Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for producing molded polyester articles. More particularly, the invention concerns an apparatus and method for continuously producing molded polyester articles having low acetaldehyde content from a melt prepared by continuously reacting polyester precursors. The polyester is prepared and formed into useful shaped articles in a single, integrated, continuous melt-to-mold process without an intermediate solidification of the melt.

Abstract: A process for producing polyester articles, which generates little or no polyester waste. The process provides esterification or transesterification of one or more dicarboxylic acids or their dialkyl esters, polycondensation to produce a high molecular weight polyester, and molding or shaping of the polyester for produce the desired product. Scrap produced during the molding process is recycled back to the esterification or transesterification or polycondensation portion of the process. Optionally, the scrap may also be recycled to intermediate steps prior to the molding operation.