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Feb 1, 2004 12:00 PM

Blair Rubber Co has a new solvent-free rubber lining system to protect railcars, over-the-road trailers, and vessels from chemical corrosion.

James Finefrock, head of research and development at Blair since 1987, pioneered the development of this new lining system. Early in his career, he lost a co-worker who died in a solvent explosion accident while installing rubber linings. Finefrock was determined to develop a new lining that entirely eliminated the solvents.

Since their introduction in the early 1930s all rubber linings have relied upon adhesion systems that include high levels of solvent in their makeup. Primers, intermediate, tack cements, and curing agents all contained varying amounts of these toxic and flammable components. The linings are often applied in confined spaces such as the interior of a tank car where employees are exposed to toxic and flammable fumes.

Blair recently patented a solvent-free rubber lining adhesion system that entirely eliminates solvent emissions, thus allowing application of tank linings to be carried out in a non-flammable and non-toxic atmosphere. The system provides sufficient bond strength of rubber to metal without the hazards associated with traditional solvent-based products.

Contact Blair, 1252 Mina Ave, Akron OH 44321 for more information.