DeWal Industries: UHMW-PE Films Boost Rubber Properties
DeWal Industries, Canada, which extrudes UHMW-PE films and tapes, says the latest versions of the films are giving a new lease on life to thermoset rubber hose, conveyor belts, and weatherseals. The company uses UHMW-PE films to add abrasion and chemical resistance to rubber products and to reduce their coefficient of friction.One application is automotive weatherseals, where 2-mil film is put in high-wear areas (e.g., window channels) of rubber weatherstrips. This is said to be a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to fiber flocking. Films can also be wrapped around hydraulic hose and adhered to conveyor belts used for moving chemicals or foods. Tel: (800) 366-8356, www.dewal.com