ELASTOMERIC POLYMER COMPOUNDS FOR PRODUCTION OF SPARE PARTS FOR ROBOTIC MILKING SYSTEM

Abstract

Currently, the import of spare parts of systems, in particular, nipple rubber and elastomeric parts of the milk pump of the milking unit, has been discontinued. In this regard, the problem of developing technologies for manufacturing elastomeric spare parts for milking machines becomes urgent. One of the possible ways of cost-effective production of spare parts in conditions of small-scale production is free casting or low-pressure casting. To implement such technologies, materials with low viscosity (less than 50 pascals per second) are needed, which include polymer compounds. (Research purpose) The research purpose is determining the brands of elastomeric polymer compounds suitable for the manufacture of spare parts for milking machines. (Materials and methods) Used scientific and technical literature as materials for studying, including articles of indexed periodicals and open sources of information containing information about elastomeric polymer compounds. Research methods are the collection, study and comparative analysis of information. (Results and discussion) It was found that among all polymer compounds, epoxy, polyester, polyurethane and silicone compounds were the most widespread in mechanical engineering and the food industry. It was determined that compounds based on polyurethane or silicone are the most suitable for the manufacture of spare parts for milking machines. These materials provide sufficient mechanical characteristics and high elasticity of the manufactured part. It was noted that silicone-based compounds are used for food purposes, which ensures the chemical and biological inertia of the part. (Conclusions) The most suitable brands of elastomeric silicone compounds are Elastolux Platinum 40 and Silagerm 8040. These materials are manufactured in Russia, have low shrinkage, provide high strength and elasticity of the final parts.