Abstract: The subject matter of this invention relates to a method of making glass fiber mat reinforcement material with a thermoplastic adhesive powder. Fiberglass strands are chopped and randomly air dropped onto a Teflon.RTM. coated conveyor belt to form a loose mat. A water mist is then applied to the loose mat and transport belt, before a powdered adhesive is dispensed. Heat is applied to plasticize the adhesive and finally the adhesive is solidified by cooling. The adhesive will then release from the transport belt and is adhered to the material forming the fiberglass reinforcement mat.

Abstract: A method of coating the surface of semi-rigid porous materials such as open cell foam or fibrous compositions with a thermoplastic adhesive in powder form which will reactivate. The powdered adhesive in a size range of 0-600 microns will remain on the surface of such materials even when cell diameter of the foam or space between fibers is larger than adhesive particle size. High porosity is maintained in the coated product. First a thermoplastic adhesive in powder form is dispensed uniformly onto the surface of a carrier belt which is coated with a release agent and is moving continuously. The adhesive advances to a preheating station where the adhesive is plasticized and will adhere to the carrier belt to prevent movement, after which the foam or fibrous material is placed on the adhesive which is adhered to the belt. The adhesive and material advance to a second heating station where the adhesive is fully melted to allow the adhesive to bridge cells in the foam or space between fibers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing foam resin insulation for a vessel, such as a water heater. The water heater includes a tank to contain water to be heated and has a plurality of openings to receive components of the water heater. A jacket is spaced outwardly of the tank to provide a space therebetween to receive foam resin insulation. Prior to introducing the resin into the space, an elongated member, such as a rod, is engaged with the opening in the tank and the rod extends outwardly through an aligned opening in the jacket. A resilient pad, which is movable on the rod, is compressed against the outer surface of the jacket to seal the space between the jacket opening and the rod. A liquid foamable resin is introduced in the space between the tank and the jacket and expands to fill the space and provide an insulating layer.

Abstract: A clamping apparatus for use in applying foam resin insulation between the tank and the outer jacket of a water heater. The jacket of the water heater is spaced outwardly of the tank to provide a space that receives a foamable resin, such as polyurethane. The upper end of the jacket is enclosed by a thin, sheet metal cover. To clamp the cover to the jacket and prevent deformation of the cover due to the pressure of the resin foam, a clamping mechanism is utilized which includes a plate or clamping member that is positioned flatwise against the cover, and a clamp assembly secures the clamping plate to the upper end of a flue, or other tubular opening in the tank. In a preferred form, the clamping mechanism consists of a resilient, expandable plug which is inserted within the opening in the tank and is expanded outwardly into tight engagement with the wall bordering the opening to secure the clamping plate to the tank.