Abstract: A method for splitting the flow of a spin solution in a standard flash spinning process to increase sheet uniformity at increased flow rates. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a coarse mesh screen that is positioned within the pressure let-down zone of the spinneret assembly. The screen divides the solution flow into numerous individual sheet uniformity compared to sheets formed without the screen and at the same flow rate. The method produces nonwoven sheets having less ropiness and improved uniformity at relatively high solution flow rates.

Abstract: A process is provided for reducing the size and number of undesirable gauge bands in wound-up rolls of wide nonwoven sheet that is produced by a plurality of oscillating fiber streams depositing fiber on a moving receiver. The desired effect is accomplished by varying the oscillation frequency of the fiber streams by more than .+-.5% of the average oscillation frequency.

Abstract: In the calcination of petroleum coke or the like in a rotary kiln, utilizing controlled air supply intermediate the ends of the kiln to burn removed volatiles and thereby generate all or nearly all of the heat required, highly effective control procedure includes establishing and repeatedly re-establishing target values for temperatures of exit gas and discharging product respectively at opposite ends of the kiln, such target temperatures representing conditions of desired position of the calcining zone and desired physical character of the calcined product which is achieved by proper maximum temperature in said zone. The procedure further includes adjusting one or more of the variables of combustion air supply, RPM of the kiln, and green coke feed rate so as to keep the end temperatures at target value.

Abstract: In the calcination of petroleum coke in a rotary kiln, procedure wherein air is controllably supplied internally of the kiln to burn the removed volatiles, as by selection or adjustment of the amount of such air and of the speed of coke travel down the kiln, so that all or nearly all of the heat for calcining the coke is provided by such combustion, and so that a suitably high temperature is reached for effective calcination at an efficiently large feed rate of coke, a special feature being to maintain a significantly long travel time of the coke from a region of intense calcining activity to the product discharge end of the kiln. High production rates, of coke calcined well and uniformly, are economically attained, with ease of control and with unusual stability of kiln operation.