We are a specialist manufacturer of solid rubber tyres for various types of traditional vintage machinery.

Rubber and Polyurethane Components Used For The Vintage Machinery Industry

We are experts in helping customers to restore vintage machinery using high-quality rubber and polyurethane components. From rubber wheels and tyres, to gaskets and seals, bumpers and anti-vibrations mounts, discover how moulding techniques and precision engineering enhance the functionality and lifespan of historical equipment, all helping to preserve our industrial heritage.  

In addition to producing universal products, we are able to work with our customers to manufacture bespoke products for new or existing applications.

Clifton Rubber Capabilities By Industry: Vintage Machinery

Rubber Moulding For The Vintage Machinery Industry

Vintage machines often rely on unique and hard-to-find parts, and rubber moulding enables the reproduction of these components, preserving historical authenticity. Additionally, rubber’s resilience and shock-absorbing properties improve the machines’ performance, ensuring smoother operation and reduced wear on delicate mechanisms.

Some examples of how rubber moulding is used for vintage machinery:

  • Manufacturing Rubber Parts: Such as gaskets, seals, O-rings, belts, and bushings. 
  • Repair and Restoration: Many vintage machines have deteriorated rubber components due to age and wear. The rubber moulding process can assist with repair and restoration of vintage machinery.
  • Customization: Vintage machinery may have unique rubber components that are no longer in production and therefore are not readily available. Custom-designed components can be reproduced.
  • Improved Performance: Upgrading rubber parts with modern rubber materials can lead to improved performance, increased durability, and better resistance to environmental factors.
  • Vibration and Noise Dampening: Producing specialised rubber based anti-vibration mounts, and buffers.

By extending the lifespan of vintage machinery, rubber moulding enables enthusiasts and collectors to maintain and operate these historical gems, contributing to the preservation of industrial heritage for future generations.

Polyurethane Moulding For The Vintage Machinery Industry

Polyurethane moulding revolutionises the Vintage Machinery Industry by offering a myriad of advantages. Its versatility enables the creation of custom-made, durable, and precise components, replicating intricate vintage parts that are often challenging to find. Polyurethane’s exceptional resistance to wear, chemicals, and extreme temperatures ensures extended machine longevity. This moulding technique also enhances vintage machinery’s performance by providing superior shock absorption and reduced noise levels during operation. 

Here are some common uses of polyurethane moulding in vintage machinery:

  •  Custom Components: Vintage machinery may have unique rubber components that are no longer in production and therefore are not readily available. Custom-designed components can be reproduced, often in polyurethane rather than rubber.
  • Rollers and Wheels: Polyurethane is commonly used to create rollers and wheels for vintage machinery.
  • Seals and Gaskets: To prevent fluid leakage, dust ingress, and noise transmission. These components are essential for maintaining the proper functioning of vintage machinery.
  • Bumpers and Dampers: Polyurethane bumpers and dampers are used to absorb and reduce impact forces, protecting delicate components from damage and reducing vibrations and noise during machine operation.
  • Belts and Drive Components: Polyurethane belts are used in vintage machinery to transfer power between different parts of the equipment. Polyurethane’s high strength and flexibility make it ideal.

The lightweight nature of polyurethane components contributes to improved efficiency and manoeuvrability. By incorporating polyurethane moulding, the Vintage Machinery Industry can uphold the legacy of historical equipment, ensuring continued functionality and appreciation among enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Rubber Covering including

By applying rubber coatings to various machine parts, such as belts, rollers, and grips, friction is significantly reduced, leading to smoother operation and decreased wear and tear. This, in turn, extends the lifespan of vintage machinery and minimises the need for frequent replacements. Rubber’s excellent grip properties enhance user safety and control, crucial for vintage machinery’s operation. 

Rubber Rollers:

Rubber Rollers appear in various types of vintage machinery including:

  1. Agricultural Machinery: Rollers are frequently used for material handling and conveyance in vintage machinery, such as harvesters.
  2. Printing and Textile Machinery: Rollers to transfer ink or dyes on paper, textiles, or other materials.
  3. Food and Drink Machinery: Conveyors and rollers for sorting and transferring food and packaging.
  4. Transport Mechanisms: Rollers are used in vintage machinery that involves lifting and transporting heavy loads. 

Wheels and Tyres: 

We cover all types of wheels found on vintage machinery and can offer bespoke finishes to meet customer requirements.

Solid tyres for wheels can be used in various modes of transport including: Traction Engine Wheels, Horse Drawn Carriage Wheels, Vintage Car Wheels, Trailer Wheels, Steam Roller Wheels, Model Traction Engine Wheels, Living Van Wheels and many more.

Additionally, the coverings act as protective shields, guarding against moisture, dust, and external damages, thus preserving the authenticity and functionality of these historical treasures for generations to come.

Rubber Extrusion For The Vintage Machinery Industry

Rubber extrusion is a manufacturing process used in vintage machinery to create specific rubber profiles, seals, gaskets, and other custom-shaped components. The process allows the creation of custom rubber profiles, replicating intricate vintage components with precision. These extrusions provide a cost-effective solution for replacing worn-out or unavailable parts, ensuring the continued functionality of vintage machinery. The rubber’s inherent properties, such as flexibility, resilience, and weather resistance, enhance the machines’ durability and performance. 

Examples of rubber extruded products include:

  • Seals and Gaskets: To prevent fluid leakage between different machine parts.
  • Weather Stripping: Vintage machinery often requires weather stripping to provide a seal against environmental elements such as moisture, dust, and air. 
  • Cushioning and Bumpers: Rubber extrusion can be used to manufacture cushioning strips and bumpers that protect delicate parts from impact and vibration.
  • Conveyor Belts and Rollers: Found in vintage material handling equipment, such as agricultural vehicles, assembly lines or printing presses.
  • Tubing and Hoses, O-Rings and Seals: Rubber extrusion can produce O-rings and sealing rings that prevent leakage and preserve the longevity of parts in the vintage machinery.

By leveraging this technology, the Vintage Machinery Industry can preserve historical gems and ensure their smooth functioning for enthusiasts and future generations.

Rubber Sheet Conversion For The Vintage Machinery Industry

Rubber sheet conversion offers a versatile and adaptable solution for equipment refurbishment. These rubber sheets can be easily cut and moulded into various shapes and sizes, making them ideal for recreating vintage machine parts with intricate designs. The process allows for efficient customization and quick production of replacement components that may no longer be available in the market. 

Here are some common uses of rubber sheets in vintage machinery:

  • Gaskets and Seals: Rubber sheets are often cut into gaskets and seals to prevent leakage of fluids or gases between different components of the vintage machinery. 
  • Vibration Dampening: Rubber sheets are used as vibration isolators and dampeners to absorb and reduce vibrations.
  • Packaging and Padding: In vintage machinery shipping or storage, rubber sheets can be used for packaging and padding to protect during transit.
  • Die-Cutting: Rubber sheets can be used as a material for die-cutting specific shapes or components needed for the machine’s operation.

Rubber sheeting provides excellent sealing properties, reducing the risk of leaks and ensuring optimal performance of vintage machinery. The ability to provide sealing, cushioning, and insulation makes them valuable components for maintaining and restoring vintage machinery. By utilising rubber sheet conversion, the industry can prolong the lifespan of historical equipment and maintain their original functionality for generations to come.

Precision engineering offers invaluable benefits to the Vintage Machinery Industry, elevating the restoration and performance of historical equipment to new heights. The attention to detail precision engineering provides enables the re-creation of intricate vintage components with unparalleled accuracy, ensuring seamless compatibility and functionality. 

This level of precision optimises the overall performance, efficiency, and reliability of vintage machines, preserving their historical authenticity and charm. Moreover, precision-engineered parts improve safety standards, reduce friction and wear, and enhance the machines’ longevity. By embracing precision engineering techniques, the Vintage Machinery Industry can breathe new life into these treasures, allowing enthusiasts and collectors to experience and cherish these historical gems for generations.

  • INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE

    50 years of industry experience in rubber and polyurethane manufacturing

  • UK Manufacturing

    A UK based, family owned, 50,000 square feet manufacturing facility

  • In-House Engineering

    Precision Engineering on-site for tool-making and support

  • FLEXIBLE ORDERS

    Low volume one off orders, up to high volume continuous production orders welcome

Companies We’ve Worked With

Testimonials

  • “Really pleased we found Clifton Rubber, their technical team really helped us in the early stages of our project and now they produce our parts which we know will be top quality every time.”

    Sophie, Purchasing Manager, Machinery Manufacturer

  • “Excellent service which is unusual in this day and age. The polyurethane screening stars do the job great, very very pleased.”

    Richard, Owner, Screener Manufacturer

  • “The Clifton Rubber Bowls Ditch Liners look and feel top quality. Thank you for all your help and advice when placing the order. We will definitely be recommending you.”

    Andrew, Club Secretary, Bowls Club

  • “Working with Clifton Rubber has been a real pleasure. Their technical department have gone above and beyond the call of duty to produce the special shaped rubber profile I required. I’m extremely pleased with the end result.”

    Chris, Purchasing Manager, Boat Manufacturer

  • “Just to let you know that our new ditch matting that we purchased from you is spot on. Used all through this busy season, really pleased with it.”

    Ken, Fairford Bowling Club

  • “Since Clifton Rubber has taken over the re-covering of these gripper pads the customer has had no premature failures and the products have a much longer lifespan.”

    Tom, Manufacturing Company

Our Manufacturing Capabilities