Abstract: A batch washing machine comprises an imperforate drum open at both ends and mounted for rotation about a substantially horizontal axis. A conveyor worm having an imperforate helical surface is rigidly mounted in the interior of the drum to divide same into a plurality of individual chambers. Washing media is fed to the chambers by means of a pipe disposed on a central axis of the drum, the pipe being sub-divided into individual pipe portions by the helical surface of the conveyor worm, with each pipe portion including at least one outlet aperture communicating with a respective one of the chambers. At least one emptying aperture is provided in the drum for each chamber and through which washing media can be discharged from the chamber. During washing, each chamber is separated from the other chambers, so that the machine can wash different types of washing at the same time.

Abstract: A washing machine comprises a rotatable washing drum divided by an internal screw conveyor into a number of separate washing and rinsing zones. A chamber mounted on the external surface of the drum in the area of the principal washing zone communicates with the principal washing zone and contains a partition which defines a liquid-containing pocket. This pocket is at least partially filled with liquid throughout rotation of the drum and contains a heating device which acts to heat the liquid.