Multi-layered golf balls having a thin outer cover

摘要

Multi-layered golf balls having an inner core, at least one intermediate layer, and outer cover are provided. The outer cover is made from am ultra-low melt index (ULMI) thermoplastic material using an in-molding coating process that involves applying a thin layer of the material to the interior surface of the cover mold members. Preferably, the ultra-low melt index material is a highly neutralized ionomer ethylene-based copolymer. The cover layers made from these highly neutralized polymers (HNPs) are thin and uniform and provide the golf ball with good playing performance properties. Yet, the cover layers also are tough and provide the golf ball with good impact durability.

主权项

1. A method for molding a multi-layered golf ball, comprising the steps of:
coating a powder composition comprising an ultra-low melt index thermoplastic polymer to interior surfaces of upper and lower mold members, the upper and lower mold members defining a mold cavity; placing a golf ball subassembly comprising a core of at least one layer into the powder-coated mold cavity; applying heat and pressure to the mold members so the powder composition fuses and encapsulates the subassembly and forms a solid and continuous cover of at least one layer comprising the ultra-low melt index thermoplastic polymer; and removing the molded, multi-layered golf ball from the mold cavity.