Can forming apparatus

Abstract

A can forming apparatus interposes a plurality of feed guides projecting part way into a path of feed of a can blank. The feed guides hold a leading can blank and embrace it in cooperating outer peripheral recesses to move the can blank into alignment with a die. Radially extended portions, continuous from the recesses, press the can blank downward after the can blank is released from the recesses. A pair of leaf springs or a pair of rollers temporarily hold the can blank before it is pressed downward by the radially extended portions of feed guides. An elongated punch is advanced into the die bore effect deep drawing and ironing of the can blank in the die bore thereby forming a can body. The punch is driven in reciprocating linear motion, supported on fluid bearings. Pressurized gas is admitted through the punch into the can body at a time in the can-forming cycle appropriate to remove the can from the punch. The pressurized gas separates the can body from the punch.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.