Abstract: A method is provided for cutting tying elements of successive tobacco leaf bundles, wherein the butt ends of the leaves of each bundle are grouped and secured together by a transversely extending tying element disposed in surrounding relation to the grouped together butt ends. The method comprises moving successive bundles along a predetermined path past a cutting station with the grouped butt ends of successive bundles disposed transverse to the path within a predetermined transverse position within the path. A liquid jet configuration is established at the cutting station and moved through a repetitious path having a transverse extent greater than the transverse extent of the tying elements within the transverse position of the butt ends of the bundles. The moving jet configuration is directed onto the butt ends of successive bundles during the movement thereof along the predetermined path through the cutting station to transversely cut the tying elements thereof.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for installing a thermometer-receiving well within a fluid service pipe without interrupting the service in the pipe. A rod member is provided which defines a first end for removably receiving a cutting member for cutting through the fluid service pipe. The cutting member is then removed from the rod member and a connecting member is removably attached to the first end of the rod member in place of the cutting member. The connecting member is adapted to removably receive a thermometer well whereby the rod member can be used to cut through the fluid service pipe and to install the thermometer-receiving well within the fluid service pipe without interrupting the service in the pipe.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing tobacco filler by cutting whole tobacco leaves, including stems, is provided. The leaves, with stems in, are cut to produce strands of lamina and strands of stem and lamina. The strands are carded to disentangle them and then put through a separator to separate the strands of lamina, for use as filler, from strands of stem and lamina. The strands of stem and lamina can be carded again to disentangle may remaining strands of lamina that there may be, and the strands can then be passed through another separator. The process can be repeated several times if necessary.

Abstract: A tobacco stripping system capable of rapid high volume production, comprises a set of high pressure fluid jet nozzles for cutting the leaves into strips. The system also includes conveyor devices for transporting the leaves to and away from the nozzles.