Method for producing closure gaskets

Abstract

A method and an apparatus for economically manufacturing gasketed closures is described. Gasket material is placed within the closure and subsequently reformed to provide a gasket profile capable of forming an effective seal when the closure is applied to a container. The gasket material may be deposited in the closure as a hot-melt or as a preformed cut-out. The deposited material is subsequently reformed to have a desired profile by inserting a compression punch or a roller into the closure. The invention is adapted for the use of non-PVC containing materials such as certain thermoplastic elastomer materials which are non-flowable in a molten state and which may have a viscosity index of greater than about 40 meter-grams torque at 175.degree. C. The gasket materials may optionally be foamed prior to reforming to create a finished gasket possessing a high density area more resistant to damage when the closure is applied to a container.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.