Rubber Processor
Summary
Rubber processors operate machines and perform related duties to manufacture rubber products such as tyres and reinforced hoses.
Duties & Tasks
Rubber processors may perform the following tasks:
- select appropriate material for processing as per specification
- set controls and check the production machine before starting
- load raw materials
- operate machines in accordance with safety requirements
- mark out patterns from blueprints and cutting sheets
- monitor instruments and adjust controls to regulate the speed and temperature of rubber processing machines
- sandblast non-rubber surfaces
- remove wrinkles and trapped air in rolled products
- maintain consistent operation of output
- check the quality of products and take part in quality improvement activities
- report defects and carry out minor repairs
- keep production records and quality assurance data.
Specialisations
Rubber Extruder Operator
A rubber extruder operator operates rubber extrusion machinery to extrude (press out) rubber materials into finished products or components.
Rubber Injection Moulding Machine Operator
A rubber injection moulding machine operator operates injection moulding machinery to mould formulated rubber materials into finished products or components.
Rubber Knitting Machine Operator
A rubber knitting machine operator operates machines to knit and cement fabric cord or wire around rubber hoses for reinforcement.
Rubber Moulding Machine Operator
A rubber moulding machine operator operates compression moulding machinery to mould compounded rubber materials into finished products or components.
Rubber Roll Builder
A rubber roll builder builds up layers of rubber on metal cores for use as rollers.
Rubber Roller Grinder Operator
A rubber roller grinder operator sets up and operates roller grinders to produce rubber rollers.
Tyre Production Machine Operator
A tyre production machine operator builds raw tyres, retreads new tyres and vulcanises them.
Working Conditions
Rubber processors work in factories and may be required to do shiftwork. They may have to handle dirty items. In some factories the equipment is computer-controlled. The use of safety equipment and lifting devices to move heavy items is required in some areas.
- Specialisations
Personal Requirements
- enjoy practical and manual work
- good communication skills
- enjoy working with figures
- able to work neatly and accurately
- good health and eyesight
- no allergies to rubber compounds, powder and dust.
