Abstract: Stenter apparatus for stretching a web to produce a relatively thin film comprises two transversely spaced endless chains one the mirror image of the other relative to the stenter center line (C--C), each chain comprising an inner feed run (9) and an outer return run (10) mounted on supports. Each endless chain is constituted by film clip holders (3) and the chain pases around end sprockets (11B, 12B). The present invention provides a means for lateral adjustment of the feed runs (9) comprising adjustment means for lateral movement of the feed run support relative to the return run support and pivoting portions (10A, 10B) in the outer run support adjacent the end sprockets (11B, 12B) to enable said lateral movement of the feed run. Consequently a major portion of the outer run support does not require to have lateral movement and can be fixed in position and this provides economies in the construction. Further, end sprockets (11B, 12B) of smaller diameter can be used.

Abstract: Stenter apparatus for stretching film comprises stenter frame clip chain assemblies adapted to grip opposite edges of the film. Each chain assembly includes a plurality of chain clip units (5) which are movable on a double track rail system (3, 4). Each clip unit (5) carries a series of rollers wherein rollers (10a, 10b) with a horizontal axis run on an edge of a track (4) for chain weight support while a plurality of vertical axis rollers (7a, 7b, 8, 9, 12) engage side surfaces of the track assembly to resist horizontal loading. A further roller (11) serves to prevent uplift of the chain assembly. The clip units (5) are linked by articulating link means comprising spaced link plates (21, 22) pivotally carried by link pins (23) in the clip units, each link pin additionally serving to support a drive roller (15). A film clip (6) is located on each chain clip unit (5) and above the articulating link means. Preferably the tracks (3, 4 ) are spaced vertically.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a feed device for continuously feeding strips of material to processing apparatus, and in particular to a feed device for feeding polymer film onto film tenter apparatus. The present invention comprises a pair of endless belts disposed along opposite sides of the path of travel of the polymer film, and cooperating substantially frictionless supports on which the film edges ride, pressed between the belts and said supports. Each endless belt has a lower run which extends between spaced idler pulleys, and means are provided for maintaining the belt full lower run in continuous frictional contact on the advancing polymer film.