Curing is used to give a tyre its final shape and tread pattern. It involves the chemical cross-linking of rubber and vulcanising agents, resulting in an elastomer. In the past, steam was typically used to create the heat and pressure needed for curing. Steam has a number of disadvantages, however, including the high price of steam energy, handling difficulties, high maintenance effort, lack of flexibility in setting individual parameters, the need for additional protective antioxidants in some cases, and the risk of quality impairment as a result of local overheating following condensation.
The nitrogen alternative
In order to overcome these disadvantages, steam can be replaced with nitrogen as the pressure agent. This flexible and inert gas keeps the system pressure at the desired level. In addition, operators of nitrogen-based tyre presses can select the system pressure independently of the curing temperature. The elimination of steam reduces the risk of local overheating, and less steam can condense in subsequent stages of the curing process.
To ensure the optimum supply system, process parameters and safety precautions for your individual needs, our application engineers would be delighted to assist with in-house trials and efficiency optimisation advice.
Benefits at a Glance
- Maximum availability and reliability
- Reduction of production and maintenance costs
- Improved pressure stability and independent pressure setting
- Cycle time savings of up to 18%
- Up to 100% extension of bladder lifetime
- Improved quality for reduced scrap costs
