Abstract: Methods and apparatus for applying a flying splicing tape to a roll of sheet material. A preferred embodiment of the invention provides methods and apparatus for lifting a portion of the outer-most layer of sheet material away from a roll of sheet material to form a lifted portion of the outer-most layer, applying a splicing tape to a wound portion of the roll, and applying pressure to the lifted portion of the outer-most layer to progressively place the lifted portion of the outer-most layer in contact with the remainder of the roll and the splicing tape.

Abstract: A method of preventing loosening of a wire wound around a reel for fastening reinforcing bars. The method comprises pressurizing an outer circumferential surface of the wire inwardly in the radius directions of the reel so that elastic forces in the directions which the outer diameter of the wire is increased are deprived therefrom, and the condition of wound wire is maintained after the pressure is released.

Abstract: An apparatus for tensioning an outer layer or web material about a roll of web material includes a tension roller assembly. The tension roller assembly is defined by a rotatable idler roller that is movable into and out of contact with the outer layer of web material by way of a linear drive mechanism. Idler roller contact with the web material outer layer tensions the outer layer about the roll of web material. A tensioner associated with the idler roller adjusts the rotational drag on the idler roller which controls the amount of tension that the idler roller applies to the web material outer layer. A vacuum retraction assembly of the tensioning apparatus acts to further tension the web material outer layer. The vacuum retraction assembly includes a vacuum bar having a plurality of vacuum cups coupled to a vacuum source.