I am new to the molding of AASHTO grade neoprene for use in highway bridge bearings. The bearings consist of neoprene pads with alternating internal layers of steel shims vulcanized to the internal neoprene rubber layers.
Questions:
How important is the pressure inside the mold while vulcanizing the rubber? Is high pressure necessary? What internal mold pressure is recommended?
What could cause a completed, vulcanized pad to "creep" up in durometer hardness after a few weeks?
Any help anyone could give me would be appreciated.
Questions:
How important is the pressure inside the mold while vulcanizing the rubber? Is high pressure necessary? What internal mold pressure is recommended?
What could cause a completed, vulcanized pad to "creep" up in durometer hardness after a few weeks?
Any help anyone could give me would be appreciated.
