Inventors:
Steven A. Rechtsteiner - Stockton CA
Albert F. Rica - Stockton CA
John C. Davis - Palentine IL
Ronald J. Reiss - Hoffman Estates IL
J. Richard Heron - Danville CA
Lloyd F. Hay - Oakdale CA
Assignee:
FranRica Mfg. Inc. - Stockton CA
Container Technologies, Inc. - Barrington IL
International Classification:
B65B 3102
B65B 5502
B65B 4326
Abstract:
A fitmentless, aseptic, temporarily sealed pouch is formed from two multiple-ply side walls sealed together at marginal edges. A portion of the seal is removable. Half seals joining the plies within each side wall are disposed in the side walls proximate the removable seal, but do not seal the side walls together. Apparatus and processes for handling, filling and sealing the pouch in an aseptic chamber include apparatus for moving the pouch through a sterilant bath, into and out of an aseptic chamber, a cutter for cutting off the removable seal, and vacuum jaws for engaging, stretching and opening the pouch. Once opened, the pouch is filled, then closed, sealed and moved out of the chamber through the bath.