Rubber to metal bonding is a means by which rubber is mechanically bonded to a metal insert during the molding process. To begin the bonding process, the inserts are first prepped for production using a degreasing system to rid the parts of any contaminants before the adhesive is applied. Next, the heat activated adhesive is applied to the inserts using a technique similar to spray painting. Once the metals are prepared, they are ready for production.

The inserts are then physically placed, one at a time, into each cavity of the mold. For inserts on the top of a part, special magnets are incorporated into the mold to hold them in place while the mold is being loaded. Also, for inserts being encapsulated into the rubber, special chaplet pins are incorporated into the mold to suspend the insert in the mold & allow the rubber to flow around the metal.

Once the inserts are in place, the normal rubber molding process commences. After the mold is closed, and the molding begins, the adhesive on the metals is activated, allowing the inserts to bond to the rubber.

Typical applications for rubber to metal bonding include, any part requiring the combination of the flexibility of rubber and the stability of a metal. Components ranging in size from small mounts for motors to large locomotive suspension parts are just a sampling of parts produced using this process.