This document describes, inter alia, accessories for use with fences as well as related methods for manufacturing an accessory for use with fences. The accessories comprise a plastic having elastomeric properties selected from a thermoplast, a thermoset and/or an elastomer.
The present invention relates to accessories for fencing and to related methods.
During storage, transportation and use of fences, various accessories are used. Traditionally, these are made from polypropylene (PP). However, PP becomes brittle at lower temperatures and in particular during frosty weather.
The accessories according to the present invention provide a solution to the abovementioned problems.
This invention provides an assembly of a fence and an accessory, wherein the accessory is mechanically connectable to the fence, and wherein the accessory comprises a plastic having elastomeric properties selected from a thermoplast, a thermoset and/or an elastomer, wherein the accessory preferably comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt%, more preferably 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of plastic having elastomeric properties.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises a thermoplast selected from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS) and/or polyvinyl butyral (PVB), wherein a thermoset is selected from bakelite, polyurethane resin, polyester, silicone and/or epoxy, and/or wherein an elastomer is selected from a thermoplastic elastomer such as synthetic rubber and/or thermosetting elastomer, such as natural rubber.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises polyvinyl butyral (PVB), preferably 5.0 to 60.0 wt% of polyvinyl butyral (PVB).
In some embodiments, the accessory furthermore comprises polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE), preferably 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE). In alternative embodiments, the accessory furthermore comprises polyvinyl chloride (PVC), preferably 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
In some embodiments, the accessory furthermore comprises filler, preferably 20.0 to 90.0 wt%, more preferably 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of filler, and wherein the filler preferably comprises chalk.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 5.0 to 65.0 wt% of polyvinyl butyral (PVB); 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE); and up to 80 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 5.0 to 65.0 wt% of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and up to 80 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the plastic having elastomeric properties comprises recycled plastic having elastomeric properties, preferably the PP comprises recycled PP, preferably the PE comprises recycled PE, preferably the PVC comprises recycled PVC, preferably the PVB comprises recycled PVB.
In some embodiments, the PVC comprises foamed PVC.
In some embodiments, the fence comprises steel and/or aluminium.
In some embodiments, the assembly comprises several fences which are stacked on top or alongside each other and the accessory is configured to keep the position of the several fences with respect to each other constant.
In some embodiments, the assembly furthermore comprises a strap which, together with the accessory, is configured to keep the position of the several fences with respect to each other constant.
In some embodiments, the assembly comprises several accessories and/or straps which are configured to keep the position of the several fences with respect to each other constant.
In some embodiments, at least one strap is wound around an accessory and the several fences.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises a perpendicular part and a longitudinal part.
In some embodiments, the perpendicular part and the longitudinal part make an angle of 80° to 100°, preferably of 90° with each other.
In some embodiments, the longitudinal part comprises several openings.
In some embodiments, the longitudinal part is passed through the meshes of stacked fences.
In some embodiments, the fence is comprised in an enclosure.
In some embodiments, the accessory is selected from the list comprising: a privacy strip, a bracket, an end cap without a hook, an end cap with a hook, a long-lipped bracket and a bracket with a lock. This invention furthermore provides a method for manufacturing an accessory for use in an assembly as described herein. The method comprises the following steps:
This invention furthermore provides a method for manufacturing an accessory for use in an assembly as described herein. The method comprises the following steps:
Depending on the type of accessory, it may be manufactured either via extrusion or via injection-moulding. For example, privacy strips are preferably manufactured by means of an extrusion method, whereas other accessories, such as a bracket, an end cap without a hook, an end cap with a hook, a long-lipped bracket and a bracket with a lock are preferably manufactured by means of an injection-moulding method.
The following description of the melt applies to both the injection-moulding method and the extrusion method.
In some embodiments, the melt furthermore comprises polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE), preferably 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE). In alternative embodiments, the melt furthermore comprises polyvinyl chloride (PVC), preferably 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
In some embodiments, the melt furthermore comprises a blowing agent.
In some embodiments, the blowing agent comprises CO2 and/or N2 and/or the blowing agent forms CO2 and/or N2 during extrusion or injection-moulding.
In some embodiments, the melt furthermore comprises a filler, preferably 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of filler, and wherein the filler comprises chalk.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 5.0 to 65.0 wt% of polyvinyl butyral (PVB); 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE); and up to 80 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 5.0 to 65.0 wt% of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and up to 80.0 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments of the method as described herein, the plastic having elastomeric properties comprises recycled plastic having elastomeric properties, preferably the PP comprises recycled PP, preferably the PE comprises recycled PE, preferably the PVC comprises recycled PVC, preferably the PVB comprises recycled PVB.
In some embodiments of the method as described herein, the PVC comprises foamed PVC.
The following description of the figures relates to specific embodiments of the present invention, and is only given by way of example. This description is not limiting with regard to the teaching which is described herein, the applications thereof or the use thereof. In the figures, identical reference numerals are used to refer to identical or similar devices or components.
The following reference numerals are used in the description and in the
As used below in this text, the singular forms "a", "an", "the" include both the singular and the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
The terms "comprise", "comprises" as used below are synonymous with "including", "include" or "contain", "contains" and are inclusive or open and do not exclude additional unmentioned parts, elements or method steps. Where this description refers to a product or process which "comprises" specific features, parts or steps, this refers to the possibility that other features, parts or steps may also be present, but this may also refer to embodiments which only contain the listed features, parts or steps.
The enumeration of numeric values by means of ranges of figures comprises all values and fractions in these ranges, as well as the cited end points.
The term "approximately" as used when referring to a measurable value, such as a parameter, an amount, a time period, and the like, is intended to include variations of +/-10% or less, preferably +/-5% or less, more preferably +/-1% or less, and still more preferably +/-0.1% or less, of and from the specified value, in so far as the variations apply to the disclosed invention. It should be understood that the value to which the term "approximately" refers per se has also been disclosed. All references cited in this description are hereby deemed to be incorporated in their entirety by way of reference.
Unless defined otherwise, all terms disclosed in the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning which a person skilled in the art usually gives them. For further guidance, definitions are included to further explain terms which are used in the description of the invention. The abbreviation wt% as used herein refers to weight percent. For example, the expression "mixture m comprises x wt% of component a and y wt% of component b" means that mixture m comprises x weight units of component a and y weight units of component b per 100 weight units of mixture m.
The term "assembly" as used herein refers to a collection of components which together form a functional unit. The terms "arrangement" or "system" may alternatively be used for the term "assembly".
This invention provides an assembly of a fence and an accessory. The accessory is mechanically connected or connectable to the fence and the accessory comprises a plastic having elastomeric properties, selected from a thermoplast, a thermoset and/or an elastomer, wherein the accessory preferably comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt%, more preferably 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of plastic having elastomeric properties.
Preferably, the thermoplast is selected from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS) and/or polyvinyl butyral (PVB), with a thermoset being selected from bakelite, polyurethane resin, polyester, silicone and/or epoxy, and/or with an elastomer being selected from a thermoplastic elastomer, such as synthetic rubber, and/or thermosetting elastomer, such as natural rubber.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Preferably, the polyvinyl butyral comprises recycled polyvinyl butyral. PVB can be used as a very inexpensive filler, for example in polypropylene-based (PP) accessories. In addition, PVB also improves the properties of accessories: thus, for example, accessories based on PP and PVB are more flexible than accessories based on pure PP or on PP with chalk filler.
The expression "plastic having elastomeric properties" as used herein preferably refers to a plastic which can undergo elastic deformation. As used herein, the plastic having elastomeric properties may be a mixture of different plastics.
Preferably, the plastic having elastomeric properties is a plastic with a modulus of elasticity (E) of at least 200 MPa, preferably at least 400 MPa, preferably at least 600 MPa, preferably at least 800 MPa, preferably at least 1000 MPa. Preferably, the modulus of elasticity is determined during a tensile-strength test. Preferably, the modulus of elasticity is determined during a pressure test. Preferably, the modulus of elasticity is determined during a bending test. Preferably, the modulus of elasticity is determined according to ISO 527:2019.
Preferably, the plastic having elastomeric properties is a plastic having a tensile strength of at least 10.00 MPa, preferably at least 15.00 MPa, preferably at least 17.00 MPa, preferably at least 20.00 MPa, preferably at least 22.00 MPa. Preferably, the plastic having elastomeric properties is a plastic having a tensile strength of at most 50.00 MPa, preferably at most 40.00 MPa, preferably at most 35.00 MPa, preferably at most 30.00 MPa, preferably at most 27.00 MPa, preferably at most 25.00 MPa, preferably at most 23.00 MPa. Preferably, the tensile strength is determined according to ISO 527:2019.
Preferably, the plastic having elastomeric properties is a plastic with an extension at break in a tensile-strength test of preferably at least 4.0 %, preferably at least 5.0 %, preferably at least 6.0 %, preferably at least 7.0 %, preferably at least 8.0 %, preferably at least 9.0 %, preferably at least 10.0 %, preferably at least 11.0 %, preferably at least 12.0 %.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 5.0 wt% to 90.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 10.0 wt% to 80.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 15.0 wt% to 70.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 wt% to 60.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 25.0 wt% to 50.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 30.0 wt% to 40.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 32.5 wt% to 35.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 70.0 wt% to 90.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 75.0 wt% to 85.0 wt% of PVB. Preferably, the accessory comprises 5.0 wt% to 60.0 wt% of PVB.
In some embodiments, the fence comprises steel and/or aluminium. Different kinds of fences are suitable. Preferably, the fence is made from steel wire, steel bars or steel pipes and the fence comprises meshes. In some embodiments, the bars, pipes or wires of the fence have a diameter of 0.5 mm to 10.0 mm, or of 1.0 mm to 8.0 mm, or of 2.0 mm to 7.0 mm, or of 3.0 mm to 6.0 mm, or of 4.0 mm to 5.0 mm, or of 5.0 mm to 6.0 mm.
In some embodiments, the accessory is porous. This may be achieved, for example, by using a blowing agent during the production of the accessory. Suitable porous plastics are microcellular plastics which comprise PVB, and preferably microcellular plastics which comprise PVB and PP, PE and/or PVC in the concentrations described here. Such accessories are lighter while having the same mechanical strength. Lighter accessories are easier to use and transport. Preferably, recycled PVB is used, for example recycled PVB which originates from car windows or from production waste produced in the manufacture of car windows. Thus, for example, recycled PVB originating from scrap car windows is suitable, as is PVB cutting waste. Another suitable source of PVB is off-spec PVB.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises a filler. A suitable filler is chalk. As an alternative to chalk, it is for example possible to use calcium carbonate, kaolin, magnesium hydroxide, glass, wollastonite, or titanium dioxide.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 1.0 to 40.0 wt% of chalk, or 5.0 to 37.0 wt% of chalk, or 10.0 to 40.0 wt% of chalk, or 15.0 to 35.0 wt% of chalk, or 20.0 to 30.0 wt% of chalk, or 30.0 to 33.0 wt% of chalk. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises filler, preferably 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of filler, and preferably chalk.
This invention provides an accessory which comprises PVB. Preferably, the accessory furthermore comprises polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE). Preferably, the polypropylene comprises recycled polypropylene. Preferably, the polyethylene comprises recycled polyethylene. Polypropylene and polyethylene are relatively light, having a typical density of 0.95 kg/l.
When the accessory comprises PVB and PP and/or PE, preferably when the accessory consists for at least 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 99, 99.9, or for 100% of PVB and PP and/or PE and optionally filler, the accessory has particularly favourable properties. Thus, the accessory preferably consists of PVB and PP and/or PE and optionally filler. In other words, the accessory preferably consists for 100% of a mixture of PVB and PP and/or PE and optionally filler. Such accessories are semi-flexible and yet sufficiently strong: they are hard, strong and rigid, and also tougher than an accessory made of pure PP and/or PE or PP and/or PE mixed with filler, and the accessory is thus more difficult to break. In addition, the accessories based on PVB and PP and/or PE are corrosion-proof and they are resistant to chemical action.
Recycled PVB originating from, for example, cutting waste from the manufacture of car windows comprises a stabilizer which does not contain any heavy metals. As a result, the present accessories are less toxic and it is not obligatory to add UV stabilizer, since this stabilizer is already present in the recycled raw materials.
In some embodiments, the accessory consists of polyvinyl butyral, polypropylene and filler.
In some embodiments, the filler comprises chalk. Thus, in some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 40.0 wt% of chalk.
In a preferred embodiment, the accessory comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 90.0 wt% of PP and/or PE, and up to 30 wt% of filler.
In a preferred embodiment, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and/or PE, and up to 30 wt% of filler.
In a preferred embodiment, the accessory comprises PVB in combination with polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE), wherein the accessory preferably comprises 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE).
In a preferred embodiment, the accessory comprises 5.0 to 65.0 wt% of polyvinyl butyral (PVB); 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE); and up to 80 wt% of filler.
In addition, when heating polypropylene, no dangerous substances are released and no problems related to heat-induced aging occur either. An injection-moulding process for accessories which are based on PVB and PP can therefore be started up easily since any possible hotspots are less critical. PVB can be mixed with PP without the loss of the advantageous properties of PP. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises PP and PVB, wherein the accessory comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 70.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 60.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 50.0 wt%, or 25.0 to 45.0 wt%, or 30.0 to 40.0 wt%, or 32.5 to 37.5 wt%, or 35.0 wt% of PVB. Preferably, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 90.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 30.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 40.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 50.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 55.0 to 75.0 wt%, or 60.0 to 70.0 wt%, or 62.5 to 67.5 wt%, or 65.0 wt% of PP. Optionally, the accessory comprises up to 20 wt% or up to 30 wt% of filler.
Preferably, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 50.0 wt% of PVB, 50.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and up to 30 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 70.0 wt% of PVB, 30.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 60.0 wt% of PVB, 40.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 25.0 to 45.0 wt% of PVB, or 55.0 to 75.0 wt% of PP, and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 30.0 to 40.0 wt% of PVB, 60.0 to 70.0 wt% of PP and up to 10 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 32.5 to 37.5 wt% of PVB, 62.5 to 67.5 wt% of PP and up to 5.0 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 35.0 wt% of PVB and 65.0 wt% of PP.
Preferably, the accessory comprises recycled PP.
Preferably, the accessory comprises recycled PVB.
In some embodiments, the accessory furthermore comprises polyethylene (PE). Preferably, polyethylene is then used instead of polypropylene. Various forms of polyethylene are suitable, for example the following forms are suitable: low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE).
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 90.0 wt% of polyethylene (PE) and up to 30 wt% of filler. Preferably, the PE comprises recycled PE.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of polyethylene (PE) and up to 30 wt% of filler. Preferably, the PE comprises recycled PE.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises polyethylene (PE) and PVB, wherein the accessory comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 70.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 60.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 50.0 wt%, or 25.0 to 45.0 wt%, or 30.0 to 40.0 wt%, or 32.5 to 37.5 wt%, or 35.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 90.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 30.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 40.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 50.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 55.0 to 75.0 wt%, or 60.0 to 70.0 wt%, or 62.5 to 67.5 wt%, or 65.0 wt% of PE. Optionally, the accessory comprises up to 20 wt% or up to 30 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PE and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 70.0 wt% of PVB, 30.0 to 80.0 wt% of PE and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 60.0 wt% of PVB, 40.0 to 80.0 wt% of PE and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 50.0 wt% of PVB, 50.0 to 80.0 wt% of PE and up to 30 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 25.0 to 45.0 wt% of PVB, or 55.0 to 75.0 wt% of PE, and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 30.0 to 40.0 wt% of PVB, 60.0 to 70.0 wt% of PE and up to 10 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 32.5 to 37.5 wt% of PVB, 62.5 to 67.5 wt% of PE and up to 5.0 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 35.0 wt% of PVB and 65.0 wt% of PE.
In some embodiments, the PE comprises recycled PE.
PE has the advantage that no toxic fumes develop when it catches fire.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises PVB, PE, PP and optionally filler. In other words, PP and PE may be incorporated in the accessory together in addition to PVB.
In some alternative preferred embodiments, the accessory comprises PVB in combination with polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The PVC is then used instead of polypropylene/polyethylene.
Thus, in some embodiments, the accessory comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 90.0 wt% of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and up to 30 wt% of filler. Preferably, the PVC comprises recycled PVC. More preferably, the PVC comprises foamed PVC.
Thus, in some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and up to 30 wt% of filler. Preferably, the PVC comprises recycled PVC. More preferably, the PVC comprises foamed PVC.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
In a preferred embodiment, the accessory comprises 5.0 to 65.0 wt% of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and up to 80 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and PVB, wherein the accessory comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 70.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 60.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 50.0 wt%, or 25.0 to 45.0 wt%, or 30.0 to 40.0 wt%, or 32.5 to 37.5 wt%, or 35.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 90.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 30.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 40.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 50.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 55.0 to 75.0 wt%, or 60.0 to 70.0 wt%, or 62.5 to 67.5 wt%, or 65.0 wt% of PVC. Optionally, the accessory comprises up to 20 wt% or up to 30 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVC and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 70.0 wt% of PVB, 30.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVC and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 60.0 wt% of PVB, 40.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVC and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 20.0 to 50.0 wt% of PVB, 50.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVC and up to 30 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 25.0 to 45.0 wt% of PVB, or 55.0 to 75.0 wt% of PVC and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 30.0 to 40.0 wt% of PVB, 60.0 to 70.0 wt% of PVC and up to 10 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 32.5 to 37.5 wt% of PVB, 62.5 to 67.5 wt% of PVC and up to 5.0 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises 35.0 wt% of PVB and 65.0 wt% of PVC.
In some embodiments, the PVC comprises recycled PVC, preferably foamed recycled PVC.
Compared to accessories which consist entirely of PVC (and optionally filler), accessories based on a PVC-PVB mixture have the advantage that they are tougher.
In some embodiments, the assembly comprises several fences which are stacked on top of or alongside each other. In these embodiments, the accessory is configured to keep the position of the several fences with respect to each other constant.
In some embodiments, the assembly furthermore comprises a strap which, together with the accessory, is configured to keep the position of the several fences with respect to each other constant.
Preferably, the assembly comprises several accessories and/or straps which are configured to keep the position of the several fences with respect to each other constant.
Preferably, the accessory comprises a perpendicular part and a longitudinal part. The perpendicular part and the longitudinal part preferably make an angle of 80° to 100°, preferably an angle of 90° with each other. The longitudinal part preferably comprises several openings. These openings lower the weight and the amount of material which is necessary to produce the accessory, without compromising the mechanical properties of the accessory.
Preferably, the longitudinal part is passed through the meshes of stacked fences. Preferably, the perpendicular part ensures that the longitudinal part does not fall through the stack of fences.
Preferably, the perpendicular part is larger than the meshes of the fences.
Preferably, a strap is tied around the fences and the accessory in order to secure the accessory to the stack of fences.
In some embodiments, the fence forms part of an enclosure. In these embodiments, the accessory is preferably selected from the list comprising: a privacy strip, a bracket, an end cap without a hook, an end cap with a hook, a long-lipped bracket and a bracket with a lock. These accessories may be used, for example, to attach the fence to posts.
A privacy strip is an accessory which is used in combination with a fence, in which case the privacy strip is attached to the fence (or woven through it), thus limiting the viewing opportunities through the fence.
Furthermore, this invention provides a method for manufacturing an accessory for use in an assembly as described herein. The method comprises the following steps:
This invention furthermore provides a method for manufacturing an accessory for use in an assembly as described herein. Preferably, it is an accessory for use in an assembly as described herein. The method comprises the step of injection-moulding a melt to form an accessory. The melt comprises a plastic having elastomeric properties selected from a thermoplast, a thermoset and/or an elastomer, preferably a thermoplast is selected from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS) and/or polyvinyl butyral (PVB), a thermoset is selected from bakelite, polyurethane resin, polyester, silicone and/or epoxy, and/or an elastomer is selected from a thermoplastic elastomer, such as synthetic rubber, and/or thermosetting elastomer, such as natural rubber, and preferably comprises polyvinyl butyral, wherein the melt preferably comprises 5.0 to 60.0 wt% of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). The accessory is subsequently cooled.
Depending on the type of accessory, it may be manufactured either via extrusion or via injection-moulding. For example, privacy strips are preferably manufactured by means of an extrusion method, whereas other accessories, such as a bracket, an end cap without a hook, an end cap with a hook, a long-lipped bracket and a bracket with a lock are preferably manufactured by means of an injection-moulding method.
The following description of the melt applies to both the injection-moulding method and the extrusion method.
Preferably, the polyvinyl butyral comprises recycled polyvinyl butyral. Preferably, recycled PVB is thus used, for example recycled PVB which originates from car windows or from production waste produced in the manufacture of car windows. Thus, for example, recycled PVB originating from scrap car windows is suitable, as is PVB cutting waste. Another suitable source of PVB is off-spec PVB.
In some embodiments, no additional stabilizer is added while carrying out a method for manufacturing an accessory as provided herein. Alternatively, the methods for manufacturing an accessory as provided herein comprise the step of adding a stabilizer to the melt. An example of a stabilizer is a UV stabilizer.
Optionally, the melt is filtered before the extrusion or the injection-moulding. This increases the resistance of the extrusion or injection-moulding process against impurities, so that recycled raw materials of inferior quality may be used.
In some embodiments, the melt furthermore comprises a blowing agent. This produces pores in the accessory and makes a weight saving of approx. 20% of the accessory possible. The blowing agent comprises, for example, CO2 and/or N2. Alternatively, the blowing agent forms CO2 and/or N2 during the extrusion or the injection-moulding.
In some embodiments, the blowing agent comprises CO2 and/or N2.
In some embodiments, the blowing agent forms CO2 and/or N2 during the extrusion or the injection-moulding.
In some embodiments, the melt furthermore comprises a filler.
In some embodiments, the melt furthermore comprises a filler.
In some embodiments, the filler comprises chalk.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 40.0 wt% of chalk, for example 25.0 to 35.0 wt% of chalk, for example 30.0 wt% of chalk.
Preferably, the melt comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of filler, and preferably chalk.
Preferably, the melt furthermore comprises polypropylene. Preferably, the polypropylene comprises recycled polypropylene.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 90.0 wt% of PP and up to 30.0 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and up to 30.0 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 70.0 wt% of PVB, 30.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 60.0 wt% of PVB, 40.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and up to 20 wt% of filler. Preferably, the melt comprises 20.0 to 50.0 wt% of PVB, 50.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and up to 30.0 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 25.0 to 45.0 wt% of PVB, 55.0 to 75.0 wt% of PP and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 30.0 to 40.0 wt% of PVB, 60.0 to 70.0 wt% of PP and up to 10 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 32.5 to 37.5 wt% of PVB, 62.5 to 67.5 wt% of PP and up to 5.0 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 35.0 wt% of PVB and 65.0 wt% of PP.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 90.0 wt% of PE and up to 30.0 wt% of filler. Preferably, the PE comprises recycled PE.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PE and up to 30.0 wt% of filler. Preferably, the PE comprises recycled PE.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises polyethylene (PE) and PVB, wherein the melt comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt%, 20.0 to 80.0 wt%, 20.0 to 70.0 wt%, 20.0 to 60.0 wt%, 20.0 to 50.0 wt%, or 25.0 to 45.0 wt%, or 30.0 to 40.0 wt%, or 32.5 to 37.5 wt%, or 35.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 90.0 wt%, 20.0 to 80.0 wt%, 30.0 to 80.0 wt%, 40.0 to 80.0 wt%, 50.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 55.0 to 75.0 wt%, or 60.0 to 70.0 wt%, or 62.5 to 67.5 wt%, or 65.0 wt% of PE. Optionally, the melt comprises up to 30 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PE and up to 30 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 70.0 wt% of PVB, 30.0 to 80.0 wt% of PE and up to 30 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 60.0 wt% of PVB, 40.0 to 80.0 wt% of PE and up to 30 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 50.0 wt% of PVB, 50.0 to 80.0 wt% of PE and up to 30 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 25.0 to 45.0 wt% of PVB, or 55.0 to 75.0 wt% of PE and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 30.0 to 40.0 wt% of PVB, 60.0 to 70.0 wt% of PE and up to 10 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 32.5 to 37.5 wt% of PVB, 62.5 to 67.5 wt% of PE and up to 5.0 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 35.0 wt% of PVB and 65.0 wt% of PE.
In some embodiments, the PE comprises recycled PE.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises PVB in combination with polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE), wherein the melt preferably comprises 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE).
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 5.0 to 65.0 wt% of polyvinyl butyral (PVB); 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE); and up to 80 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 90.0 wt% of PVC and up to 30.0 wt% of filler. Preferably, the PVC comprises recycled PVC.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVC and up to 30.0 wt% of filler. Preferably, the PVC comprises recycled PVC.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and PVB, wherein the melt comprises 10.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 70.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 60.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 50.0 wt%, or 25.0 to 45.0 wt%, or 30.0 to 40.0 wt%, or 32.5 to 37.5 wt%, or 35.0 wt% of PVB. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 90.0 wt%, or 20.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 30.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 40.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 50.0 to 80.0 wt%, or 55.0 to 75.0 wt%, or 60.0 to 70.0 wt%, or 62.5 to 67.5 wt%, or 65.0 wt% of PVC. Optionally, the melt comprises up to 20 wt% or up to 30 wt% of filler.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVC and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 70.0 wt% of PVB, 30.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVC and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 60.0 wt% of PVB, 40.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVC and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 20.0 to 50.0 wt% of PVB, 50.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVC and up to 30 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 25.0 to 45.0 wt% of PVB, or 55.0 to 75.0 wt% of PVC, and up to 20 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 30.0 to 40.0 wt% of PVB, 60.0 to 70.0 wt% of PVC and up to 10 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 32.5 to 37.5 wt% of PVB, 62.5 to 67.5 wt% of PVC and up to 5.0 wt% of filler. In some embodiments, the melt comprises 35.0 wt% of PVB and 65.0 wt% of PVC.
In some embodiments, the PVC comprises recycled PVC, preferably foamed PVC, preferably foamed and recycled PVC.
In some embodiments, the melt comprises PVB in combination with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), wherein the melt preferably comprises 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
In some embodiments, the melt comprises 5.0 to 65.0 wt% of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), 15.0 to 75.0 wt% of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and up to 80.0 wt% of filler.
Furthermore, this invention provides a method for manufacturing a pack which comprises several fences. The method comprises the stacking of several fences, for example on a pallet. The fences are stacked in such a way that their meshes have the same lateral position, as is illustrated, for example, in the stacks of
Due to the fact that the meshes of the fences have the same lateral position, the meshes of adjacent fences form openings. An accessory is pushed into at least one of these openings, so that the fences in the stack cannot, or at least less easily, slide with respect to each other. In some embodiments, more than one accessory is pushed into the openings. It should be understood here that different accessories are pushed into different openings of the stack. The accessory is an accessory as described herein and comprises PVB.
Preferably, the accessories are connected to the stack of fences by means of a strap.
The present invention will be illustrated in more detail by means of the following non-limiting examples.
In a first example, the composition of an accessory is described. The composition of the present accessory comprises, in particular, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of recycled PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of recycled PP and up to 30.0 wt% of filler. The filler comprises chalk.
This accessory may be an accessory for a stack of fences or for an enclosure.
By way of further example, reference is made to a method for manufacturing an accessory as provided herein. This accessory may be an accessory for a stack of fences or for a pack of fences.
The method comprises supplying plastic which comprises polyvinyl butyral, polypropylene, blowing agent and chalk. The plastic is melted in order to form a melt. The melt comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PP and up to 30.0 wt% of chalk. As an alternative to chalk, it is possible to use, for example, calcium carbonate, kaolin, magnesium hydroxide, glass, wollastonite or titanium dioxide. The PVB comprises recycled PVB and the PP comprises recycled PP. Subsequently, an accessory is formed by means of extrusion or injection-moulding, after which the accessory is cooled.
As a further example, an accessory based on PVB and PE instead of PVB and PP is described. In particular, the accessory comprises polyvinyl butyral (PVB), polyethylene (PE) and optionally filler, more in particular 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of recycled PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of recycled PE and up to 30.0 wt% of filler. The filler comprises chalk. It is also possible to use, for example, calcium carbonate, kaolin, magnesium hydroxide, glass, wollastonite or titanium dioxide as an alternative to chalk.
According to this example, the method for manufacturing an accessory is virtually identical to the method described in Example 2, except that the melt comprises 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of PE and up to 30.0 wt% of chalk.
As a further example, an accessory based on PVB and PVC instead of PVB and PP is described. In particular, the accessories according to this example comprise polyvinyl butyral (PVB), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and optionally filler, in particular 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of recycled PVB, 20.0 to 80.0 wt% of recycled PVC and up to 30.0 wt% of filler. The filler comprises chalk. It is also possible to use, for example, calcium carbonate, kaolin, magnesium hydroxide, glass, wollastonite or titanium dioxide as an alternative to chalk.
According to this example, the method for manufacturing an accessory is identical to the method described in Example 2, except that the melt comprises 20.0 to 50.0 wt% of PVB, 50.0 to 80.0 wt% of PVC and up to 30.0 wt% of chalk.
By way of further example, reference is made to
By way of further example, reference is made to
These accessories (200) have a composition as described herein.
By way of further example, reference is made to
These accessories (200) have a composition as described herein.
Tensile-strength tests were carried out on dumb-bells cut from the perpendicular part 110 from Example 5, but with the perpendicular part 110 being made from different polymer compositions. It should be noted in this case, that the elongation at break increased when 10 wt% of PVB was added to the polymer composition compared to the polymer composition which only comprises polypropylene. A further increase was observed when 30 wt% of PVB was added to the polymer composition.
The notched bar impact test in which a V-shaped notch is made in the sample also showed an improvement when 10 wt% of PVB was added to the polymer composition. At 10 wt% of PVB, an absorbed energy of 0.19 J was recorded, whereas an absorbed energy of 0.16 J was recorded when the polymer composition only comprises polypropylene.