| 摘要 |
<p>A method of, and apparatus for, consolidating and surface finishing a web of intermeshed fibres. At least a proportion of the fibers are of a synthetic thermoplastic material. The method comprises heating the web to a temperature above the softening point of the synthetic thermoplastic material. Subsequently cooling the web from a temperature above the softening point of the synthetic thermoplastic material to a temperature below the softening point of the synthetic thermoplastic material while the web is in contact with a forming surface. The finish of the forming surface is imparted to the surface of the web during cooling. The web is supported throughout the time it is above the softening point of the synthetic thermoplastic material. The apparatus comprises means for supporting the web and for heating the web while so supported to a temperature above the softening point of the synthetic thermoplastic material. Means for cooling the web from a temperature above the softening point of the synthetic thermoplastic material to a temperature below the softening point of the synthetic thermoplastic material while the web is supported on a forming surface having a surface finish. The surface finish is imparted to the surface of the web. The invention permits the production of a partially or wholly consolidated sheet. Further consolidation is carried out by heat rather than pressure.</p> |
