Abstract: The method of this invention includes the step of providing a mandrel sleeve shaped on the inside to fit over the small diameter end of a contoured container and being of an outer diameter substantially equal to the large diameter portion of the container. After applying a solvent of the plastic sheet material to the trailing edge of a length thereof, the sheet is wrapped around the container and the mantrel sleeve so that the trailing edge overlaps the leading edge and the solvent forms a firm bond between the overlapped edges. The mandrel sleeve is then withdrawn from the wrapped length, leaving it around the container, and the sheet material is heat shrunk to fit tightly over its full height around the contoured container. Before the sheet is wrapped around the mandrel and container, an adhesive, such as a hot melt glue, may be applied too that portion of the sheet that is wrapped in direct contact with the container.

Abstract: The method includes the step of providing a cylindrical mandrel with vacuum openings around the circumference thereof and of a diameter substantially equal to the maximum diameter of the container. A thermoplastic strip is then wrapped around both the container and the mandrel, and just that portion of the strip enclosing the container is heat shrunk to follow closely the contour of the container. Then, the mandrel is withdrawn from the thermoplastic sleeve and that portion of the sleeve extending above the container is heat shrunk to engage snugly over the top of the container lid.

Abstract: We have disclosed a method of applying a plastic label to a container wherein a label is severed from the strip of polymer label material. A hot melt adhesive is applied to an area along the leading edge of the label and a solvent of the polymer is applied to an area along the trailing edge of said material to form a tacky solution. The label is then applied to a container so that when heat shrunk, the tacky solution solidifies and the hot melt adhesive crystalizes to release its grip on the container.

Abstract: Cylindrical containers are rolled between two parallel belts which travel in opposite directions and engage diametrically opposite sides of the containers. One of the belts carries labels under the rolling containers so that the label is wrapped around it. The other belt moves at a somewhat greater velocity so that the container moves slowly downstream as they roll rapidly about their own axes. From the labeling belt, the drive belt continues to move the containers over a roll-on pad on which the label is pressed firmly in place.