Apparatus for forming tampon sacks and filling same with aggregate

Abstract

Apparatus and procedures for forming and filling tampon sacks with absorptive aggregate in a continuous, high speed operation, the aggregate being delivered in uniform condition to a loading gun comprising a rotary loading wheel having pockets into which measured charges of aggregate are drawn by vacuum; the loading gun delivers the charges of aggregate to a discharge nozzle which propels the discrete charges through a hollow mandrel about which a web of sack forming material is tubed, the tubing upon passing beyond the mandrel being pinched between a lugged belt and a rotary transfer wheel at spaced apart intervals corresponding to the length of the tampon sacks being formed, as defined by preprinted transverse adhesive stripes on the tubed web, the discrete charges of aggregate being captured between adjacent pairs of lugs on the belt; the filled tubing is maintained in contact with the transfer wheel by vacuum until released for delivery to a succeeding operating station, a transfer tube being provided to deliver the filled tubing to the succeeding operating station in proper orientation for closing and sealing the ends of the sacks being formed, the transfer wheel including adjustment means to maintain accurate registry of the filled tubing during transfer.