Abstract: An apparatus for the continuous production of individual flexible products from a folded web of material, in particular, heat sealable thermoplastic material, is described having improved means for providing tension relief in such web material, and for tucking such web material outwardly from the surface of the product drum. The tuck rolls remain extended above the surface of the product drum throughout product drum rotation, and are retracted by cam arrangement to provide tension relief. Three alternative support assemblies and related cam arrangements are disclosed, two of which employ adjustable, compressible tuck roll support assemblies.

Abstract: A devolatilization apparatus is provided which removes volatiles from a variety of polymer products utilizing centrifugal forces to control the residence time of the polymer in the devolatilizer. Volatiles are efficiently removed without degrading the polymer product. The devolatilizer includes a rotatable annular chamber having an inlet, a first outlet located at a first distance from the axis of rotation of the chamber, and a second outlet located at a second distance from the axis of rotation of the chamber. Means are also provided for supplying a polymer, in liquid form, to the inlet to the annular chamber. The portion of the chamber located between the first and second outlets forms an annular pocket or subchamber. The apparatus also includes means to rotate the annular chamber at a speed sufficient to cause the liquid polymer to flow through the first and second outlets and form liquid seals at each of the outlets.

Abstract: Improved shaft seal is provided wherein generally radially extending distendable diaphragms are used to adjust the sealed gap. A flushing lubricant is provided. The seal is particularly suited for use in gear pumps handling viscous materials such as heat plastified thermoplastics.