Early in his career, James Finefrock of Blair Rubber Co lost a co-worker who died in a solvent explosion accident while installing rubber linings. As head of Research and Development at Blair Rubber since 1987, Jim was determined to develop a new lining that entirely eliminated the solvents.
Blair Rubber recently patented a solvent-free rubber lining adhesion system that entirely eliminates solvent emissions, thus allowing application of tank linings to be carried out in a non-flammable and non-toxic atmosphere. The system provides sufficient rubber-to-metal bond strength without the hazards associated with traditional solvent-based products.
Rubber linings are applied to the interior of storage tanks, rail tank cars, chemical and food processing equipment to protect the metal or concrete from corrosion. In the case of hazardous chemicals, any failures in a rubber lining can lead to catastrophic consequences.
Since their introduction in the early 1930s, all rubber linings have relied upon adhesion systems that include high levels of solvent in their makeup. Primers, intermediate, tack cements, and curing agents all contained varying amounts of these toxic and flammable components. The linings are often applied in confined spaces such as the interior of a rail car or storage tank where employees are exposed to toxic and flammable fumes.
Since 1981, Blair has manufactured one product, corrosion resistant rubber linings. Developing safer, healthier linings has always been a focus; because of the risks, every new Blair Rubber system introduced has sought not only to improve adhesion and simplify the application but also to reduce the amount of solvent emission. Today, Blair Rubber Company is the only full service manufacturer in the United States offering a complete line of corrosion resistant rubber linings.