Method and apparatus for applying adhesives to the edges of a slit tube

摘要

A method and apparatus for applying adhesive the edges of a slit tubular body as the tubular body is advanced along a path of travel is provided. The apparatus includes a tape feed for feeding a release tape having an adhesive applied to a surface thereof, a cutting blade for forming a slit having opposing edges in the tubular body such that the cutting blade is interposed between the opposing edges, and a housing member positioned along the path of travel. The housing member is positioned for directing the release tape along the exterior surface of the housing member in a line parallel to the path of travel of the tubular body such that the adhesive is applied to the at least one of the opposing edges of the slit. The housing member is further positioned for covering at least a portion of the cutting blade and separating at least one of the edges of the slit from the cutting blade to reduce frictional engagement of the cutting blade with the tubular body.