Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming draw tape bags wherein the bag material moves continuously during the manufacture, except for the last step. The apparatus may be used with an in-line system wherein a tube is extruded and a side gusset is formed to create a hem; or the apparatus may be used with an off-line system wherein folded bag material is used, and a continuous hemmer is provided to turn the loose edges. In the off-line system a constant tension dancer precedes the hemmer to maintain constant tension on the web regardless of the size of the supply roll. The web continues to move, and a cutter is actuated to move through a circle and engage the web to punch finger holes in the hem. A reel of a strip of material is continuously fed, the strip being slit longitudinally to provide the draw tapes which are inserted into the hems. A tape guide tensions the tape and assures that the tape is well within the hem, the hems are sealed, and the bags are side welded.

Abstract: Draw tape bags are provided on a roll, preferably folded longitudinally with the hems containing the draw tapes extending beyond the body of the bags for smooth rolling. The bags are side sealed with perforations between bags for separation of the bags, and the hems containing the draw tapes are side welded so that the hemmed areas are substantially separated. The bag machine for making side sealed bags includes a side welding unit in line with the sealing unit so the sealing and perforating, and welding, are accomplished in one step. The side welding knife has a large radius and high temperature to effect a weld in the multiple layers and the thick draw tape.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming draw tape bags wherein the bag material moves continuously during the manufacture, except for the last step. A roll of folded web is provided, and the loose edges are turned inwardly to form upper hems for the bags. The web continues to move, and a cutter is actuated to move through a circle and engage the web to punch finger holes in the hem. The web is further carried to a tandem sealer, the web passing over a roll where heated air is directed at the area of the hem. A "Teflon" strip is placed between the hems to prevent sealing them together. The web continues to a second sealing roll where the opposite side is sealed in the same way. The final step utilizes a stop-start apparatus with a side sealing blade. The side sealing blade has one radius for the body of the bag, and a larger radius for the hemmed area.