the drainage of gaseous inclusions imprisoned between the bodies and/or resulting from the subsequent vulcanization reaction and of collecting these gases; the gaseous inclusions travel towards at least one conduit which passes through at least one of the two bodies, or else towards dead-end holes provided in one of the faces intended to be bonded.

Abstract: A splice between ends of precured tread material is effected by establishing a gap between the ends that are to be spliced together after the tread material has been fitted to the buffed area of a tire with a cushion layer of uncured rubber between the material and the buffed area. The gap is established without compressing the tread material adjacent the gap and is approximately three-sixteenths of an inch and is filled with natural rubber using an extruder gun in a manner flushing air from the gap. The tire is then cured by heat and pressure for the necessary time required by the particular curing process employed.

Abstract: An envelope expander for mounting an annular envelope of a flexible resilient material upon a tire supported upon a tire support with the tire axis in a horizontal position includes a vertically disposed rigid gate-like frame having a central opening of a diameter exceeding that of a tire. A plurality of expander members adapted to grip the envelope at spaced locations along the edge of a circular opening in one side of the envelope are mounted on the frame for coordinated power driven movement radially of the frame opening between radially inner and outer end limits. With the expander members at their radially inner end limits, the envelope opening is slightly stretched and manually mounted on the members. The expanding members are then driven to their radially outer end limits, expending the envelope opening to a diameter greater than that of the tire.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing sidewall replacement members on a used tire carcass by attaching sidewall members to the pre-buffed and cement coated sidewalls of the tire carcass, covering each sidewall member with a flexible sidewall mold, placing a flexible curing envelope around said tire carcass including the sidewall molds and sealing the envelope in the bead area of the tire carcass. The envelope covered tire carcass is then placed in a curing chamber at a preselected temperature and pressures for time period sufficient to cure said sidewall members and bond them on said tire carcass. The sidewall members can be installed in conjunction with the installation of tread rubber on the tire.

Abstract: This invention relates to a retread curing ring apparatus for mounting on a tire retread assembly which comprises a tire carcass having a retread area, integral side walls with inner edges, a preformed tread strip positioned on the retread area, and a flexible envelope or bag surrounding the entire retread assembly. The retread curing ring apparatus is positioned adjacent to each side of the tire carcass. The curing ring apparatus comprises a circular body with a recess adjacent to its bottom edge and positioned in said recess a circular elastomeric gasket having a channel at its bottom edge for attachment to the curing ring. The gasket is prepared from a plastic or rubber material and comprises a plurality of circumferential ribs adjacent the bead of the tire carcass which enables the clamp assemblies mounted circumferentially on the curing ring to hold the curing ring and the tire assembly in an airtight engaged position during the retread process.

Abstract: A retreading envelope is produced by extruding an elastomeric material in substantially tubular form, with portions of the wall thickness of the circumference of the extruded tubing being of a thickness substantially greater than the wall thickness of the remainder of the tubing, cutting a length of the extruded tubing from the tubing as extruded, and butt-seaming the free ends of the cut length to form an annular tube substantially of circular cross-section, with the thickened wall portions of the extruded length in the area of its outer periphery. The elastomeric material in the thickened wall portions of the annular tube is then caused, e.g.

Abstract: A process for recapping tires includes the steps of placing a tread strip around the circumference of a used tire casing with a bonding media interposed between the strip and casing; covering the treadstrip with a high termperature nylon film having a plurality of perforations substantially uniformly distributed across the surface of said film; covering the tread strip and film by an envelope having a negative embossment of tread design in registry with a positive tread design on said tread strip; and curing said tread strip and bonding media at a temperature of at least substantially 300.degree. F. The high temperature nylon film has a thickness in the order of 0.068-0.085-inches. A plurality of perforations are spread across the surface of said film. These perforations are in the order of 1/16-1/8-inch in diameter and are separated from each other by a distance in the order of approximately 3/4 to 11/4-inches.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cold retreading or recapping of the running surface of a vehicle tire. A rubber, rope and cloth sectioned mold is produced utilizing a new tire male mold covered with perforated polypropylene film, uncured rubber with nylon rope at its edges and highly stretchable cloth enclosed in an envelope and cured by application of pressure and heat. A male mold is used to make the final female mold directly, or to make an intermediate mold which is used to produce a tread ring that is stretched to form a larger diameter male mold from which a final mold is prepared. The final mold is then sectioned to form one discontinuous section or two or more sections. Conveniently, one section from one size tire may be fitted with a section or sections from other size tires to form a mold to recap a third size tire. Additionally, radial inserts having the radial cross sections of the mold sections may be added to accommodate various tire sizes.

Abstract: An improved retreaded tire which is less expensive and lighter weight and which can be cured in less time results from the use of cushion gum layers which have been subjected to electron irradiation or other means of radiation having the same curing effect thereon.

Abstract: Disclosed is a hub replacement device for use in vehicle tire retreading processes. An envelope is sealed against the tire carcass sidewalls to provide an environmental seal of the new tread on the carcass crown during the vulcanization process. Three arcuate rigid plates, each with a pair of ribs, are installed between the carcass beads, for supporting the beads, a predetermined distance apart along a majority of the bead circumference. Integral with each support plate are pairs of opposing toggle clamps with hooked ends. A pair of annular discs are located on each side of the tire for applying a compressive force on the envelope against the carcass sidewalls. The annular discs are each equipped with pairs of anchor loops to which the hooked ends of the toggle clamps are releasably engaged.

Abstract: Disclosed is a hub replacement device for use in vehicle tire retreading processes. An envelope (30) is sealed against the tire carcass sidewalls (22, 24) to provide an environmental seal of the new tread (54) on the carcass crown (50) during the vulcanization process. Three arcuate rigid plates (16, 18, 20), each with a pair of ribs (56, 58), are installed between the carcass beads (12, 14), for supporting the beads (12, 14), a predetermined distance apart along a majority of the bead circumference. Integral with each support plate (16, 18, 20) are pairs of opposing toggle clamps (32, 40) with hooked ends (36). A pair of annular discs (26, 28) are located on each side of the tire for applying a compressive force on the envelope (30) against the carcass sidewalls (22, 24). The annular discs (26, 28) are each equipped with pairs of anchor loops (42, 44) to which the hooked ends (36) of the toggle clamps (32,40) are releasably engaged.

Abstract: Tubeless tire curing rim apparatus having rim bodies which telescope together under spring pressure to form an initial seal between a tire bead and sealing rim flanges on the rim bodies and which telescope apart as the tire is inflated to form the conventional bead rim seal. The bead-to-bead spacing for the tire is adjustable by means of calibrated threaded rings on the rim bodies or by a means of calibrated threaded central column.

Abstract: A method of preparing a composite of polyurethane bonded to the surface of a cured rubber substrate and the resulting composite. The method is comprised of first applying to a cleaned, cured rubber surface a coating of methylmethacrylate-natural rubber graft polymer and then applying a liquid polyurethane reaction mixture which is cured to form the resultant composite. The invention is particularly directed to the preparation of a tire comprised of a polyurethane carcass applied to a cured rubber tread and to a tire comprised of a polyurethane tread applied to a cured rubber carcass.

Abstract: A roller applicator for applying water-based tire tread adhesive comprising a tube having throughout its length a bore adapted to receive a supply of water-based tire adhesive. The applicator has about its surface a series of parallel spaced-apart grooves which are perpendicular to the length of the roller. These grooves contain holes communicating with the bore. A porous fabric cover capable of being saturated by the water-based tire tread adhesive is fitted around the outside of the tube.The invention contemplates utilizing a roller of this type in existing plants to apply water-based tire adhesives. It is utilized by being positioned on either side of the Lick Roll in existing adhesive application equipment. Preferably it is the sole source of tire tread adhesive, thereby allowing a bypassing of the Lick Roll.

Abstract: The deformable driving band (3) or similar comprises passage means (2) passing through the band and opening out, towards the inside, at right angles to pockets (5) or similar provided in a compressible strip (6) extending over the whole driving band, the assembly being such that a suction phenomenon increasing grip is created by the compressible strip (6) and the packets (5) in deformation zone of the driving band (3) corresponding to an expansion phase of said pockets (5).

Abstract: A tube assembly for use in a process of vulcanizing a pre-cured tread onto a tire casing is disclosed. The tube assembly includes an elastomeric tubular wall having an inner periphery with a protective non-woven fabric layer covering a major portion thereof. The fabric layer includes a plurality of polyester cords extending in parallel relation in a single ply elastomeric matrix. Longitudinal edges of the fabric are covered by thin strips of elastomer bonded to the fabric layer and the tube wall. Superimposed fabric reinforcing swatches are bonded to the fabric layer around the valve stem. The tube assembly is resistant to being damaged prematurely by the rim which supports the tire casing in the tread vulcanization process.

Abstract: Disclosed is a hub replacement device for use in vehicle tire retreading processes. An envelope (30) is sealed against the tire carcass sidewalls (22, 24) to provide an environmental seal of the new tread (54) on the carcass crown (50) during the vulcanization process. Three arcuate rigid plates (16, 18, 20), each with a pair of ribs (56, 58), are installed between the carcass beads (12, 14), for supporting the beads (12, 14), a predetermined distance apart along a majority of the bead circumference. Integral with each support plate (16, 18, 20) are pairs of opposing toggle clamps (32, 40) with hooked ends (36). A pair of annular discs (26, 28) are located on each side of the tire for applying a compressive force on the envelope (30) against the carcass sidewalls (22, 24). The annular discs (26, 28) are each equipped with pairs of anchor loops (42, 44) to which the hooked ends (36) of the toggle clamps (32,40) are releasably engaged.

Abstract: A material intended to form a joint between at least two bodies on the outside of their interface, at least one of the bodies being deformable, is characterized by the following features:(a) it is formed of a fluid mixture having a viscosity, measured at normal temperature, of from 0.3 Pa.s to 700 Pa.s;(b) a dry extract of the fluid mixture, measured at normal temperature and pressure, is from 20% by weight to 80% by weight, based on the weight of the fluid mixture;(c) the dry extract of the fluid mixture comprises an elastomer fraction at least 20% by weight of which elastomer fraction is formed of at least one unsaturated elastomer capable of cross-linking either at ambient temperature or by heating for a period of time of less than one minute.Methods for producing assemblies with this material, consisting, for instance, of manufacturing, repairing or recapping a tire.Assemblies obtained by these methods.

Abstract: The invention pertains to the method and apparatus for vulcanizing retreaded tires wherein an annular precured tread is bonded to a tire carcass by bonding material interposed between the tread and carcass. Grills are attached to the opposite sides of the carcass and each are associated with an annular elastomeric ironing member having a concave surface corresponding to the tire side configuration engaging the tread marginal edges whereby the ironing surface shapes and smooths the transition zone between the tread and tire carcass resulting in improved appearance and integral bonding.

Abstract: A device for use in vulcanizing a premolded, precured tire tread to a tire casing in a tire retreading operation, for sealing a retreading envelope against the tire carcass in the bead area of the tire. The device comprises a pair of rigid circular ring members each sized to fit against the exterior bead portion of the tire casing, with the envelope interposed between the ring and the tire casing. A series of interconnecting springs are attached to the rings at circumferentially spaced apart locations to hold them against the tire in the bead area, and spacers attached to at least some of said springs maintain a uniform distance between the bead portions of the tire casing. A compression member on an edge of each ring member provides increased sealing pressure against the envelope on the tire.

Abstract: A process for preparing an aqueous adhesive composition which comprises preparing a solvent dispersion by mixing rubber, carbon black, vulcanizing agent, tackifying resin and accelerator with sufficient organic solvent to form a solvent dispersion and thereafter emulsifying the solvent dispersion in the presence of water to form an aqueous emulsion. The aqueous emulsion may be used to bond unvulcanized rubber compounds, such as a tread stock to the carcass portion during the formation of a tire.

Abstract: In combination with a tire casing, including a pre-formed, pre-cured, or uncured tread disposed about its periphery, and a curing envelope covering said tread and at least the outwardly facing side walls and bead portion of the tire casing, means are disclosed for effecting a tight and uniform seal between the said curing envelope and tire casing. These comprise a pair of annular sealing members, each having a central hub and a peripheral circumferential surface adapted to engage with the bead portion of the tire casing; a pair of unitary backing members, each having a central hub and portions at equal radial distances from the said hub which are engageable with the inwardly facing peripheral edge of said tire casing; and threaded fastener means extending between each said annular member and said backing member to enable the annular and backing members to be drawn toward one another to effect a clamping action between the members and intervening envelope and tire bead as the members are drawn together.

Abstract: A vehicle tire with traction-improving devices, wherein the basic tire has a plurality of uniformly spaced apart cross grooves running essentially from sidewall to sidewall. Each groove is fitted with an inflatable bag or bladder which, when uninflated, retracts within the circle of the road-engaging surface of the tread. An annular manifold is affixed to at least one sidewall and is connected by conduits to the cross members. This manifold has a valved air inlet which may be used to pressurize the cross members via the manifold and thus to project the inflated members radially beyond the circle of the tread so that they engage the road surface. Depressurizing the manifold of course causes the members to retract. Each cross member is equipped with some form of traction-improving substance, structure or the like to enhance road grippability, especially in slippery road conditions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for retreading a tire includes a mold segment (14) having open ends (16) and (18). A tire carcass (10) has a layer of uncured rubber (12) built up on the surface thereof. The mold (14) is disposed therearound with ribs (20) resting on the surface thereof. A semi-flexible cap (24) is disposed over the ends (16) and (18) which are separated by a gap (20). An elastic strap (26) is then wrapped about the assembly to secure the mold (14) to the built up tire carcass (10). An envelope (28) is then wrapped about the assembled tire carcass (10) to provide a radially inward force thereto. The whole assembly is then cured in a curing oven.

Abstract: A retreading curing ring is disclosed. The ring includes a body member which defines a circular platform. A plurality of clamps are mounted at circumferentially spaced locations on the body members. The clamps are movable between an open and a closed position. A tire retreading assembly including a tire carcass and new retread tread stock is positioned within a flexible bag or envelope. Guides center the tire with respect to the circular platform. The envelope is sandwiched between the upper surface of the circular platform of the curing ring and the sidewall of the tire. When the clamps are moved to the closed position, an air tight seal is formed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cold retreading or recapping of the running surface of a vehicle tire. A rubber, rope and cloth mold larger in diameter than the recap tires produced in it is produced utilizing a new tire male mold covered with perforated polypropylene film, uncured rubber with nylon rope at its edges and highly stretchable cloth enclosed in an envelope and cured by application of pressure and heat. A larger male mold is used to make the final female mold directly, or a like-size male mold is used to make an intermediate mold which is used to produce a tread ring that is stretched to form a larger diameter male mold from which a final mold is prepared. The somewhat flexible, compressible final female mold thus produced is then utilized in recapping tires by positioning it around a prepared tire carcass coated with cement, a layer of uncured rubber, and a sheet of perforated polypropylene film.

Abstract: A method for retreading vehicle tires. A carcass is provided with a prevulcanized tread and an unvulcanized tie-gum layer between the carcass and tread. A microwave applicator is located above the tread for emitting microwaves to the tire for creating heat energy in the tire. A reflector for microwaves comprising an electrically conductive material is attached in connection to or in the tie-gum layer to achieve high quality rapid vulcanization without heating the carcass.

Abstract: A tie-gum layer for retreading vehicle tires. In carrying forth retreading of a vehicle tire, a prevulcanized carcass is provided with a prevulcanized tread and an unvulcanized tie-gum layer between the carcass and tread. A microwave applicator is located above the tread for emitting microwaves to the tires for creating heat energy in the tire. A reflector for microwaves comprising an electrically conductive material is provided in association with the tie-gum layer for providing high quality rapid vulcanization without heating the carcass.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for heating pressure vessels used in the tire retreading and tire repairing industry which includes a plurality of heat exchangers in the form of plate coils associated with the pressure vessel with steam being circulated through the plate coils for heating the pressure vessel to a temperature required for vulcanizing rubber. Steam is supplied from a boiler and returned to a condensate return tank through valves and traps in order to provide a closed loop system with the steam being produced by the boiler passing through steam lines into the upper end portions of the plate coils which are attached to the pressure vessel, either interiorly or exteriorly, in a manner to radiate heat into the insulated pressure vessel in order to raise the temperature interiorly of the vessel to that required for vulcanizing rubber.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for retreading vehicle tires. A carcass is provided with a prevulcanized tread and an unvulcanized tie-gum layer between the carcass and tread. A microwave applicator is located above the tread to emit microwaves against the tire for generating heat energy in the tire whereby the tie-gum layer is vulcanized. Vulcanization of the edges of the tie-gum layer is facilitated by local heating at or in connection with said edges by heat generation outside of the tire. The heating can be effected either by utilizing a material with a high dissipation factor for microwave energy or, alternatively, by use of electric resistance wires.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cold retreading of the running surface of a vehicle tire. A rubber and cloth mold is produced utilizing a new tire male mold covered with perforated polyethylene film, uncured rubber and highly stretchable cloth enclosed in an envelope and cured by application of pressure and heat. The somewhat flexible female mold thus produced is then utilized in recapping tires by positioning it around a prepared tire carcass coated with cement, a layer of uncured rubber, and a sheet of perforated polyethylene film. The mold and tire assembly is then enclosed in an envelope, and like assemblies are placed in a chamber where curing of the rubber layer is accomplished by inflation of the tire carcass, evacuation of the envelope, pressurization of the chamber and application of heat.

Abstract: A tire casing preparation system including a transfer machine and associated with a plurality of work stations for performing a variety of operations on worn tire casings such as de-treading, contouring, surface conditioning, dimensional gauging, defect detection and adhesive treatment. The transfer machine includes a turntable having a plurality of chucking and rotating mechanisms for mounting and processing tire casings as they are moved from one work station to another. A tire casing is first transported to a de-treading station where it undergoes a rough machining or de-treading operation for forming a curvilinear surface on the upper outer periphery of the tire casing. The tire casing is then transported to a contouring work station where a semi-rough machining operation is performed to form an arcuate outer peripheral surface.

Abstract: The present invention covers the method and apparatus to retread tire casings using a precured tread system where an envelope or flexible fluid tight member is used to cover a retread tire casing assembly and then placed in an autoclave where the autoclave is pressurized and a reduced differential pressure is provided between the envelope member and the precured tread. This invention includes the automatic pressurizing of the system and the monitoring of the system during operation as a total system and/or for individual curing stations.

Abstract: A process for causing at least two bodies, at least one of which is deformable, to adhere to each other, which comprises arranging a face of one of the bodies against a face of the other body, forming a lateral joint by applying a joint-forming material astride the two bodies over at least part of the outside of the resultant interface, and arranging the assembly thus obtained within an enclosure which is pressurized by a fluid, is characterized by the fact that the joint-forming material consists at least in part of a silicone elastomer.

Abstract: A machine for applying a layer of cement along the outer circumference of a tire for the purposes of retreading the tire, the machine comprises an air blower for removing dust adhered to the tire after the buffing process, a tire cart carrier which automatically raises the tire into spraying position and a spray head which applies a layer of cement on the outer circumference of the tire as the tire is rotated upon the tire cart carrier. The cement spraying machine is enclosed within a vent hood which is associated with a blower to vent all fumes from the spraying area. The tire cart carrier comprises a rotating support structure for contacting the upper bead of the tire and a weighted centering beam which contacts the lower bead of the tire as the tire cart carrier is raised into spraying position. The centering beam centers the rotating tire on the rotating support structure during spraying.

Abstract: An unvulcanized rubber composition, whose rubber component consists of polybutadiene rubber as an essential component and at least one of styrene-butadiene rubber and a rubber of natural rubber and/or polyisoprene rubber, has a high adhesion to a vulcanized rubber composition, whose rubber component consists mainly of at least one rubber selected from natural rubber, polyisoprene rubber, polybutadiene rubber and styrene-butadiene rubber, and can be easily adhered to the vulcanized rubber composition through vulcanization without carrying out particular surface treatment of the vulcanized rubber composition.

Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus and method for retreading tires with a continuous precured and premolded tread strip. A flexible substantially air impervious annular envelope overlies the tread strip and aids in holding the tread strip in intimate contact with an underlying tire casing while the tread strip is bonded to the tire casing. An air porous band of drapable fabric is provided between the annular envelope and the tread strip and intimately engages the entire periphery of the tread strip during the bonding. This air porous band along with air porous straps secured thereto wick away and remove substantially all air initially entrapped underneath the envelope thereby permitting the retreading operation to be done at increased temperature and reduced time, as well as avoiding the problem of frequent replacing of ruptured envelopes.

Abstract: A curing rim for a vehicle tire is shown. A flanged first sleeve (13) is adapted to seal the bottom bead of a large tubeless tire (10). A flanged sealing sleeve (14), having a cylindrical inner surface (24) with an O-ring seal (26) carried thereby, is adapted to seal the opposite bead of the tire. A cylindrical locking sleeve (15) is telescoped through the sealing sleeve (14) and is sealingly engaged at its bottom end to the first sleeve (13). The upper end of locking sleeve (15) is provided with a stop flange (31). The sealing sleeve (14) maintains an air-tight seal with the bead of the tire and also seals against the locking sleeve (15) as the tire is inflated and moves upwardly along the locking sleeve (15) until blocked by the stop flange (31).

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to a tire retreading machine which includes a chamber adapted to receive therein a plurality of stacked tires adapted to be retreaded therein, the chamber having an inner surface, and inwardly therefrom there being a radiant heater, a porous or perforated shield, and an imperforate or nonporous shield with the latter being axially shorter than the former and both shields being spaced from a bottom surface of the chamber such that upon heat being generated by the radiant heater, hot air convection currents are set up within the chamber flowing generally upwardly adjacent the chamber inner surface and flowing generally downwardly between the imperforate shield and tires within the chamber to create substantially uniform curing or retreading temperature throughout the chamber, lessening temperature gradients or hot spots, and also allowing radiant heat to pass through a lower portion of the porous shield adjacent the bottom surface of the chamber to augment temperature uniformity thro

Abstract: An improved envelope seal for a tire assembly (10) is provided to protect the bonding surfaces of a tire casing (12) and tread material (14) from exposure to steam and other elements within a pressure chamber (126) during curing. A two piece road curing rim (26) is provided with rim members (36, 38) which extend adjacent the sidewalls (56) of the tire (16). Annular seals (37, 39) are secured about the peripheral edges of the rim members (36, 38) and define first annular sealing faces (86, 88) and second annular sealing faces (90, 92). A flexible envelope (18) covers the bonding surfaces of the tire and extends radially inward adjacent the sidewalls of the tire. The envelope has lips (68, 70) extending laterally outward from the outer surface thereof and having annular sealing faces (94, 96) defined thereon. The envelope (18) is inflated to align the first annular sealing faces (86, 88) and annular sealing faces of the envelope lips (94, 96).

Abstract: Annular envelope-sealing members are permanently affixed to and carried by the rim means upon which an envelope-enshrouded tire is mounted preparatory to its treatment within a heated pressure chamber. Mounting of the tire upon the rim means automatically brings the annular members into axial alignment with the tire and into overlying relationship with its opposite sidewalls. Each annular member is independently mounted for axial movement away from the rim means and is biased toward it so as impose a sealing force of desired non-excessive magnitude upon the tire, upon inflation thereof, notwithstanding possible variations in its sidewall width dimensions. The annular members may be so constructed as to effect sealed relationships with respective ones of the marginal edge portions of the envelope upon the tire in either of two alternative ways, at the option of each particular retreader.

Abstract: A tire tread and method of application of a tire tread. The tread is not provided with an undertread. At least one transversely extending tread element is interconnected with a pair of tread portions in such a manner as to permit canting of the tread portions relative to the tread element whereby the length of the tread is adjustable to achieve a tread length corresponding to a particular tire circumference to facilitate application of the tread to a tire.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for securing a pre-cured tread to a tire during vulcanization to retread the tire, a sealing grid having annular rings disposed thereon to contact the sides of an envelope disposed about the tread and against the sides of the tire to cause a seal therebetween wherein said grids are easily joinable to effect such seal without the need of the tire being mounted on a rim or being inflated.