Zipper fusing machine for attaching zipper material to a plastic web

A zipper fusing machine is mounted on an open frame and includes a zipper supply mechanism, a zipper material fusing mechanism and a plastic web tensioning assembly. The zipper supply mechanism supplies zipper material to the fusing mechanism by a nip-roller assembly. A zipper tension assembly includes a two series of pulleys, one rotatably mounted on a support extending from the frame, the other series of pulleys are rotatably mounted on a pivot rod. The zipper material is wound between the series of pulleys in a serpentine manner. The fuse mechanism includes a pair of endless belts configured to have one vertical leg facing each other and spaced apart such that belts move passively as the zipper material and plastic web pass between the adjacent sides of the belts. A heat bar is located behind each belt and fuse the zipper material to the plastic web as they pass over the heat bar. A plastic web tension assembly is disposed below the fusing mechanism and provides tension to the plastic web as it enters the fusing mechanism whereby creasing of the plastic web is substantially eliminated.