SOLCOR is the generic name for the new generation of solid core EPDM rubber and accessories developed by Loring Industries.

Traditional rubber stretch cord, commonly called shock cord or bungy, is well known and widely used throughout the industrial, domestic and recreational world. This stretch cord consists of many strands of latex rubber filaments, bound together under braided polypropylene or nylon fabric. When stretched, the braiding opens slightly and UV penetrates to the inner core perishing the fine rubber strands, eventually causing failure. Consequently, stretch cords when exposed to the elements need to be replaced regularly.

The marine environment is the harshest for stretch cord where is subjected to extremely high ultraviolet (UV) bombardment and exposure to the elements. The Solcor team, with thirty years boating experience behind them, was convinced that there must be a better product available. However, after searching the market place in vain they decided to develop a product of higher performance specifications themselves.

Problem One: The Core
Conventional stretch cord is manufactured from inexpensive and low specification multi-strand rubber. Given its formation and with its large surface area, each strand in a traditional stretch cord is particularly vulnerable to UV damage. Banded strands also provide a capillary path for corrosive seawater and harmful chemicals.

Solution:
Solcor developed a solid EPDM core rubber formulated by mixing a range of polymers to produce a high quality product, that is UV stabilised and more tolerant to harsh environmental conditions.

Problem two: The cover
Traditional materials did not adequately protect the rubber interior allowing damage through UV penetration and contact with other destructive elements.

Solution:
Solcor sourced a tightly braided 1000 denier polyester fabric pre-treated with a UV inhibitor to provide two barriers of protection.

Together the polyester cover and rubber core are impervious to UV, salt water/air, petroleum products and most caustic chemicals.

The Result: Solcor Industrial Strength Stretch Cord.

Having solved the problems of the traditional shock cord Solcor then focused on the fittings and accessories. Some fittings, already available, were suitable but many were not. So, a new range of streamlined, durable and reliable fittings using the latest materials and expertise were designed.

SOLCOR products integrate a collection of innovative ideas and improvements producing the ‘next generation' of Industrial Strength Stretch Cord and Accessories. Solcor has a reputation for durability, reliability and innovation making it the choice of quality. This was confirmed in the harshest and most demanding of tests during the Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race where Solcor products were used and passed with flying colours.

Most products have been designed and manufactured in New Zealand.