One of the most common requirements in rubber manufacturing is bonding rubber to metal.
For materials that need the rigidity of metal but the elasticity of rubber, rubber-to-metal bonding is the go-to solution.
Let’s find out how rubber is bonded to metal and the main reasons why.
How is rubber bonded to metal?
For rubber manufacturers, there’s plenty to consider when it comes to rubber-to-metal bonding. Adhesives can fail, rubber might not perform as expected, or parts may fail prematurely and require replacement, which can take assets out of service.
Understanding the correct method to use is vital to ensure longevity.
Let’s explore some key rubber-to-metal bonding methods:
Bonding rubber to metal with glue:
This process involves a mould containing inserts made from metal which rubber is bonded during the process.
A heat-activated glue is then sprayed on the metal parts before they’re inserted into the mould, resulting in a bond that can be stronger than the elastomer itself!
Vulcanised bonding:
Vulcanised bonding is the process of chemically bonding an elastomer to a prepared metal surface.
Vulcanisation is regarded as the best way to create a permanent bond of metal and rubber, and can be much stronger than a glue bond in a lot of applications.
Primers and cements are then added to chemically prepare the surface, before heat and/or pressure is applied to complete the bond.
What is a Metal bonding application?
Metal bonding is a popular technique for many industries, but is typically most common in the electrical, automotive, aerospace, rail, oil & gas and medical industries.
Let’s take a look at the types of ways these industries utilise metal bonding:
- Construction: Vibration reduction, stabilisers, conveyor belts and isolation mounts
- Medical: O-rings, extrusions, pump compressor isolation and tubing
- Automotive: Seals, bushings, gaskets, engine mounts, hangers and bumpers
- Transportation: Pedals, valve seals, suspension and engine parts
There are other popular applications for rubber-to-metal bonding, for example, in the agricultural industry, where rubber-to-metal bonding is used to make ball joints and stabilisers for farming equipment.
Metal bonding is also prevalent in automotive, through the bonding of seal gaskets with engine mounts. O-rings, which are used in an array of medical equipment, can also be bonded to metal for drug delivery equipment and respiratory pumps.
Is metal bonding important?
When metal is bonded to rubber, it becomes much more durable and is important in noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) applications.
NVH is the study, assessment, and reduction of the noise, vibration and harshness of a product or material to allow a better user experience for the end customer.
NVH is especially prevalent in the automotive industry to provide a smooth and quiet drive for the customer.
Quality, bespoke, rubber-metal bonding
If you are looking for a rubber manufacturer with bespoke capabilities, look no further than Checkmate Flexible Engineering.
At Checkmate, we support a range of bespoke rubber manufacturing and design projects for customers in Defence & Aviation, Industrial, Cargo Protection, Check Rescue and Marine & Offshore industries. When you work with Checkmate, you can be confident you will receive excellent customer service and the highest-quality products.
Get in touch with us today to arrange your next product.
