Abstract:
An expandable hose assembly that is able to expand one or more of longitudinally along the length-wise axis of the hose between hose ends and radially, to an expanded state in response to application of at least a minimum fluid pressure to an inner tube of the hose. Once the fluid pressure falls below the minimum fluid pressure, the hose will contract. The hose includes a thermoplastic elastomer inner layer and a slip coating layer thereon having lubricating properties that increases the life of the hose assembly. The hose assembly can include an outer sheath or covering that covers the inner tube and slip coating layer.
Abstract:
Thermoplastic elastomer compositions, in particular derived from one or more styrenic block copolymers, a plurality of biorenewable materials, preferably a softener and one or more synergistic additives such as a polar polymer; a synergistic block copolymer such as a relatively high molecular weight styrenic block copolymer; and/or filler. In one preferred embodiment, the styrenic block copolymer comprises a controlled distribution copolymer block including a conjugated diene and a mono alkenyl arene. Numerous desirable articles can be formed from the compositions. Processes for preparing the compositions and articles are disclosed.
Abstract:
A water hose particularly suitable for home and garden use, as well as light industrial or commercial use. The hose has a composite form and contains multiple bonded layers that synergistically contribute to durability, flexibility at a wide range of temperatures, kink resistance, and excellent flow rates while being relatively light in weight as compared to some conventional multi-layer composite hoses.
Abstract:
A preblend of one or more pigments and one or more polymers derived from ethylene monomers and α-olefin monomers when added to polyethylene unexpectedly results in high improvements in impact strength with regard to rotationally molded products as compared to the same products not blended with any preblend. The result is a cost effective, high impact resistant polyethylene that is a physical, dry color blend.
Abstract:
A hose assembly, preferably a garden hose assembly, including a fabric jacketed tube that is lightweight, durable and versatile. The tube is radially expandable when pressurized by a fluid, such as water, but does not increase in length. The two layer construction of the hose assembly allows for storage in relatively compact spaces, similar flow rates, approximately one-half the weight, and improved maneuverability when compared to conventional hose constructions. In one embodiment the jacket is formed around the tube in a continuous process that welds a fabric, preferably using hot air, into the jacket. The welded joint forms a region of jacket that is preferably about twice the thickness of the rest of the jacket. This thicker region results in a stiffer section of jacket that makes the hose more controllable and consistent in use.
Abstract:
A method for joining a flexible tube to a connector having a female fitting that allows relatively facile connection and desirable retention force in a short amount of time. Tube assemblies having a tube bonded to the female fitting of the connector with a joining agent composition including an evaporable liquid hydrocarbon are disclosed.