Constant innovation and evolution are part of Vipal Rubber' trajectory. That is why the Company continues to seek continuous improvements in its processes and products. This is the case of the new functionality developed for Vipal envelopes. Used in the tyre retreading process in the curing stage, the envelope is used in a curing chamber and has the function of pressing the precured tread on the tyre casing to, after being applied, generate a vacuum in the tyre and completely block the air inlet. The VOS envelopes - Vipal Outer Short (short skirt) - and VOE - Vipal Outer Extended (long skirt) - bring new functionality, presenting an individual barcode that allows the control of the number of cycles through which the piece has already passed.

The new feature will generate benefits for retreaders, who will be able to control in an exact and standardized way the useful life of the envelopes, guaranteeing its expected performance. The innovation is that the code is directly linked to the envelope, remaining this way until the end of its useful life. In other words, it will not be possible to disassociate the history from the envelope's barcode. This will ensure that the number of cycles matches that unit when the code is checked before a new tyre retreading process.

Since 2020, Vipal's envelopes have a new compound, making it possible to stretch longer in both cold and hot cures. This provides better handling, more elasticity and reduces the risk of tyre tearing and bursting. The envelopes now have rubber reinforcements that added resistance to previously more vulnerable areas, bringing greater stability and performance over time.

Cycle Control

The new control system starts when the new envelope is used for the first time, and the retreader registers the number corresponding to the bar code in their ERP. In this way, the reading of the individual code is enabled in the system. When enveloping the tyre, before entering the curing chamber, the code is read, and the use of the envelope is recorded. With each new retreading process, the ERP scan will determine how many cycles the part has already been subjected to. To ensure control accuracy, the retreader can customize the system and block the process from running if the envelope barcode is not scanned.

According to Rodemir Conte, Vipal Rubber Product and Process Engineering Manager, the innovation will generate several benefits for retreaders and their customers. The new feature facilitates and improves control over the number of times the envelope is used, thus allowing greater efficiency in knowing the real durability of them. "Adding this innovation to the excellent performance of our current envelope, it is possible to generate savings and better cost control for our retreaders", concludes Conte.