Abstract: An apparatus for forming and sealing a fin at a gabled end of each carton in a plurality of cartons traveling along a predetermined carton path is set forth. In accordance with the apparatus, each carton has a first plurality of opposing top flaps disposed transverse to the predetermined carton path and a second plurality of opposing top flaps disposed longitudinal to the predetermined carton path. The first and second plurality of opposing top flaps are adapted to form a gabled structure of the gable top container. The apparatus includes a first pre-folder for directing the first pair of opposing top flaps of each carton toward each other, thereby also causing the second pair of opposing top flaps to be urged toward each other. A second pre-folder is disposed downstream of the first pre-folder along the predetermined carton path for increasingly directing the second plurality of opposing top flaps of each carton together as each carton travels along the predetermined carton path.

Abstract: A domer assembly for use with a punch reciprocable along a path on a frame of an ironing machine to reform an end wall of a container includes a center domer element surrounded by an annular element that projects beyond the surface of the center element with separate support means for the respective elements. The support means consists of a first support member carrying the center domer element with resilient compressible members interposed between the support member and the frame and a second support member supporting the annular element and also having a resilient member between the frame and the support. The respective resilient compressible members are identical in construction and are exposed so that they can readily be inspected, with independent separately pressurizable means for the respective compressible members.

Abstract: An internal diameter gauge for measuring thin wall containers is disclosed herein. The gauge includes a pair of mandrel halves that are supported between a shaft and a housing with cooperating camming surfaces on the mandrel halves, the housing and the shaft which move the peripheral semi-circular surfaces of the mandrel halves radially. The camming surfaces on the housing and shaft are biased toward each other through a biasing mechanism between the shaft and the housing while the mandrel halves are biased toward each other through a further biasing mechanism and a handle cooperates with the shaft to displace the shaft and allow the mandrel halves to contract.