HOSE HAVING INDEX MARK AND METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING SAME

摘要

Mandrel-cure, curved elastomeric hose (10) is provided with an indexing mark (15) that is formed prior to or during curing of the hose (10) on the mandrel (30). The rigid curved mandrel (30) has an exterior hose bearing surface (34)and an interior cavity (32). The cavity (32) and exterior surface (34) are connected by a small passageway or hole (33) which is located where the index mark (15) is to be made on the hose (10). A sleeve (40) having a wall (42) of uncured elastomeric material is mounted on the mandrel (3O)such that a portion of the sleeve (40) covers the passageway (33). The mandrel (30) having the sleeve (40) mounted thereon is placed in an autoclave and subjected to steam pressure. The steam pressure forces elastomer material into the passageway (33) and thereafter cures the elastomer sleeve (40) into a hose (10). The pressure inside the cavity (32) is approximately atmospheric at the introduction of the steam pressure. The cavity (32) within the mandrel (30) may be sealed except for the passageway (33) or the cavity (32) and the passageway (33) may be vented to atmospheric pressure.