Abstract: A vacuum sealer is disclosed which makes use of a flexible flap (24.2) secured along one of its edges to a base plate (12.2). The base plate (12.2) on which the bag (B) to be evacuated and sealed is placed has a vacuum port (16.2) in it so that air can be sucked out from between the base plate (12.2) and flap (24.2). A groove (36.2) is provided in the base plate (12.2). This assists in keeping the bag mouth from being sucked shut before evacuation is complete. An anvil (26.2) and a sealer bar (14.2) form a weld across the bag adjacent its open mouth after evacuation.

Abstract: A box is disclosed which comprises three blanks. The blank comprises a rectangular base panel, four wall panels which are joined along crease lines to the panel and four end flaps joined along crease lines to the wall panels. The second and third blanks each comprise a wall panel and two end flaps joined to one another along crease lines. The wall panels are configured to provide a centre section and two end sections with steps between them. The wall panels of the blanks are adhered to the outer faces of wall panels of the blank and the flaps are adhered to the outer faces of the end portions of the wall panels. Re-activatable adhesive is used. The adhesive can be heat, solvent or water reactivated.

Abstract: The article being wrapped has a sheet of wrapping material draped over it so that it hangs down on each lateral side thereof. Initially the article travels on a conveyor which supports it along a central region. Thereafter the article is transferred to two supports which form part of two endless series and which travel with the conveyor. The supports are displaced laterally towards the conveyor while travelling with it until they are located beneath the edge regions of the article. The relative levels of the conveyor and supports are then changed so that the article is transferred to the supports. The supports and/or mechanical ploughs and/or air blasts overlap the hanging portions of the wrapping material along said central region. Thereafter the article is transferred to a further conveyor which engages the central region and holds the overlapping portions in place.