Manufacturing of microglass separators

Microglass separators have been used since the inception of the absorbed glass valve regulated technology. This separator, made from 100% microfiberglass, is manufactured on specialty paper machines. Production of this demanding specialty paper requires tight tolerances for physical and performance properties. Proper selection of raw materials (microglass), equipment and tight process variables are keys to producing a world class product. These products were jointly developed by Hollingsworth & Vose and the US Naval Department during the late 1940s. Improvements in product consistency and formulation have been made throughout the history of this technology. These changes evolved as the needs and requirements were realized through continuing industry research. This paper gives a brief explanation of how the product is made, specifies useful tests to determine product consistency and highlights some new ways to package the current product. The four steps in the manufacturing process are discussed: pulping, forming, drying, converting. Separator properties in VRLA batteries are also discussed.