Apparatus and method for producing extruded products of aerosol-generating materials having a cross-sectional shape

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material. [Solution] The apparatus comprises an extrusion molding machine 1, the extrusion molding machine comprises an inlet 2 and an outlet 5, the inlet is fitted to receive a mixture 3, the outlet is fitted to extrude the mixture to form an extruded product 9, the outlet comprises a die component, the die component is fitted to form an extruded product 9 containing an aerosol generating material, and the die component forms a cross-sectional shape in the extruded product 9. The present invention also relates to a method for producing an extruded product containing an aerosol generating material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for manufacturing an extruded product containing an aerosol generating material, a method for extruding an aerosol generating material, and use of an extruder for extruding an aerosol generating material.

Background Art

[0002] Aerosol generating articles refer not only to filtered cigarettes and other smoking articles in which the material burns to form smoke, but also to articles that generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material without the need for combustion of the aerosol generating material. Such articles are often referred to as "heat-not-burn" aerosol generating articles because the aerosol generating material is heated to a relatively low temperature to induce the formation of an aerosol, but the combustion of the materials contained within the aerosol generating material is prevented. Generally, the aerosol composition generated by such "heat-not-burn" aerosol generating articles is substantially based on a homogenized tobacco material, which typically constitutes the majority of the tobacco content of the aerosol generating material. Therefore, the composition and quality of the homogenized tobacco material play an important role in the overall quality and user experience of the aerosol generating article.

[0003] Generally, the homogenized tobacco material can be formed as a cast leaf or as a reconstituted tobacco sheet. In the former case, ground tobacco, a binder, and other components can be mixed to form a slurry, and after performing a thermomechanical treatment, it can be cast onto a moving metal belt to make a cast leaf. Alternatively, a reconstituted tobacco sheet can be produced according to a process similar to papermaking using a slurry that is lower in viscosity and higher in water content than in the case of the cast leaf process. Thereafter, the cast leaf or reconstituted tobacco sheet is wound onto a bobbin for storage and transportation and unwound for further processing.

[0004] Another such treatment of the homogenized tobacco material may include crimping of the cast leaf or reconstructed tobacco sheet, resulting in a corrugated shape. The corrugated cast leaf or reconstructed tobacco sheet may then be compressed, folded, and / or rolled into a cylindrical shape, and subsequently separated into individual segments which may be inserted into the corresponding aerosol-generating article as aerosol-generating material.

[0005] As briefly stated, the manufacturing process for producing aerosol-generating materials for use in aerosol-generating articles is extensive. Furthermore, each manufacturing step requires, for example, complex and precise machinery and a relatively large manufacturing area within the manufacturing hall. For this reason, each stage of manufacturing is usually carried out as a batch process, with each step being relatively independent of the preceding and / or subsequent manufacturing steps. This can result in unnecessary downtime between individual manufacturing steps, and it is necessary to accurately calculate and schedule the manufacturing process to minimize such downtime and optimize the entire manufacturing line. Failure to do so can result in a loss of manufacturing capacity and the associated capital.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an alternative to the above manufacturing process, specifically by compressing several manufacturing steps and enabling a continuous manufacturing process between at least some individual manufacturing steps. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for producing an extruded article containing an aerosol-generating material is provided. The apparatus comprises an extruder. The extruder comprises an inlet and an outlet, the inlet being adapted to receive a mixture and the outlet being adapted to extrude the mixture to form an extruded article. The outlet comprises a die component, the die component being adapted to form an extruded article containing an aerosol-generating material. The die component is also adapted to form a cross-sectional shape in the extruded article.

[0008] An extrusion machine may be implemented to produce an extruded product in the form of an object of a predetermined shape by extrusion. Specifically, during extrusion, compressive and shear forces are applied to the mixture to produce the extruded product. Specifically, the extruded product is a continuous product whose length is substantially longer than the dimensions that define its cross-sectional shape.

[0009] Specifically, the inlet of the extruder is in fluid communication with the outlet of the extruder to allow the movement of the mixture from the inlet to the outlet. Specifically, the path of the mixture from the inlet to the outlet defines the extrusion direction of the extruder. Specifically, the inlet is located upstream of the outlet, and the outlet is located downstream of the inlet.

[0010] The extrusion molding machine may include a hopper adapted to supply the mixture to the inlet of the extrusion molding machine.

[0011] The outlet of an extruder is adapted to extrude a mixture to form an extruded product. The extruded product exits the extruder at the downstream end of the outlet. Specifically, the mixture may be considered an extruded product as soon as it enters the outlet. An outlet, which may have multiple components and parts, has at least one die component. The die component is adapted to form an extruded product and to give it a cross-sectional shape. The extruded product may be formed by giving it a defined geometric contour, which includes a defined cross-sectional shape. The die component may be adapted so that the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product changes before it reaches its final cross-sectional shape.

[0012] A die component may comprise a plurality of components, specifically, at least one die plate having at least one opening. The opening in the die plate may be adapted to form the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product, and thus to define the outer profile of the extruded product. The geometric form of the opening may be rounded, and may exhibit a circular or elliptical shape. The geometric form of the opening may be at least partially or completely helical. The sidewalls of the die component may define the opening. The sidewalls may exhibit a corrugated shape.

[0013] The die plate may have multiple openings, and these multiple openings may be adapted to collectively form an extruded product and to form a cross-sectional shape therein. A die plate having multiple openings in the form of a group of openings may be selected to form the cross-sectional shape of an extruded product as a profile of a hollow chamber. The group of openings may comprise at least one or more of circular openings, elliptical openings, and openings that are at least partially or completely helical. The group of openings may be formed in the shape of an inverted wagon wheel, or in the shape of at least two rings connected by at least one spoke.

[0014] An extruded product having a hollow chamber profile may have a cross-sectional shape having at least one region that does not include the extruded product. The region may be considered a void, cavity, or hollow chamber. The hollow chamber extends along the length of the extruded product. Components may be present in the region.

[0015] The die plate may have multiple, or at least two, groups of openings, allowing for the simultaneous production of multiple extruded products. The groups of openings may have the same geometric shape. The groups of openings may have different shapes. The die plate may have at least one opening and at least one group of openings, allowing for the simultaneous production of a large number of extruded products.

[0016] The die component may include at least one mandrel having at least one projection. The die plate and mandrel may be arranged and fitted together to form the cross-sectional shape of the hollow chamber profile in the extruded product. The die plate and mandrel may be integrally formed, or they may be at least two separate parts fitted together to be fixed directly to or to each other. Such fixing may be done, for example, by another component of the exit.

[0017] The geometric contour of the die plate, particularly the opening, may be adapted to accommodate the geometric contour of the mandrel, particularly the projection. Thus, the projection of the mandrel may be positioned so that it is at least partially inside the opening of the die plate. The projection may extend through the opening such that its downstream end face is coplanar with the downstream end face of the die plate. The downstream end face of the projection may extend beyond the downstream end face of the die plate.

[0018] Specifically, the projections of the mandrel correspond to and are fitted to the openings of the die plate. In this case, the openings of the die plate are fitted to form the outer profile of the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product, and the projections of the mandrel are fitted to form the inner profile of the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product. The geometric shape of the projections, particularly their downstream end surface, may be formed into a circular shape, or at least partially, into a helical shape. The projections may also be corrugated, and thus may be fitted to form the inner profile of the cross-sectional shape of the hollow body profile of a corrugated extruded product.

[0019] The projections may correspond to and fit to at least one of the openings in the group of openings or the entire group of openings.

[0020] In one embodiment, where the die component shows multiple openings and / or groups of openings for the simultaneous extrusion of multiple extruded products, the corresponding mandrel may show multiple projections. The number of projections may be equal to the number of openings and / or groups of openings, but not all openings or groups of openings are associated with projections.

[0021] Specifically, the outlet may be equipped with a vibrating component. The vibrating component may be adapted to vibrate the die component during extrusion. Such vibration may be essentially ultrasonic. The vibration may improve the flow of the extruded product through the outlet. Specifically, adhesion of the extruded product to the outlet may be reduced. A more accurate cross-sectional shape may be obtained. By vibrating the die component, the movement of the mixture may be accelerated. By vibrating the die component, separation of the mixture during extrusion can be prevented. The vibration can improve the efficiency of extrusion and reduce waste and maintenance costs of the extruder.

[0022] An extruder may have at least one screw adapted to transport the mixture from the inlet to the outlet of the extruder along the extrusion direction. In such cases, the extruder may be called a screw extruder, or a twin-screw extruder if the extruder has two screws. Specifically, the diameter of the screw increases along the extrusion direction; that is, the screw exhibits an increased diameter downstream in the extrusion direction.

[0023] The extrusion machine may include a heating zone located upstream in the extrusion direction, which is adapted to heat the mixture to a temperature of 90°C to 190°C, particularly 140°C to 190°C, and especially 175°C to 185°C.

[0024] The extrusion machine may include a cooling zone located downstream in the extrusion direction, which is adapted to cool the mixture to a temperature of 30 to 70 degrees Celsius, particularly 35 to 50 degrees Celsius, and especially 25 to 35 degrees Celsius.

[0025] Specifically, the outlet may include a cooling unit adapted to cool at least a portion, if not the entire, die component to a temperature of 10 to 50 degrees Celsius, particularly 20 to 40 degrees Celsius, and especially 25 to 35 degrees Celsius.

[0026] Specifically, the apparatus may include a susceptor material feeder adapted for inserting susceptor material into an extruded product. The susceptor material feeder may be adapted for inserting susceptor material into an extruded product downstream of the die components, particularly downstream of the outlet. The susceptor material feeder may be adapted for inserting susceptor material into an extruded product at the outlet, particularly during extrusion within the die components.

[0027] The susceptor material is an induction-heatable material, including but not limited to any material that can be induction-heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material. The susceptor material may include at least one metal, for example, technically or industrially pure iron or aluminum, but may also include a metal alloy, for example, a ferromagnetic alloy, ferrite iron, ferromagnetic steel, ferromagnetic stainless steel, stainless steel, or aluminum alloy. The susceptor material may also be carbon-based, for example, graphite. The susceptor may be heated to a temperature exceeding 250 degrees Celsius.

[0028] Specifically, the susceptor material is in the form of continuous strips or rods and is provided on a bobbin. The strips may be regarded as laminated elements whose length is substantially longer than their width and thickness, while the rods may be regarded as cylindrical elements whose length is substantially longer than their diameter. The width of the susceptor material strips may be 1 mm to 10 mm, while the thickness of the susceptor material strips may be 1 mm to 10 mm. The width and thickness of the susceptor material strips may be equal so that the cross-sectional shape of the susceptor material strips is square. The diameter of the rods of the susceptor material may be 1 mm to 10 mm. The rods may exhibit an elliptical cross-sectional shape.

[0029] Specifically, the susceptor material supply device may include at least one guide component, for example, a set of guide rollers, so as to be able to convey the susceptor material from the bobbin to the extruder.

[0030] The device may include a rotating device adapted to rotate the susceptor material. Thereby, the extruded product can wrap the susceptor material. The rotated susceptor material may have a wound shape within the extruded product. Thereby, when heating the susceptor material, the heat distribution within the extruded product may be improved. The rotation of the susceptor material may particularly improve the adhesion of the susceptor material to the extruded product at the outlet of the extruder.

[0031] The device may include at least one dryer adapted to dry the extruded product and substantially maintain its cross-sectional shape. The dryer is adapted to set the drying temperature to 70 °C to 110 °C, particularly 80 °C to 100 °C, especially 85 °C to 95 °C. Such a dryer may be constructed as a continuous dryer, for example, a tunnel dryer. Such a continuous dryer may exhibit at least two chambers or zones adapted to obtain different drying temperatures.

[0032] The apparatus may include at least one cutting device adapted to separate the extruded product into individual segments. The cutting device may be located immediately downstream of the outlet. If the apparatus also includes a dryer, for example, the cutting device may be located downstream of it.

[0033] A second aspect of the present invention provides a method for producing an extruded article containing an aerosol-generating material, the method comprising the steps of: supplying a mixture to an extruder through the inlet of the extruder; moving the mixture along the extrusion direction; and extruding the mixture from the extruder through the outlet, wherein the mixture is extruded through the die components of the outlet of the extruder to form an extruded article containing an aerosol-generating material having a cross-sectional shape.

[0034] The mixture may include plant-derived materials, water, and additional aerosol-forming agents. The weight percentage values ​​and ranges of the components of the mixture described herein are based on the total weight of the mixture, according to the technically known definition of "weight percentage," unless otherwise specified.

[0035] The mixture may be a slurry. The slurry may be a mixture of at least one denser solid suspended in at least one liquid.

[0036] Specifically, plant-derived materials are materials that contain alkaloids.

[0037] The amount of material containing alkaloids or plant-derived materials in the mixture is 30% to 80% by weight, and particularly 40% to 70% by weight.

[0038] A material containing alkaloids may be defined as a material containing at least one alkaloid, which may include, for example, nicotine found in tobacco.

[0039] In place of tobacco, or in addition to tobacco, other plant-derived materials may be part of the mixture. Herbaceous materials do not need to contain alkaloids.

[0040] Alkaloids are a group of naturally occurring compounds that primarily contain a basic nitrogen atom. This group also includes some related compounds with neutral properties, and even some related compounds with weakly acidic properties. Some synthetic compounds with similar structures are also called alkaloids. In addition to carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen, alkaloids may contain oxygen, sulfur, and, more rarely, other elements such as chlorine, bromine, and phosphorus.

[0041] Alkaloids are produced by a wide variety of organisms, including bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals. Alkaloids can be purified from crude extracts of these organisms by acid-base extraction. Caffeine, nicotine, theobromine, atropine, and tubocurarine are examples of alkaloids.

[0042] The material containing alkaloids may be tobacco leaves.

[0043] Specifically, the alkaloid-containing material is homogenized tobacco material, which is formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco containing at least alkaloid nicotine. This homogenized tobacco material is typically produced from parts of the tobacco plant that are not well-suited for the production of cut filler, such as tobacco stems, tobacco pulp, or tobacco dust. Typically, tobacco dust is produced as a byproduct during the handling of tobacco leaves during production. The homogenized tobacco material may contain small amounts of tobacco dust, tobacco fines, and other particulate tobacco byproducts formed during the processing, handling, and transport of tobacco. The starting material for the production of the homogenized tobacco material may primarily be tobacco leaves having the same size and physical properties as the tobacco used to blend the cut filler. The tobacco present in the homogenized tobacco material may constitute the majority of the tobacco present in the aerosol-generating material, or substantially the total amount of tobacco.

[0044] Materials containing alkaloids may also contain starch. However, starch may be included in the mixture as a separate component.

[0045] Starch is a high-molecular-weight carbohydrate consisting of numerous glucose units linked by glycosidic bonds. Starch is produced by most green plants as an energy storage. It is the most common carbohydrate in the human diet and is found in plants such as potatoes, wheat, corn, rice, and tobacco. It consists of two types of high-molecular-weight molecules, namely linear and helical amylose and branched amylopectin, which are arranged as semi-crystalline granules in plants.

[0046] Specifically, the particles of the alkaloid-containing material have an average particle size of 0.02 to 0.3 millimeters. An average particle size of approximately 0.02 to 0.3 millimeters represents a particle size at which tobacco cells are at least partially destroyed. Using alkaloid-containing material with such an average particle size may be advantageous in downstream processing steps of the alkaloid-containing material for obtaining smooth and uniform extruded products.

[0047] Specifically, the water content of the mixture is 5% to 70% or more by weight, particularly 10% to 18% by weight, or 25% to 60% by weight, especially 11% to 14% by weight, or 35% to 50% by weight.

[0048] Specifically, the amount of aerosol-forming compounds in the mixture is 1% to 10% by weight, and particularly 1% to 5% by weight. In particular, the aerosol-forming compounds are additional components in the mixture that are thought to be separated from alkaloid-containing materials, especially from tobacco.

[0049] Suitable aerosol-forming bodies for the mixture are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, monohydric alcohols (such as menthol), polyhydric alcohols (such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol mono-, di-, or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanediate and dimethyl tetradecanediate).

[0050] Examples of preferred aerosol-forming materials include glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0051] The alkaloid-containing material may have an aerosol-forming content exceeding 3 weight percent of the total amount of the alkaloid-containing material. Alternatively, the alkaloid-containing material may have an aerosol-forming content of 3 to 30 weight percent. The alkaloid-containing material contains 7 to 25 weight percent of aerosol-formings. In particular, the alkaloid-containing material contains 10 to 25 weight percent of aerosol-formings. Specifically, the aerosol-forming content of an alkaloid-containing material is an inherent component of the alkaloid-containing material, and therefore its amount is not related to the amount of aerosol-formings that can be included in the mixture, as described above.

[0052] Specifically, the mixture may contain a binder. More specifically, the amount of binder in the mixture is a maximum of 1 weight percent, but can range from 1 weight percent to 15 weight percent, particularly 1 weight percent to 12 weight percent, and especially 1 weight percent to 5 weight percent.

[0053] The binder in the mixture may be any of the gums or pectins described herein. The binder may ensure that the particles of the alkaloid-containing material remain substantially dispersed throughout the mixture and the extruded product. For a descriptive review of gums that can be used as binders, see Gums And Stabilizers For The Food Industry, IR.L Press (GOPhillip et al. eds. 1988); Whistler, Industrial Gums: Polysaccharides And Their Derivatives, Academic Press (2nd ed. 1973); and Lawrence, Natural Gums For Edible Purposes, Noyes Data Corp. (1976).

[0054] Any binder may be used, but preferred binders include natural pectin (fruit pectin, citrus pectin, or tobacco pectin, etc.), guar gum (hydroxyethyl guar, hydroxypropyl guar, etc.), locust bean gum (hydroxyethyl locust bean gum, hydroxypropyl locust bean gum, etc.), alginate, starch (modified starch or derivatized starch, etc.), cellulose (methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, ethylhydroxymethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, etc.), tamarind gum, dextran, pralon, konjac powder, xanthan gum, and similar. Guar is a particularly preferred binder for use in the present invention.

[0055] Specifically, the mixture may contain reducing sugars in amounts of 2 to 30 weight percent, particularly 5 to 25 weight percent, even more particularly 10 to 15 weight percent, and especially 11 to 14 weight percent.

[0056] Specifically, the reducing sugar may be glucose, fructose, xylose, ribose, or galactose, or a mixture thereof.

[0057] The presence of reducing sugars in a mixture can modify alkaloid-containing materials when mechanical energy is applied to the mixture. Reactions between reducing sugars and alkaloid-containing materials can occur, particularly when ammonia or ammonium-containing compounds are present in the latter. This reaction can modify the composition of the alkaloid-containing material, resulting in the resulting mixture and aerosol-generating material having lower amounts of ammonia or ammonium-containing compounds compared to aerosol-generating materials formed from mixtures without reducing sugars. This can affect the properties and characteristics of the aerosol-generating material, for example, in terms of flavor.

[0058] Specifically, the mixture may contain cellulose fibers. Cellulose fibers are known to generally increase the tensile strength of the mixture and the resulting aerosol-generating material, thereby functioning as a reinforcing agent. Cellulose fibers for mixtures containing alkaloid-containing materials, such as homogenized tobacco material, are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, coniferous tree fibers, hardwood fibers, jute fibers, flax fibers, tobacco fibers, and combinations thereof. Specifically, cellulose fibers, such as wood fibers, have a low lignin content. Alternatively, fibers, such as plant fibers, may be used together with the above fibers or either hemp and bamboo fibers. Cellulose fibers may also include tobacco stem material, petioles, or other tobacco plant material.

[0059] The amount of cellulose fibers added to the mixture can be 1% to 10% by weight, particularly 1% to 7% by weight, and especially 1% to 5% by weight. These values ​​do not include the amount of cellulose fibers contained in and associated with the alkaloid-containing material, and should be considered as separate components in the mixture.

[0060] The length of cellulose fibers is advantageously about 0.2 millimeters to about 4 millimeters. Specifically, the average length per unit weight of cellulose fibers is 1 millimeter to 3 millimeters. In addition to pulping, the incorporated cellulose fibers may undergo suitable processes, such as purification, mechanical pulping, chemical pulping, bleaching, sulfate pulping, and combinations thereof.

[0061] The mixture may be formed by any known means and supplied to the inlet of the extruder. Specifically, the mixture is supplied to a hopper that is in fluid communication with the inlet of the extruder.

[0062] The mixture is moved along the extrusion direction from the inlet to the outlet of the extruder. Specifically, this transport is facilitated by the rotation of at least one screw inside the extruder.

[0063] Incorporating at least one screw into an extrusion machine may facilitate the movement of the mixture along the extrusion direction. The screw may modify the properties of the mixture along the extrusion direction. The rotation of the screw during extrusion imparts shear force, i.e., mechanical work, to the mixture, which may increase the mixing of the mixture and induce chemical reactions between the individual components of the mixture. The mechanical work may result in the generation of heat, which can affect the chemical and physical structure of the mixture and its individual components. Several chemical reactions may be induced between the mixture and its individual components. Implementing a screw may facilitate a gradual increase in density along the extrusion direction; that is, the mixture may exhibit a higher density downstream in the extrusion direction and a lower density upstream in the extrusion direction. The rotation of the screw may have a dehydrating effect on the mixture, particularly along the extrusion direction; that is, the water content of the mixture may decrease along the extrusion direction during movement.

[0064] Specifically, the screw rotates at speeds of 20 to 40 revolutions per minute, 40 to 80 revolutions per minute, or 60 to 120 revolutions per minute.

[0065] The amount of mechanical energy delivered to the mixture in the extrusion machine is specifically at least 20 watt-hours per kilogram of the mixture.

[0066] The mixture is extruded from the exit die component to form an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material having a cross-sectional shape.

[0067] Aerosol-generating material refers to a material that, as a result of a heating process, can release an aerosol containing volatile compounds, such as nicotine. While primarily corresponding to a mixture supplied to the inlet of an extruder, the aerosol-generating material exhibits at least a different composition, different chemical properties, or different physical properties compared to the mixture. For example, the aerosol-generating material may have a higher density, higher viscosity, lower water content, higher glycerin, guar, or cellulose fiber content, or lower ammonia or ammonium-containing compounds than the supplied mixture. The aerosol-generating material may exhibit any combination of the above properties. These differences may be a result of the movement of the mixture through the extruder along the extrusion direction. Furthermore, adding mechanical work on the mixture, for example by the rotation of the screw, or changes in their temperature by heating or cooling specific sections of the extruder, can result in changes in at least the composition, chemical properties, or physical properties of the aerosol-generating material compared to the supplied mixture.

[0068] Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product is rounded, particularly circular or elliptical. The diameter of the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product may be 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0069] Aerosol-generating material can be manufactured in a single manufacturing process by extruding a mixture through the die components at the exit of an extrusion machine to form an extruded product containing the aerosol-generating material with a specific cross-sectional shape. This eliminates the need to manufacture sheets or cast leaves, wind them onto bobbins, transport the bobbins, unwind the sheets for further processing, and otherwise produce cylindrical aerosol-generating material. This reduces manufacturing effort and corresponding manufacturing time, in addition to the costs associated with such manufacturing lines.

[0070] Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product is the profile of a hollow chamber, and at least one region of the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product does not contain aerosol-generating material. Such a region may be considered, for example, a cavity, void, or hollow chamber. Specifically, the region that does not contain aerosol-generating material, i.e., the hollow chamber, extends along the length of the extruded product, particularly along the entire length of the extruded product. Such extensions can form channels within the extruded product. If the profile of the hollow chambers shows multiple hollow chambers, each hollow chamber may form a channel within the extruded product, and as a result, the extruded product shows multiple channels.

[0071] The flow paths within an extruded product are directly related to the airflow characteristics of the aerosol-generating material while it is being used in an aerosol-generating article. The flow paths may be adapted to enhance the release of material from the aerosol-generating material. The flow paths may also be adapted to adjust the "draw-out resistance" (RTD) characteristics of the aerosol-generating material. Lower draw-out resistance may reduce the perceived temperature of the generated aerosol to a level that the user considers acceptable.

[0072] Furthermore, by creating at least one channel during the extrusion of the extruded product, additional processing steps, such as crimping, can be avoided. This reduces the complexity of the production line in terms of the required machinery and shortens production time. The negative aspects of crimping, such as damage to the homogenized tobacco sheet or cast leaf, as well as increased shredding and tearing, can be prevented.

[0073] A hollow chamber profile can exhibit a variety of geometric shapes and contours. A hollow chamber profile may have at least one hollow chamber that is rounded, specifically circular or elliptical. A hollow chamber profile may have three or more hollow chambers. If a hollow chamber profile exhibits multiple hollow chambers, the geometric shape of each hollow chamber may be identical. If a hollow chamber profile exhibits multiple hollow chambers, the geometric shape of each hollow chamber may exhibit different contours. A hollow chamber profile may be at least partially a helical shape. A hollow chamber profile may be the shape of at least two rings connected at least partially by at least one spoke. A hollow chamber profile may be the shape of a wagon wheel. A hollow chamber profile may be any combination of any of the shapes described above. At least one of the surfaces defining the hollow chamber profile may exhibit a corrugated shape.

[0074] Specifically, the extruded products are 2 to 10 meters in length.

[0075] Specifically, the method may include the step of inserting a susceptor material into the cross-sectional shape of an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material during the extrusion molding of the extruded product containing the aerosol-generating material. The susceptor material may be inserted through an exit, particularly through a die component.

[0076] By combining the susceptor material insertion process with the extrusion molding of an extruded product containing aerosol-generating material, individual manufacturing steps can be reduced, potentially minimizing associated time and costs.

[0077] Specifically, the method may include a step of inserting a susceptor material into the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product containing the aerosol-generating material after the extrusion molding of the extruded product containing the aerosol-generating material.

[0078] Combining the insertion of susceptor material with the extrusion of an extruded product containing aerosol-generating material can enable a continuous manufacturing process without requiring separate steps associated with batch processing.

[0079] Specifically, the susceptor material is inserted into the center of the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product. Specifically, the susceptor material is inserted into a hollow chamber in the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product. Specifically, the susceptor material is inserted into a hollow chamber located in the center of the cross-sectional shape. The susceptor material may fill the corresponding hollow chamber into which the susceptor material is inserted.

[0080] Specifically, the susceptor material is inserted into the extruded product containing the aerosol-generating material with an insertion force of 2 to 6 bar.

[0081] Specifically, the susceptor material is rotated during insertion into the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product. The susceptor material may be rotated at a rate of 20 to 150 revolutions per minute.

[0082] Rotation of the susceptor material during insertion into the extruded product may prevent adhesion to the aerosol-generating material and reduce the required insertion force. This rotation of the susceptor may result in a helical susceptor shape. This may improve the heat distribution within the extruded product when the susceptor material is heated. Rotation of the susceptor material may improve the adhesion of the susceptor material to the extruded product, particularly at the exit of the extruder. Rotation of the susceptor material may be achieved by a tube or groove adapted to transport the material around the susceptor material in order to enable rotation of the susceptor material.

[0083] Specifically, the method may include a step of maintaining the outlet of the extrusion molding machine, in particular the die components, at a temperature of 10 to 50 degrees Celsius, especially 20 to 40 degrees Celsius, and most notably 25 to 35 degrees Celsius.

[0084] By maintaining the exit temperature within the above range, the structural properties of the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product can be further stabilized, and these structural properties can be reliably maintained after extrusion, i.e., after exiting the extrusion. This may be due, for example, to a further reduction in the water content of the extruded product.

[0085] Specifically, the exit applies vibration to the extruded product during extrusion molding. In particular, applying vibration to the die components during extrusion molding can influence the required forming force and reduce adhesion of the extruded product to the inner wall of the die components.

[0086] Specifically, the method may include drying the extruded product to substantially maintain its cross-sectional shape. The dryer is adapted to set the drying temperature to 70°C to 110°C, particularly 80°C to 100°C, and especially 85°C to 95°C.

[0087] Drying the extruded product can further reduce its water content, potentially stabilizing the structural integrity of its cross-sectional shape. If the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product exhibits a hollow chamber profile, such water content reduction can prevent the hollow chamber from partially or completely collapsing, thereby maintaining the established flow path within the extruded product.

[0088] A substantially preserved cross-sectional shape is the shape that reflects the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product immediately after extrusion, i.e., after it leaves the extruder. If the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product is the profile of a hollow chamber, a substantially preserved cross-sectional shape is one in which at least one hollow chamber is not completely collapsed. The hollow chamber may show a slight deviation from the contour associated with the hollow chamber immediately after it leaves the extruder.

[0089] Specifically, the method may include cutting an extruded product containing aerosol-generating material into segments with a length of 3 to 10 millimeters. Specifically, the apparatus may include at least one cutting device adapted to separate the extruded product into individual sections.

[0090] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the use of an extrusion machine is provided for extruding an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material so as to form a cross-sectional shape in the extruded product.

[0091] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a method for producing an aerosol generating material surrounding a susceptor material, the method comprising the steps of: providing a length of an aerosol generating material having a helical cross-sectional shape; supplying the susceptor material to the center of the helical cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating material using a susceptor material supply device; rotating the susceptor material using a rotating device; pushing the susceptor material to the center of the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating material; and unwinding the aerosol generating material around the susceptor material.

[0092] The length of the aerosol generating material having a helical cross-sectional shape may be provided by extrusion molding, particularly by extrusion molding of an extruded product containing the aerosol generating material, the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product being the profile of a helical hollow chamber. The length of the aerosol generating material having a helical cross-sectional shape may also be provided by winding a sheet of the aerosol generating material.

[0093] The susceptor material is rotated and pushed into the center of the helical cross-sectional shape of the aerosol-generating material. Due to the rotational motion of the susceptor material, in addition to the forward motion associated with the pushing action of the susceptor material, the aerosol-generating material unwinds from its helical cross-sectional shape and wraps around the susceptor material. In other words, the aerosol-generating material unwinds and wraps around the susceptor material layer by layer.

[0094] Specifically, the length of the aerosol-generating material having a helical cross-sectional shape is between 80 millimeters and 150 millimeters.

[0095] Specifically, the diameter of the spiral cross-section is between 5 millimeters and 8 millimeters.

[0096] Specifically, the susceptor material is pushed into the center of the aerosol-generating material under a pressure of 2 to 6 bar.

[0097] Specifically, the susceptor material is rotated while being inserted into the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product. Specifically, the susceptor material is rotated at a rate of 20 to 150 revolutions per minute.

[0098] Both the rotational speed of the susceptor material and its compressive force can affect how much the aerosol-generating material overlaps as it unwinds around the susceptor material. This can ultimately affect the final product, i.e., the total thickness of the aerosol-generating material surrounding the susceptor material. Specifically, such a thickness is between 0.20 mm and 0.75 mm.

[0099] The winding angle of the aerosol-generating material may be 2 to 15 degrees, particularly 4 to 8 degrees, and in one embodiment, 6 degrees 17 minutes (6 degrees 17'). Specifically, the winding angle is the angle formed by the aerosol-generating material with respect to the periphery of the susceptor material. That is, a winding angle of 0 degrees means that the aerosol-generating material is unwound along the defined periphery of the susceptor material. In such a case, the aerosol-generating material will be wound around the aforementioned point of the susceptor without covering the length of the susceptor material. The winding angle makes it possible to cover the length of the susceptor material with the aerosol-generating material during winding. The winding angle can affect the thickness or coverage of the susceptor material by the aerosol-generating material. Such a winding angle may improve the tension of the aerosol-generating material during unwinding and prevent its breakage or uneven overlap.

[0100] The apparatus of the first embodiment may be operated according to the method of the second or fourth embodiment, or used according to the third embodiment. The method of the second or fourth embodiment may include the apparatus of the first embodiment. [Examples]

[0101] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

[0102] Example 1: An apparatus for manufacturing an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material, wherein the apparatus is Equipped with an extrusion molding machine, The extrusion molding machine has an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is adapted to accept the mixture. The outlet is adapted to extrude the mixture to form an extruded product. The outlet is equipped with die components, The die components are adapted to form an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material. An apparatus in which die components are adapted to form a cross-sectional shape in an extruded product. Example 2: The die component comprises a die plate and a mandrel, The die plate shows at least one opening, The mandrel shows at least one projection, The apparatus according to Example 1, wherein the projection is at least partially located inside the opening. Example 3: The apparatus according to Example 2, wherein the die plate and mandrel are adapted to form an extruded product such that the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product is the profile of a hollow chamber. Example 4: The apparatus according to Example 2 or 3, wherein the downstream end face of the projection is formed into a helical shape at least partially. Example 5: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 2 to 4, wherein the mandrel and die plate are integrally formed. Example 6: The apparatus according to any of Examples 2 to 4, wherein the mandrel and the die plate are two separate parts that are fixed to each other or adapted to be fixed to each other. Example 7: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 2 to 6, wherein the projection extends through the opening to the downstream end face of the die plate. Example 8: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 2 to 7, wherein the downstream end face of the projection is formed into a circular shape. Example 9: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 2 to 8, wherein the protrusion has a wave-like shape. Example 10: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the extrusion machine is equipped with a screw adapted to move the mixture from the inlet to the outlet of the extrusion machine along the extrusion direction. Example 11: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the extrusion molding machine is equipped with a screw that exhibits an increased diameter downstream in the extrusion direction. Example 12: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the outlet is equipped with a vibrating component. Example 13: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the extrusion molding machine further comprises a heating zone upstream in the extrusion direction and is adapted to heat the mixture to a temperature of 90° to 190°C, preferably 140° to 190°C, most preferably 175° to 185°C. Example 14: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the extrusion molding machine further comprises a cooling zone downstream in the extrusion direction and is adapted to cool the mixture to a temperature of 30 to 70 degrees Celsius, preferably 35 to 50 degrees Celsius, most preferably 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. Example 15: The device, Furthermore, it is equipped with a susceptor material supply device, The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the susceptor material supply device is adapted to insert the susceptor material into the extruded product. Example 16: The apparatus according to Example 15, wherein the susceptor material supply device is adapted to insert susceptor material into the extruded product downstream of the die component. Example 17: The apparatus according to Example 15, wherein the susceptor material supply device is adapted to insert the susceptor material into the extruded product during extrusion formation at the outlet. Example 18: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, further comprising a rotating device adapted for rotating a susceptor material. Example 19: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 18, further comprising a dryer adapted to dry an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material so as to substantially maintain its cross-sectional shape. Example 20: The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 19, wherein the mixture is a slurry. Example 21: The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 20, wherein the extruded product is a tobacco cast leaf. Example 22: A method for producing an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material, wherein the method comprises the following steps: A step of supplying a mixture to an extrusion molding machine through the inlet of the extrusion molding machine, A step of moving the mixture along the extrusion direction, The process includes extruding the mixture through an outlet from an extrusion molding machine, A method for extruding a mixture through a die component at the exit of an extrusion molding machine to form an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material having a cross-sectional shape. Example 23: The method according to Example 22, wherein the density of the mixture increases as it moves along the extrusion direction. Example 24: The method according to Example 22 or 23, wherein the water content of the mixture decreases during movement along the extrusion direction. Example 25: The method according to any one of Examples 22 to 24, wherein the extruded product containing the aerosol-generating material has a circular cross-section with a diameter of 5 to 10 millimeters. Example 26: The method according to any one of Examples 22 to 25, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product is the profile of a hollow chamber. Example 27: The method according to Example 26, wherein the profile of the hollow chamber forms a flow path within the extruded product. Example 28: The method according to Example 26 or 27, wherein the hollow chamber profile is circular, and the method comprises at least one hollow chamber. Example 29: The method according to Example 26 or 27, wherein the profile of the hollow chamber is at least partially at least one helical shape. Example 30: The method according to Example 26 or 27, wherein the profile of the hollow chamber is in the shape of at least two rings connected at least partially by at least one spoke. Example 31: The method according to any one of Examples 26 to 30, wherein at least one surface of the profile of the hollow chamber exhibits a corrugated appearance. Example 32: The method according to any one of Examples 22 to 31, wherein the length of the extruded product is 2 meters to 10 meters. Example 33: The method according to any one of Examples 22 to 32, further comprising the step of inserting a susceptor material into the cross-sectional shape of an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material during the extrusion molding of the extruded product containing the aerosol-generating material from a die component. Example 34: The method according to any one of Examples 22 to 32, further comprising the step of inserting a susceptor material into the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product containing the aerosol-generating material after extrusion molding of the extruded product containing the aerosol-generating material. Example 35: The method according to any one of Examples 22 to 34, wherein the die components are maintained at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius. Example 36: The method according to any one of Examples 22 to 35, wherein the extruded product is dried at a temperature of 80 to 100 degrees Celsius. Example 37: The method according to any one of Examples 22 to 36, further comprising the step of dividing an extruded aerosol-generating material into segments with a length of 3 to 10 millimeters. Example 38: The method according to any of Examples 22 to 37, wherein the mixture is a slurry. Example 39: The method according to any one of Examples 22 to 38, wherein the extruded product is a tobacco cast leaf. Example 40: Use of an extrusion machine for extruding an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material to form a cross-sectional shape in the extruded product. Example 41: A method for producing an aerosol-generating material surrounding a susceptor material, wherein the method comprises the following steps: A process of forming a helical cross-sectional shape over the length of the aerosol generating material, The process involves supplying susceptor material to the center of the helical cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating material using a susceptor material supply device, A process of rotating the susceptor material using a rotating device, The process involves pressing the susceptor material into the center of the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating material, A method comprising the step of unwinding an aerosol generating material around a susceptor material. Example 42: The method according to Example 41, wherein the length of the aerosol generating material having a helical cross-sectional shape is obtained by extrusion molding. Example 43: The method according to Example 41, wherein the length of the aerosol generating material having a helical cross-sectional shape is obtained by winding a sheet of the aerosol generating material. Example 44: The method according to any one of Examples 41 to 43, wherein the susceptor material is pressed into the center of the aerosol generating material with a pressure of 2 to 6 bar. Example 45: The method according to any one of Examples 41 to 44, wherein the susceptor material rotates between 20 revolutions per minute and 150 revolutions per minute. Example 46: An aerosol generating material manufactured according to the method described in any one of Examples 22 to 39. Example 47: An aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating material manufactured according to any one of Examples 22 to 39. Example 48: A system comprising the apparatus described in any one of Examples 1 to 21 and a mixture for forming an extruded product containing an aerosol generating material.

[0103] Here, embodiments of the present invention will be further described with reference to the following figures. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0104] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an extrusion molding machine. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the die components. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the extruded product, illustrating the profile of the hollow chamber, which has multiple circular hollow chambers. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the extruded product, illustrating the profile of a hollow chamber having multiple rings and connecting spokes. [Figure 5]Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the extruded product, which has a profile of a hollow chamber shaped like a wagon wheel, with the spokes of the wagon wheel showing a wavy pattern. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the extruded product, which has a hollow chamber with a spiral shape. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the extruded product, illustrating the profile of the hollow chamber with a double helix-like shape. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of an extruded product exiting the extrusion machine, illustrating the profile of the extruded product as a hollow chamber with a helical shape. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of an extrusion molding machine, in which the susceptor material is inserted into the extruded product during the extrusion process. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of an extrusion molding machine, where the susceptor material is inserted into the extruded product after the extrusion process. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view of an extrusion molding machine equipped with a dryer and a cutting device. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of a method in which the aerosol generating material is unwound around the susceptor material. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0105] The extruder 1, as shown in Figure 1, has an inlet 2 adapted to receive the mixture 3 supplied from the hopper 4. The inlet 2 is in fluid communication with the outlet 5 of the extruder 1, allowing the mixture 3 to be transported from the inlet 2 to the outlet 5 along the extrusion direction 100. The extrusion direction 100 is further indicated by an arrow in Figure 1. The extruder 1 further comprises a screw 7 located within the barrel 8 of the extruder 1. The rotation of the screw 7 facilitates the movement of the mixture 3 toward the outlet 5. The outlet 5 of the extruder 1 is adapted to extrude the mixture 3 to form an extruded product 9 having a cross-sectional shape by mounting a die component 10.

[0106] As further shown in Figure 2, the die component 10 comprises a die plate 11 having an opening 12 and a mandrel 13 having a projection 14. The die plate 11 and the mandrel 13 are positioned and fitted together so as to form the cross-sectional shape of a circular hollow chamber profile 15 in the extruded product 9. Furthermore, the geometric contour of the opening 12 is fitted to accommodate the geometric contour of the projection 14 so that when assembled into the exit 5, the projection 14 is positioned within the opening 12 and the downstream end face 16 of the projection 14 is coplanar with the downstream end face 17 of the die plate 11.

[0107] Outlet 5 shows a cooling unit 21 adapted to cool the die component 10, as well as a vibrating component 18 that applies vibration to the die component 10 during the extrusion molding of the extruded product 9.

[0108] The extrusion molding machine 1 also includes a heating zone 19 and a cooling zone 20.

[0109] As illustrated in Figures 3-7, the hollow chamber profile 15 of the extruded product 9 can exhibit significant differences in geometric design. For example, the hollow chamber profile 15 may represent multiple hollow chambers 22 surrounded by aerosol-generating material 23, as shown in Figure 3, or multiple concentric rings 25 connected by multiple spokes 26, both containing aerosol-generating material 23, as shown in Figure 4. The hollow chamber profile 15 may also be formed in the shape of a wagon wheel with spokes 26 showing corrugated surfaces 24, helical, or double helix, as shown in Figures 5, 6, and 7, respectively. Figure 8 shows a perspective view of an extruded product 9 having a helical hollow chamber profile 15 extruded from an outlet 5.

[0110] Figures 9 and 10 show an apparatus for manufacturing an extruded product 9 containing an aerosol generating material 23, the apparatus comprising a susceptor material supply device 27 adapted to insert a susceptor material 28 into the extruded product 9. According to the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the susceptor material 28 is supplied by a screw 7 of the extruder 1 along the extrusion direction 100 so that the susceptor material 28 can be inserted into the extruded product 9 during extrusion molding at the outlet 5. In another embodiment shown in Figure 10, the susceptor material 28 is guided from the susceptor material supply device 27 into the extruded product 9 so that the susceptor material 28 is inserted into the extruded product 9 after it has been extruded from the outlet 5. In both embodiments, the susceptor material 28 is guided into the extruded product 9 with the help of specially positioned guide rollers 29.

[0111] The apparatus shown in Figure 9 further comprises a rotating device 30 adapted for rotating the susceptor material 28.

[0112] Figure 11 shows an apparatus for producing an extruded product 9 containing an aerosol-generating material 23, the apparatus comprising a dryer 31 adapted for drying the extruded product 9, and a cutting device 32 adapted for separating the extruded product 9 into individual segments 33.

[0113] The perspective view in Figure 12 shows the susceptor material 28 supplied from the susceptor material supply device 27 to the center 34 of the aerosol generating material 23. The susceptor material 28 is rotated by the rotating device 30 and pushed into the center 34 of the aerosol generating material 23, so that the aerosol generating material 23 unwinds and wraps around the susceptor material 28, forming an aerosol generating material 23 that surrounds the susceptor material 28.

[0114] As shown in Figure 1, the mixture 3 is supplied by the hopper 4 to the inlet 2 of the extruder 1, and then enters the barrel 8 of the extruder 1. The mixture 3 is then transported by the rotation of the screw 7 along the extrusion direction 100 of the extruder 1 until it reaches the outlet 5 of the extruder 1. While the mixture 3 is transported along the extrusion direction 100, it is transported through the heating zone 19 and the subsequent cooling zone 20, where the mixture 3 is heated and cooled, respectively.

[0115] At the outlet 5 of the extrusion molding machine 1, the mixture 3 is extruded through the die component 10 to form an extruded product 9 containing an aerosol generating material 23 having a cross-sectional shape.

[0116] The mandrel 13 and die plate 11 elements of the die component 10 shown in Figure 2 guide the flow of the mixture 3 during extrusion molding, resulting in a circular cross-sectional shape of the resulting extruded product 9, exhibiting a hollow chamber profile. Examples of such cross-sectional shapes are shown in Figures 3-8.

[0117] The susceptor material 28 can be inserted into the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product 9. As illustrated in Figure 9, this can be achieved by supplying the susceptor material 28 to the extruder 1 by a susceptor material supply device 27. The susceptor material 28 then enters an opening in the extruder 1 and moves along a channel in the screw 7 until it reaches a die component 10 at the exit 5 of the extruder 1, where the susceptor material 28 is inserted into the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product 9 during its extrusion. While the susceptor material 28 is being inserted into the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product 9, it is rotated by a rotating device 30.

[0118] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 10, the susceptor material 28 may also be interested in the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product 9 after its extrusion.

[0119] During the extrusion molding of the extruded product 9, the die component 10 is maintained at a temperature of 10 to 50 degrees Celsius by the cooling unit 21 and vibrated by the vibrating component 18, as shown in Figure 1.

[0120] After being extruded from the extrusion machine 1, the extruded product 9 is dried in a dryer 31 to substantially maintain its cross-sectional shape before being cut into segments 33 by a cutting device 32. The process steps described above are shown in Figure 11.

[0121] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., should be understood in all cases as being modified by the term “approximately.” Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therewith, which may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, number A is understood as 10% of A ± A. In this context, number A can be considered to include numbers that fall within the general standard error of the measured value of the characteristic that number A modifies. In some cases used in the appended claims, number A may deviate by the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation of A does not substantially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therewith, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. An apparatus for manufacturing an extruded product containing an aerosol generating material, wherein the apparatus is Equipped with an extrusion molding machine, The extrusion molding machine is equipped with an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is adapted to accept the mixture, The outlet is adapted to extrude the mixture to form the extruded product. The outlet comprises a die component, The die components are adapted to form an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material, An apparatus in which the die components are adapted to form a cross-sectional shape in the extruded product.

2. The die component comprises a die plate and a mandrel, The die plate shows at least one opening, The mandrel has at least one projection, The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the projection is at least partially located inside the opening.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the die plate and the mandrel are adapted to form the extruded product such that the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product is the profile of a hollow chamber.

4. The apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the downstream end face of the projection is formed to be at least partially helical.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the apparatus further comprises a rotating device adapted for rotating a susceptor material.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a dryer adapted to dry the extruded product containing the aerosol-generating material and substantially maintain its cross-sectional shape.

7. A method for producing an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material, wherein the method comprises the following steps: A step of supplying a mixture to an extrusion molding machine through the inlet of the extrusion molding machine, A step of moving the mixture along the extrusion direction, The process includes extruding the mixture through an outlet from the extrusion molding machine, A method comprising extruding the mixture through the die components of the outlet of the extrusion molding machine to form an extruded product comprising an aerosol-generating material having a cross-sectional shape.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product is the profile of a hollow chamber.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the profile of the hollow chamber is at least partially at least one helical shape.

10. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 9, further comprising the step of inserting a susceptor material into the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product containing the aerosol generating material during the extrusion molding of the extruded product containing the aerosol generating material from the die component.

11. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 9, further comprising the step of inserting a susceptor material into the cross-sectional shape of the extruded product containing the aerosol generating material after the extrusion molding of the extruded product containing the aerosol generating material.

12. Use of an extrusion machine for extruding an extruded product containing an aerosol-generating material to form a cross-sectional shape in the extruded product.

13. An aerosol generating material manufactured according to the method described in any one of claims 8 to 12.

14. An aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating material manufactured according to any one of claims 8 to 12.

15. A system comprising the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, and a mixture for forming an extruded product containing an aerosol generating material.

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