Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for monitoring and controlling the amount of moisture introduced into the forming hood area in the manufacture of mineral fiber insulation products. Moisture from coolant liquids, binder dispersions and binder diluents are all introduced deliberately into a forming hood; ambient moisture and water from combustion are additional sources. A series of global variable control valves, one for each fluid system; as well as individual variable control valves for each fiberizing unit are provided with associated meters. Sensors monitor fibrous pack conditions and ambient conditions and provide inputs to the valve control system. A specific 3-ring liquid dispensing system is also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for monitoring and controlling the amount of moisture introduced into the forming hood area in the manufacture of mineral fiber insulation products. Moisture from coolant liquids, binder dispersions and binder diluents are all introduced deliberately into a forming hood; ambient moisture and water from combustion are additional sources. A series of global variable control valves, one for each fluid system; as well as individual variable control valves for each fiberizing unit are provided with associated meters. Sensors monitor fibrous pack conditions and ambient conditions and provide inputs to the valve control system. A specific 3-ring liquid dispensing system is also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for making a fibrous products form molten material into fibers. The fibers are sprayed with a coolant liquid to cool the fibers. A flow rate of the sprayed coolant liquid is controllable. The fibers are also sprayed with a binder dispersion. The fibers are directed toward a conveyor to form an uncured fibrous pack. A thickness of the uncured pack is measured and the flow rate of the sprayed coolant liquid is controlled based on the measured thickness of the uncured pack.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for monitoring and controlling the amount of moisture introduced into the forming hood area in the manufacture of mineral fiber insulation products. Moisture from coolant liquids, binder dispersions and binder diluents are all introduced deliberately into a forming hood; ambient moisture and water from combustion are additional sources. A series of global variable control valves, one for each fluid system; as well as individual variable control valves for each fiberizing unit are provided with associated meters. Sensors monitor fibrous pack conditions and ambient conditions and provide inputs to the valve control system. A specific 3-ring liquid dispensing system is also disclosed.

Abstract: Fibrous insulation products have a binder composition that may include a carbohydrate and a crosslinking agent, and potentially other optional ingredients. The shelf life and physical properties of fibrous insulation products, particularly those having bio-based binders, can be improved by packaging that completely envelopes and seals the fibrous product from exposure to atmospheric conditions. Exemplary envelopes disclosed include sealed bags, double stretch wrap and stretch hoods. Properties that can be improved include recovery of loft, restoring force and tensile strength among others.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for monitoring and controlling the amount of moisture introduced into the forming hood area in the manufacture of mineral fiber insulation products. Moisture from coolant liquids, binder dispersions and binder diluents are all introduced deliberately into a forming hood; ambient moisture and water from combustion are additional sources. A series of global variable control valves, one for each fluid system; as well as individual variable control valves for each fiberizing unit are provided with associated meters. Sensors monitor fibrous pack conditions and ambient conditions and provide inputs to the valve control system. A specific 3-ring liquid dispensing system is also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for monitoring and controlling the amount of moisture introduced into the forming hood area in the manufacture of mineral fiber insulation products. Moisture from coolant liquids, binder dispersions and binder diluents are all introduced deliberately into a forming hood; ambient moisture and water from combustion are additional sources. A series of global variable control valves, one for each fluid system; as well as individual variable control valves for each fiberizing unit are provided with associated meters. Sensors monitor fibrous pack conditions and ambient conditions and provide inputs to the valve control system. A specific 3-ring liquid dispensing system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A rotary fibrous insulation product that is soft to the touch is provided. The fibrous insulation product is formed of glass fibers having an average fiber diameter less than about 5.5 microns. The low fiber diameter helps to impart a soft feel to the insulation product. Additionally, the insulation product contains an oil with a flashpoint of at least 580° F. in an amount up to 5% by weight of the insulation product. The insulation product may contain up to about 85% by weight recycled glass. In exemplary embodiments, the binder is a low-formaldehyde, polyacrylic based binder. The combination of the low fiber diameter, the binder, and the oil create a synergistic effect to produce an unexpectedly soft insulation product. The insulation product is useful in a variety of thermal applications, such as in basements, in attics, and in walls of residential dwellings.

Abstract: A multi-screen mixing apparatus for installation in a fiber-forming bushing used in the manufacture of glass fibers. The multi-screen mixer attaches to the walls of the bushing, and includes a first screen having openings therein through which the glass flows and a second screen having openings through which the glass flows longitudinally spaced from the openings in the first screen such that the molten glass must flow in a non-linear path as it passes through the screens. Additional screens can be added to cause additional flow diversion to further mix the molten glass.