Dixie Consumer Products LLC

Luke G Stumpf

Mark B Littlejohn

Kenneth J Zirbel

Albert D Johns

Thomas W Zelinski

Mircea T Sofronie

Albert D Jones

Gary J Reif

The present invention provides an improved pressware forming apparatus. At least one of die pairs used in the apparatus can be narrowed in a cross-direction as compared to the cross-directional width of pressware forming tools used in prior an apparatus. The present invention allows addition of at least one additional die pair in the pressware forming tool when used in a standard sized pressware forming apparatus. The present invention also provides components for use in such apparatus and methods of making pressware from the apparatus herein.

Pressware forming apparatus, components therefore and methods of making pressware therefrom

A heated, segmented pressware die set for making pressware containers from a paperboard blank includes a plurality of guide keys mounted between at least one of an inner member of a punch or die and an outer ring which reciprocates independently. Each guide key extends in an outward direction from the central axis of the die set. The guide keys are positioned, configured and dimensioned to engage the outer ring in order to limit rotation of the outer ring with respect to the inner member of the punch or die. In a preferred construction, the guide keys have radially extending planar surfaces which cooperate with guide channels having like surfaces such that clearances necessary to accommodate thermal expansion are reduced, greatly increasing durability of the tool.

Segmented pressware die set with anti-twist guide keys

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Kaukauna, WI, United States of America

Luke G Stumpf