Slurry distributor with a profiling mechanism, system, and method for using same

摘要

In order to help spread increasingly-viscous gypsum slurries on a forming table in the production of gypsum products, a slurry distributor includes a distribution conduit and a profiling mechanism. The distribution conduit extends generally along a longitudinal axis and includes an entry portion and a distribution outlet in fluid communication with the entry portion. The distribution outlet includes an outlet opening having a width, along a transverse axis, and a height, along a vertical axis which are both mutually perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The profiling mechanism includes a profiling member in contacting relationship with the distribution conduit. The profiling member is translatable along the vertical axis and rotatable about a pivot axis that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The profiling member is rotatable about the pivot axis over an arc length such that the profiling member is in a range of positions over which the profiling member is in variable compressive engagement with the portion of the distribution conduit across the transverse axis such that the height of the outlet opening varies along the transverse axis so as to alter the flow pattern of slurry being discharged from the outlet opening to help provide an increased spread angle relative to the machine direction of the forming table.