Abstract: A vacuum bag molding apparatus for a mold having an inner molding surface and a peripheral edge with a vacuum pipe extending around the edge and connected by a series of vacuum ports to the inner molding surface inward of the edge, which includes a continuous channel member of metal or plastic and a spline member of metal or plastic which is receivable with a tight fit in the channel of the channel member to hold a flexible air-impervious sheet between the spline and the channel of the channel member to provide an air-tight vacuum bag which is evacuable through the vacuum ports of the mold to carry out a vacuum bag molding procedure. The sheet of flexible material, channel member, spline member and adhesive to secure the channel member to the edge of the mold may be supplied as a kit.

Abstract: An unitary vacuum bag for forming of a fiber reinforced composite article, made of a curable elastomer, having molded in resin distribution means formed to the specific article to be made. Optional vacuum conduits are molded into the periphery of the bag, causing the bag to be adapted to any number of mold shapes. The vacuum bag is constructed upon that mold which forms the base for the construction of the desired fiber reinforced composite article. The bag contains an open sided, resilient main distribution conduit running laterally along the long axes of the vacuum bag with branch conduits, depending upon the shape of the mold, to provide for long distance flow of resin to all parts of the composite article. A multiplicity of cross channels are formed on the inner surface of the bag, covering most of the area under which the fiber lay up is placed within the mold.

Abstract: An apparatus for simultaneously molding separate portions of an article which may be subsequently assembled to form the complete separable article. The apparatus includes separate mold portions which, when assembled, define a molding cavity in which each of the mold portions has an outwardly extending flange. The mold portions are fastened together such that the flanges are spaced apart a distance at least twice as great as the thickness of the article to be molded. The mold portions extend along a longitudinal axis and each defines a molding surface which extends around the axis less than 360.degree.. When the mold portions are assembled, the molding surfaces extend completely around the longitudinal axis. The mold also includes silicone bead elements extending along the longitudinal axis in the space between the spaced apart flanges.

Abstract: In a process for covering an object by means of at least one flexible piece, a fluidized bed of particles (8) is covered by a flexible cloth (10), the flexible covering piece (12) is placed above said cloth, the object (13, 14) is placed above said cloth, pressure is applied to said object, deforming the flexible sheet and immersing the object in the fluidized bed until a mating imprint is formed in the latter. The covering can be effected by gluing, in particular with a previously applied heat-activated adhesive in which case the fluidized bed is obtained by means of a current of hot air at a temperature above the activation temperature of the adhesive. The process is particularly suitable for assembling and mounting seat covers. Also described is a device for implementing the process.

Abstract: For forming a resin-impregnated, fiber reinforced composite material sheet having laminated meshes of fibers into a U-shaped cross section, the sheet is placed onto a stationary forming die and an auxiliary forming die with the fibers of the sheet forming angles of approximately 45.degree. relative to opposite edges of an upper reference forming surface of the stationary die. Then, the sheet is pressed from above by a pneumatically expandable, elastic depressing die, whereby the auxiliary forming die is lowered against a resilient force relative to the stationary forming die. As the sheet is pressed further downwardly by the depressing die, the parts of the sheet which are to form flanges of the product are firmly held between the depressing die and the auxiliary forming die and bent downwards while the parts are subjected to extending forces in directions to prevent creases and lines from being formed by means of auxiliary forming ridges on the auxiliary forming die.

Abstract: A preform assembly for use with a resin transfer molding apparatus. The preform assembly comprises an upper liner formed to the shape of a first mold half, the upper liner having a peripheral portion, a dry fabric preform, and a lower liner formed to the shape of a second mold half, the lower liner having a peripheral portion. The preform is sandwiched between the upper liner and lower liner to form the preform assembly having peripheral portions which extend beyond the preform to form a sealing area. The upper liner is sealed to the lower liner at the sealing area. The preform assembly facilitates the loading of the preform into a molding apparatus as well as facilitating the handling and storage of the preform prior to and subsequent to molding. Methods of making the preform assembly, as well as a composite article, are also disclosed.

Abstract: An isostatic pressurizing bag for consolidating a composite part has an outer flexible elastomer having a fixed resilient outside surface. The outer elastomer surrounds a closed chamber. A thermally expandable inner elastomer is located in the closed chamber. The inner elastomer is selected as an elastomer that can viscously flow or move in response to pressure. The outer elastomer is capable of flexure to relieve expansion of the inner elastomer. The bag is formed by curing plies of uncured silicone rubber around either a silicone gel or a particulated silicone rubber that is capable of phase change to a flowable gel in response to pressure. In use a composite prepreg is overlaid on a surface that defines the shape of a desired part. The isostatic pressurizing bag is located over the prepreg trapping the prepreg between the pressurizing bag and the surface.

Abstract: Thermoplastic elastomer film vacuum bags are provided which readily conform to the surface contour of the workpiece at low pressures without failure. The thermoplastic elastomer film can be made into thin films which are able to withstand higher pressures and temperatures than the prior art nylon films. The films can also withstand the presence of epoxide and phenolic resins during pressure and cure without degradation. Preferred thermoplastic elastomers are block copolymers such as Hytrel. The films are pliable and can be used with minimal or no pleating.

Abstract: Process for producing an atmosphere for the manufacture of high performance composite parts, of the type wherein the atmosphere is used in an autoclave above a superposition of cutouts with fibrous structure impregnated with a thermosetting organic material disposed between a lower mold and an upper sealing covering member, the space between the covering member and the mold being under vacuum. The atmosphere is nitrogen gas prepared from raw nitrogen by separation from air through permeation or adsorption, incorporating a residual content of oxygen between 0.5% and 6%, with a low content of water vapor. Application for example to the manufacture of secondary and primary structures in aeronautical and space construction.

Abstract: For forming a resin-impregnated, fiber reinforced composite material sheet having laminated meshes of fibers into a U-shaped cross section, the sheet is placed onto a stationary forming die and an auxiliary forming die with the fibers of the sheet forming angles of approximately 45.degree. relative to opposite edges of an upper reference forming surface of the stationary die. Then, the sheet is pressed from above by a pneumatically expandable, elastic depressing die, whereby the auxiliary forming die is lowered against a resilient force relative to the stationary forming die. As the sheet is pressed further downwardly by the depressing die, the parts of the sheet which are to form flanges of the product are firmly held between the depressing die and the auxiliary forming die and bent downwards while the parts are subjected to extending forces in directions to prevent creases and lines from being formed by means of auxiliary forming ridges on the auxiliary forming die.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for the formation of a three dimensional composite article by use of a flexible male mold placeable within a cavity formed within a rigid female mold. Fibers are initially bound to the surface of the flexible male mold and the mold is thereafter placed inside the female mold cavity. The surface of the flexible male mold is thereafter displaced away from the female mold by the injection of hardenable resin between the molds. The flexible surface is thereafter returned to near its original position adjacent the female mold. The flexible mold includes a chamber defined therein capable of pressurization and depressurization during the fabrication process of the composite article.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for forming seals, such as composite seals in rubber/metal or other materials, includes supplying a raw elastomeric mixture in the form of a suitably shaped extrusion, and optionally a metal or other material insert, to respective loading and a possibly metal or other material insert are supplied to respective loading stations of a transfer machine; the machine is provided with a plurality of carriers each composed of at least two pivoted leaves joined in book-like fashion and each carrying a respective mould half, respective spring presses movable on the machine together with the said carriers, and cam means for holding the said carriers open at the loading stations; after cleaning of the mould halves and spraying of the upper mould half with a release agent a said insert is deposited between the mould halves by means of manipulators able to self-center themselves with respect to each carrier and then a blank of raw mixture obtained by slicing the extrusion is deposited between the mould

Abstract: An improvement is provided in a jacket used in the formation/curing of transmission belts. Such a jacket typically has a substantially cylindrical surface which is engaged with assembled belt components during a curing process therefor. The improvement resides in the provision of vent structure for allowing air to escape from between the cylindrical surface on the belt forming jacket and assembled belt components during a curing process.

Abstract: Vulcanization apparatus to vulcanize, with the heat and pressure of a fluid, a molding of rubber belt material (before being cut crosswise into the final products) while the molding is being held intact over the external circumference of a hollow cylindrical mold. A steaming jacket is provided into which the mold with the molding sticking intact thereto is inserted. The steaming jacket comprises a rubber sleeve on the interior of a cylindrical casing and secured and sealed at upper and lower axial ends of the rubber sleeve against the casing. The sleeve is swelled inwardly when heated high pressure fluid is passed through an internal space between the casing and the sleeve. The vulcanization apparatus is provided with steam supply and discharge pipes for the internal space of the jacket and steam supply and discharge pipes for the mold inserted into the jacket.

Abstract: Method for press vulcanizing, not only of dry, wholly or partly vulcanizable articles (1), such as auto rubber mats, piled rubber mats, etc., of a humidity of 0-3 weight percent but also of such articles (1) of a humidity of 3-5 weight percent or more, in the press zone of a vulcanizing press (P) having a shiftable part for closing and opening of the press (P) capable of applying a uniform surface pressure against any article (1) fed into the press. In that at least from the beginning of the vulcanizing operation to the end of it, a multitude of flow routes is established between the press shiftable part and each article (1) for vapors and gases released from each article (1), and a multitude of flow routes out from the press zone from where said vapors and gases may thus escape at least along part of the border of said press zone border, a method is brought about in which no vulcanizing heat is lost for heating of confined vapors and gases at high pressures.

Abstract: Apparatus for the production of high strength fiber reinforced plastic structures via an improved vacuum assisted technique. A fluid impervious outer sheet is marginally sealed upon a mold to provide an enclosure, or chamber, in which a fiber lay up can be placed. The fluid impervious outer sheet is provided with a vacuum outlet, and the mold is provided with a resin inlet. Primary distribution media are provided one located on one side of the fiber lay up and the other on the opposite side of the fiber lay up. Each is of character which facilitates on application of a vacuum the ready, continuous flow of resin via the resin inlet into the chamber to the marginal edges of said resin distribution medium and flow through of the resin through the fiber lay up.

Abstract: A process for preparing non-planar thermoplastic fiber reinforced composites utilizes drapeable thermoplastic impregnated fiber reinforced prepregs in a pressure thermoforming process employing but one diaphragm. The single diaphragm when initially used is flat, but becomes deformed, following its first use, to the shape of the finished part. The diaphragm thus deformed may be repeatedly used as it will still fit over the prepreg layup.

Abstract: For moulding self-stiffened panels (A) from a composite material with a thermosetting matrix, use is made of a tool having a block (10), a sealing bag (12), whose peripheral edge is connected to the block by a sealing bead (14), and solid, non-deformable calibration parts (22). Panel (A) is placed in a tight volume (16) defined between the block and the bag, while the parts (22) are placed outside said volume, above the bag and between the panel stiffeners (C). The calibration parts (22) are connected by a rigid structure (24). Thus, when the volume (16) is placed under a vacuum and when the tool is placed in an oven or autoclave, a uniform pressure is applied to the panel by the bag (12) and the parts (22) ensuring the maintenance of the geometry of the stiffeners.

Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing an otoplastic. An otoplastic is manufactured directly in the ear of a hearing-impaired person in that a deformable envelope is pulled over a die or over a shell or over an overlayed over-shell. This apparatus is then supplied with flowing otoplastic material between the die and the envelope, being supplied therewith in the ear. The envelope expands and assumes the shape of the auditory canal. After hardening or curing of the otoplastic material in the ear of the hearing-impaired person, the envelope and the die are removed and a module of either an in-the-ear or of a behind-the-ear hearing aid is integrated therewith.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for mass producing composite products comprising a novel autoclave having a cylindrical vacuum chamber; a cylindrical compression chamber surrounding the vacuum chamber; a reusable, flexible diaphragm defining the boundary between the chambers; and means for supplying heat and pressure between the diaphragm and the compression chamber. A core or mandrel is wrapped with a fiber-reinforced resin and is placed in the autoclave within the flexible diaphragm. Alternatively, a part layup can be sandwiched between an elastomeric caul and a hard tool by wrapping with expendable shrink tape to accommodate a variety of part shapes having constant or nearly constant cross sections throughout their length. The autoclave is then sealed and evacuated, causing the diaphragm to compress the resin layer against its core or mandrel due to atmospheric or higher pressure in the compression chamber. The autoclave is then heated to cure the resin.

Abstract: In a sealing system for a diaphragm type vulcanizing press, the diaphragm (19), having a roundgoing fixing flange, applies the necessary compression moulding pressure during the vulcanizing press operation, and along its edge the diaphragm is attached to a fixing flange (10) on one of the press parts through a number of fixing devices mounted round along the diaphragm (19) edge, fixing a roundgoing frame (12) against the diaphragm (19) for the sealing of same against the press fixing flange (10).

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for making self-supporting bodies from particulate materials. The apparatus includes a mold with opposed first and second walls defining a particulate chamber therebetween. The second wall is advanceable and retractable toward and away from the first wall. A plurality of chamber reducers may be removably mounted over each of the walls. Thick-walled members can be incrementally built up by pressing successive batches of particulate material at low and high pressures respectively. The chamber reducers can be successively removed between such batches, or can be used to vary the mold for making bodies of different sizes. A long body can be built up in increments, using a shorter mold, by forming a first increment, displacing the increment lengthwise in the mold, adding another batch of particulate material in overlapping relation to the first body increment, and then pressing such other batch to form a second increment bonded to the first.

Abstract: A process, and apparatus for the production of fiber reinforced plastic structures, particularly high strength fiber reinforced plastic structures via an improved vacuum assisted technique. In apparatus which includes a fluid impervious outer sheet, or bag, provided with a resin inlet, marginally sealed upon a mold to provide a chamber in which can be place a fiber lay up and which in turn is provided with a vacuum outlet there is provided a resin distribution medium for location on one side of the fiber lay up of character which permits on application of a vacuum the ready, continuous flow of resin via the resin inlet into the chamber to the marginal edges of said resin distribution medium. Closure of the outer sheet, or bag, with the fiber lay up is prevented by the presence of the resin distribution medium while the flow of resin is continued throughout the resin distribution medium, the resin applied to one side of the fiber lay up, and the resin cured.

Abstract: A method of consolidating a tubular composite article of polymeric matrix material and fibrous reinforcing material, comprising enclosing a length of the tubular composite article in a tubular protective member and advancing the protective member to carry the length of the article thus enclosed through a consolidation zone wherein the article is progressively subjected to consolidating temperature and pressure. The method enables the composite to be pulled through the consolidation zone without the distortion which tends to occur in standard "pultrusion" methods owing to surface friction and longitudinal tension on the composite.

Abstract: Powder is filled in an axially elongate powder filling space defined in a flexible pressure tube, and the pressure-bearing surface of the flexible pressure tube is pressurized with a pressurizing fluid, from a wall portion of the pressure tube which corresponds to a localized region of the powder filling space progressively toward another wall portion of the pressure tube which corresponds to an end of the powder filling space, until the pressure-bearing surface of the pressure tube is pressurized in its entirety, thereby compacting the powder in the powder filling space. Therefore, air in the powder is progressively squeezed toward the end of the powder filling space where the air can be discharged. Thus, no air remains trapped in the powder, and a formed product is prevented from being damaged, which enables elongate products to be produced.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming composite members has a frame assembly which is lowered onto a table. A sheet of vacuum bagging material, supported by the frame, covers a tooling surface on the table. Attached to the sheet is a downwardly depending seal which continuously extends around the sheet's periphery. This seal inserts into an upwardly opening channel that surrounds the perimeter of the table's tooling surface as the frame is lowered. The seal is inflated while in the channel and this provides in airtight seal between the sheet and tooling surface.

Abstract: Moldings (41) of fibre/resin matrix composite material are vacuum bag molded "net-to-size" by providing periphery elements (20-22) on the molding face (11) of the tooling (10) and allowing them to slide on the molding face during curing of the molding. Buttstrap edges (FIG. 3) can be provided in this way, on the molding, as an integral part of the molding process.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for preparing a molded article of an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene which is characterized by compression-molding, or heating and pressurizing a porous sheet of said ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. The porous sheet may be superposed with a substrate, and may be wrapped around a deformable member of a mold and densified by deformation of said member.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for the reduction of mold cycle time. A deflatable member is positioned flush with the surface of a mold in an opening defined downwardly therein. Prior to flow of a resin or other hardenable liquid within the mold, the deflatable member is deflated so as to define a resin flow channel across selected portions of the mold surface. Prior to hardening of the hardenable liquid within the mold, the deflatable member is inflated so as to become flush with the surface of the mold so as to yield an article of manufacture having a relatively planar surface.

Abstract: A flow molding process and associated molding apparatus for making plastic parts employing a radio-frequency heating field. In a two-piece mold, a diaphragm is supported thereacross and over a foam plastic compound that is disposed in the bottom half of the mold. A fluid is adapted to be introduced into the mold against the diaphragm. The introduction of this fluid is controlled to initially inject the fluid into the mold to cause deflection of the diaphragm to thus expel substantially all air from the mold and to thereafter extract the fluid from the mold during the heating cycle as the material expands, the extraction causing a vacuum that assists in the plastic foam compound expansion.

Abstract: Permanent magnets embedded within the periphery of a vacuum bag seal the bag to rigid mold during the curing of composite laminate lay-ups.

Abstract: A bonding apparatus for vacuum bagging is disclosed comprising a base having a top surface provided with an outer peripheral vacuum manifold, a diaphragm having a top member and side walls adapted for placement on the base and in conjunction therewith defining a chamber encompassing a work piece; one or more evacuation ports formed in the base or the diaphragm adapted for connection to a vacuum source whereby the chamber may be evacuated of ambient atmosphere to form a vacuum therein; and an edge member associated with the side walls, including a solid, conformable seal adapted to seal the vacuum manifold and to provide at least a primary seal thereagainst. In one embodiment, intended for autoclaving applications, a seal providing both primary and secondary sealing is disclosed. The diaphragm, edge member and seal preferably comprise an elastomeric material.

Abstract: A pre-forming technique for web material utilized to make flexible pouches for fluent products comestibles and non-comestibles in form-and fill equipment of well known type characterized by the initial stretching displacement of each web from its normal plane and in a configuration corresponding to the ultimate spout configuration prior to forming of the pouch with the spout therein, thereby preventing undesired blockage of the spout by unintended adherence of the packaging film in the spout zone during sealing operations. The technique is especially desirable in pouches having a unique and complex reversely curved discharge passageway.

Abstract: A press for shaping a sheet metal blank in a cavity with a forming tool which determines the shape of the finished product. The sheet is pressed against the tool by a diaphragm which is influenced by a pressure medium on the side facing away from the cavity. The forming tool consists of an inexpensive casting material supported in a cup-shaped container. The space between the bottom and sides of the container and the bottom and sides of the cavity is filled with an elastic material.

Abstract: A method particularly adapted for making a complex shaped composite component that has reduced bridging defects. The method comprises disposing a composite prepreg on to a substantially flat tool. The composite prepreg has a substantially flat section and at least one prepreg member extending from and substantially perpendicular to said flat section. A layer, at least about 125% of said composite prepreg height, of a said flowable particulate silicone rubber is disposed in substantially complete contact with the composite prepreg surface. The particulate silicone rubber has a flow rate of at least 0.6 gram/second through a 1.1 cm diameter pipe 7.6 cm long under applied pressure of 10.34 MPa at room temperature. The layer of solid flowable rubber is covered with a bag to effect a gas tight seal. The bag is exposed to pressures which are transferred to said prepreg by said solid flowable polymer. The composite prepreg is exposed to temperatures to form a composite component.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing a spherical shell from a blank utilizing dies, comprising the steps of forming and clamping a flange portion of the blank by pressing with the dies and applying fluid pressure to an elastic diaphragm or flat metal sheet to cause the diaphragm or sheet to bulge the blank so as to form a curved shell surface.

Abstract: A bonding apparatus for vacuum bagging is disclosed comprising a base having a top surface provided with an outer peripheral vacuum manifold, a diaphragm having a top member and side walls adapted for placement on the base and in conjunction therewith defining a chamber encompassing a work piece; one or more evacuation ports formed in the base or the diaphragm adapted for connection to a vacuum source whereby the chamber may be evacuated of ambient atmosphere to form a vacuum therein; and an edge member associated with the side walls, including a solid, conformable seal adapted to seal the vacuum manifold and to provide at least a primary seal thereagainst. In one embodiment, intended for autoclaving applications, a seal providing both primary and secondary sealing is disclosed. The diaphragm, edge member and seal preferably comprise an elastomeric material.

Abstract: The invention is a mold adapted for forming a member from a thermoset or thermoplastic resin about a substrate at a distance from the end of the substrate without leaking of the thermoplastic or thermoset material onto the portion of the substrate between the end and the starting point of the member being formed about the substrate, wherein the mold comprises(A) a mold casing adapted for forming a member from a thermoset or thermoplastic material about a substrate at a distance from the end of the substrate,(B) an inflatable seal adapted for forming a seal about the substrate when inflated at a distance from the end of the substrate such that the thermoset or thermoplastic material is contained to the area of the substrate about which the member is to be formed,(C) a means for inflating the seal such that the seal can form a seal about the substrate at a distance from the end of the substrate.

Abstract: A structural component having a curved wall, such as an aircraft fuselage pipe, has a grid structure formed of box frames produced by winding tapes of fiber reinforced synthetic material, so-called prepregs, onto mold bodies. These mold bodies are then assembled on a mandrel for covering with a planking and curing whereby the tapes are bonded together to form stringers intersecting with ribs in a grid structure and whereby the planking is bonded to the grid structure. The ribs are reinforced by fiber reinforced belt segments of synthetic material inserted into gaps between adjacent short ends of the mold bodies, whereby these belt segments are bonded to the ribs during curing. The belt segments ave a width corresponding to a multiple of the width of the stringers and hence protrude radially inwardly. Preferably, an edge reinforcing strip of fiber reinforced material is arranged alongside the radially inner edge of the belt segments.

Abstract: Fiber-reinforced resin deposits or other materials are consolidated in a noncontact-frictionless manner through the use of a pressurized plenum chamber (20) of a fluid bearing (10). The fluid bearing (10) is flexible and floats relative to the material (16) to be consolidated so that ply drop-offs and other variations in the thickness or surface contour of the material are easily accommodated. While within the plenum chamber, the material is locally heated by radiant energy from a source (30) positioned within the chamber. This localized heating enables the material to solidify in cooler zones of the plenum chamber under a uniform pressure.

Abstract: A tire building machine and method employing a tire building drum for receiving at least one ply of tire material having an edge overhanging an axial end of the drum, a bladder turn-up mechanism extending axially outwardly from the drum, an annular array of radially contractible ply-down fingers movable axially to and from a position encircling the overhanging ply edge, and an axially movable ring device operative first to effect radial contraction of the ply-down fingers to turn the ply edge down over the end of the drum, then to set a tire bead against the turned down ply edge at the end of the drum, and then to push the bladder of the turn-up mechanism when inflated to cause the ply edge to be progressively wrapped around the bead and then over the drum.

Abstract: A method of fabricating a fiber reinforced resin composite article having tubular structures that has improved density and fewer voids. The method comprises laying up a prepreg that has at least two tubular structures and disposing a thermally conductive metallic support structure within and in contact with the tubular structures. The prepreg is disposed within and in substantially complete contact with a tool which has at least one hole. An expandable bag having at least one opening in communication with a tube is inserted within each tubular structure thereby forming a void space between the bag and the tubular structure. The void space is substantially filled with a solid flowable particulate silicone rubber that contacts the prepreg and the tube is sealed to edge of hole in the tool. The solid flowable rubber is caused to transfer a substantially uniform predetermined pressure to the surface of the prepreg by pressurizing the expandable bag.

Abstract: The invention concerns an isostatic press mold for producing moldings from powdery ceramic material. The mold comprises two mold parts which are movable relative to one another between a mold-closed position and a mold-open position and which, in the mold-closed position, define between them a mold cavity. On at least one of the mold parts, there is a press diaphragm which on one side defines part of the limiting surface of the mold cavity and on the other side is subjected to a pressure fluid. On its said other side, that is to say on its side facing away from the mold cavity, the press diaphragm is designed with a plurality of recess spaces so that the press mold can be deformed, while at the same time reducing the internal stresses occurring in it.

Abstract: The invention is concerned with the manufacture, by winding of filamentary material, of a hollow envelope of elongate shape the profile of which evolves along its longitudinal direction. An apparatus for this purpose comprises a deformable mandrel over which the filamentary material is wound, a mould in which the mandrel carrying the winding is enclosed, and a device for flattening the envelope so produced against the walls of a cavity in a mould. The cavity wall is in the shape of the external surface of the requried envelope. The deformable mandrel comprises a rigid core and a flexible wall which is movable with respect to the core to press the winding against the wall of the mould cavity. A device may be provided for ensuring the relaxation of the tension of the threads of the winding produced when the flexible wall is in its position pressing the envelope against the wall of the cavity.

Abstract: A gas-loaded diaphragm for exerting a predetermined pressure on a ceramic substrate during sintering to prevent x-y shrinkage. In the most preferred embodiment, the diaphragm comprises a gas-filled base composed of two opposing discs, and a substantially hollow gas-filled toroid container disposed around the perimeter of the opposing discs and communicating therewith to permit gas flow therebetween. This diaphragm is disposed in relation to a ceramic substrate-containing cell so that when it is heated to a desired temperature, the gas in the diaphragm expands and forces the two opposing discs apart to thereby exert a predetermined pressure on the ceramic substrate-containing cell.

Abstract: A press of pressure cell type comprises a press stand with two opposing force-absorbing elements between which a space is formed. In this space there is located a plate with a recess in which an elastic diaphragm is arranged. The diaphragm forms, together with the plate, a pressure cell. Elongated side supports for the diaphragm are provided at the sides of the said space. A tray insertable into the space forms, together with the plate and the diaphragm, a closed press space. The pressure cell is connected to a pressure medium source. Each side support is formed with an elongated recess, in which there is arranged an expansible membr of elastic material. Each expansible member forms a side support for a press tool located in the tray.

Abstract: A press comprising a press stand, a pressure cell arranged in the press stand with an elastic diaphragm and a tray-shaped tool-carrying member, insertable into the press, in which a forming tool and a workpiece are located. In the inserted position of the tool-carrying member in the press, a closed working space is formed between the pressure cell and the tool-carrying member. The diaphragm is placed in a recess in a press plate. The seal between the diaphragm and the press plate consists of a U-shaped sealing ring having flanges directed inwards towards the center of the pressure cell.

Abstract: Recovery of a heat recoverable article can be carried out without a flame by wrapping around the article a flexible bag and introducing into the bag a liquid of sufficient temperature and heat capacity. Uniform recovery is ensured by maintaining a pressure within the bag so it conforms to the changing size or shape of the recovering article.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are method and apparatus for vulcanizing rubber. One example of an environment wherein the teachings of the present invention is quite useful is the environment of the creation of endless rubber belts by vulcanizing the ends of the belt together so as to make the belt endless. The apparatus disclosed herein basically consists of a pair of opposed thin sacks made of a flexible material which may, at the desired thickness thereof, comprise for example stainless steel. The ends of the belt are placed between these sacks and the sacks are supplied with steam at controlled temperature and pressure so as to provide the proper pressure as well as temperature for the vulcanizing process simultaneously.

Abstract: Improvements in manufacturing composite material articles. The use of male molds in forming such articles has the problem of requiring large tolerances for the outer dimensions of the articles. The use of female molds has the problem of inaccurate forming of highly contoured inner surfaces. The invention produces an accurately formed inner surface by molding material against a male mold, and outer dimensions within close tolerances by curing the material in a female mold. A male caul (34) is positioned on a male mold (30). A preplied stack (32) of composite material is supported on a blanket (36) and held in position against caul (34) with caul (34) and mold (30) in an inverted position. Stack (32) is heated. A vacuum causes blanket (36) to mold stack (32) against caul (34). Mold (30) is rotated 180.degree., and stack (32) is allowed to cool. A female mold surface (43) is placed into contact with formed stack (32). Male mold (30) is moved away, leaving caul (34 ) and formed stack (32) in female mold (42).