Louisiana-Pacific Corporation
BLENDING APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURED WOOD PROCESSING

Abstract:

An improved blending apparatus for blending of wood strands in the manufacture of engineered wood products. The blending process is performed with a rotating blending drum with an internal offset spike/paddle roll. The spike/paddle roll is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the drum, extends for some, all, or substantially all of the length of the drum, may rotate in either direction, and can rotate independently of or in conjunction with the rotation of the drum. The roll has a central cylinder or rod with a number of paddles, spikes, and/or tines, separately or in combinations, extending from the exterior. The paddles, spikes, and/or tines may extend at various angles and directions, including, but not limited to, substantially right angles. The paddles, spikes, and/or tines may be made of any suitable materials, including, and may be made of different materials. The rod may be driven by an external or internal motor or drive, or powered by the rotation of the drum itself.