Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing direct liquid sample introduction using a nebulizer are provided. The apparatus and method include a short torch having an inner tube and an outer tube, and an elongated adapter having a cavity for receiving the nebulizer and positioning a nozzle tip of the nebulizer a predetermined distance from a tip of the outer tube of the short torch. The predetermined distance is preferably about 2-5 mm.

Abstract: A nebulizer adapted for adjusting a position of a capillary tube contained within the nebulizer is provided. The nebulizer includes an elongated tubular shell having a gas input port and a gas output port, a capillary adjustment adapter for displacing the capillary tube in a lateral direction via a rotational force, and a connector for connecting the elongated tubular shell, the capillary adjustment adapter and the capillary tube.

Abstract: A material processing apparatus and method for processing a solid feedstock material through a melt spin process including a spinner head having a spinner head chamber defined by a parametrical processing wall through which the solid feedstock material is processed. The apparatus includes a device for rotating the spinner head about an axis of rotation to cause the feedstock material to be repelled towards and through the processing walls. A heating source separate from and exterior to the spinner head is included for heating the feedstock material to an elevated temperature to cause the melt spin processing as the feedstock material is projected through the processing wall.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for continuously making chopped amorphous fibers that uses an air transport system. The apparatus includes a source of floss, a duct for transporting the floss while it is entrained in a stream of gaseous carrier medium, a chopper for chopping the floss, and a separator. In a preferred embodiment, the floss is chopped while it is entrained in the stream of gaseous carrier medium using a rotating ring chopper, and the chopped floss is subsequently separated using a cyclone separator.

Abstract: A spinner head is used for spinning and processing feedstock material. The spinner head includes spaced tubular heating elements which are covered by annular housing that forms a material processing wall. The annular housing contains radially spaced slots which provide a passage way for the material to be expelled from the spinner head. Each slot contains a flow restricting insert removably insertable therein. The inserts include radially extending grooves which channel the feedstock material as it exits the spinner head. The insert further include latches extending therefrom which secure the inserts in the spinner head upon rotation.

Abstract: An apparatus for continuously making chopped amorphous fibers that uses an air transport system. The apparatus includes a source of floss, a duct for transporting the floss while it is entrained in a stream of gaseous carrier medium, a chopper for chopping the floss, and a separator. In a preferred embodiment, the floss is chopped while it is entrained in the stream of gaseous carrier medium using a rotating ring chopper, and the chopped floss is subsequently separated using a cyclone separator.

Abstract: A spinner head is used in combination with a machine for processing and spinning feedstock material. The spinner head includes a base and a cover spaced from the base. A plurality of discrete closely spaced elongate heating elements are positioned between the base and the cover forming a barrier through which the feedstock material may be processed. The heating elements may be individually heated to a temperature sufficient to process the feedstock material therein. The spinner head is rotated to expel the feedstock material through the spaces between the heating elements.

Abstract: A spinner head for flash flow processing includes a closed base and a top having an opening for introducing feedstock and a substantially cylindrical wall extending between the base and top forming a chamber. The substantially cylindrical wall has an inner and an outer surface, the outer surface provided with relief formed to accommodate fixation of a heating element for the uniform supply of surface heat to the inner surface. The wall also includes a plurality of openings extending from the inner to outer surface, each of which forming a substantially non-tortuous path for passage of product therethrough.