Abstract: An apparatus is provided for crimping and heat setting a filament or a tow of filaments and to provide fine filaments. The apparatus has at least one heating zone with means for heating a filament or a tow of filaments in an inert and/or oxidizing atmosphere. In the heating zone is a pair of horizontally movable mating conveying means having a multiplicity of protrusions for imparting a crimp to said filament or tow.

Abstract: The present invention teaches a textile structure and method of making thereof which is useful for fire blocking a structure and insulating it from sound and heat. The textile structure includes at least one composite having three layers which are placed upon one another to form top, middle and bottom layers. The middle layer is a densified matt or batting having at least 10% by weight of carbonaceous fibers. The top and bottom layers are less densified matts or battings which have at least 10% by weight of carbonaceous fibers. Multiple composites may be secured together for increased protection against fire, sound and heat.

Abstract: The present invention provides a multi-directional friction material made from unidirectional carbonaceous and/or oxidized PAN based fibers. More particularly, the present invention teaches a multi-layered preform having at least three (3) unidirectional fabric layers oriented at different angles respective to each other to provide a superior heat dissipation properties in a friction material.