Abstract: A new metering and proportioning apparatus for directly applying a two-component adhesive in a wood laminating process is described. The key element of the invention is a valve system regulating flow of resin and hardener to and from double-acting cylinder pumps. The new system eliminates conventional spool valve difficulties. Each component cylinder pump is supplied with a pair of 3-way ball valves which are manifolded to direct component flows. A pneumatic control system senses completion of a component discharge stroke and causes simultaneous reversal of the ball valve pair for discharge of component and refilling of the emptied side of the cylinder on the return stroke. A two-level optical sensor detects a workpiece and opens extruder head discharge. The sensor operates a modulating valve in the resin supply line as the workpiece proceeds ensuring even spread rate.