Abstract: A vertical form, fill and seal machine of the type that includes at least one fill chamber for forming liquid-filled pouches of impermeable material. A heating element is fixed to a slidable sealing head. The heating element comprises a ribbon of metallic material, and an insulative base having a slot for receiving the metallic ribbon. The sealing head faces a backstop. The metallic ribbon is held at and above the upper edge of a pedestal formed in the insulative base. The insulative base is formed of mating base elements secured to one another by at least one fastener.

Abstract: An attachable spout for a pouch-like container of liquid. A spout assembly includes a substantially-planar base having a spout and a backing plate fixed to a surface of the base. A transverse crease defines a fold line for folding the base to capture an edge of the container between opposed surfaces of the folded base. The spout and the backing plate are located equidistant from the transverse crease to align in when the assembly is in a folded attitude.