Edward C Fletcher

US Patent:

52059910, Apr 27, 1993

Filed:

Jul 30, 1991

Appl. No.:

7/737485

Inventors:

James F. Avery - Horseheads NY
Edward C. Fletcher - Corning NY
Trevor A. Francis - Corning NY
Tudor C. Gheorghiu - Painted Post NY
Larry J. Zook - Painted Post NY

Assignee:

Corning Incorporated - Corning NY

International Classification:

B01J 1900
F26B 308
B29C 4788

US Classification:

422129

Abstract:

The present invention features a process and apparatus for fabricating ceramic substrates. The apparatus comprises an extruder of the ram or screw type for forcing the ceramic materials through a die to form a log. After leaving the extrusion die, the log enters a conveyor apparatus. The log is conveyed over, and supported upon, a gaseous fluid (air) bearing surface of the conveyor apparatus, until it reaches a dryer carrier. The conveyor apparatus features a support surface for carrying the ceramic materials. The support surface has a plurality of apertures through which the gaseous fluid (air) is directed for supporting the moving log. About the support surface is disposed a mantle for confining the gaseous fluid (air) about the rapidly drying ceramic log. The gaseous fluid (air) is maintained at a relative humidity of approximately between 85 to 97%, and preferably within an approximate range of between 90 and 95%. The mantle ensures that the gaseous fluid (air) surrounding and bathing the conveyed log is continuously maintained at substantially constant humidity within the specified range, in order to prevent the formation of fissures on the surface of the ceramic log.