CHELSEA TECHNOLOGIES GROUP LTD

CTG worked with leading tyre company to investigate using a fluorescence measurement to improve efficiency on their production line. One of the final processes in the manufacture of a tyre is the moulding of the tread and vulcanization of the rubber. This process involves inflating a rubber bladder inside the tyre using superheated water within a mould press. The continual inflation & deflation of the bladder, combined with potential chemical contamination & dissolved oxygen in the water supply, eventually leads to a degradation of the bladder rubber & its failure. When this happens the moulded tyre does not vulcanize properly in the area of the failure. To try to solve the problem fluorophore was introduced into the water supply as a marker to identify bladder leaks during the moulding process. A sensor is then used to scan the inner surface of the tyre as soon as it comes off the press. By detecting any leaks early it is possible to significantly reduce wastage.