Product coating method and apparatus

Abstract

A method and apparatus for coating a product is provided, the method comprising delivering the product to a top end of an inclined chute, the chute comprising at least one mesh portion provided in its conveying surface; allowing the product to fall along the conveying surface; and when the product passes over the at least one mesh portion during its fall, spraying the product with a coating.

1 . A method of coating a product, the method comprising: 
 delivering the product to a top end of an inclined chute, the chute comprising at least one mesh portion provided in its conveying surface;    allowing the product to fall along the conveying surface; and    when the product passes over the at least one mesh portion during its fall, spraying the product with a coating.    
   
   
       2 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the coating is subjected to at least one pressurised gas stream, whereby the coating is sprayed towards the at least one mesh portion.  
   
   
       3 . A method according to  claim 1 , comprising the step of applying an electric field in order to charge the coating.  
   
   
       4 . A method according to  claim 3 , wherein the at least one mesh portion is held at a potential, so that the charged coating is attracted to the mesh.  
   
   
       5 . A method according to  claim 1 , comprising the step of vibrating the conveying surface, thereby encouraging the product to fall.  
   
   
       6 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the conveying surface is provided with corrugations along its length, thereby encouraging the product to fall along the conveying surface.  
   
   
       7 . Apparatus for coating a product, the apparatus comprising: 
 an inclined chute comprising at least one mesh portion provided in its conveying surface; and    means for spraying a coating onto the product when the product is in contact with the at least one mesh portion.    
   
   
       8 . Apparatus according to  claim 7 , wherein the means for spraying comprises: 
 a gas jet nozzle;    means for coupling a source of pressurised gas to the gas jet nozzle; and    means for introducing the coating adjacent to the gas jet nozzle;    wherein in use gas ejected from the nozzle impinges on the coating, thereby creating a coating spray.    
   
   
       9 . Apparatus according to  claim 7 , wherein the means for spraying further comprises: 
 an electrode attached to or located adjacent to the nozzle; and    means for charging the electrode;    wherein in use the electrode provides an electric field which is used to charge the coating.    
   
   
       10 . Apparatus according to  claim 7  and comprising means for vibrating the inclined chute.  
   
   
       11 . Apparatus according to  claim 7 , wherein the conveying surface is provided with corrugations along its length.