Continuous tube forming by melt blowing technique

摘要

Apparatus for continuously making a tube of melt blown microfibers. A tube so made is useful as a filter element or the like. Melt blown microfibers are deposited from a linear such fiber generating apparatus longitudinally upon a circumferential surface portion of a stationary, hollow mandrel which is supported at one end thereof. A flexible continuously moving belt in a closed loop spirally extends about the circumferential surface of the mandrel over the area beneath the linear fiber generating apparatus and returns internally through the mandrel via slots. A tubular web formed on this belted circumferential mandrel surface is continuously moved towards the open end of the mandrel where it is continuously withdrawn. Tube characteristics are regulated by belt speed, microfiber deposition rate, tube withdrawal rate, and the like.