Abstract: A die assembly (10) for extruding a polymeric coating onto a wire so as to impart a matte finish to the coating surface is provided. The die assembly (10) comprises: A) a die tip (13) comprising a tubular channel (22) through which a wire can pass, the channel (22) positioned along the central longitudinal axis (26) of the die assembly (10); B) a die body (12) comprising a trunk (15) and a head (16), the head (16) comprising a tubular channel (20), the head tubular channel (20) comprising a die land (21), the trunk (15) positioned about the die tip (13) so as to define an annular space (25) between the exterior surface (23) of the die tip (13) and the interior surface (24) of the trunk (15); C) a die holder (11) positioned about and in contact with the exterior surface (17) of the trunk (15); and D) a radiator (14) positioned about and in contact with the exterior surface (19) of the die land (21) of the die head (16).

Abstract: Halogen-free, flame-retardant thermoplastic compositions that include a styrenic block copolymer, a low-melting, phosphorus-based flame retardant having a melting temperature no higher than 170° C., and a blend of solid intumescent phosphorus and nitrogen-containing flame retardants. The blend of solid intumescent flame retardants include at least two phosphorous and nitrogen-containing phosphoric acid salts that synergistically enhance the flame-retardant properties of the compositions relative to compositions that include other flame-retardant packages.

Abstract: Agglomerated fine solids, e.g., agglomerated pellets (2B), that are located within a restricted space or pinch point of a conveyance system (1), and that impede the free-flow of fine solids from one vessel (4) to another vessel (10), are detected and fragmented through the coordinated use of a flow detector (12), breaker plate (8) and press (6). The flow detector (12) senses an interruption or diminishment in the flow of the fine solids and signals and actuates the press (6) which in turn engages and fragments the agglomeration. The breaker plate (8) is sized and configured to trap major agglomerates.