Abstract: The present invention pertains to a process and devices for producing beam-shaped moldings from fine plant parts mixed with binders in molding presses. Based on the discovery that the degree of compaction of the core of such moldings decreases with increasing cross section of the moldings, it is suggested in the present invention that the core zone of the molding be formed by an additional amount of fine parts moved there and compacted deliberately, which amount of material acts reactively as a compression zone to the moveable walls surrounding it during the compaction of the molding. Compaction of the molding over its entire cross section and at the same time particularly great compaction of the peripheral zones of the molding are thus achieved. The strength and the bending resistance of such moldings are particularly high, and such moldings are therefore also suitable for forming railroad ties.

Abstract: Extrusion of a mixture of vegetable bits with a binder, particularly wood chips with a weather-resistant binder, involves precompressing in a compression chamber of an extrusion press the mixture by a compression stroke transverse to the extrusion axis, the compression stroke being delivered by at least one precompression piston. Prior to the precompression elongated bits of the mixture are acted on by an orienting influence so that the elongated bits are deposited substantially parallel to the extrusion axis. The outer layers of the mixture are compressed with a reduced precompression ratio so that the bits oriented prior to precompression remain fixed in position during the subsequent extrusion stroke.

Abstract: Apparatus, for extrusion of a mixture of wood particles and binder, including a compression chamber, in an extrusion press, for precompressing the mixture by a compression stroke transverse to the extrusion axis, the compression stroke being delivered by at least one precompression piston, wherein the improvement comprises mixing the mixture prior to precompression with elongated bits which will be acted on by an orienting influence in a known way so that the elongated bits are deposited substantially parallel to the extrusion axis, and performing the precompression of the outer layers of the mixture with a reduced precompression ratio so that the bits oriented prior to precompression remain fixed in position during the subsequent extrusion stroke.