METHOD OF INSERTING A BARRIER LINER INTO A CLOSURE

摘要

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for positioning a disc, such as a barrier disc ( 20 ), in a closure ( 40 ). In particular, the invention relates to a method and apparatus for positioning a barrier disc ( 20 ) in a self-sealing moulded plastic closure ( 40 ) having a sealing fin arrangement ( 22 ) for providing a seal when the closure ( 40 ) is appropriately applied to a finish of container ( 30 ). The method comprises the steps of providing a barrier disc ( 20 ) in a position ready for insertion within the closure ( 40 ); pressing the barrier disc ( 20 ) relatively into the closure ( 40 ) such that at least a portion of the disc ( 20 ) is positioned at least adjacent the top panel thereof; and applying a fluid pressure to the barrier disc ( 20 ) such that the entire disc is forced into a position at least adjacent the top panel. The apparatus comprises an insertion station for supporting the closure ( 40 ) through the disc positioning process and a tool ( 50 ) that is movable relative to the insertion station to drive the disc ( 20 ) relatively into the closure ( 40 ). The tool ( 50 ) comprises a plunger ( 55 ) adapted to press the disc ( 20 ) into the closure ( 40 ) such that at least a portion of the disc ( 20 ) is adjacent the top panel thereof, and a fluid flow passage through which fluid travels to apply fluid pressure to the disc ( 20 ) and force the entire disc ( 20 ) past the sealing fin ( 22 ) and into a position at least adjacent the top panel.