Abstract: Apparatus for pressing, dividing and kneading pieces of dough, the apparatus being adapted to be installed in a continuous and automatic dough processing plant, the pressure plate, dividing knives and dough holder ring being combined to form a unitary processing head which receives a revolving kneading movement while a kneading belt having kneading recesses remains stationary with respect to the processing head. The kneading belt conveys the undivided pieces of dough into the pressing, dividing and kneading zone and also conveys the discrete pieces of dough out of the same.

Abstract: An automatic dough parting and kneading machine has at least one channel between the parting chamber and the kneading apparatus. Means are provided to periodically and selectively raise the kneading apparatus into at least partial telescopic engagement with the channel. Thereafter, the kneading belt (on which the pieces of dough are carried) is periodically advanced.