The manufacturing process for flat wiper blades is as follows: First, the rubber is mixed and extruded into strips, then vulcanized to improve its performance. Next, a steel frame, precision-stamped to the correct dimensions, is formed and attached to a semi-rigid spine or directly to the rubber element. Finally, the rubber wiper is inserted into the frame and secured with clips or fasteners, and the entire assembly is inspected for quality. The following describes the manufacturing process for the metal strips of flat wiper blades:

 

Flat Wiper Blade Metal Strip Manufacturing and Assembly

The manufacturing of flat wiper blade metal strips is a multi-step process that involves sourcing, shaping, heat-treating, coating, and integrating the metal parts into the final assembly. The metal strips act as the “skeleton” of the blade, providing the rigidity and flexibility needed for effective and consistent pressure on the windshield.

 

Step 1: Raw material sourcing

Manufacturers use high-quality metal, often spring steel alloys, known for their corrosion resistance and fatigue resistance. Options include:

• High-carbon steel: Provides excellent strength and flexibility.
• Stainless steel: Used for its superior corrosion resistance, especially in coastal or humid environments.

Step 2: Strip production and shaping

Cutting: Rolls of spring steel are fed into a machine that cuts them to the precise lengths required for different flat wiper blade sizes.

• Molding and forming: The cut strips are passed through specialized dies or molds that shape and curve the metal to match the specific windshield curvature of different car models. This ensures uniform pressure across the entire length of the blade.
• Tension spring integration: In some designs, tension springs are molded into or integrated with the steel frame to provide extra pressure and wiping performance.

Step 3: Heat treatment

The steel strips are heat-treated, a process of hardening and tempering, to enhance their mechanical properties.

• Purpose: This process improves the metal’s tensile strength, hardness, and fatigue resistance, allowing the blade to return to its original shape after bending during use.
• Process: The steel strips are heated to a specific temperature and then cooled.

Step 4: Corrosion protection

Since wipers are constantly exposed to moisture and road salt, the metal strips are coated to prevent corrosion.

• Electrophoretic deposition (E-coating): A common process where the metal strips are immersed in a paint bath and a direct current is applied. This creates a highly durable and strongly adhered anti-rust layer.
• Galvanization: A zinc coating is applied to carbon steel strips to protect against rust.

 

Step 5: Assembly with other components

Once the metal strips are manufactured and coated, they are assembled with the other wiper blade parts.

• Insert into splints: The spring steel strips are inserted into the plastic splints or backbone of the blade, which will hold the rubber element.
• Attach to rubber: The rubber wiping element is slid or snapped into the assembly, aligning the rubber’s groove with the splint’s slot. End caps are often installed to secure all components.
• Integrate with connectors: The final assembly includes the connectors and adapters that allow the flat wiper blade to attach securely to the vehicle’s wiper arm.

 

Step 6: Quality control and testing

Before packaging, the finished flat wiper blades undergo a series of tests to ensure performance and durability.

• Wiping performance test: The blades are tested on mock windshields under different conditions (e.g., rain, snow).
• Durability and fatigue test: The flat wiper blade is subjected to thousands of wiping cycles to ensure it can withstand long-term use.
• Corrosion and ozone tests: Accelerated tests check the resistance of the metal and rubber components to environmental degradation.

 

Step 7: Finalization

Quality Control & Packaging: The finished flat wiper blades are assembled and then packaged for distribution and sale.

About Novoflow

At NOVOFLOW, our mission is to provide reliable, high-performance wiper solutions that enhance safety and deliver long-lasting performance. We focus on creating products that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients and their customers, ensuring clear visibility and peace of mind in all weather conditions.

 

Correct installaton of the wiper guide