Abstract: An apparatus and method for introducing a pleat into an advancing folded-over film web is provided which utilizes air under low pressure to separate the opposing faces of the web prior to the pleat being made. By unblocking the faces of the folded-over web, the web may be readily advanced and pleated without hang ups, misalignment, or tearing of the web. The apparatus includes a pair of substantially aligned and spaced-apart receiving plates over which opposing faces of the film web pass, a generally circular wheel positioned between the receiving plates and extending into the space therebetween for forming a pleat in the folded-over film, and an air passage positioned between the receiving plates for directing a flow of air between the opposing faces of the film web to separate the opposing faces of the web prior to passing over the receiving plates.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for supplying gas to a vacuum drum device and which substantially reduces or eliminates the problem of particle and debris buildup in the vacuum passages of the device is provided. The apparatus supplies gas, preferably at a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure, to the vacuum ports of a vacuum drum and includes a source of vacuum, a source of gas, and a rotatable vacuum drum. The drum includes a plurality of vacuum ports on the surface thereof, with the vacuum ports communicating with a plurality of vacuum passages extending generally outwardly from the interior of the drum. A valve alternately connects the passages to the vacuum source and to the source of gas. The selective exposure of the vacuum ports to either a source of vacuum or a source of gas prevents smoke, particles, and other contaminants from being drawn into the vacuum passages of the drum during operation of the system.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for introducing a pleat into an advancing folded-over film web is provided which utilizes air under low pressure to separate the opposing faces of the web prior to the pleat being made. By unblocking the faces of the folded-over web, the web may be readily advanced and pleated without hang ups, misalignment, or tearing of the web. The apparatus includes a pair of substantially aligned and spaced-apart receiving plates over which opposing faces of the film web pass, a generally circular wheel positioned between the receiving plates and extending into the space therebetween for forming a pleat in the folded-over film, and an air passage positioned between the receiving plates for directing a flow of air between the opposing faces of the film web to separate the opposing faces of the web prior to passing over the receiving plates.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for supplying gas to a vacuum drum device and which substantially reduces or eliminates the problem of particle and debris buildup in the vacuum passages of the device is provided. The apparatus supplies gas, preferably at a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure, to the vacuum ports of a vacuum drum and includes a source of vacuum, a source of gas, and a rotatable vacuum drum. The drum includes a plurality of vacuum ports on the surface thereof, with the vacuum ports communicating with a plurality of vacuum passages extending generally outwardly from the interior of the drum. A valve alternately connects the passages to the vacuum source and to the source of gas. The selective exposure of the vacuum ports to either a source of vacuum or a source of gas prevents smoke, particles, and other contaminants from being drawn into the vacuum passages of the drum during operation of the system.