Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing a thermoplastic strip moving forward stepwise and used in the production of hot-formed containers which, after forming, are filled and sealed in a sterile atmosphere, wherein prior to the strip softening operation, the surface of said strip which is subsequently to constitute the inside face of the containers, is exposed evenly and intermittently, in successive portions and for a very short period of time, to a temperature higher than that of the softening point of the said thermoplastic strip and which is dependent on the desired extent of bacterial destruction.

Abstract: A microprocessor controlled hydrocolloid conditioner comprising a frame, a bath tank separably supported by said frame for containing water heated to a pre-determined temperature useful in the conditioning of hydrocolloid material, heating means comprising a power supply and a heating element disposed within the bath, and a microprocessor interfaced with a triac control circuit for turning on and off the heating means responsive to command from the microprocessor such that boiling cycles are automatically commenced and terminated, holding and tempering baths are readily set and the dentist is signalled the status and readiness of hydrocolloid at all times in each of multiple function bath tanks.

Abstract: An electric heating apparatus for softening and molding fillet wax strips used in foundry molds and castings includes a housing supporting a plurality of electric radiant heaters, such as lamps, above a platform for holding strips of fillet wax during preheating. An electronic control circuit is provided in the housing for varying the heat output of the radiant heaters and includes a thermostat located between the heater and the platform for limiting the temperature to prevent melting of the wax strips. Electrically heat fillet-forming tools, supported in holder on the housing during non-use periods, are provided for forming the preheated wax strips after application thereof to a mold. The tools are provided with ball-shaped tips and the housing is provided with a separate adjustable electronic control circuits for each tool so that the heat output of each tool can be adjusted to a temperature appropriate to the particular wax being worked and the size of the ball-shaped tip.