Abstract: A pad is formed by feeding separate supplies of fibrous material into contact with two separate lickerins that are parallel to each other and rotated toward each other. The fibers from the two lickerins pass through a mixing zone and are accumulated in pocket molds moving on a conveying screen that is moved parallel to the axes of the lickerins. A baffle plate may be inserted into the mixing zone and acts to control the lateral or cross-sectional composition of a web formed by the fibers accumulated in the molds. When different fibrous materials are fed to the lickerin along their length, the vertical composition of the web is altered. Because of the pocket molds the pads are formed as individually shaped products.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for producing a fabric from a fibrous web comprising at least 5 percent thermoplastic fibers, said method comprising superimposing the web on a first carrier belt, superimposing a second carrier belt on the web, causing the web and belts to travel about at least two heated rolls, and cooling the web between the belts.