Types of Vulcanization Equipment
Hot Air Continuous Vulcanization
Hot air continuous vulcanization (HAVC) is a process used for the vulcanization of rubber profiles, hoses, and cables. The principle behind HAVC is the continuous exposure of rubber to a controlled environment of hot air that leads to a chemical reaction within the rubber compound, resulting in its hardening and cross-linking.
The equipment used for HAVC consists of a long tunnel-like chamber through which the rubber products are passed on a conveyor system. The chamber is designed to maintain a consistent temperature, which is crucial for the vulcanization process. The temperature is typically between 200°C and 300°C, depending on the type of rubber and the desired properties of the final product.
As the rubber moves through the chamber, it is subjected to a stream of hot air that triggers the vulcanization process. The length of the chamber and the speed of the conveyor are calibrated to ensure that the rubber remains in the hot air environment for the time required to complete the vulcanization. This method is highly efficient for mass production as it allows for continuous processing rather than individual batches.
Batch Vulcanization Systems
Batch vulcanization systems are used for the vulcanization of various rubber products in discrete batches. Unlike continuous systems, batch vulcanization processes a set amount of rubber products at one time. This method is often used for items that require a more hands-on approach or when the product size or shape does not allow for continuous vulcanization.
The principle of batch vulcanization involves placing rubber products in a press or autoclave where they are exposed to high temperatures and pressures for a predetermined period. The temperature and pressure parameters are set according to the specific requirements of the material and the end-use of the product. The vulcanization process causes the rubber to become elastic and resistant to various environmental factors.
Batch systems provide the advantage of flexibility, as each batch can be customized to different vulcanization conditions. This is particularly useful for specialized or less common rubber compounds that require unique processing conditions. However, the batch process is generally less efficient than continuous vulcanization due to the downtime between batches and the manual labor involved in loading and unloading the equipment.