초록 ▼

An improved method and apparatus for forming nonwoven webs by spinning filaments into a quench chamber where they are contacted with a quenching fluid, then utilizing the quench fluid to draw the filaments through a two-dimensional nozzle spanning the full machine width, and collecting the filaments

An improved method and apparatus for forming nonwoven webs by spinning filaments into a quench chamber where they are contacted with a quenching fluid, then utilizing the quench fluid to draw the filaments through a two-dimensional nozzle spanning the full machine width, and collecting the filaments as a web on a porous surface. In contrast with the prior art, low motive fluid pressures can be used, and a non-eductive drawing means utilized to minimize air turbulence and the resulting filament entanglement in the drawing means while maintaining substantially constant cross machine filament distribution. The apparatus and process reduce problems relating to filament breakage and spreading and result in increased productivity and improved web formation. Other advantages include the ability to continuously spin highly pigmented polymer filaments and reduced hazards associates with high noise levels.

대표청구항 ▼

Apparatus for forming a nonwoven web from a fluid material comprising, (a) a spinnerette having a capillary array forming one or more rows of closely spaced filaments from said fluid material; (b) a low pressure quench chamber having means for receiving said filaments and an opening substantially ac

Apparatus for forming a nonwoven web from a fluid material comprising, (a) a spinnerette having a capillary array forming one or more rows of closely spaced filaments from said fluid material; (b) a low pressure quench chamber having means for receiving said filaments and an opening substantially across the machine width with dimensions and a configuration to avoid substantial contact between said filaments and the surface of said quench chamber and a volume sufficient to allow solidification of said filaments within said quench chamber; (c) a source of low pressure quench fluid at a temperature cooler than said filaments; (d) an inlet in said quench chamber for introducing said quench fluid on one side of said filaments and directing said fluid into said filaments to cause cooling of the filaments; (e) a nozzle having an entrance for receiving said cooled filaments and an opening substantially across the machine width and in cooperative engagement with said quench chamber to receive said cooled filaments and quench fluid and having dimensions to produce cooling fluid velocity in the range of from about 150 to 800 feet per second to draw said filaments; and (f) means for collecting said filaments as a web of entangled filaments.