Abstract: An apparatus for use in strapping a bundle of articles with a heat sealable plastics material strap, the apparatus having first and second strap feed stations and a support for receiving and supporting a bundle of articles to be strapped. When the bundle is moved onto the support it passes through the line of the strap extending between the stations so that the strap is caused to embrace the bundle, and first and second limbs of the strap which then extend from the bundle to the respective stations are each clamped at two spaced apart zones. The two strap limbs are then severed between the clamping zones by a reciprocating cutter and resultant corresponding end portions of the severed limbs are then moved into clamping contact and welded together in overlapping relationship.

Abstract: A bundle squaring machine suitable particularly for squaring a bundle of cartons in readiness for strapping. The machine includes a conveyor system for conveying a bundle of randomly orientated stack of articles into a squaring zone, where the stack is squared-up laterally and fore and aft. While in the squaring zone, side squaring arms close in a lateral direction against the sides of the bundle, and a pusher device moves the bundle longitudinally forward against a pair of spring biased rollers which contact the leading edge of the bundle. Following a period of contact between the leading edge of the bundle and the rollers, the rollers are pivoted clear of the bundle and, thereafter, the side squaring arms move back to their initial position. During the squaring operation the conveyor system is halted, the bundle being advanced by the pusher device during this period, and following the squaring operation, the pusher device is retracted below the level of the conveyor system.