Abstract: An improved apparatus is disclosed in which a tensioned plastic strap loop is placed about an article. The invention includes a laterally adjustable forward guide. The guide is pivotally connected to the feed nip of the drive mechanism so as to provide a constant gap between the nip and guide. The rear end of the guide rests upon and moves with the forward gripper. Thus, a guide is provided which minimizes abrasion, can receive straps of different widths, and be easily and quickly cleaned.

Abstract: An improved apparatus is disclosed in which a tensioned plastic strap loop is placed about an article. The invention includes an improved rear guide. The guide is connected to the rear gripper so that it moves with it. The rear guide has a pair of forward and a pair of rear guide members. The forward members are shorter than the rear ones. The forward seal guide members are located so that they are in the middle of the seal region and thus prevent lateral movement of the overlapped strap ends when the heat seal blade is inserted and withdrawn from between them.

Abstract: A mechanism for use in a strapping apparatus including a pair of like rolls which have meshing gears as flanges and which are rotated by a drive means through a clutch system to both feed and tension strap without stopping or reversing the drive means. Strap is laced about and nipped by the rolls and, as the rolls rotate at the same speed and the roll flanges travel with the strap, abrasion along the strap sides and edges is avoided.

Abstract: A strapping apparatus which includes a yoke for directing a strap about a package which is to be strapped, and means for delivering and positioning a package reinforcing or protective plate along a portion of such package which is located in the area at which the applied strap is to be sealed. The yoke of this apparatus includes a retractable section which provides for greater flexibility in the placement of packages in strapping position and, also, facilitates the strapping of a variety of packages of different shapes, such as annular packages or packages of coiled materials.