Abstract: A process for producing a carbon sheet molding compound (SMC). An SMC manufacturing line including at least one conveyor line for laying up SMC resins on a carrier film is provided. A chopped carbon fiber which is evenly distributed using dehumidified supply air and using a pressurized air venturi apparatus which is used to debundle and randomize the carbon fibers, onto the resin on the carrier film as the carrier film moves along the conveyor.

Abstract: A thermoplastic pelletizer providing enhanced pellet yields with reduced fines contamination. The pelletizer includes a cutting rotor and a feed assembly for feeding plastic to the cutting rotor. The pelletizer further includes two chutes, wherein a first chute arranged to collect pellets, and a second chute arranged to collect fines. A vacuum is drawn on both chutes to assist in the collection of both pellets and fines in their respective chutes. Compressed air is directed past the cutting rotor to the first chute to assist in moving pellets from the cutting rotor to the first chute.