David E Wiltrout

US Patent:

59836717, Nov 16, 1999

Filed:

Feb 7, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/797101

Inventors:

Steven C. Haines - Santa Fe NM
Tai B. Bixby - Santa Fe NM
Ronald D. Argent - Graysville PA
Christopher J. Hoyle - Houston PA
David E. Wiltrout - Connellsville PA

Assignee:

Andrew Ungerleider - Santa Fe NM

International Classification:

B28B 502

US Classification:

65 22

Abstract:

An apparatus and method for the preferably continuous manufacture of foamed material using a furnace are provided. A two-part mold mechanism is provided that includes an upper portion and a lower portion that are each endless loops and cooperate with one another to form a closed mold within the furnace. The upper and lower portions can each comprise a plurality of transverse mold members that can be easily replaced or exchanged during operation of the apparatus. A feed mechanism is provided for introducing material that is to be foamed to the mold mechanism upstream of the furnace. Scrapers or the like can be provided downstream of the furnace to aid in separating and supporting foamed material from the mold mechanism.