Abstract: A method of reducing if not eliminating the possibility of tearing or ripping of a mesh screen of a filter during the manufacturing process includes the step of intentionally deforming the mesh screen. With this technique, as the plastic material that forms the frame of the filter begins to expand or change shape, as a result of the heating and squeezing steps involved with the molding process, the deformed mesh screen will be able to accommodate the relative changes in shape without tearing or ripping of the mesh screen. With the invention, numerous shapes and configurations of tools may be used to provide the intentional deformation of the mesh screen during the manufacturing process as well as to provide for control over the amount and degree of mesh screen deformation. Also, the resulting filter will have a mesh screen that has improved retention capabilities which will enhance the performance of the filter.

Abstract: A waterless hand cleaner formulation includes an organic solvent, a quantity of water and a surfactant present to form a gelatinous emulsion. The gelatinous emulsion is loaded with 0.1 to 25 total weight percent of a natural essential oil having topical antimicrobial activity. Oil of oregano is particularly well suited for this application.

Abstract: A composite sheet has a layer of reinforcing fiber impregnated with a thermoplastic resin. Non-woven fiber is partially impregnated with the thermoplastic resin to provide a bondable surface that can be subsequently bonded to other materials, such as plastics, foam and metal. Such an apparatus may be formed by heating and compressing the thermal plastic resin against the reinforcing fibers of the base layer and against the non-woven fibers, such that the base layer may be fully impregnated while the non-woven fibers may be partially impregnated. A thermal plastic resin must have a melting point less than either the reinforcing fibers of the base layer or the non-woven fibers.

Abstract: A Braun-tube manufacturing apparatus comprises conveyor for conveying a Braun tube having a support portion arranged to stably support the Braun tube thereon stationary thereto with a faceplate thereof facing down, and a drying furnace disposed at an intermediate position on a conveying path of the conveyor for locally heating an area around the base where the resin is deposited to thereby dry and harden the adhesive resin. Such an apparatus enables not only rapid and reliable drying of the adhesive resin but also reductions in the size and cost of the drying furnace which can be used for drying.