The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Apr. 21, 1998
Filed:
Nov. 20, 1995
Robert L Lilly, Asheville, NC (US);
Charles H Rogers, Candler, NC (US);
Zachary G Shoaf, Canton, NC (US);
Wayne L Conard, Talbott, TN (US);
Steve C Parks, Newport, TN (US);
BASF Corporation, Mt. Olive, NJ (US);
Abstract
An apparatus for melting particulate polymeric material includes a melting grid and a molten polymer reservoir beneath the grid. The apparatus has a lateral cross-sectional contour defined by walls. Further included is a distribution device having upper and lower surfaces and adapted to the contour of the molten polymer reservoir, which device is disposed in the molten polymer reservoir in proximity to the grid. The device has an internal reservoir formed between the upper and lower surfaces; a perimetrical surface joining the upper and lower surfaces and providing the device with height; at least two fluid distribution pores, each having one end in communication with the internal reservoir and another end disposed in the circumferential surface; and an injection tube providing fluid flow communication between the internal reservoir and an external supply of fluid.