Abstract: The present invention discloses a tunnel washer apparatus. The apparatus provides a plurality of modules that include an intake module, a discharge module, and one or more modules in between the intake module and the discharge module. Multiple modules have a cylinder. Each cylinder has first and second cylinder ends. A scoop enables transfer of fabric articles to be washed from one cylinder to another cylinder. A first plate is connected to the scoop, wherein the first plate has a concave edge portion and a convex edge portion. The first plate preferably is welded to the first cylinder end with a first weld that extends along the convex edge portion. A second plate is connected to the scoop. The second plate has first and second convex edge portions. The second plate preferably is welded to the second cylinder end with a second weld that extends along one of the second plate convex edge portions. There is a first stress relieving gap in between the first cylinder end and the first weld.

Abstract: Washing machines are uiized to recycle plastic and cellulose from disposed diapers. The disposed diapers are loaded into a washing machine and, while being agitated, are washed in water, alkali and soap. During washing, the cellulose becomes separated from the plastic. The cellulose is drained out of the washing machine with the water, leaving the plastic in the washing machine. A pump transfers the cellulose and water to another washing machine for furter cleaning. In addition, other products, such as milk cartons and drink boxes, newspaper, and office waste paper, can be processed.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method for recovering fiber from printed wastepaper by loading the wastepaper and water into a continuous batch fiber recovery apparatus. The wastepaper and water are agitated within the apparatus to form a pulp fiber slurry while introducing a deinking/agglomerating composition at predetermined time intervals to cause the ink particles associated with the printed wastepaper to separate from the paper and agglomerate to form large ink particles. The agglomerated ink particles are then removed from the pulp fiber slurry using separation techniques.