| 摘要 |
A one-piece mandrel for making elastomeric articles by a dipping process has a one-piece body which includes at least one opening extending therethrough. A split extends from the opening through a cross-section of the one-piece body. At least a portion of the body adjacent the split is formed of an elastically resilient material to allow the split to open for removal of the elastomeric article after formation, and to cause the split to self-close after removal of the article from the mandrel. Closure of the split forms a substantially continuous molding surface in the immediately vicinity of the split. Proper alignment of the mating surfaces of the split is assured by irregular (non-planar) design of the split surfaces, or by use of an alignment element embedded in the mandrel. In embodiments where a ferro magnetic alignment element is used, a separate magnetized element may also be embedded in the mandrel to assist in holding the split closed during the dipping process. If necessary or desired, both elements may be magnetized. An especially advantageous material for forming the mandrel of the present invention is an elastomeric composition having a Shore A hardness ranging from 20-90 (preferably 60-75), a tensile strength ranging from 500-1,100 pounds per square inch, a percentage elongation of 150 360%, a tear strength of 55-120 pounds per square inch, and a continuous surface temperature equal to or greater than 212.degree.F. |
