Abstract: Methods, computer program products and apparatus for producing encased products using one or more pre-heaters residing proximate to but downstream of a heat-seal heater to pre-heat at least one long edge portion of a casing, typically the long edge portion associated with a lower layer of a joint to be sealed.

Abstract: Methods, computer program products and apparatus for producing encased products using a sensor assembly that generates a signal associated with when additional sealed casing is needed based on a tautness of the sealed film proximate the sensor assembly and directs at least one servomotor to increase film-drive speed. The increase may optionally be for a short time of less than one second in response to a detected need for additional sealed casing to thereby temporarily increase casing production speed and avoid a need for an excess amount of tubular casing in a buffer.