Patent ID: 6719242
Filing Date: 2004-04-13
Classification: B29C,B29L,B65H

Abstract:
A method of forming a composite core comprising the steps of:providing a standard sized hollow cylindrically shaped tube made of a fiberglass resin composite, the tube having an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface defining an inner diameter, the outer surface defining an outer diameter, and the tube having a thickness between the inner surface and outer surface; providing a washable rigid sleeve that resists discoloration upon washing made of extruded polypropylene or other polymer comprising a polished outer surface having a sufficient hardness that it can be machined by a lathe, and an inner surface, the inner surface defining an inner diameter, the outer surface defining an outer diameter, and the tube having a thickness between the inner surface and outer surface, wherein, at room temperature, the inner diameter of the rigid sleeve is smaller than the outer diameter of the tube; heating the rigid sleeve, wherein the inner diameter of the sleeve is increased to a dimension greater than the outer diameter of the tube; sliding the rigid sleeve over the cylindrical tube; cooling the rigid sleeve so that the inner diameter of the sleeve shrinks toward its original diameter and contacts the outer surface of the tube in an interference fit; and wherein the rigid sleeve protects the outer surface of the tube from becoming discolored.