Method and apparatus for reclaiming carpet components
AssigneeInterface, Inc.
InventorsMichael A. Howe, Samuel H. White, Samuel G. Locklear
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A system for reclaiming carpet components such as yarn, tufting primary, binder, and secondary backing wherein the carpet is sprayed with a high velocity water spray so as to disjoint the components from one another, and thereafter, separating the secondary backing from the yarn and tufting primary. Desirably, water is removed from the disjointed carpet after spraying the carpet with high pressure water spray. This system is useful for reclaiming components of broadloom carpet and carpet tiles and cleanly and efficiently separates tie components of carpet.
Claims48
A method for reclaiming carpet components wherein the carpet comprises yarn, tufting primary, binder, and secondary backing, the method comprising the steps of:
- spraying the carpet with a high velocity water spray so as to remove substantially all of the binder and disjoint the binder, yarn, tufting primary, and secondary backing from one another, and thereafter;
- removing water from the disjointed carpet;
- and
- separating the secondary backing from the yarn and tufting primary.
A system for reclaiming carpet components wherein the carpet comprises yarn, tufting primary, latex binder, and secondary backing, the system comprising:
- a high velocity water sprayer for spraying the carpet so as to remove substantially all of the binder and disjoint the latex binder, yarn, tufting primary, and secondary backing from one another;
- a dryer for removing water from the disjointed carpet;
- and
- a separator for separating the secondary backing from the yarn and tufting primary after spraying the carpet.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.