Abstract: End-to-end joining of sleeves. A first glue strand is applied to the end joint surface of one of the sleeves, the first glue strand having properties that cause an immediate fixing of the end joint surfaces of the sleeves. A second glue strand is applied to the end joint surface of one of the sleeves, the second glue strand having properties that causing wetting of the sleeve material in the joint surface and its immediate vicinity. The end joint surface of a first one of the sleeves is positioned against the end joint surface of a second one of the sleeves so that the first glue strand causes an immediate fixing of the end joint surfaces, and the second glue strand is allowed to set. The apparatus includes alignment devices for positioning the sleeves adjacent glue nozzles and for positioning the sleeves in end-to-end contact.

Abstract: An apparatus for emptying a reel on which a web of material is wound in layers. A frame supports the reel. A carriage is mounted on the frame for reciprocal movement longitudinally in a first direction and in a second direction opposite the first direction over the reel. A knife is mounted on the carriage for movement with the carriage to cut sheets of material from the web as the carriage moves over the reel. A plough removes cut sheets of the material from the reel as the carriage moves over the reel.