Patrick J Shepherd

US Patent:

41745981, Nov 20, 1979

Filed:

May 24, 1978

Appl. No.:

5/908977

Inventors:

Patrick J. Shepherd - Lodi CA
David L. Hubble - Lodi CA

International Classification:

B65B 312
B65B 302
F25D 308

US Classification:

53431

Abstract:

A method for making packaged gel refrigerant. Polyethylene tubing having a gusset fold along each side edge is cut off in desired lengths and one end of each is heat-sealed. A metered amount of dry, powdered gel base is inserted, and the other end of the bag is then heat-sealed to provide a closed and sealed bag containing the gel base. The bags may then be shipped to a remote location. There a hollow needle is moved to pierce the bag contents through the gusset fold and next to an upper sealed end, the cut leaving a small plastic flap still attached to the bag. A jet of a metered amount of water under high pressure is then sent through the needle to combine with the powder in the lower part of the bag, and then the needle is removed, the cut flap closing most of the needle-entry opening. The water and powder are then mixed together away from that opening, the freshly formed and still forming flexible gel being thereafter distributed substantially evenly throughout the bag.