Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and method for automatically opening a plastic bag-type liner as part of a container lining process. The apparatus comprises at least one movable jaw assembly disposed on each side of the liner to be opened and a tongue on the other side of the liner opposing each jaw assembly. To open the bag, the jaws are opened and the jaw assemblies are moved toward and contact the liner and the opposing tongue pushes the liner between the gripping surfaces of the jaws of the opposing jaw assembly as the jaw assemblies begin to move apart, the jaws close, gripping and retaining the layer of liner in direct contact with the gripping surfaces of each jaw, the tongues slide out from between the layers of the liner, separating the sides of the unsealed end of the liner. A stream of air may then be directed into the open end of the bag for completely blowing the bag open prior to placing the bag over the open end of the container to be lined and forcing the liner into the container.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and method for automatically opening a plastic bag-type liner as part of a container lining process. The apparatus comprises at least one movable jaw assembly disposed on each side of the liner to be opened and a tongue on the other side of the liner opposing each jaw assembly. To open the bag, the jaws are opened and the jaw assemblies are moved toward and contact the liner and the opposing tongue pushes the liner between the gripping surfaces of the jaws of the opposing jaw assembly; as the jaw assemblies begin to move apart, the jaws close, gripping and retaining the layer of liner in direct contact with the gripping surfaces of each jaw, the tongues slide out from between the layers of the liner, separating the sides of the unsealed end of the liner. A stream of air may then be directed into the open end of the bag for completely blowing the bag open prior to placing the bag over the open end of the container to be lined and forcing the liner into the container.