Method for guiding the seam allowance in seam sealing

A process for applying seam sealing tape to a seamed joint of a fabric to effect a seal of said joint, said process comprising:

• (a) feeding a seamed joint of a fabric along the length thereof, to and through a consolidation nip, said seamed joint having a seam allowance,
• (b) simultaneously feeding and guiding a seam sealing tape adjacent said seamed joint into and through said nip,
• (c) guiding said seam allowance through guide means having an opening therein of a size and shape sufficient to receive and guide said seam allowance passing therethrough into alignment longitudinally with respect to said tape, followed by
• (d) consolidating said tape and seamed joint within said nip and effecting a seal therebetween,
• wherein said opening is a slot of a size sufficient to accept and guide said seam allowance passing there-through, the open end of said slot being positioned adjacent said seamed joint and aligned with said tape,
• said slot thereby aligning said seamed joint and said tape,
• wherein said slot extends from its said open end oriented at an angle upwardly approximately 45° from the plane of said fabric,
• the process including absorbing shock imposed upon said guide means,
• wherein said shock absorbing is effected by a spring-loaded, shock absorbing frame affixed adjacent said nip and on which is mounted said guide means.