UHMW ROLL COVERS
A new field-applied roll cover made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE), is expected to soon replace more costly rubber and fiberglass covers in the pulp and paper industry, says Fluoron, Inc., the product's manufacturer. "This is absolutely the best wearing of all plastic materials, yet it has exceptional release properties," says Frank Chapman, Fluoron V.P. "Our new Fluoro-Wear(tm) UHMW-PE-roll covers, which have similar release properties to Teflon(r) FEP, can be installed on site in an hour or so, using the same easy heat shrink process as with Teflon roll covers, but the material offers up to 30 times wear resistance." Chapman says roll covers of UHMW-PE are now possible due to a new seaming technology which yields an almost undetectable seam. The covers are less costly, and offer better release than rubber rolls or even chromed steel, and can be easily installed over a rusted or pitted roll -- or even over a worn rubber cover -- to renew the surface to a new high-gloss finish. According to the company, the new roll covers were designed for rolls carrying felt and wire, and for other high wear situations. UHMW roll covers are currently available in 20 and 60 mils, and in the same sizes as standard Teflon covers (five inches and up; up to 40 feet long).

For more information, contact Frank Chapman, Fluoron, Inc., Triumph Industrial Park, 505 Blue Ball Rd., Bldg. 120, Elkton, MD 21921, 410-392-0220, FAX 410-392-4357.