Importance

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Abstract

In a method for forming reclosable packages on a conventional form-fill-and-seal (FFS) machines, first and second interlocking members are fed toward and longitudinally parallel to the filling tube thereof in an uninterlocked condition. A thermoplastic film is wrapped around the filling tube enclosing the first and second interlocking members, and the lateral edges of the film are bonded together to form a longitudinal seam. At least one of the first and second interlocking members is attached by a heat sealing bar to the inside of the tube so formed from the thermoplastic film. A fold is formed in the tube between the first and second interlocking members to bring the members into a facing relationship, and the members are then interlocked with one another. At intervals, transverse seams are formed to produce individual reclosable packages, which may also be separated from one another. The packages are filled with product during the course of their manufacture. The filling tube may taper inwardly so that the fold can be formed and the interlocking members interlocked as a space of increasing width forms between a forming guide and the inwardly tapering filling tube.

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First Claim