Abstract: A tube positioning apparatus has at least one mandrel for positioning tubes for processing. A variable tube positioning stroke length is facilitated for optimizing stroke length and for optimizing the time required to position and process tube, such as by cutting. The tube positioning apparatus comprises a slide block having a mandrel attached thereto. The slide block is actuated on a plurality of slide rails from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the mandrel is retracted and in a second position the mandrel is extended for access by processing tools, such as circular knives for cutting the tube into desired lengths. A programmable sequence timer is provided for establishing desired time intervals during which the slide block and attached mandrel are in the retracted position or the extended position.

Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus for securing covers to metal foil containers, and for sealing the containers. The containers are of the type which have an open top, a horizontal flange surrounding the open top, and a peripheral vertical flange surrounding the horizontal flange, and the cover rests on the horizontal flange. The apparatus includes a stationary platform, on which the unsealed container rests, and a ring which surrounds the platform. The ring is vertically movable, and the top surface of the ring engages the horizontal flange of the container to move the container with it. Located above the ring is a die with an inner camming surface, and the ring will move the container upward so that the vertical flanges of the container engage the inner camming surface to crimp the flange inwardly and downwardly. A press then moves downwardly through an opening in the die to press the crimped flange down so that the cover is secured to the container and the container is sealed.