Container with an encapsulated top insert and method and apparatus for making same

摘要

Apparatus and method for molding, forming and filling a container having an insert at the container top are disclosed. According to the preferred form of the method and apparatus, a length of a hollow tube parison is extruded and then cut, molded, and filled while positioned between main mold halves. A stopper or like insert is tranferred to a holding and insertion member and when a blowing and filling nozzle has been completely removed from the top opening of the filled container, the blowing and filling nozzle and the insertion member that is carrying the stopper are moved together to position the insertion member and stopper over the container. The insertion member is then moved downwardly to deposit the stopper within the upwardly extending portion of the parison tube. Upper sealing molds are then closed to form the upper portion of the parison around the stopper to partially encapsulate the stopper. A frangible web may also be formed by the upper sealing molds in a portion of the parison circumferentially around and above the stopper while using the insertion member as an anvil. A break-off tab or overcap may be subsequently formed above the stopper at the frangible web by an additional set of upper sealing molds after the insertion member is retracted. In use, the tab may be broken away at the frangible web to expose an upper surface of the stopper and permit access to the stopper.