Method and system for continuously producing pieces of liquid-filled gum
material. An extruded rope of liquid-filed gum is sized and separated
into individual pieces of gum. A rotating drum mechanism having a die
ring and cutter ring with mating die members separate the rope of gum
material into individual pieces. Pairs of cam-operated plunger members
compress and form the pieces of gum material in the die cavities. Angled
grooves in the die members prevent portions of the gum pieces from being
chipped-off during formation. Guide pin members are positioned between
rider members on the plunger members. A feed chute with air assist
transfers the gum rope from a sizing table to the rotating drum
mechanism. A stripper member insures that the formed pieces of gum
material are removed from the drum mechanism. Portions of the drum
mechanism can be selective heated and cooled, or not cooled at all. The
invention provides a more efficient system for continuous, high
production operation.