Abstract: A split shaft is disclosed. The split shaft includes a proximal shaft section having a first proximal shaft end and a second proximal shaft end. The first proximal shaft end is configured to couple to the first machine arrangement. The split shaft further includes a distal shaft section having a first distal shaft end and a second distal shaft end. The first distal shaft end is configured to couple to the second machine arrangement. The second distal shaft end is configured to engage with the second proximal shaft end to convey the drive power from the first machine arrangement to the second machine arrangement. The second proximal shaft end includes a first indicator, and the second distal shaft end includes a second indicator. Alignment of the first indicator and the second indicator conveys timing for the drive power.

Abstract: The present invention includes a trim station for trimming the flange of a container, an apparatus for trimming the flange of a container and a method of trimming the flange of a container. The trim station includes a rotating primary knife and a secondary knife mounted on a movable member, wherein the secondary knife is moved into a cutting position by advancing the movable member in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the container. The present invention also includes a spindle assembly and a container by process of trimming the flange of the container.

Abstract: The present invention includes a knockout ram assembly for necking a container comprising an anti-rotation device adapted to prevent a piston/pilot assembly from rotating while bolting or unbolting the pilot. The present invention also includes a method of replacing a knockout ram assembly from a container necking apparatus comprising unbolting from the container necking apparatus a first knockout ram assembly having an anti-rotation device adapted to substantially prevent the piston/pilot assembly from rotating, removing the first knockout ram assembly from the container necking apparatus, and bolting to the container necking apparatus a second knockout ram assembly having an anti-rotation device adapted to substantially prevent the piston/pilot assembly from rotating.

Abstract: The present invention includes an apparatus and method for trimming the dome of a container comprising at least one trimming station having a plurality of guide rollers and a knife, and a rotation guide. The apparatus is adapted so that the container is in contact with the rotation guide and at least two of the guide rollers during trimming.

Abstract: The present invention includes a trim station for trimming the flange of a container, an apparatus for trimming the flange of a container and a method of trimming the flange of a container. The trim station includes a rotating primary knife and a secondary knife mounted on a movable member, wherein the secondary knife is moved into a cutting position by advancing the movable member in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the container. The present invention also includes a spindle assembly and a container by process of trimming the flange of the container.