Abstract: A preform test fixture for receiving a blow molding preform includes a structural base, a measuring device mount, a support arm, and a bar member having preform bores. The bar member is adjustable so that it translates up and down on the support arm, and is removably fastened thereto by a knob assembly screwed into a hole in the bar member. The system includes utilizing several bar members to enable the fixture to measure wall thicknesses of a virtually unlimited number of unique preform designs. The fixture also has a pivot device that enables the bar member to pivot on the support arm. The measuring device mount is adjustable on the base. The adjustment capability of the fixture enables uniform and repeatable wall thickness measurements, concentricity measurements at various locations, and preform tip wall thickness measurement proximate the preform gate.

Abstract: A preform gate cutter for cutting a hole in a preform gate includes a cutter, a housing forming a cutting chamber, and a preform chuck having a longitudinal preform bore for receiving a preform. The preform chuck is insertable into a housing bore. The preform chuck defines a centerline that is coincident with the preform centerline and is aligned with a perimeter of the cutter to enable the cutter to form a hole in the preform at the preform gate. The housing may have a cutting chip discharge slot. A method for cutting a hole at the preform gate is also provided.