Applicator system

Abstract

An applicator for combining and applying components of a multi-part curable system includes a proportioning valve having a body with a plurality of separate internal passageways, each communicating with a separate inlet recess and a separate outlet opening maintaining each component in separate condition in the valve. Each inlet recess is adapted to be connected to a source of one component of a multi-part curable system and the discharge openings discharge the two components separately from a common nose into an attached static mixing applicator nozzle.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] I. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates generally to an applicator system which combines a proportioning cartridge or valve with a static mixer nozzle to produce a dispensing applicator for the mixture which generally consists of a combination of viscous liquids which cure upon mixing such as found in epoxy or polyurethane materials. More particularly, the invention relates to such a system in which the components of the two-part mixture are maintained in a separate condition in a proportioning valve prior to mixing thereof in a disposable static mixing nozzle. The disposable mixing nozzle is attached as part of an applicator system. [0003] II. Related Art [0004] It is known to provide mixing nozzles for use with dispenser systems to mix components and dispense two-part reactive adhesive or coating materials using a proportioning valve system in conjunction with a static mixing nozzle which also may serve as a dispensing nozz...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an applicator system for mixing multiple components in a desired ratio and applying them to a surface. The system includes a proportioning cartridge or valve for separately receiving components and transmitting them in desired proportions in a separate condition into a static mixing nozzle. The mixing nozzle has an internal structure that produces component intermixing as the material progresses along in the nozzle. The system also includes flexible supply lines connected to sources of each component, and the valve can be easily replaced or cleaned between uses. The technical effects of the invention include efficient mixing of components in a simple and cost-effective way."

Problems solved by technology

One serious drawback to such prior systems is that during and after use both the static mixing nozzle and the proportioning cartridge or valve contain residual amounts of combinations of the two-part reactants so that, depending on available open time, they must be immediately cleaned or they will become permanently clogged with reacted, hardened material.

The proportioning devices themselves are typically machined from metal blanks and are relatively expensive to replace and difficult to clean, but they must be thoroughly cleaned immediately after use to be used again.

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