Trelleborg Sealing Solutions Introduces Rubore® Unique Composite Technology that can Significantly Lower Total Production Costs in Automotive Applications


Trelleborg Sealing Solutions introduces the unique Rubore® composite technology to its product portfolio. Focusing on automotive applications, the innovative manufacturing process allows the development of components that offer significant weight-savings and unrivalled total cost reduction only achievable through this method of production.

Rubore® technology is an advanced production process used to create a three to five layer rubber-to-metal sandwich by applying a bonding agent to metal carriers and then vulcanizing rubber to the coated metal. Already world-leading in anti-vibration applications for the automotive industry, a range of Rubore® seals have been developed that includes five products for a variety of applications.

Head of Sales Engineering for the European Automotive Hub for Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, Axel Weimann says: "The real benefits of our patented Rubore® composite technology are apparent when you consider the total cost of production. Working with us, components can be designed or redesigned to integrate Rubore® products. This can lead to significant total cost savings when you consider reduction of handling, the ability to automate assembly and less logistics.

"Another big saving is given in many applications where due to compensation of roughness, the need for surface finishing can be alleviated. In addition, minimizing component weight not only reduces material costs, but also contributes to the automotive designers' objective to lower vehicle weight."

One example of how the Rubore® composite technology has worked in practice is the seal design of an electronic control unit (ECU). The room available within an engine compartment or vehicle interior is limited, meaning that complex designs which fit space requirements are essential.

In a harsh environment, like the engine compartment, the ECU cover is constructed from metal and sealing is usually with a molded gasket, manually inserted in to the groove or achieved by gluing with liquid silicone or elastomer. The preferred solution was a Rubore® Cover Seal, where the rubber seal is combined with the ECU cover in a single integrated unit, meaning costly manual installation is no longer needed. Rubore® seals can optimize production processes by improving accuracy and lowering costs as well as reducing lead, handling and assembly times. More complex components can be designed that are lighter weight with improved product function.

Rubore® Flat Seal - Flat gaskets prevent micro leakage

Rubore® Frame Seal - Stiff flexible seal allows for tolerance variation

Rubore® Slide Ring - Metal-reinforced guide rings preventing groove vibration

Rubore® Cap Seal - Circular cover seals negating the need for glue or adhesive

Rubore® Cover Seal - Integrated housing seals for small spaces, to lower weight and improve quality

For more information and to view a film on the Rubore® product, go to www.rubore-seals.com.

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