Method for processing bottle caps

Abstract

The present invention provides an apparatus and method for processing lined caps. The method includes the step of molding at an elevated temperature a liner having a raised sealing ring inside the cap, and advancing a stream of lined caps from a first position to a second position, while supplying cooling air to the lined caps to cool the liner and form a skin at least on an upper surface of the sealing ring. The method may further include the step of applying a vacuum to remove undesirable gases from the liner. The vacuum can also be applied within the raised sealing ring to create suction to lift properly formed lined caps from the advancing stream. The cooling, gas removal, and inspection steps can occur at the cap processing rate. The present invention further provides an apparatus for processing a bottle cap. The apparatus includes a plurality of rotary turntables for sequentially cooling, inspecting, and removing the bottle caps. The first turntable receives the lined caps from the molding machine at a first position, and advances the lined caps to a second position through an enclosure with cooling air. The second turntable includes inspection stations at spaced circumferential positions and a vacuum pump for directing a vacuum to the inspection stations. The vacuum creates suction that lifts the lined cap into contact with the station. If the lined cap is properly formed the suction keeps the cap in contact with the station, if not the cap falls out of contact with the station. Properly formed caps are removed from their elevated position at the third turntable.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.