Abstract: A machine for linking sausage has a pump, a stuffing tube, a casing on the stuffing tube, and a pair of linking chains downstream from the outlet end of the stuffing tube. A scale is located downstream of the discharge end of the stuffing tube and is operatively connected to the pump to increase or decrease the output speed of the pump as the weight of the encasing product decreases or increases, respectively from a predetermined target weight. The linking chains have spaced apart linking elements. A proximity sensor monitors the linking chains as they are rotating and senses variations in the distance between the linking elements as compared to a predetermined distance to determine stretching of the chains. A mass flow sensor is located on the machine adjacent the outlet of the pump to measure the mass of meat emulsion exiting the pump.

Abstract: A molded fiber reinforced plastic leaf spring. The spring has a curved central section composed of longitudinally extending fibrous strands impregnated with a cured thermosetting resin. The central section is generally rectangular in cross section having rounded upper and lower edges and a ground-off parting line disposed substantially at the neutral axis of the spring.

Abstract: Apparatus for selectively and precisely placing a chemical analysis probe (such as a fiber optic probe): (1) in a liquid sample contained in an open-mouthed sample vessel positioned on a sample support, or (2) in a wash collection chamber. Any residual sample remaining on the probe can be washed from it with a stream of volatile wash liquid when the probe is in the wash collection chamber and jets of gas can be directed onto the washed probe to speed the evaporation of any residual wash liquid from the probe. A latch can be used to hold the probe in the wash collection chamber.

Abstract: A drain and shutoff valve assembly for a water pressure tank. The lower end of the tank is provided with a non-circular opening within which the drain and shutoff valve assembly is mounted. The assembly includes a plastic body having an outer non-circular section, which is received within the opening in the tank, and an inner section having a larger cross-sectional area than the outer section. The valve body is provided with a drain passage which can be opened and closed by a needle-type valve. An annular seal is disposed between the inner section of the body and the inner surface of the tank, while a retaining clip is engaged with a groove in the outer section of the body and bears against the outer surface of the tank to hold the valve body in position within the tank opening.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining the morphology or dimensions of a polymeric hollow fiber is disclosed. The light absorption pattern of the hollow fiber can be used to determine the inside and outside diameter of the fiber.

Abstract: A molded fiber reinforced plastic leaf spring. The spring has a curved central section composed of longitudinally extending fibrous strands impregnated with a cured thermosetting resin. The central section is generally rectangular in cross section having rounded upper and lower edges and a ground-off parting line disposed substantially at the neutral axis of the spring.