Apparatus and method for applying a label to a container

An apparatus for applying a heat shrinkable film to a container having a right-circular, cylindrical sidewall section, and at least one inwardly directed end section, comprising:

• a. first means for applying an adhesive to an inner face of a leading end of the film;
• b. second means for applying an adhesive to the inner face of a trailing end of the film;
• c. means for bringing the sidewall section of the container into contact with said adhesively treated leading end;
• d. means for wrapping the film around the container with said adhesively treated trailing end overlapping said leading end, forming a first compressive seam between portions of leading and trailing ends supported by the sidewall section of the container, and leaving an unsupported, free standing portion of the film and said ends, extending beyond said sidewall section;
• e. label deflector means for forming a second compressive seam between said free standing portions of said leading and trailing ends, by bringing only said ends into compressive contact with the inwardly directed end section of the container;
• and,
• f. means for applying heat at least to said free standing portion of the film, shrinking said portion around the inwardly directed end section of the container.