Convention Paper
Role of Polymer Science in Developing Materials for Phonograph Discs
AES Convention 52 · Paper 1060 · October 1975
Abstract
An introduction to the Science of Flow and Deformation of vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymers is given, along with the various equipment used to study the Rheological parameters. The molding of phonograph discs is related to the melt viscosity and melt elasticity. A correct balance of melt viscosity and melt elasticity appears to be a prerequisite for successful molding of discs. It is shown that the molecular structure of polymers used in the phonograph record compounds has significant effect on the melt flow and dynamic properties and, thus processing of the compounds. It is suggested that Polymer Rheology is a very useful study in the development of materials and to understand such problems as improper molding, warpage of discs, wear life of the discs and pressing cycle times, etc.
