Abstract:
A reinforcing net for use in a reinforcing layer is formed by spacing two parallel spreader yarns under tension and wrapping weft yarns around the two spreader yarns. The reinforcing net can either be affixed to an adhesive coated substrate or coated with adhesive at the intersections of the yarns to bond the net together. The net may be affixed to a plurality of substrates to form a laminate. The net, a ribbon of net with one substrate, and the laminate, may be used in making and reinforcing spirally wound products such as ducts, duct insulation and the like. A number of warp yarns can be included in the reinforcing net to increase its strength. The method of manufacturing the reinforcing net includes the steps of creating tension in the spreader yarns, providing a least one spool for supplying weft yarn, longitudinally advancing the spreader yarns, rotating the spool around the advancing spreader yarns and applying adhesive to the intersections of the yarns.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   This invention relates to conduits, and in particular, to a reinforcing net which may be affixed to a substrate, for forming a helically wound conduit. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   Helically wound conduits are used to transfer fluid in many different applications. These conduits may be constructed by helically winding a flexible strip material to form a helically wound conduit. During their use and installation, these conduits are subjected to various forces and internal pressures. It is desirable that the conduit be able to withstand these various forces and internal pressures. Presently, a reinforcing layer, commonly called scrim, is often used to strengthen conduits. This scrim is usually constructed by layering or weaving a number of crisscrossing yarns; coating these yarns in an adhesive to form a large sheet; and then cutting the scrim in desired widths from the large sheet. This method of making scrim is complex, time-consuming and inefficient. 
   Accordingly, there is a need for a reinforcing net, used in forming a helically wound conduit, that is easier and more efficient to manufacture and can be manufactured in various widths without additional preparation. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   One embodiment of the invention is directed to a reinforcing net for use in making a product. This reinforcing net comprises: at least two separated, substantially parallel continuous longitudinally extending spreader yarns, which define a longitudinally extending plane; a plurality of continuous weft yarns; and, an adhesive. The weft yarns extend at an angle to the spreader yarns. These weft yarns extend across one side of the plane around one of the spreader yarns and across the plane on the other side of the plane to the other spreader yarn and around the other spreader yarn. 
   Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a ribbon for use in helical winding to make a product. The ribbon comprises: at least one substrate having a width and a longitudinal axis; an adhesive on the substrate; and a reinforcing net. The reinforcing net is affixed to the substrate and comprises: at least two, separated, substantially parallel, continuous, longitudinally extending spreader yarns; a plurality of continuous weft yarns; and an adhesive. The spreader yarns define a longitudinally extending plane. The weft yarns extend at an angle to the spreader yarns. These weft yarns extend across one side of the plane around one of the spreader yarns and across the plane on the other side of the plane to the other spreader yarn and around the other spreader yarn. 
   Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a ribbon that consists of a least two substrates to form a laminate for use in helical winding to make a product. The ribbon comprises: at least a first substrate and a second substrate, each substrate having a width and a longitudinal axis; an adhesive on the substrate; and a reinforcing net. The reinforcing net is affixed between the first and second substrates and comprises: at least two separated, substantially parallel, continuous, longitudinally extending spreader yarns, which define a longitudinally extending plane; a plurality of continuous weft yarns; and, an adhesive. The weft yarns extend at an angle to the spreader yarns. These weft yarns extend across one side of the plane around one of the spreader yarns and across the plane on the other side of the plane to the other spreader yarn and around the other spreader yarn. 
   This invention is also directed to a method of manufacturing a reinforcing net, a ribbon or a laminate. The method involves: creating tension in at least two separated, substantially parallel, continuous, longitudinally extending spreader yarns, these spreader yarns defining a first longitudinally extending plane; providing at least one spool, this spool supplying a weft yarn; causing the spreader yarns to longitudinally advance away from the spool; rotating the at least one spool in a second plane substantially perpendicular to the first plane whereby the weft yarn helically winds around the spreader yarns causing the weft yarn to extend at an angle to the spreader yarns and extend across one side of the first plane around one of the spreader yarns and across the plane on the other side to the other spreader yarn and around the other spreader yarn; and applying an adhesive to at least the spreader yarns where the spreader yarns and the weft yarn intersect. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     For a better understanding of the present invention and to show clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show embodiments of the present invention and in which: 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the invention, a reinforcing net made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a variation of the first embodiment of the invention, a reinforcing net made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a second aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, a reinforcing net which comprises a warp yarn, made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 3   a  is a perspective view of a third aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, a reinforcing net which comprises a warp yarn located adjacent to the weft yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a fourth aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, a reinforcing net which comprises two warp yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 4   a  is a perspective view of a fifth aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, a reinforcing net which comprises two warp yarns located adjacent to the weft yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 4   b  is a perspective view of a sixth aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, a reinforcing net which comprises two warp yarns located adjacent to the weft yarns one on one side of the plane and the other on the other side of the plane and made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a seventh aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, a reinforcing net which comprises four warp yarns, made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 5   a  is a perspective view of a eighth aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, a reinforcing net which comprises four warp yarns located adjacent to the weft yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 5   b  is a perspective view of a ninth aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, a reinforcing net which comprises four warp yarns, two warps yarns located adjacent to the weft yarns on one side of the plane and the other two warp yarns located adjacent to the weft yarns on the other side of the plane, made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 6  is a top view of a second embodiment of the invention, a ribbon made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 7  is a top view of a second aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, a ribbon, which comprises a warp yarn, made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 7   a  is a top view of a third aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, a ribbon which comprises a warp yarn located adjacent to the weft yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 8  is a top view of a fourth aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, a ribbon which comprises two warp yarns, made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 8   a  is a top view of a fifth aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, a ribbon which comprises two warp yarns located adjacent to the weft yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 9  is a top view of a sixth aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, a ribbon which comprises four warp yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 9   a  is a top view of a seventh aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, a ribbon which comprises four warp yarns located adjacent to the exterior of the weft yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 9   b  is a top view of a eighth aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, a ribbon which comprises four warps yarns, two warps yarns adjacent to the weft yarns on one side of the plane and the other two warp yarns adjacent to the weft yarns on the other side of the plane made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 10  is a top view of a third embodiment of the invention, a ribbon that comprises at least two substrates forming a laminate, made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 10   a  is a top view of a second aspect of the third embodiment of the invention, a laminate, having the first substrate offset from the second substrate made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 10   b  is a top view of a third aspect of a third embodiment of the invention, a laminate having the first substrate offset from the second substrate and further comprising a reinforcing wire made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 11  is a top view of a third aspect of the third embodiment, a laminate which comprises a warp yarn made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 11   a  is a top view of a fourth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention, a laminate having the first substrate offset from the second substrate and comprising a warp yarn made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 11   b  is a top view of a fifth aspect of a third embodiment of the invention, a laminate having the first substrate offset from the second substrate and comprising a reinforcing wire and a warp yarn made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 12  is a top view of a sixth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention, a laminate which comprises two warp yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 12   a  is a top view of a seventh aspect of the third embodiment of the invention, a laminate having the first substrate offset from the second substrate and comprising two warp yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 12   b  is a top view of a eighth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention, a laminate having the first substrate offset from the second substrate and comprising a reinforcing wire and two warp yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 13  is a top view of a ninth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention, a laminate comprising four warp yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 13   a  is a top view of a tenth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention, a laminate having the first substrate offset from the second substrate and comprising four warp yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 13   b  is a top view of an eleventh of the third embodiment of the invention, a laminate having the first substrate offset from the second substrate and comprising a reinforcing wire and four warp yarns made in accordance with the subject invention; 
       FIG. 14  is a perspective view of an apparatus for forming a reinforcing net in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 14   a  is a perspective view of an apparatus for forming a reinforcing net with warp yarns located adjacent to the weft yarns in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 15  is a perspective view of an apparatus for forming a ribbon in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 15   a  is a perspective view of an apparatus for forming a laminate in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 15   b  is a perspective view of an apparatus for forming a laminate and making the laminate into a helically wound product in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 15   c  is a perspective view of an apparatus for forming a laminate comprising warp yarns located adjacent to the weft yarns in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 15   d  is a perspective view of an apparatus for forming a laminate comprising warp yarns located adjacent to the weft yarns and making the laminate into a helically wound product in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 16  is a perspective view of an apparatus for forming a laminate comprising a reinforcing wire in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 16   a  is a perspective view of an apparatus for forming a laminate comprising warp yarns located adjacent to the weft yarns and a reinforcing wire, and making the laminate into a helically wound product in accordance with the invention; and 
       FIG. 17  is a close up view of a portion of the apparatus of  FIG. 14 . 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
   Referring to  FIG. 1 , illustrated therein is a reinforcing net  10  shown generally in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention. Reinforcing net  10  is a reinforcing layer used in a helical winding to make a product. Reinforcing net  10  comprises at least two spreader yarns  12 , at least one weft yarn  14  and an adhesive. 
   Reinforcing net  10  is constructed having at least two spreader yarns  12 . These two separated spreader yarns  12  are substantially parallel and extend longitudinally. The spreader yarns form a longitudinally extending plane. A plurality of continuous weft yarns  14  are wrapped around the spreader yarns  12 . The weft yarns  14  extend at an angle from the spreader yarns  12 , across one side of the plane to one of the spreader yarns  12 , wrap around the spreader yarn  12  and extend across the plane on the other side of the plane back to the other spreader yarn  12  and around the other spreader yarn  12 . The weft yarns  14  continue this pattern, forming the weft of the reinforcing net  10 . Weft yarns  14  and spreader yarns  12  can be any suitable material including: fiberglass, cotton, polyamide, polyester, wire, synthetic or natural fibers. 
   Referring again to  FIG. 1 , while the adhesive can be located everywhere on reinforcing net  10 , there are a number of locations where it may be preferable to have adhesive. Where the weft yarns  14  wrap around the spreader yarns  12 , a plurality of first intersections  20  are formed. Adhesive can be located at these first intersections  20  to bond a spreader yarn  12  to a weft yarn  14  at each intersection  20 . The weft yarns  14  will also cross each other forming a plurality of second intersections  22 . Adhesive can be located at some or all of these second intersections  22  to bond two weft yarns  14  to each other at these second intersections  22 . 
   When two weft yarns  14  or a multiple of two weft yarns  14  are used in the reinforcing net  10 , a diamond pattern can be produced. This diamond pattern can be varied as a result of varying the number of weft yarns used in the reinforcing net  10  and by varying the angles at which the weft yarns  14  extend from the spreader yarns  12 . In  FIG. 1  there are four weft yarns  14 .  FIG. 2  illustrates a variation of reinforcing net  10   a  using six weft yarns, extending at a greater angle from each spreader yarn  12  than the reinforcing net  10  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and as a result, a tighter diamond pattern is formed, which has more intersections  22  over a given longitudinal length. 
   Referring to  FIG. 3 , illustrated therein is another aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, reinforcing net  110 . Reinforcing net  110  comprises all of the elements of reinforcing net  10  or  10   a , but also comprises at least one warp yarn  38 . Elements common to both reinforcing net  10  and  110  are indicated with the same number. 
   Warp yarn  38  is substantially parallel to the spreader yarns  12  and extends longitudinally between the two spreader yarns  12 . The weft yarns  14  extend at an angle to the spreader yarns  12  across one side of the plane over warp yarn  38  to one of the spreader yarns  12 , wrap around the spreader yarn  12  and extend back across the plane on the other side of the plane under warp yarn  38  to the other spreader yarn  12  and around the other spreader yarn  12 . The weft yarns  14  continue this pattern to form the weft in reinforcing net  110 . 
   Similar to the embodiment of reinforcing net  10  shown in  FIG. 1 , the weft yarns  14  cross the spreader yarns  12  and form a plurality of first intersections  20  and cross each other to form a plurality of second intersections  22 . Adhesive can be located at these first intersections  20  and some or all of second intersections  22  to bond the reinforcing net  110  together. Because of the inclusion of warp yarn  38  in reinforcing net  110 , individual weft yarns  14  will cross warp yarn  38  to form a plurality of third intersections  35 . Desirably, adhesive can also be located at these third intersections  35  to bond weft yarns  14  to warp yarn  38  and thereby add to the strength of the net. Third intersections  35  may or may not coincide with one or more second intersections  22  depending on the location of the warp yarn  38 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 3   a , illustrated therein is another aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, reinforcing net  110   a . Reinforcing net  110   a  is similar to reinforcing net  110  in that it comprises all of the same elements, however, warp yarn  38 , is located adjacent to weft yarns  14 , rather than between weft yarns  14  as in reinforcing net  110 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 4 , illustrated therein is another aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, reinforcing net  210 . Reinforcing net  210  is similar to reinforcing net  110  in that it comprises all of the same elements, however, reinforcing net  210  comprises two warp yarns  38 . This in turn means there are twice as many third intersections  35  between a weft yarn  14  and a warp yarn  38  as compared to  FIG. 3 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 4   a , illustrated therein is another aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, reinforcing net  210   a . Reinforcing net  210   a  is similar to reinforcing net  210  in that it comprises all of the same elements, however, the two warp yarns  38 , are located adjacent to weft yarns  14  on the same side of the plane, rather than between the weft yarns  14 , as in reinforcing net  210 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 4   b , illustrated therein is another aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, reinforcing net  210   b . Reinforcing net  210   b  is similar to reinforcing net  210   a  in that it comprises all of the same elements, however, one of the warp yarns  38  is located adjacent to weft yarns  14  on one side of the plane, and the other warp yarn  38  is located adjacent to the weft yarns  14  on the other side of the plane. 
   Referring to  FIG. 5 , illustrated therein is another aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, reinforcing net  310 . Reinforcing net  310  is similar to reinforcing nets  110  and  210 , except that it comprises four warp yarns  38 , located between weft yarns  14  and which provide even more third intersections  35 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 5   a , illustrated therein is another aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, reinforcing net  310   a . Reinforcing net  310   a  is similar to reinforcing net  310 , except that the four warp yarns  38 , which provide even more third intersections  35 , are located adjacent to the weft yarns  14  on the same side of the plane. 
   Referring to  FIG. 5   b , illustrated therein is another aspect of the first embodiment of the invention, reinforcing net  310   b . Reinforcing net  310   b  is similar to reinforcing net  310   a , except that two of the four warp yarns  38  are adjacent to the weft yarns  14  on one side of the plane and the other two warp yarns are adjacent to the weft yarns  14  on the other side of the plane. 
   Referring to  FIG. 6 , illustrated therein is a second embodiment of the invention, ribbon  50 . Ribbon  50  is a reinforcing component, which may be used in a helical winding to make a product and is a combination of a first substrate  55 , an adhesive on said first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  10 . 
   The first substrate  55  may be made of a thermoplastic material, but can be made from any suitable material. On the surface of the first substrate  55  is an adhesive. The reinforcing net  10  is affixed to the first substrate  55  by means of the adhesive. 
   Additionally, a reinforcing wire  69  can be incorporated into ribbon  50  to add structural rigidity and support in the final product as discussed in more detail below. 
   Referring to  FIG. 7 , illustrated therein is a second aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, ribbon  150 . Ribbon  150  is a reinforcing component, which may be used in a helical winding to make a product and is a combination of a first substrate  55 , an adhesive on said first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  110 . Reinforcing net  110  is affixed to the first substrate  55  by the adhesive. 
   Referring to  FIG. 7   a , illustrated therein is a third aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, ribbon  150   a . Ribbon  150   a  is a reinforcing component, which may be used in a helical winding to make a product and is a combination of first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  110   a  affixed to the first substrate  55  by the adhesive. 
   Referring to  FIG. 8 , illustrated therein is a fourth aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, ribbon  250 . Ribbon  250  is a reinforcing component, which may be used in a helical winding to make a product and is a combination of first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  210  affixed to the first substrate  55  by the adhesive. 
   Referring to  FIG. 8   a , illustrated therein is a fifth aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, ribbon  250   a . Ribbon  250   a  is a reinforcing component, which may be used in a helical winding to make a product and is a combination of first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  210   a  affixed to the first substrate  55  by the adhesive. 
   Referring to  FIG. 9 , illustrated therein is a sixth aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, ribbon  350 . Ribbon  350  is a reinforcing component, which is used in a helical winding to make a product and is a combination of a first substrate  55 , an adhesive on said first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  310 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 9   a , illustrated therein is a seventh aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, ribbon  350   a . Ribbon  350   a  is a reinforcing component, which is used in a helical winding to make a product and is a combination of a first substrate  55 , an adhesive on said first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  310   a.    
   Referring to  FIG. 9   b , illustrated therein is a eighth aspect of the second embodiment of the invention, ribbon  350   b . Ribbon  350   b  is a reinforcing component, which is used in a helical winding to make a product and is a combination of a first substrate  55 , an adhesive on said first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  310   b.    
   In each case the width of the ribbon  50 ,  150 ,  250  or  350  is slightly, preferably although not necessarily, greater than the spacing between the spreader yarns  12  of the respective nets  10 ,  110 ,  210  and  310 , and the spreader yarns  12  extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal edges of the substrate  55 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 10 , illustrated therein is a laminate  80 , a third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  80  may be used in a helical winding to make or reinforce a product. Laminate  80  is a type of ribbon that is a combination of a first substrate  55 , reinforcing net  10 , a second substrate  85  and adhesive. Reinforcing net  10  is sandwiched between first substrate  55  and second substrate  85 . The adhesive is located on first substrate  55 , second substrate  85  or both first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  and affixes first substrate  55 , reinforcing net  10  and second substrate  85  together to form a reinforced laminate  80 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 10   a , illustrated therein is a laminate  80   a , a second aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  80   a  is similar to laminate  80 , in that it comprises all of the same elements, except that first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  are offset latterly from each other. The offset edges may be advantageous when the laminate is spirally wound to make a product. 
   Referring to  FIG. 10   b , illustrated therein is a laminate  80   b , a third aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  80   b  is similar to laminate  80   a , except that it also comprises a reinforcing wire  69 . Reinforcing wire  69  is incorporated into laminate  80   a  between the first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  adjacent to the reinforcing net  10  and adds structural strength and rigidity. 
   Referring to  FIG. 11 , illustrated therein is a laminate  180 , a fourth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  180  may be used in a helical winding to make or reinforce a product and is a combination of first substrate  55 , reinforcing net  110 , second substrate  85  and adhesive. 
   Referring to  FIG. 11   a , illustrated therein is a laminate  180   a , a fifth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  180   a  is similar to laminate  180 , in that it comprises all of the same elements, except that first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  are offset from each other. 
   Referring to  FIG. 11   b , illustrated therein is a laminate  180   b , a sixth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  180   b  is similar to laminate  180   a , except that it also comprises a reinforcing wire  69 . Reinforcing wire  69  is incorporated into laminate  180   a  between the first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  adjacent to the reinforcing net  110  and adds structural strength and rigidity. 
   Referring to  FIG. 12 , illustrated therein is a laminate  280 , a seventh aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  280  may be used in a helical winding to make or reinforce a product and is a combination of first substrate  55 , reinforcing net  210 , second substrate  85  and adhesive. 
   Referring to  FIG. 12   a , illustrated therein is a laminate  280   a , an eighth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  280   a  is similar to laminate  280 , in that it comprises all of the same elements, except that first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  are offset from each other. 
   Referring to  FIG. 12   b , illustrated therein is a laminate  280   b , a ninth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  280   b  is similar to laminate  280   a , except that it also comprises a reinforcing wire  69 . Reinforcing wire  69  is incorporated into laminate  280   a  between the first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  adjacent to the reinforcing net  210  and adds structural strength and rigidity. 
   Referring to  FIG. 13 , illustrated therein is a laminate  380 , an eleventh aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  380  may be used in a helical winding to make or reinforce a product and is a combination of a substrate  55 , reinforcing net  310 , second substrate  85  and adhesive 
   Referring to  FIG. 13   a , illustrated therein is a laminate  380   a , a second aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  380   a  is similar to laminate  380 , in that it comprises all of the same elements, except that first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  are offset. 
   Referring to  FIG. 13   b , illustrated therein is a laminate  380   b , a twelfth aspect of the third embodiment of the invention. Laminate  380   b  is similar to laminate  380   a , except that it also comprises a reinforcing wire  69 . Reinforcing wire  69  is incorporated into laminate  380   a  between the first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  adjacent to the reinforcing net  310  and adds structural strength and rigidity. 
   Referring to  FIG. 14 , an apparatus  500  for manufacturing the reinforcing net  10  is illustrated. Apparatus  500  comprises two spreader spools  510 , warp spools  524 , a spreader yarn tension device  512 , a warp yarn tension device  525 , weft spools  516 , a mounting plate  520 , weft yarn tensioning device  540 , weft yarn guide  517 , a first spreader yarn guide  530 , a second spreader yarn guide  531  (see  FIG. 17 ), nip rolls  514 , coating roll device  640 , drying oven device  650 , and spooler  515 .  FIG. 14  is a simplified illustration of the apparatus. Not shown in  FIG. 14  are the overall frame and structure of the apparatus, the drive motors, etc. 
   Spreader spools  510  provide spreader yarns  12 . The spreader spools  510  are stationarily attached to the frame of the apparatus  500 . Tension device  512  in conjunction with nip rolls  514  and the spooler  515  create tension in the spreader yarns  12  in the portion between the tension device  512  and the nip rolls  514 . Tension device  512  adds a frictional drag to the spreader yarns  12 . The spreader yarns  12 , supplied by spreader spools  510  are pulled past tension device  512  along longitudinal axis X. This advancement can be caused by the nip rolls  514 , the spooler  515  or both the nip rolls  514  and the spooler  515 . The tension created in the spreader yarns  12  will preferably be of a sufficient magnitude to prevent the spreader yarns  12  from being moved towards each other when one or more weft yarns  14  is wrapped around the spreader yarns  12 . 
   Spreader yarns  12  are positioned a pre-determined parallel distance apart by the first spreader yarn guide  530  and the second spreader yarns guide  531 . 
   Weft yarns  14  will be wrapped around the advancing spreader yarns  12 . Weft spools  516  supply weft yarn  14 . These weft spools  516  are mounted on a mounting plate  520 , which revolves around the longitudinal axis X. The revolving of the mounting plate  520  and the weft spools  516  supplying weft yarn  14 , causes the weft yarns  14  to wrap around the spreader yarns  12 . The weft spools  516  will have to be distanced far enough away from axis X so that the weft spools  516  will not interfere with the spreader yarns  12  when the mounting plate  520  revolves. 
   The weft yarn guide  517  also revolves around longitudinal axis X at the same velocity and in the same direction as mounting plate  520  and will comprise a plurality of holes  518 . Weft yarns  14  supplied by weft spools  516  pass through weft yarn tensioning devices  540 . Ideally, each weft yarn  14  should have a corresponding weft yarn tensioning device  540 . Weft yarn tensioning device  540  adds a frictional drag to the weft yarns  14 . 
   As shown, after the weft yarns  14  pass through the weft yarn tensioning device  540 , the weft yarns  14  pass through the plurality of holes  518 . Optionally, the yarn tensioning devices  540  may be downstream of holes  518 . Ideally, each of the plurality of holes  518  should have a corresponding weft spool  516 . The plurality of holes  518  will also have to be a sufficient distance from the longitudinal axis X so that it does not interfere with the spreader yarns  12  when the weft guide  517  revolves. The mounting plate  520  and the weft yarn guide  517  each have a central aperture so that the spreader yarns  12  and any warp yarns  38  may pass therethrough without being affected by the rotation of the mounting plate  520  and the weft guide  517 . 
   The movement of the weft spools  516  mounted to the mounting plate  520  and the revolving of the weft yarn guide  517  around spreader yarns  12  will form the reinforcing net  10 . The movement of the weft spools  516  and the weft yarn guide  517 , causes the weft yarn  14  to wrap around the spreader yarns  12  and the advancement of the spreader yarns  12  by nip rolls  514  will cause the weft yarns  14  to extend at an angle from the spreader yarns  12 . The weft spools  516  and the weft yarn guide  517  revolving, in conjunction with the advancement of the spreader yarns  12  by the nip rolls  514 , causes the weft yarns  14  to extend from the spreader yarns  12 , across one side of the longitudinal plane formed by the spreader yarns to one of the spreader yarns  12 , wrap around the spreader yarn  12  and extend across the plane on the other side of the plane and back to the other spreader yarn  12  and around the other spreader yarn  12 . The continuous rotation of the weft spools  516  and the weft yarn guide  517  can create a continuous reinforcing net  10 . Preferably, the speed of rotation of the mounting plate  520  and weft guide  517  is co-related to the rate of advance of the spreader yarns so that the angle of the weft yarns to the spreader yarns is about 45° to gain the most efficient strength of the net although any desired angle may be used. 
   The net includes adhesive so the yarns are bonded to each other at a plurality of intersections. Adhesive may be applied to the spreader yarns  12 . The adhesive could be applied to the reinforcing net  10  in numerous ways. It could be applied to spreader yarns  12  after they are supplied by spreader spools  510 , at tension device  512 , when the spreader yarns  12  are in tension after passing tension device  512  or when the reinforcing net  10  comes in contact with nip rolls  514 .  FIG. 14  shows the application of adhesive using coating roll device  640 . Coating roll device  640  coats nip rolls  514  with adhesive, so that adhesive is applied to reinforcing net  10  when it passes through nip rolls  514 . 
   After passing through nip rolls  514 , reinforcing net  10  is passed through drying oven device  650 , to dry the adhesive, and collected on spooler  515 . Alternatively, reinforcing net  10  could be immediately used to form a helically wound product. 
   Apparatus  500  could also be used to form reinforcing nets  110 ,  210  and  310 . Warp yarn spools  524  supply the desired number of warp yarns  38  and are located near the spreader spools  510  on the frame of apparatus  500 . The warp yarns  38  are placed under tension by warp yarn tension device  525 . The warp yarns  38  are located in between spreader yarns  12  and are advanced by nip rolls  514  and the spooler  515 . The first spreader yarn guide  530  and the second spreader yarn guide  531  position the warp yarns  38  a pre-determined, parallel distance apart. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 14   a , apparatus  500   a  for manufacturing a reinforcing net  210   b  is illustrated. Apparatus  500   a  is similar to apparatus  500 , in that it incorporates many of the same elements. Additionally, warp yarns  38  are placed adjacent to the weft yarns  14  after the weft yarns  14  are wrapped around the spreader yarns  12  forming reinforcing net  210   b . By varying the number of warp yarn spools  524  and the sides of the plane the warp yarns  38  are placed adjacent to, reinforcing nets  110   a ,  210   a ,  310   a  and  310   b  can also be made. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 15 , apparatus  600  for manufacturing a ribbon  250  is illustrated. Apparatus  600  incorporates the elements present in apparatus  500  (similar or common elements will be referenced using the same numbers) and further comprises a first substrate supply  625  that supplies first substrate  55 .  FIG. 15  is a simplified illustration of the apparatus. Not shown in  FIG. 15  are the overall frame and structure of the apparatus, the drive motor, all of the necessary guides for first substrate  55 , etc. 
   Reinforcing net  210  is formed in the same manner as described in relation to apparatus  500 . Additionally a first substrate supply  625  supplies first substrate  55 . First substrate  55  is coated with adhesive by coating device  640  and is passed through drying oven device  650 . The apparatus  600  causes the first substrate  55  to be provided contiguous with reinforcing net  210  and both the first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  210  are passed through nip rolls  514 . As the first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  210  pass through nip rolls  514 , the pressure exerted on the first substrate  55  and reinforcing net  210  by nip rolls  514  causes the adhesive coated on substrate  55  to affix to reinforcing net  210  forming ribbon  250 . 
   Apparatus  600  could also be used to form ribbons  50 ,  150  or  350 . Similar to apparatus  500 , apparatus  600  can also form reinforcing nets  10 ,  110  and  310  by varying the number of warp yarn spools. Then by placing first substrate  55  adjacent to reinforcing net  10 ,  110  or  310 , and passing the combined structure through nip rolls  514 , ribbon  50 ,  150 , or  350  can be formed. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 15   a , an apparatus  600   a  for manufacturing a laminate  280  is illustrated. Apparatus  600   a  incorporates the elements present in apparatus  600  (similar or common elements will be referenced using the same numbers) and further comprises a second substrate roll  730  that supplies second substrate  85 .  FIG. 15   a  is a simplified illustration of the apparatus that does not show all of the necessary elements. Not shown in  FIG. 15   a  are the overall frame and structure of the apparatus, the drive motor, all of the necessary guides for first substrate  55  and second substrate  85 , etc. 
   Reinforcing net  210  is formed in the same manner as described in relation to apparatus  600 . Additionally, the second substrate supply  730  supplies second substrate  85 . Second substrate  85  is coated with adhesive by coating device  640  and is passed through drying oven  650 . First substrate  55  and second substrate  85  are located next to reinforcing net  210  immediately before the nip rolls  514 . These three elements are then passed through nip rolls  514 , which causes the adhesive to bond the elements together to form laminate  280 . 
   Apparatus  600   a  can also be used to form laminates  80 ,  180 ,  280  and  380 . Similar to apparatus  500 , apparatus  600   a  can also form reinforcing nets  10 ,  110  and  310 . Then by placing first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  so that they sandwich the reinforcing net  10 ,  110  or  310  and passing the combined structure through nip rolls  514 , laminate  80 ,  180 ,  280  or  380  can be formed. 
   Apparatus  600   a  can also be used to form laminate  80   a ,  180   a ,  280   a  or  380   a  by placing first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  offset against each other and sandwiching the reinforcing net  10 ,  110  or  310 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 15   b , an apparatus  600   b  for manufacturing a laminate  280 , which is then used to from a helically wound product  282 , is illustrated. Apparatus  600   b  incorporates the elements present in apparatus  600   a  (similar or common elements will be referenced using the same numbers), however, nip rolls  514  are used to form a helically wound product  282  from laminate  280 .  FIG. 15   b  is a simplified illustration of the apparatus that does not show all of the necessary elements. Not shown in  FIG. 15   b  are the overall frame and structure of the apparatus, the drive motor, all of the necessary guides for first substrate  55  and second substrate  85 , etc. Apparatus  600   b  can also be used to form laminate  80   a ,  180   a ,  280   a  or  380   a  by placing first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  so that they sandwich the reinforcing net  10 ,  110 ,  210  or  310 , which may then be used to form a respective helically wound product. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 15   c , apparatus  600   c  for manufacturing a laminate  380  is illustrated. Apparatus  600   c  is similar to apparatus  600   a , in that is incorporates many of the same elements. Additionally, warp yarns  38  are placed adjacent to the weft yarns  14  after the weft yarns  14  are wrapped around the spreader yarns  12  and all three elements are passed through nip rolls  514  forming laminate  380 . Laminate  380  is then collected on spooler  515 . Apparatus  600   c  can also be used to form laminate  380   a  by placing first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  so that they sandwich the reinforcing net  310 . Laminate  380   a  is then collected on spooler  515 . 
   Referring now to FIG  15   d , apparatus  600   d  for manufacturing a laminate  380 , and then forming a helically wound product  382  with laminate  380 , is illustrated. Apparatus  600   d  incorporates the elements present in apparatus  600   c  (similar or common elements will be referenced using the same numbers), however, nip rolls  514  are used to form a helically wound product  382  from laminate  380 .  FIG. 15   d  is a simplified illustration of the apparatus that does not show all of the necessary elements. Not shown in  FIG. 15   d  are the overall frame and structure of the apparatus, the drive motor, all of the necessary guides for first substrate  55  and the second substrate  85 , etc. Apparatus  600   d  can also be used to form laminate  80   a ,  180   a ,  280   a  or  380   a  by placing the first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  so that they sandwich the reinforcing net  10 ,  110 ,  210  or  310 , which may then be used to form a respective helically wound product. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 16 , an apparatus  700  for manufacturing a laminate  280   b , comprising a reinforcing wire  69 , and then forming a helically wound product  282   b  is illustrated. Apparatus  700  incorporates the elements present in apparatus  600   a  (similar or common elements will be referenced using the same numbers) and further comprises a reinforcing wire supply  750  that supplies reinforcing wire  69 .  FIG. 16  is a simplified illustration of the apparatus that does not show all of the necessary elements. Not shown in  FIG. 16  are the overall frame and structure of the apparatus, the drive motor, all of the necessary guides for first substrate  55 , second substrate  85 , reinforcing wire  69 , etc. 
   Reinforcing wire supply  750  is provided to supply reinforcing wire  69 . Reinforcing wire  69  is placed at any desirable location adjacent to reinforcing net  210   a  and between first substrate  55  and second substrate  85  immediately before the nip rolls  514 . These four elements are then passed through nip rolls  514 , which causes the adhesive to bond the elements together to form laminate  280   b.    
   Apparatus  700  can also be used to form laminate  80   b ,  180   b ,  280   b  or  380   b  by varying the number of warp yarns  38  and warp yarn spools  524 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 16   a , apparatus  700   a  for manufacturing a laminate using reinforcing net  210   a  is illustrated. Apparatus  700   a  is similar to apparatus  700 , in that it incorporates many of the same elements. Additionally, warp yarns  38  are placed adjacent to the weft yarns  14  after the weft yarns  14  are wrapped around the spreader yarns  12  forming a laminate with reinforcing net  210   a , forming a laminate  380   b  and then forming a helically wound product  382   b.    
   Referring now to  FIG. 17 , a close-up view of the first spread yarn guide  530  and the second spreader yarn guide  531  is shown. 
   It is to be understood that what has been described are various embodiments and aspects of the invention. The invention nonetheless is susceptible to certain changes and alternative embodiments fully comprehended by the spirit of the invention as described above, and the scope of the claims set out below. For example, the yarns may be made from different materials. The number and lateral location of the warp yarns may be varied as desired. The number and angular orientation of the weft yarns may be varied. The warp yarns may be either adjacent or between the weft yarns or any combination of adjacent or between may be used. The substrates whether one or two or more may be from any desirable material. The substrates may have any desired lateral width and relative location, with or without offsets, on one or both lateral edges. One or more other strengthening wires of various materials such as metal, wire or plastic wire may also be used.