Abstract: The present invention is a quench apparatus for cooling fibers spun from a spinneret in conventional fiber making processes. The quench apparatus is positioned below a spinneret. As the molten polymers are extruded from the spinneret in the form of filaments, the quench apparatus directs cooling air onto the filaments. The present invention relates to an implement for blocking the air flow from the conventional quench apparatus by increasing or decreasing the size of the quiescent zone between the bottom of the spinneret and where the air flow first contacts the filaments. Particularly, the present invention involves a blocking implement that may be installed or removed from the quench cabinet or plenum, to increase or decrease the quiescent zone. The present invention comprises the combination of a cross-flow quench system, where the top holes of the quenching apparatus are blocked or unblocked by an implement inserted within the quenching apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus to increase the orifice density in a spinneret by using an elongate boss having a plurality of orifices. The apparatus is for spinning bicomponent sheath/core filaments. The apparatus includes a distributor plate, and spinneret and a shim position between the distributor plate and the spinneret. The spinneret includes a plurality of elongate bosses spaced apart by channels. Each boss having a plurality of orifices of which the distance between the orifices are restricted only by manufacturing tolerances.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to increase the orifice density in a spinneret by using an elongate boss having a plurality of orifices. An apparatus and method for spinning bicomponent sheath/core filaments. The apparatus includes a distributor plate, and spinneret and a shim position between the distributor plate and the spinneret. The spinneret includes a plurality of elongate bosses spaced apart by channels. Each boss having a plurality of orifices of which the distance between the orifices are restricted only by manufacturing tolerances.