Improved Performance of Elastomeric Products through Corpo Fibre Reinforcement

During the design of fibre reinforced elastomeric structures the material choice often receives all the attention. The problem with this approach is that the composed structure of most products is not optimized. Taniq and the Delft University of Technology have developed a new method of fibre reinforcing convoluted elastomeric products, called Corpo fibre reinforcement. This technology can be applied to improve products such as hoses or compensators which are not constant of diameter. This paper explains the basic principles of the Corpo technology and uses practical examples to show its potential. A smart geometry of the fibre reinforcement will cause no sheer stress in the matrix material which result in a longer lifetime. Because of the optimized fibre geometry up to 70% reduction of fibres and 30% of rubber is possible, lowering the material cost of the product. Higher pressure levels are possible which creates possibilities for new products.

Furthermore the behavior under pressure can be controlled and predicted.