On the Prediction of Pantographing that Occurs between Reinforcement Cords Embedded within Uncured Rubber Layers during Molding of Tires

Abstract

Abstract Molding is a key stage in the manufacturing process of a rubber tire. An unvulcanized tire consists of several layers of rubber compounds, some of which are reinforced with sets of fabric cords or wire cords. The final shape of the tire, including the tread patterns and markings, is obtained after insertion of the tire into a curing mold and inflation with an appropriate pressure. The relative orientation of reinforcements may change during the inflation phase. This relative orientation change is referred to as pantographing, and it will affect the properties of the finished tire. Predicting possible changes of orientation of reinforcements during inflation is therefore useful for subsequent technological assessment.