CRYSTALLIZING MACHINE

摘要

A machine (11) for crystallizing a thermoplastic preform or container is constructed from modular subassemblies and utilizes a preheated plug to provide the sole upright support for a workpiece (57) in the crystallizing process. The first modular subassembly includes the workpiece in-feed and pl ug preheat structures and incorporates the drive apparatus for the entire machine. The opposed end of the crystallizing machine (11) is constructed of a subassembly which operates to provide the turnaround and tensioning takeup f or the carrier mechanism transporting the workpieces (11). Positioned between t he first subassembly and the opposed end subassembly are heating and cooling processing modules (11, 12) which can be provided in any number depending on the size constraints and workpiece quality restraints desired. The processin g modules provide the heating and crystallizing processes for the desired area of the workpiece (57) and the cooling process of the workpiece (57) prior to unloading.