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Just a clarification on the BioThane(TM) discussion, as I suspect
Bioplastics Inc would want the correct details circulated about their
product.
BioThane(TM) is the tradmark name for Bioplastics Inc which produces
Polyurethane impregnated (not extruded) nylon on polymer belting (not webbing).
There are a variety of different configurations of belting and coatings -
available from Bioplastics Inc.
NOTE: BioThane(TM) is *only* made by Bioplastics Inc.
Belting:
The advantage of the Bioplastics Inc product is that the belting is calibrated
to reflect a certain breaking strength (more often as not *greater* than
the hardware provided on most bridles - hence break or release points should
be included in the bridles designed). Each run of belting is coded and quality
controlled.
Coating:
Coatings can vary, the coating itself can be colored (most of the standard
and dayglo colors). Or, as with the new 400 series, the belting itself is
colored and the urethane colorless. This makes it a little tougher to dis-
tinguish from other 'extruded' products. In general, extruded products
will eventually delaminate because of the lack of bonding between the urethane and
whatever polymer is used.
In addition, the flexibility of the material can vary. "Standard" is thicker,
and preferred for harness, "Hi-Flex", supple, yet very strong (best for
bridles, breastcollars etc) "Super-Flex, most supple, but best used only
for trim on bridles etc.
As with any polymer, the consistancy of the chemistry and the quality of the
manufacturing will determine the end product. For example, a brand of Australian
'bioplastic' will crack below freezing.
Check the source of of your polymer belting with your tack manufacturer, if
it says BioThane(TM) you will be sure to have a long lasting and guaranteed
product.
Dom
( Happy to answer any questions, we have been sewing the stuff since 1981,
as 'Eagle Tack' we made the first halter bridle combination from BioThane!)
______________________________________________________________________
Dominique Freeman | "Life is short, science is long" |
fadjurs@sadandy.hpl.hp.com | |
Hewlett Packard Laboratories, | |
Palo Alto, CA USA | |
Phone: (415) 857-8596 | |
FAX: (415) 857-2862 | |
______________________________________________________________________
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