Hollow forming blocks for double package forming machines

Abstract

An improved forming block (10) is described for forming double packages including a liner enclosed within a carton. The forming block (10) includes a mandrel (12) having a free, open end (30) partially closed by an end piece (14). The mandrel (12) includes a hollow core (16) having a periphery around which the double package is formed. The mandrel (12) further includes a mounting bracket (18) which mounts the mandrel (12) in a cantilever manner to the forming machine and includes a hollow interconnecting portion (20). Ambient air is in communication to the interior of the core (16) by apertures (56) formed in the interconnecting portion (20). Air communication is also provided from the interior of the core (16) and the interior of the double package through apertures (76) formed in the end piece (14) and through vent holes (40) formed in the core (16) adjacent the open end (30). Longitudinal grooves (34) are formed in each of the sides (22, 24) of the periphery of the core (16) and corresponding to the hooks (36) of the stripper bars (38) for providing air communication between the liner of the double package and the mandrel (12) to provide communication of ambient air therealong and to allow movement of the stripper bars (38) without engaging the mandrel (12). In the preferred form, the vent holes (40) are located within and in air communication with the longitudinal grooves (34).