Abstract: Compositions comprising substantially cylindrical paste extruded particles having a mathematical average length to diameter ratio of 1.0 to 4.0 are prepared by a process for breaking and separating dried particles. The process utilizes an apparatus comprising a cylindrical screen and a hub. Upon relative rotation of the screen and the hub, reject particles are flung radially outwardly and expelled through openings in the screen.

Abstract: An apparatus for breaking and separating particles preferably having a mathematical average length to diameter ratio of 1.0 to 4.0, and compositions comprising such particles. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical screen (1) and a hub (7). Upon relative rotation of the screen (1) and the hub (7), reject particles are flung radially outwardly and expelled through openings (4) in the screen (1).

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for agitation-free, low temperature drying of fragile, temperature sensitive, granular materials at atmospheric pressure using Radio Frequency (RF) energy to provide the heat of evaporation. A relatively low velocity flow of purge air through either a continuously moving or stationary product bed provides means for removing moisture from the product at atmospheric pressure. The purge air is maintained at a controlled humidity, temperature and velocity, and the intensity of the RF field is controlled in response to temperature sensing means to control the temperature of the product. For the case of a continuously moving product bed the RF applicator is preferably divided into multiple zones, which may be independently controlled, to effect control of the moisture and temperature profile of the product as it passes through the apparatus.