Abstract

The seam of the tubular wrapper for the rod-like filler of tobacco or filter material in a cigarette or filter rod making machine is heated by a first heating element during acceleration of the machine from zero speed to normal operating speed. When the machine reaches the normal speed, the seam is additionally heated by a second heating element whose heating action is more pronounced that that of the first heating element. The first heating element is caused to engage the moving seam when the first increment of adhesive film, which is applied to one marginal portion of the wrapper by a paster, reaches the first heating element. The second heating element is moved into engagement with the seam when the RPM of the prime mover for the filler transporting conveyor reaches a preselected value. Both heating elements are disengaged from the seam in response to deactivation of the prime mover with a delay which corresponds to the interval elapsing between deactivation of the prime mover and the transport of last adhesive-coated increment of the one marginal portion to a position of register with the first heating element.