Abstract: A polymeric twist tie 20 is taught that utilizes a thermoplastic monofilament 22 having an oriented characteristic produced by stretching a pre-heated monofilament through a heated, volume reducing die. The monofilament 22 is then coated 30 circumferentially with an extrusion of thermoplastic enclosing the monofilament while simultaneously forming a pair of opposed wings 32 integral with the coating. The wings extend outwardly from the coated monofilament allowing the tie to be twisted upon itself with the monofilament retaining its basic configuration and the wings stretching and bending to conform within a coupled twist. The oriented monofilament is fabricated using high density polyethylene and the covering extruded with low density polyethylene which are dissimilar in density, melt index and basic thermoplastic morphology.

Abstract: A hand held portable twist tie apparatus which has a frame (20), a drive motor (44) and controls. A set of reduction drive gears (68) reduce the motor speed and drive a gear cluster with turntable (74). A twister (94) is rotated by a drive train (114) that intermeshes at the proper time with the gear cluster. A spring loaded shuttling carriage (126) slides along the twister and contains arms (130) that swing around the product and guide twist tie material (76) to enclose the product to be tied. A feed transport arm (142) advances the tie material and cuts it to the appropriate length for complete encircling, tightening and twisting by the above elements. A housing (208) and shield (210) cover the moving parts and a reel holder (194) mounted on top of the housing accepts a roll of tie material to supply the apparatus. A handle (218) provides a grip for one handed operation and power is supplied by a battery (48), or power converter (58).