Abstract: A backing sheet, and a system and method of manufacturing a backing sheet with stapling tabs. The system includes a roller device configured to apply an adherent material to a first side of the backing sheet continuously fed from a feed roll. The sheet is then fed to a first pair of folders configured to fold the backing sheet along the edges such that the adherent material holds the first fold in place. The sheet passes through a second pair of folders that form a second fold along the edges of the sheet by folding in the opposite direction as in the first fold. Advantageously, an applicator device is configured to apply a tacky substance, such as a starch solution, between the contacting portions of the second fold, prior to the formation of the second fold. The tacky substance maintains the second fold and prevents the stapling tab from opening during further manufacturing and packaging processes.

Abstract: In a first embodiment of an insulation manufacturing system and method, the system comprises a curing oven tower for heating uncured or partially cured insulation mats. The curing oven tower includes a plurality of vertical oven zones comprising heat sources through which the insulation mats are moved. In a second embodiment, a insulation manufacturing system is provided including a curing oven tower for heating uncured or partially cured insulation mats. The curing oven tower comprises a heat source and a conveyor system for moving the insulation mats both vertically and horizontally through the curing oven tower in a serpentine path.

Abstract: An insulation blanket includes a fibrous insulation layer and a facing material. The fibrous insulation layer has a first major surface and a second major surface and at least one longitudinal cut which extends from the first major surface to the second major surface and forms adjacent layer sections. Each layer section has at least one inner sidewall. At least a first inner sidewall of a first insulation layer section has applied thereto an adhesive for adhering together an adjacent second inner sidewall of a second adjacent layer section. The facing material has separation means which extends substantially along the at least one longitudinal cut. The facing material is disposed on the first major surface of the fibrous insulation layer.

Abstract: A rolling apparatus including a first elongated projection, and a second elongated projection connected to a rotatably mounted shaft. The shaft is attached to a crank, motor or other device that can be used to manually or automatically rotate the shaft about an axis. A leading end of an elongated sheet of material is positioned between the elongated projections, and the elongated projections are then rotated with respect to one another about the axis of the shaft to form a rolled item. The rolled item is removed from the elongated projections by sliding the rolled item in a direction parallel to the axis. The rolled item is then inserted within an open end of a receptacle. Alternatively, the receptacle is slid over the rolled item following the rolling procedure, and prior to removal of the rolled item from the projections. Then the rolled item with the receptacle is slid smoothly off the elongated projections for further processing or sealing of the receptacle.