Abstract: An apparatus and method for manufacturing a honeycomb article with an after-applied skin, where the edges of the after-applied skin are relieved with respect to the ends of the honeycomb article.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for plugging cells of honeycomb structures are disclosed. A first method covers the honeycomb structure's end face with a mask having a body and plurality of sized openings positioned to oppose certain cell channels, wherein the outer edge of the body extends radially outwardly from the end face. A film also extends outwardly of the end face, and a plug of material is provided upon the film. The mask and film material are sealed to one another, and a force is applied to the film forcing the material through the mask and into the cells. Also disclosed is adhering a mask to a first end face of the honeycomb structure such that the mask has an outer portion that extends radially beyond an outer edge of the honeycomb; providing a volume of plugging material; clamping the outer portion between a first clamping portion and a second clamping portion; and transferring the plugging material into the honeycomb.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a honeycomb article with an after-applied skin includes fixing a honeycomb body between a first support member and a second support member of a skinning apparatus, the first support member positioned against a first end of the honeycomb body and the second support member positioned against a second end of the honeycomb body. A skin layer is applied to the honeycomb body by an applicator, where a first edge of the skin layer contacts the first support member and a second edge of the skin layer contacts the second support member. At least one of the first edge and the second edge of the skin layer is heated by a heat source before removing the honeycomb body with the applied skin layer from between the first and second support members.