Low cost separation and recycling of surplus quilt filling and covers

摘要

A process for recycling filling material from at least two-layered sheets e.g. at least one edge strip of sheeted material particularly from bed quilts entails a first stage where an edge strip (7) is separated and a second stage where the strip covers (2a, 2b) are pulled apart and the filling material between the covers is conveyed away. Also claimed is apparatus for implementing the process comprising at least one cutter device for separating the edge strip and a separating device (8) for pulling the covers apart. Preferably the filling material is removed under suction and recycled for making web material. The covers are subjected to tension by being led over rollers (38, 39) or they can be acted on by a stream of air under suction, as can also the filling material. There are rollers (38, 39), preferably pinch rollers, for each cover. Alternatively the covers are led over strippers to separate them. There are suction funnels placed between the covers to take the filling material and a suction funnel for each cover. Direction changing rollers (41) are located after the cutter.