Apparatus for improving the surface characteristics of waxy materials

摘要

An apparatus and method for improving the surface characteristics of wax-based material such as a deodorant or anti-perspirant stick housed in a container is provided. The apparatus comprises a hollow walled housing having an inlet and outlet portion. A plurality of rows of horizontally mounted endless conveyors each comprised of a plurality of interconnected conveyor feet are mounted in the housing for moving containers therethrough in reciprocating fashion. A plurality of spaced separators are mounted between the rows and containers move sequentially through these rows from the inlet to the outlet of the housing. A duct system is connected with the housing for circulating air through the housing and creating a reduced pressure therein. A plurality of heating units arranged in sequence are mounted over the rows which units are capable of melting the wax-based material. As containers of waxy material move under each heating unit the wax-based material surface is melted and then allowed to resolidify thereafter. After all meltings by the units and resolidifications of the material the surface characteristics are dramatically improved.