Patent · US Expired

Method and apparatus for microcellular polymer extrusion

US6884377B1 · kind B1 · utility

105Cited by
65References
124Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJul 27, 2000
Grant dateApr 26, 2005
Priority date
Expiry dateJun 8, 2022

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB29K2105/0005
  • WIPO fieldOther special machines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Continuous polymeric extrusion nucleation systems and methods useful for making polymeric microcellular foamed materials, including crystalline and semi-crystalline polymeric microcellular materials, are provided. Pressure drop rate is an important feature in some embodiments, and the invention provides systems for controlling these and other parameters. One aspect involves a multiple-pathway nucleator that is separated from a shaping die by a residence chamber. Another aspect involves a die for making advantageously thick articles, including a multiple-pathway nucleation section. Microcellular material can be continuously extruded onto wire, resulting in a very thin, essentially closed-cell microcellular insulating coating secured to a wire. Other very thin microcellular products can be fabricated as well.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.