Full definition
The process of permanently bonding pre-calendered or pre-formed rubber sheets to internal metal surfaces of equipment (pipes, tanks, vessels, chutes, cyclones, and mill shells) using a two-coat adhesive system and heat/pressure vulcanization. The result is a monolithic rubber-metal composite with bond strength exceeding the rubber tear strength. Process: (1) Grit-blast metal surface to SSPC-SP10 / ISO Sa 2.5 profile (50-100 μm). (2) Apply primer (Chemlok 205 or equivalent) within 4 hours of blasting. (3) Apply cover coat adhesive (Chemlok 220 or equivalent) after primer dries. (4) Apply uncured rubber sheet (calendered to required thickness, 3-50 mm) using hand roller to ensure full adhesive contact and eliminate air pockets. (5) Vulcanize: autoclave (steam at 145-155°C, 3-5 bar, 30-90 min — standard for vessels and pipes), or press cure (for flat panels), or hot-air/infrared blanket (for field repair). The autoclave method produces the strongest bond and most uniform cure. Quality checks: spark testing at 15 kV/mm to detect pinholes, adhesion testing per ASTM D429, and hardness verification. Applications: chemical reactor linings, FGD (flue gas desulfurization) vessels, mineral processing tanks, cyclones, and mill shells. Brands: Trelleborg (Trellex — the market leader in rubber lining), Weir Minerals (Linatex), Rema Tip Top, and Metso.