Printed synthetic resinous corks and method of making same
US5641573A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 19, 1993 |
| Grant date | Jun 24, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 19, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/31844
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method for printing the cylindrical side surfaces of synthetic resinous corks used for wine bottles which are normally not receptive to printing inks. The method includes the steps of gas flame heating of the corks to slightly soften the surface and deposit unburned carbon particles thereat. The application of a printed image using an offset roller, the drying of the ink in a heated conduit, and the subsequent application of a high viscosity lubricant in dot pattern using an offset printing roller. The application of the lubricant in a pattern covering less than the entire surface permits the cork to release sulphur dioxide gas for oxygen scavenging of any air passing into the bottle, as well as air disposed in the head space within the bottle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.