Method of converting a plastic container refurbishing machine to a plastic container reforming machine

摘要

A method for converting a refurbishing machine into a reforming apparatus. The apparatus reforms a portion of a plastic container using induction heating. The method includes the steps of replacing heating assemblies of the refurbishing machine with the reform heating assembly and the reform cooling assembly, respectively, using the existing equipment utilities of the refurbishing machine.

主权项

1. A method of converting a plastic container refurbishing machine into a plastic container reforming machine, wherein the refurbishing machine comprises a frame, a first turret with a first heating assembly and a second turret with a second heating assembly, the method comprising the steps of:
providing a reform heating assembly; replacing the first heating assembly of the refurbishing machine with the reform heating assembly, wherein the reform heating assembly is capable of being heated to a temperature above 500 degrees F. and heating a portion of a plastic container to be reformed without contacting the plastic container, and wherein the reform heating assembly comprises:
a mount adapted to engage the frame and an insulated body fastened to the mount, wherein the insulated body comprises a top having a centrally disposed buttress extending therefrom; anda power and a thermocouple connection; and providing a reform cooling assembly; replacing the second heating assembly of the refurbishing machine with the reform cooling assembly, wherein the reform cooling assembly comprises:
a forming die capable of being maintained at a temperature below the set temperature of the plastic out of which the container was formed and adapted to contact and reform the portion of the container;a support housing a Peltier thermoelectric cooler above the forming die;a heat sink above the support housing for removing heat from the Peltier thermoelectric cooler; anda power supply and an adapter.