Abstract: A method of forming a drum assembly for use as a rotatable endless surface onto which a toner image is formed. The drum assembly has a hollow drum with an opening at each end and a surface onto which the image is formed. A support flange, having an aperture in the center thereof, is cooled before being inserted into each end opening. The drum assembly also includes a shaft having a collar fixed in the vicinity of each end. After the shaft is positioned inside the drum, the collars are positioned to coincide with the flange apertures. Screws secure each collar to its respective flange. The screws can be adjusted to reduce the eccentricity of the drum.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming a reconstituted food product is provided including at least one transfer hopper having a reciprocating bottom for supporting pieces of the food product at a loading location, a control member for reciprocating the bottom so as to alter the height of the bottom in relation to a load in the hopper thereby keeping a drop height of successive pieces of food product into the hopper within predetermined limits. A drive mechanism is provided for moving the hopper from a food product loading location to a discharge location. A mould is disposed at the discharge location and aligned with the hopper. A displacement member for displacing material from the hopper into the mould is provided.