Abstract: An apparatus and a continuous process for manufacturing a ring-dyed polymeric filament. A filament, formed by melt extrusion is directly fed into a tank containing a dye solution for a predetermined period of time. The resulting ring-dyed filament includes an outer cross-sectional region colored with the dye and an inner cross-sectional region not colored with the dye. The outer cross-sectional region may be of uniform thickness over the length of the filament. A quenching step can be performed either before or during the ring-dyeing step.

Abstract: A crimped thermoplastic fiber for use in reinforcing concrete has a length in the range of 1/4 inch to 4 inches; an outer diameter in the range of 4 mils to 30 mils; a crimp frequency of 10-30 crimps per inch and an amplitude in the range of 1/2 mil-10 mils. The invention also includes a cylindrical bundle of the aforementioned fibers retained within an outer paper wrapper that dissolves and/or disintegrates within a concrete mixer in which the wrapped bundles are dispersed.

Abstract: Multiple sheets spiral bound together as a unit by a continuous filament. The sheets have a plurality of closely spaced perforations aligned along an edge thereof. The filament is an elongated rod-like member having an outer surface and a centrally-located longitudinal axis. The filament is flexible and is disposed in spiral configuration through the perforations. The filament additionally comprises an inner surface defined by an internal elongate passage extending therethrough. The internal opening facilitates crimping of the inventive filament after it has been spiraled into a plurality of closely spaced perforations aligned along an edge of a stack of sheets. The internal opening in the filament also provides improved control over the outer dimension of the filament during manufacture.

Abstract: Level (i.e., uniform diameter along the length thereof) and tapered (varying diameter along the length thereof) brush bristles include a central core having an outer wall and a pair of internal, semi-cylindrical passages separated by a central dividing wall. A plurality of spokes, or ribs, extend radially outwardly from the outer wall of the central core in planes other than the plane of the central dividing wall and also are spaced equidistant from each other about the circumference of the outer wall. Applicator brushes employing the aforementioned bristles also form a part of this invention.

Abstract: A "honeycomb"-like paintbrush bristle, either leveled or tapered, has a consistently circular cross-section and two enclosed, longitudinal, hemi-cylindrical voids separated by a single planar interior web which extends diametrically across the bristles interior. The honeycomb bristle is made by extrusion through a die or spinneret which has two generally E-shaped facing openings, so that the resultant bristle has only two external seams along its length.