Apparatus for lining and testing container closures

Abstract

Apparatus is disclosed for lining container closures with seals, and for testing the closures. The apparatus includes means for forming an infeed stream of closures and means interacting with the stream for forming closure groups. Conveyor means accept the groups and convey same to the various stations. At an initial station the shell integrity of the closures is tested; and closures are rejected at a following station if found to be the product of short molding shots or so forth. Thereafter, an adhesive is dispensed to the closure interior, and at a successive station seals are punched from a web and emplaced in the closure. A loose liner detector and removal station detects and removes loose liners from the closures. The sealing characteristics of the closures are then tested at a further station, and closures found to be imperfect are rejected; after which the closures which successfully pass through the several stations are discharged from the apparatus. Depending upon the desired application of the apparatus, certain of the foregoing stations can be omitted; or additional testing stations can be added. The apparatus is also adapted for embodiments wherein testing functions alone are performed, e. g. where so-called linerless caps are to be processed.