like baking bread in a factory
Rubber is a fascinating material that can be used to create an endless variety of products. The process of making a rubber product is surprisingly similar to baking bread. Curious to know how it works? Take a moment to read and watch!
designing the mould
Creating a rubber product requires not only a design but also a mould, which acts as the ‘form’ that makes production of the desired rubber product possible. After the product sketch is created, the next step is the mould drawing, prepared by our mould engineers. Using SolidWorks, a specialised software application, they design rubber products and moulds in both 2D and 3D. Through precise calculations and simulations, the mould is optimised for maximum efficiency. Once the design is complete, the mould is manufactured by one of our trusted partners.
from plastic to elastic
Once the mould is received, trial production can begin. The mould is filled with a rubber compound made up of polymers, fillers, oils, additives and vulcanising agents. At this stage, the rubber feels soft, similar to chewing gum. However, under the high pressure and heat inside the moulding machine – ranging from 120 to 180 degrees Celsius – vulcanisation occurs. This is similar to what happens when bread is baked: the substance undergoes a transformation. During this process, the rubber compound changes from plastic to elastic. After vulcanisation the final product is ready.
quality control
After the rubber product is produced, it undergoes an evaluation by our in-house quality team and, of course, the customer. Once both parties approve, series production begins at our facilities in Lelystad or Kula (Bulgaria).
greluctant allies
Sometimes, rubber needs to be bonded to metal for added sturdiness or support. We do this at RIS Rubber, too! Since these two materials are not naturally compatible, a specialised treatment is required. Curious to learn how we handle this?
Whitepaper
Download
the whitepaper
