Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides an apparatus for the simultaneous application of pressure and microwaves to a curable assembly, comprising (1) a continuous press including two endless press belts forming a nip region, the press belts being disposed to apply pressure to curable assemblies inserted therebetween, and including an inlet and an outlet for the passage of curable assemblies, (2) a press chamber defined by the two substantially parallel belt surfaces in the nip region and by two side walls, (3) means to apply microwaves to the curable assemblies from at least one microwave generator through a waveguide forming an interface with the press chamber located in an opening in a side wall, and (4) dam means at the interface between the waveguide and the press chamber to withstand the lateral pressure exerted thereon by curable assemblies being pressed, and which effectively permits propagation of microwaves into the press chamber. The press includes a means at the interface between the waveguide and the press chamber to substantially equalize fringing electric fields before the microwaves reach the curable assembly to be treated by pressure and microwaves and the waveguide includes wave chokes. A method of curing assemblies is also disclosed.

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First Claim