Abstract: A device is described which eliminates the pre-drying of particulate plastic prior to processing by an extrusion or injection molding machine. A tubular guide member directs particulate plastic under gravity into the feed inlet of the machine. During delivery, the temperature of the particulate plastic is raised with heated air flows to between about 150.degree.-200.degree. F. Suction is applied to the feed inlet of the machine to remove volatiles (primarily water) released when the temperature of the particulate plastic is increased by contact with the heated barrel and screw-drive of a machine. Temperature and suction controls permit selection of operating temperature and suction levels that ensure removal of volatiles prior to any extensive plasticization and transfer along the barrel which would otherwise preclude proper removal of volatiles.

Abstract: A device is described which eliminates the pre-drying of particulate plastic prior to processing by an extrusion or injection molding machine. A tubular guide member directs particulate plastic under gravity into the feed inlet of the machine. During delivery, the temperature of the particulate plastic is raised with heated air flows to between about 150.degree.-200.degree. F. Suction is applied to the feed inlet of the machine to remove volatiles (primarily water) released when the temperature of the particulate plastic is increased by contact with the heated barrel and screwdriver of a machine. Temperature and suction controls permit selection of operating temperature and suction levels that ensure removal of volatiles prior to any extensive plasticization and transfer along the barrel which would otherwise preclude proper removal of volatiles.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing hot volatiles and moisture from particulate plastic material being fed for injection or extrusion molding by a plasticizing screw which rotates in a heated barrel. Flow control means, such as a conveying screw or rotary valve, drop the particulate material downward through a vertical feed passage extending to an opening in the barrel. At the same time, suction is applied to remove hot volatiles which are released through the opening in the barrel as the particulate plastic material is gradually melted as it is compressed by the screw. The rate of feed of the particulate material is restricted so that the barrel of the plasticizing screw is only partially filled near the opening, thereby improving the withdrawal of the gases from the barrel. The incoming particulate material is preheated by a continuous flow of hot air through it as it passes through a tubular guide member.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for removing hot volatiles and moisture from particulate plastic material being fed for injection or extrusion molding by a plasticizing screw which rotates in a heated barrel. Flow control means, such as a conveying screw or rotary valve, drop the particulate material downward through a vertical feed passage extending to an opening in the barrel. At the same time, suction is applied to remove hot volatiles which are released through the opening in the barrel as the particulate plastic material is gradually melted as it is compressed by the screw. The rate of feed of the particulate material is restricted so that the barrel of the plasticizing screw is only partially filled near the opening, thereby improving the withdrawal of the gases from the barrel. The incoming particulate material is preheated by a continuous flow of hot air through it as it passes through a tubular guide member.