In order to produce a neat, strong hole in a VFF&S or HFF&S bag, it is desirable to use a heated punch. A hot punch is now available which will burn a hole in the bag while at the same time, sealing the perimeter of the holes. The temperature of the punch is approximately 150°F hotter than the jaw surface. As the jaws come together for sealing, the punch burns a hole in the bag. A tab is left on the bag similar to the tab left by a mechanical punch.

To date this punch has been installed on such vertical machines as Mira Pak, Transwrap, Triangle, Universal, Woodman, Hayssen, and Stokes; and on Doboy and FMC horizontal machines. These punches have been in operation for up to three years and are working very well.

We have been successful in punching all OPP single webs and laminations. We can punch light (250) cellophane when laminated to OPP. The punch will not work with foil or paper.

We are limited to machines with existing mechanical punches in order to make use of the existing jaws. If a customer wants to punch a hole on a machine not presently set up for a punch, they would order a new set of jaws from the machine manufacturer. The minimum seal width should be 1". This should assure enough materials above and below the hole to supply a good seal and support the bag when hung on a rack.

The conversion parts consist basically of a Superior Powerstat, a small heater and a punch of the shape and size the account is presently using. The cost of converting a vertical machine is approximately providing they have an existing punch. For the horizontal machines an extra set of slip rings is necessary. The cost on these machines is $500.-$600.

Since many accounts have different styles and sizes of punches, it is necessary to survey each account to determine whether an existing type is suitable or another must be designed. We presently have two designs - one is eliptical, 1/2" wide, and one is the standard round, in 1/4", 5/16" and 3/8" diameters. We can also make the delta and sombrero type.