Abstract: Described herein is an improved homogeniz head in which a variable orifice can be readily provided. The head (10) comprises a casing section (12) and a plug section (14). The casing section (12) has an internally threaded portion (120) which has a series of notches (126) formed in the threads (124). The plug section (14) has an externally threaded portion (14) which has a series of flats (154) formed on the threads (152). The two threaded portions (120, 140) are engaged and the cooperation of the notches (126) and flats (154) define homogeniz orifices through which the material being homogeniz passes. The orifices so formed are variable in size depending on the relative positioning of the notches (126) relative to the flats (154).

Abstract: It is known to wash dispersion noodles in a `batchwise` fashion in which the noodles are retained in a kettle or kettle and water is sprayed onto the surface of the noodles. Agitation is achieved by bubbling air into the kettle from the bottom. Described herein is a method and apparatus for continuously washing dispersion noodles. The apparatus includes continuous pipe work in which the noodles are washed, the pipe work including at least one separating device (10) for separating the noodles from the water in which they have been washed. The device (10) comprises a housing (12) having an inlet (14) and an outlet (16). A separating element (22) is located in the housing (12) between the inlet (14) and the outlet (16) and is surrounded by a collection chamber (24), the element (22) comprising a tube of mesh material through which water passes into the collection chamber (24) and which is then drained off through drain (32).