Abstract: Netting is made from thermoplastic threads on a machine which applies to a plurality of spaced longitudinal strands at least two spaced transverse strands and bonds the latter to the former by individual moulded masses of plastics material. The rows of die assemblies for this moulding operation are arranged in one or more oppositely directed pair and are supplied with transverse strands by drawing such strands across the longitudinal strands and then transferring the required lengths of strand laterally into the respective die assemblies from opposite directions. The longitudinal strands are advanced intermittently by cooperating grippers, preferably at both ends of the machine. Sets of releasable grippers at the input and the output ends of the machine are reciprocable between positions respectively upstream and downstream of other sets of releasable grippers at the ends of the machine.

Abstract: Netting formed of longitudinal and transverse threads of thermoplastic material bonded at the thread crossings by individual moulded buttons of thermoplastic material is improved by the use of threads that have been subjected to irradiation to cross-link their thermoplastic material. Higher moulding temperatures can be used in the formation of the bonding buttons, for example in the case of polyethylene filaments up to 260.degree. C or more, and increased bond strength between the crossing threads is achieved. The moulded buttons can also be formed of irradiated material.

Abstract: Netting, made by bonding together crossing strands consisting of or containing thermoplastic material by means of individually moulded masses of thermoplastic material, is given enhanced bond strength by compressing the crossing strands together within the die cavities employed for moulding the thermoplastic masses. The improvement is particularly marked in the case of netting made from braided strands, for example of nylon, and intended for use as cargo nets. The compression may be applied by a pressure member, for example a fluid-actuated piston, mounted within the die. If desired, a pair of counteracting pistons can be used. After compressing the strands, the pistons may be withdrawn before the thermoplastic material is introduced or may be forced back by the entering thermoplastic material.

Abstract: Netting of small net size is economically made by forming a network of crossing longitudinal and transverse threads, bonding the threads together at the crossings by individually moulded buttons of thermoplastic material and moulding small masses of thermoplastic material (which may or may not be the buttons at the crossings) bearing integrally moulded elements radiating towards the centres of the mesh openings. The radiating elements may terminate close to one another or be joined together by an integrally moulded boss in the central region of each mesh opening. The radiating elements effectively block the mesh openings or divide them up into smaller openings without requiring correspondingly large and possibly excessive lengths of threads. The netting is suitable for security purposes, for example at expositions.