Abstract: An extruder or dispenser assembly for dough-like material. A progressing cavity pump receives the material and delivers it to an extruder assembly or die. In a preferred embodiment, the output of the pump is separated into independent streams. Each stream may have a desired minor constituent (such as color and/or flavor) added with the streams being co-extruded, as desired. Static mixers may be employed to incorporate the minor constituents into each stream.

Abstract: A pump assembly for dough-like material wherein a roll feeder delivers the material, under pressure, to a progressing cavity pump. In that process, the roll feeder also de-airs the dough. In preferred embodiments, the progressing cavity pump may be interconnected to the roll feeder by a screw feeder. The pump assembly may be employed to pump material from place to place, or alternatively, to extrude a pumped material, including delivering the pump material to an extruder.

Abstract: Apparatus for positive displacement metering of viscous material. Positive displacement and non-positive pumping of material to be metered is provided. The positive displacement pumping includes pressure release apparatus to avoid excessive pressure build-up. One pressure release apparatus includes an expansion chamber to moderate pressure changes.

Abstract: This apparatus provides positive displacement synchronized metering of pressurized food material to a plurality of dies using several positive displacement metering apparatus. The metering is provided by the energy of pressurized material itself, or, for more viscous material, it can be supplemented by a motor. Supplemental material can also be introduced along with the food material to modify the characteristics of the food material.

Abstract: This apparatus provides positive displacement synchronized metering of pressurized food material to a plurality of dies using several positive displacement metering apparatus. The metering is provided by the energy of pressurized material itself, or, for more viscous material, it can be supplemented by a motor. Supplemental material can also be introduced along with the food material to modify the characteristics of the food material.