Abstract: In one of its aspects, the present invention relates to a process for forming a flexible liquid-packaging pouch. This process improves fill-accuracy of the flowable material contained in the pouch. Specifically, the invention relates to a process for improving the fill-accuracy of a pouch by incorporating at least one stand-pipe in a balance tank that feeds the pouch with flowable material to be packaged. This invention also relates to such apparatus for improving the fill-accuracy of the flexible liquid-packaging pouch.

Abstract: In one of its aspects, the present invention relates to a process for forming a flexible liquid-packaging pouch. This process improves fill-accuracy of the flowable material contained in the pouch. Specifically, the invention relates to a process for improving the fill-accuracy of a pouch by incorporating at least one stand-pipe in a balance tank that feeds the pouch with flowable material to be packaged. This invention also relates to such apparatus for improving the fill-accuracy of the flexible liquid-packaging pouch.

Abstract: A heat sealing device adapted for the clamping jaws of form, fill and seal machines. The heat sealing device in a single operation produces a transverse seal in thermoplastic film, tubular containers and severs the tube to simultaneously close the top of a filled container and create the bottom of a next-to-be-filled container. The base, upon which the heat sealing element is mounted, has slots that cause any product on the inner surfaces of the films in the area to be sealed to be removed, thereby producing consistently effective heat seals. The heat sealing device is particularly suitable for packaging flowable materials including, for example, chocolate sundae topping, thick sauces and dressings.

Abstract: A vertical form, fill and seal machine for making material-filled, slack pouches, having little or no headspace in the pouches. One jaw of the heat sealing assembly has a jaw wall convex about a vertical axis and located below the heat sealing element. The opposite jaw of the assembly has a jaw wall of an elastomeric sheet stretched under tension and adapted to cooperate with the convex jaw wall. During operation, the jaw walls bias against the material-filled pouch causing air to be expelled from the material and collapsing the tube as the jaws are closed. The machine is useful for making slack pouches filled with flowable material such as emulsions, soft margarine, food dressings, pastes, peanut butter, preserves, pie fillings, marmalade, jellies, dough, ground meat, detergents and granular solids.