Abstract: The present invention provides a novel extrusion apparatus and process that avoid flow stream divergence. More particularly, an improved end feed, extrusion apparatus and process are provided. Compensation by gap adjustment is beneficially reduced.

Abstract: The present invention provides an extrusion apparatus having an improved mechanism for thermally-controlled, lip gap adjustment. The apparatus includes a flow path for a gaseous cooling medium, in which flow path a plurality of temperature-responsive, lip gap adjustment members are disposed. In contact with each such adjustment member is a heating element.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel extrusion apparatus that is advantageous for converging rheologically dissimilar streams. Flow transition of a converging stream can be beneficially effected. For instance, a converging stream may be specially contoured by mere mechanical adjustment of a flow-restricting member of the apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel extrusion apparatus and process that are advantageous for converging rheologically dissimilar streams. Advantageously, stream convergence is effected proximate to the exit orifice to obviate or reduce the time migration effect. In an edge-laminating extrusion die in accordance with the invention, the width of an edge of an edge-laminated product may be mechanically defined.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel process for the coextrusion of a laminate containing more than a single barrier layer. The process overcomes the interfacial instability associated with thinning and spreading a composite stream containing a barrier layer of EVOH. Furthermore, the process prevents migration of EVOH particles from regrind.

Abstract: The present invention provides an extrusion apparatus having an improved mechanism for thermally-controlled, lip gap adjustment. The apparatus includes a flow path for a gaseous cooling medium, in which flow path a plurality of temperature-responsive, lip gap adjustment members are disposed. Structurally associated with each such adjustment member is a heating wire.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel coextrusion apparatus that includes a first flow channel of a greater width than a second flow channel, and an adjustable vane blade between the channels. By the use of interchangeable plates, this unique apparatus is able to prevent any selected layer or layers of a laminate from extending to the full laminate width. This highly advantageous result is obtained by the formation of an isolating edge that is an integral part of a layer or layers that extend the full laminate width. Also provided is process for forming a laminate having an isolating edge.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel coextrusion apparatus including, in a preferred embodiment, a die within a feedblock. The apparatus includes edge seam-forming channels, which provide a core layer sandwiched within adjacent layers having integrally seamed edges. Also provided in a unique process for sandwiching a core stream within adjacent layers.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel edge-laminating apparatus, in which an edge-laminating stream exiting from an edge-laminating flow channel, is driven by flow pressure into an edge of another stream. Also provided is a novel process for forming an edge-laminated stream, and for forming an extruded product.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel process for the coextrusion of a laminate containing more than a single barrier layer. Also provided is a coextruded composite useful for forming containers. Additionally, there is provided a unique coextrusion apparatus useful for forming the laminate.