Abstract: In an elastic band applicator for diapers using hot melt glue, a longitudinally tensioned moving plastic backing sheet is run over a roll that is parallel to and spaced from a stationary cylinder. A shoe deflects the central region of the sheet away from its plane at a location between the roll and cylinder. This results in the margins of the sheet beyond opposite ends of the shoe becoming loose flaps. Glue stripes are applied by means of nozzles to the sheet near its edges before the sheet encounters the shoe which has passageways for the glue stripes. Elastic bands are fed into the passageways onto the glue stripes. After passing the shoe, the margins encounter plows which turn or fold the margins over the glue stripes and bands and press the sheet against a cylinder to smooth the margin. Means are provided for retracting the sheet away from the hot nozzles if the sheet stops moving.

Abstract: A multi-ply pad, such as a disposable diaper, is cut from a series of interconnected pads by a combined severing and sealing tool having a knife blade which severs through the multi-ply links on which the pads are serially interconnected. The knife edge is immediately followed by a blunt heel which seals the multiple plies of sheet material together. Accordingly, when the separated pads are sequentially handled to be folded, the multiple plies at one end of the pad will not flare or otherwise become disoriented with respect to each other and to the pad. This greatly facilitates and simplifies handling of the pads after they are severed.