Abstract: An apparatus for application of strip material to an object comprises a base supporting and mechanically rotating a mandrel projected therefrom, wherein an object is seated onto the mandrel. The object is securely held to the mandrel by a plurality of clamps engaging and impinging the object thereto. At least one applicator assembly is urged forward to apply strip material to the object, each applicator assembly comprising a material spool for dispensing strip material and a back spool for collecting strip material backing separated from the strip material during application. After application of the strip material, an arm and scalpel sever the strip material, and the applicator assembly pivots to apply the remaining end portion of the strip material.

Abstract: Powdered starting material utilized for molding (e.g., rotational molding, injection molding, blow molding), extrusion, and the like can be preheated to reduce the time required to complete the processing of the material. After being preheated to a temperature below a melting temperature of the powder, the powder is transferred to a processing station. For example, in a rotational molding system, the preheated powder is transferred to a mold, where the preheated powder is melted and the mold is rotated such that the molten material adheres to the walls of the mold. After obtaining a desired distribution of the material over the walls of the mold, the temperature of the mold is decreased as rotation of the mold continues. When the article is sufficiently cooled, the article is removed from the mold.