Abstract: This invention is an electrically lit artificial Christmas tree which is assembled from separate components consisting of a central stalk, a base which supports said stalk, and main branches which have secondary branches attached to them. The branches which are made of two stiff, intertwisted and insulated electrical wires are attached to the central stalk by inserting their ends into holes provided in the stalk; this also connects the branches electrically to electrical conductors provided within the stalk; which are in turn powered by an electric cord leading from the conductors in the stalk to an electrical wall outlet. The branches have Christmas tree decorative electric globes attached to them, and are trimmed with artificial pine needles.

Abstract: Profiles may be extruded directly from powdered ABS or other similar thermoplastic materials without pelletizing the feed material, by compounding under dry air flush conditions; maintaining dry air atmosphere conditions on the compounded materials until charged into the extruder; and providing vacuum venting in the decompression zone of the extruder, with optional condensation inducement and entrapment in the vent. Method and apparatus are disclosed.