Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for molding plastic containers and the like, and for removing unwanted flash material therefrom. In the molding step, the unwanted dome portion of a container is molded to have a conveyor engaging groove therein, and the unwanted tail flash portion is molded to have a weakened line area at the point of attachment to the bottom of the container. After ejection from the mold, the container is conveyed to a tail removal device that grips and tears the tail along the weakened line area by a downward and rearward force. The container is conveyed to a dome removal device that engages the groove in the dome, moves the dome against a cutting edge, and rotates the container to effectuate a complete removal of the dome. The tail and dome removal operations are performed quickly and cleanly immediately after ejection of the containers from the mold while the plastic is still hot and pliable.

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First Claim