Abstract: A gassing apparatus including a composite gas flow screen having a plurality of respective screen elements, each with at least one respective flow opening therein, the cross-sectional areas of the respective flow openings in respective elements decreasing in a downstream direction with respect to gas flow and at least one other screen element having no flow opening. A nozzle preferably produces a relatively high velocity central gas stream with surrounding gas streams of decreasing velocity as they are spaced further away from the central gas stream. Methods and apparatus are described.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for exposing a container to a controlled environment. The apparatus includes an elongated rail with first, second, and third manifolds positioned in substantial alignment with the container. The first, second, and third manifolds are adapted for providing flow of a gas therethrough. At least one gas flow regulator is operably attached to the first, second, and third manifolds. At least one nozzle is positioned adjacent the second manifold. The at least one nozzle is adapted for providing a composite gas stream exiting through the second manifold. The method includes providing an elongated rail with first, second, and third manifolds positioned in substantial alignment with the container. A flow of a gas is regulated through the first, second, and third manifolds. A composite gas stream is provided exiting through the second manifold.

Abstract: A multiflow gassing system for providing controlled environment gas to a lid and container, the system including a lid carrier; and a gas rail assembly adjacent the lid carrier, the gas rail assembly having a top portion including a top portion gas outlet, an end portion including a end portion gas outlet, and a plate adjacent the end portion. The top portion gas outlet is oriented to direct the controlled environment gas into the lid and the end portion gas outlet is oriented to direct the controlled environment gas into a lid-container engagement region.

Abstract: An apparatus for exposing a container traveling along a conveyor to a controlled environment is provided. The apparatus includes an elongated rail and a first elongated gas deflecting member. The elongated rail includes a longitudinally oriented manifold. The longitudinally oriented manifold is adapted to align with a path of the container. The elongated rail also includes at least one inlet opening to receive a controlled environment gas. The first elongated gas deflecting member is positioned adjacent to the manifold. The first elongated gas deflecting member is contoured to deflect a flow of the controlled environment gas exiting the manifold in a direction transverse to the path of the container and into the container.