Abstract: An underwater pelletizer providing more efficient formation of uniform size pellets including the provision of a taper on the die holes so that polymer will freeze near the exit and form an insulated die hole and a resultant cylindrical die hole for smooth polymer flow, axially movable ball bearing assemblies to support the pelletizer shaft in a housing, a threaded assembly with a thrust bearing to axially adjust the pelletizer shaft for compensating for blade wear, radial clearance for the outer race of the thrust bearing to eliminate preloading of the axially movable ball bearings, a gear coupling between the shaft and driving motor to permit axial movement of the shaft for blade adjustment, and a spring support for the pelletizer, all of which cooperate to form an effective underwater pelletizer which will efficiently produce uniform plastic pellets.

Abstract: A solid-liquid separator comprising a vertical dewatering chamber enclosed by an outer foraminous wall or screen through which the slurry is passed so as to remove the liquid and return the solids within the dewatering chamber. The incoming slurry is deflected and directed into the screen by a stationary X-shaped plate baffle. Solids which cannot pass through the screen and remaining water, flow by gravity out the bottom of the dewatering chamber and onto a further dewatering screen.