Method for cooling golf ball cores

A method for processing golf ball cores, the method comprising:

• passing a matrix of hot golf ball cores through a die plate to separate individual golf ball cores from the matrix, the die plate comprising a plurality of holes, wherein each hole is sized to allow passage of a single golf ball core, wherein a die plate roller assembly disposed on a first side of the die plate pushes the cores through the holes in the die plate;
• holding the golf ball cores in an insulated and sealed post-cure unit for a predetermined period of time to further cure the golf ball cores, the post-cure unit being disposed adjacent to the die plate and arranged to receive the cores passing through the die plate and wherein the post-cure unit is disposed adjacent a second side of the die plate opposite the first side;
• feeding the golf ball cores from the post-cure unit to a movable cueing hopper sized to hold a plurality of cores;
• and feeding the golf ball cores from the post-cure unit to a cooling section, where high velocity air is passed over the golf ball cores to remove heat from the golf ball cores.