Abstract: A bushing assembly 10 through which molten glass 14 is extruded to form fiberglass filaments 12 includes a bushing 22 defining an extrusion face 32. Molten glass flows through the bushing 22 of the extrusion face 32. The extrusion face 32 has a plurality of integrally formed tips 46. The bushing 22 is heated by ceramic heater blocks 42 having resistance heating elements 64 encased in slots 62. A frame 20 holds the bushing assembly 10 including the bushing 22 and heater blocks 42 on an opening 18 of a forehearth 16. Cooling fins 50 and cooling tubes 52 are attached to the bushing assembly to cool the tips 48 and fiberglass filaments 12 after extrusion. Methods of making the bushing and bushing assembly 10 are also disclosed including the steps of hydroforming the bushing 22, punching a plurality of holes 48 in the extrusion face 32, forming tips 48 on each hole and machining the tips 48 to a uniform length.

Abstract: Method of welding wherein at least two tubular members, are welded to a plate comprising directing a high energy beam welding means along a continuous path extending peripherally of the tubular members and between the tubular members.

Abstract: A stream feeder for supply of streams of molten glass for attenuation into fibers. The feeder is formed of metal and is electric-resistance heated. The bottom wall and sidewalls of the feeder are of varied thickness and are formed from a single sheet of metal. The disclosure also includes method and apparatus for forming the bottom wall and varied thickness sidewalls from a single sheet of metal.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for fabricating an orificed wall for a feeder for flowing streams of filament forming material such as molten glass by punching an aperture through a plate from one side to the other and then permanently depressing the plate immediately adjacent the aperture at the other side to such an extent that any tendency to bow from the aperture forming operation is essentially negated.

Abstract: A stream feeder for supply of streams of molten glass for attenuaton into fibers. The feeder is formed of metal and is electric-resistance heated. The bottom wall and sidewalls of the feeder are of varied thickness and are formed from a single sheet of metal. The disclosure also includes method and apparatus for forming the bottom wall and varied thickness sidewalls from a single sheet of metal.