A century of Linatex premium rubber
Leading defence against abrasion celebrates 100 years of outstanding performance and reliability
LINATEX premium rubber, manufactured solely by Weir Minerals Malaysia, is celebrating its 100-year anniversary as the industry leader in defence against abrasion. First produced in 1923, the distinctive red rubber is renowned for its resilience, strength, and resistance to wear and abrasion in some of the harshest mining and quarrying environments.
Linatex premium rubber has been well proven at mine and quarry sites for a century, starting with the tin industry in Malaysia in the 1920s and continuing to the present day. Found in virtually all the leading operations globally, it is widely regarded as industry’s preferred first line of defence and protection against abrasion for expensive capital equipment – delivering best-in-class wear life and overall total cost of ownership.
Weir Minerals Malaysia, the sole producers of Linatex premium rubber, say they are dedicated to meeting customer demand and providing the most advanced solutions, as well as continually working to modernize the manufacturing process. The rubber manufacturing facility, located in Batu Caves, Malaysia, has been expanded to include a new Continuous Rubber Process (CRP2) facility, a new Banbury mixer to manufacture masticated dry rubber and additional rubber presses to support the growth within this area of the business.
The proprietary formula of Linatex premium rubber includes a unique liquid compounding phase which maintains the natural state and characteristics of the 95% natural rubber product. The formula has remained unchanged since it was developed and patented in 1923 by Bernard Wilkinson. To ensure a consistent high-quality product, Linatex premium rubber routinely undergoes rigorous testing throughout the entire manufacturing and delivery process.
Linatex premium rubber is said to be the most sustainably manufactured rubber on the market. The natural and renewable resource (pure latex is 100% sap of the rubber tree) is complemented by sustainable processes, minimal waste and a renewable solar energy system at the site.
Stephen Frendt, managing director of Weir Minerals Malaysia, said: ‘Linatex rubber is a very sustainable product. First, it’s a very natural product based on 95% natural rubber latex. Secondly, the process in which it is manufactured is very sustainable: very little effluent, very little waste. More broadly across the site, we have implemented a range of sustainability initiatives such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting and a rubber recycling programme.’
Charlie Stone, vice-president of sales and business development, added: ‘We are thrilled to celebrate a century of delivering leading value, performance, and sustainability benefits to our customers around the world. Linatex premium rubber is unparalleled in the industry, and we look forward to another successful 100 years and more.’
