High molecular weight elastomer processing system for chewing gum
US5853243A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 3, 1996 |
| Grant date | Dec 29, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 3, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29K2105/16
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A process and apparatus for melting and processing a high molecular weight elastomeric material for a gum base or chewing gum product is disclosed. The solid elastomeric material, which preferably is polyisobutylene, is heated and melted into a liquid material which is then transported to an extruder. The apparatus has a heated housing section which includes sets of heated plate members arranged in fan-type groupings. Heated diverter members are positioned beneath the sets of fan-type plates. A heated angled conduit section is positioned below the housing section and a heated storage section is attached to the angled conveyance section. A valve and pump system is used to discharge the liquid elastomeric material from the holding section to the gum base or chewing gum extruder. Accurate metering and feeding of the liquified elastomeric material to a continuous extrusion process is achieved.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.