TODAY’S PATENT – METHOD OF MAKING LEAD-FREE CAPSULES FOR WINE BOTTLES

The Method of making lead-free capsules for wine bottles was invented by Thomas H. Womack on December 22, 1992 bearing patent number US5172460A.

Wine bottles have long been provided with capsules or secondary closures forming a decorative closure or covering for the open neck of the bottle. The neck of the wine bottle is of course sealed by a cork. Thus, the capsule does not actually serve as a closure except to prevent exposure of a portion of the cork.

However, based on longstanding tradition, the capsule is considered an important part of the wine bottle, especially in providing a decorative closure. Thus, at least for premium wines, the capsule and label are considered important decorative elements of the bottle.

A lead-free capsule for wine bottles and the like and a method for producing the capsule to have similar characteristics as traditional lead and lead-tin capsules include the selection of a laminate of metallic foil and plastic sheet having a soft metallic surface look and feel, the laminate having characteristics of flexibility, ductility and adhesion permitting the laminate to be drawn to form a continuous, seamless capsule configuration while maintaining laminate integrity.