Abstract: A machine 10 to aid in forming at least one flange 11 on tubular bag material 12. The machine 10 includes at least one assembly 28 provided with a longitudinally extending slot 22 through which a fold 13 passes to be heated by hot air delivered to the slot 22. A pair of pressure rollers 27 engage the heated fold 13 so that the bag material 12 of the fold 13 adheres to form the flange 11.

Abstract: A packaging machine former apparatus 10 through which a film 11 passes to be formed into a tube 12. The apparatus 10 includes a shoulder 15 over which the film 11 passes, the shoulder 15 including an approach member 16 that leads to a crown 17. The member 16 includes a passage 20 terminating in an aperture 21 to which a gas under pressure is delivered so as to create an “air cushion” over which the film passes, thereby aids in movement of the film 11 over the surface 18 of the approach member 16.

Abstract: A machine 10 to test bags 11 to detect faulty bags 11a. The machine 10 includes a probe assembly 23 including a belt 27 which supports a plurality of probes 31. More particularly the bags 11 are engaged by probe portions 33, with displacement of the probe portions 33 providing data for a CPU controller 24 enabling the detection of faulty bags 11a. Faulty bags 11a are then ejected from the conveyor 13 by bag ejector 21.

Abstract: A conveyor assembly (15) which receives bags (13) from a packaging machine (10). The assembly (15) includes a first conveyor (16) which delivers the bags (13) to a second conveyor (17). The conveyors (16 and 17) employ plenum members (18 and 30) which apply an area of reduced air pressure to the bags (13) to urge the bags (13) into contact with conveyor belts (21 and 35). The packages (13) are located below the conveyors (16 and 17) so as to depend therefrom. The relative speed of the conveyors (16 and 17) is governed so that the bags (13) are arranged in separated sets (39) on the conveyor (17).

Abstract: A packaging machine (11) in which tubular bag material (16) is driven through the machine and caused to vibrate in the general direction of movement of the tubular bag material to aid in settling products so that the product occupies a minimum volume during formation of bags containing the product.