Exxon Chemical Patents, Inc.

Shiaw T Ju

Richard C Yeh

A process for the recovery of dry polymer, wherein a polymer material containing water and/or volatile hydrocarbons is extruded through a die sleeve, cut into particles by means of a cutter mounted at the die discharge, and carried away from the cutter by an air stream. The die sleeve is provided with a plurality of die holes possessing a non-circular derived shape, which allow the material to be dried at lower temperatures and pressures. The cutter is a cage-type cylinder presenting large open areas for the flow of conveying air, thereby significantly reducing the local air velocity through the cutter and tearing of the particles. A bypass is provided to insure sufficient air being present after the cutter region to prevent condensation and to provide crumb transportation through the transport conduit. The invention reduces the generation of fines and results in an increase in the average particle size.

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Edison, NJ, United States of America

Shiaw T Ju