Apparatus for screen printing bottles

Abstract

Apparatus for printing on the exterior surface of a generally round container such as a plastic or glass bottle or the like includes several stations that perform or cooperate to print the container. The stations are in line with each other and preferably are in line with both the production fabricating and the production filling lines of the container as well. There are four basic sections, the first of which is the loading section that successively receives and transports the individual containers towards a printing station. Before reaching the printing station, the containers may be flame-treated. After being imprinted, the containers, which up until this time are in horizontal condition pass through a first drying section and then are automatically rotated 90.degree. to a vertical position prior to entering the production filling line. When necessary, a second drying station may be provided immediately downstream of the 90.degree. turn mechanism and just prior to entering the filling production line. While moving through the flame-treating station, the printing station and at least the first drying station, the containers are continuously rotated about their own longitudinal axis. Actuation of a squeegee device in the printing station is prevented when no container is present.