Abstract: Improved masking apparatus and methods for bulk charging a flowable material into selected cell ends exposed at an end face of a honeycomb structure. The masking apparatus utilize protrusions which assist in properly aligning the apparatus to the end face and reduce the possibility of improperly charging cells. In one apparatus embodiment, a planar body is provided having a plurality of hollow protrusions which extend into selected cell ends when the planar body is fitted against an end face of the structure. A flowable material charged against the planar body passes through the hollow protrusions into the selected cell ends. In another embodiment, a plurality of preformed protrusions or plugs are mounted along thin, flexible members at predetermined locations. The plugs are removably inserted into and temporarily block or cover the ends of an equal plurality of cells. A flowable material charged against the end face passes into the remaining, uncovered cells.

Abstract: Improved masking apparatus and methods for bulk charging a flowable material into selected cell ends exposed at an end face of a honeycomb structure. The masking apparatus utilize protrusions which assist in properly aligning the apparatus to the end face and reduce the possibility of improperly charging cells. In one apparatus embodiment, a planar body is provided having a plurality of hollow protrusions which extend into selected cell ends when the planar body is fitted against an end face of the structure. A flowable material charged against the planar body passes through the hollow protrusions into the selected cell ends. In another embodiment, a plurality of preformed protrusions or plugs are mounted along thin, flexible members at predetermined locations. The plugs are inserted into and block or cover the ends of an equal plurality of cells. A flowable material charged against the end face passes into the remaining, uncovered cells.