PLUGGING METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PARTICULATE FILTERS

摘要

Methods and apparatus for plugging cells of honeycomb structures (10). A first method covers the honeycomb structure's end face with a mask (28) having a plurality of sized openings opposing certain cell channels, wherein the outer edge of the body extends radially outwardly from the end face. A film (42) also extends outwardly of the end face, and plugging material (44) is provided upon the film. The mask and film material are sealed, a force is applied to the film forcing the material through the mask and into the cells. Also disclosed is adhering a mask (28) to a first end face of the honeycomb structure (10) such that the mask has an outer portion extending radially beyond an outer edge of the honeycomb; providing a volume of plugging material (44); clamping the outer portion between a first and a second clamping portion; and transferring the plugging material into the honeycomb. Also disclosed are methods and apparatus for cutting the plugging material between the mask and a pre-plugging chamber to form a planar surface thereon.