摘要 |
<p>A method and apparatus for continuously processing fiber into an elastomeric component uses an expanding die ( 11, 11 a) for orienting fibers in other than the processing direction of the extrusion. In one embodiment, an injection mold ( 50 ) is used with the expanding die ( 11 ), and in another embodiment, an extruder ( 30 ) is used with expanding die ( 11 a). Processing parameters may be alteredto control the direction of orientation of fibers ( 20 ) in the elastomer component. Orientation of fibers ( 20 ) in an extrudate ( 17 ) is dependent on the processing speed viscosity of the elastomer, pressure of extrusion, the length l<SUB>1 </SUB>and l<SUB>2 </SUB>and height h<SUB>1 </SUB>and h<SUB>2 </SUB>of gate ( 12 ) and expansion cavity ( 14 ), respectively, of the expansion die ( 11, 11 a).</p> |