Patent Publication Number: US-2022212388-A1

Title: Method and apparatus for producing a dispensing part of a container, and dispensing part of a container

Description:
The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for producing, by compression moulding, a dispensing part of a container, through which a product contained in the container can be dispensed. 
     The dispensing part, which may also be called “head”, “shoulder”, or “spout”, is intended to be joined to a container body so as to define, during use, a passage for the outflow of the product present in the container. 
     The dispensing part may, for example, be suitable for being joined to a container body for obtaining a squeezable container. The squeezable container may be a tube package intended to contain cosmetic products, such as cream or toothpaste, food products, such as mayonnaise or sauce, pharmaceutical products, and others. Alternatively, the squeezable container may be a pouch package, of the type suitable for containing a food product such as a yoghurt, a fruit juice or another beverage. 
     The dispensing part may also be suitable for being joined to a semi-rigid container body, such as a container body made of a laminated material comprising at least one layer made of paper and one layer made of polymeric material. 
     Alternatively, the dispensing part could be joined to a rigid container body, for example a bottle body made of polymeric material. 
     The method and the apparatus according to the invention allow the obtainment of a dispensing part of a container having a multi-layer structure, in particular comprising a plurality of layers made of polymeric material, or having a single-layer structure, that is to say, comprising a single layer of polymeric material. 
     The invention further relates to a dispensing part of a container intended to be joined to a container body so as to create a squeezable container, or a semi-rigid or rigid container. 
     Dispensing parts or heads for containers are known, in particular for squeezable tube packages, which comprise two layers of polymeric material. In particular, the prior art heads may comprise an inner layer made, for example, of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), having gas barrier properties, and an outer layer made, for example, of polyethylene (PE), intended to be welded to a tube in order to obtain the squeezable tube package. 
     The heads of the type described above are obtained by producing two pre-worked head elements, that is to say, an inner pre-worked element, for example made of PET and intended to form the inner layer of the head, and an outer pre-worked element, for example made of PE and intended to form the outer layer of the head. The two pre-worked elements may be produced, for example, by compression moulding. Then, the two pre-worked elements are assembled, in such a way as to obtain the head. 
     A drawback of the method described above for producing heads for containers is that it involves relatively long production times. In fact, in addition to production of the individual pre-worked head elements, an additional assembly operation is necessary for joining the two pre-worked elements, which increases the production times and consequently the costs. Moreover, the heads for containers produced with the method described above may be difficult to recycle. In fact, in order to produce two pre-worked head elements which can be handled separately, each pre-worked element must have a predetermined minimum thickness and consequently a predetermined minimum weight. That is to ensure that each pre-worked element has a minimum structure strength which allows it to be handled separately. Each material which forms a pre-worked head element is therefore present in a significant quantity in the finished head. Consequently, the polymeric materials which form the two pre-worked head elements can only be recycled if the two pre-worked head elements are separated from each other, which is extremely difficult. 
     There are also prior art heads for containers which have a single-layer structure, that is to say, which are made using a single polymeric material, which are produced by compression moulding a dose having an annular shape, that is to say, a dose provided with a hole intended to create a dispensing opening in the head. 
     However, the annular doses have the disadvantage of being quite difficult to obtain and to handle. 
     An object of the invention is to improve the methods and the apparatuses for producing dispensing parts for containers, as well as the dispensing parts of containers of a known type. 
     Another object is to provide a method and an apparatus which allow the production of dispensing parts for containers, in a simple way and with good productivity. 
     A further object is to provide a method and an apparatus which allow the production of dispensing parts for containers, for example having a multi-layer structure, which can easily be recycled. 
     In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a method comprising in sequence the steps of:
         dispensing a continuous polymeric extrudate in the molten state;   separating from the continuous polymeric extrudate a dose substantially having the shape of a parallelepiped, the dose having a separation surface along which the dose has been separated from the continuous extrudate, the dose further having a face adjacent to the separation surface;   conveying the dose towards a mould comprising a first mould part and a second mould part;   shaping the dose in the mould by moving the first mould part and the second mould part one towards the other along a moulding direction arranged transversally to said face, thereby obtaining a dispensing part of a container, the dispensing part comprising:   an edge zone suitable for being joined to a container body;   a neck surrounding a passage through which a product contained in the container can be dispensed;   a membrane which closes the passage, the passage being intended to be opened after the shaping step, so that said product can flow out.       

     Owing to the first aspect of the invention, it is possible to obtain a dispensing part of a container in a simple way and with good productivity. In particular, the dispensing part of a container may be produced by compression moulding a dose substantially having the shape of a parallelepiped, that is to say, a dose which is particularly simple to produce and handle. 
     In fact, the parallelepiped dose may be obtained by a simple cutting operation for cutting the continuous polymeric extrudate, which avoids using complex devices for dispensing the annular doses seen in the prior art. Moreover, the parallelepiped dose does not result in the production of waste. 
     Finally, the parallelepiped dose can be conveyed simply, without undergoing excessive deformations, for example by keeping one of its faces adhering to a substantially flat conveying surface. 
     In an embodiment, the continuous polymeric extrudate is a multi-layer extrudate and the dose has a plurality of layers arranged parallel to its face adjacent to the separation surface. 
     By using a dose comprising a plurality of layers, it is possible to obtain a dispensing part having a multi-layer structure with a single shaping step, in which all of the layers of the dispensing part are simultaneously shaped. Therefore, it is not necessary to separately produce and then assemble a plurality of pre-worked elements of a dispensing part, each pre-worked element being made of a different material, as happened in the prior art. Moreover, owing to the moulding direction arranged transversally, specifically perpendicularly, to the face of the dose to which the layers of which the multi-layer dose is composed are parallel, the materials of those layers are able to flow evenly over the entire extent of the dispensing part. Finally, by simultaneously shaping all of the layers, one or more layers of the plurality of layers may have a small thickness as desired, provided that it does not tear during the shaping step. That makes the dispensing part easier to recycle, since it is possible to ensure that the material forming the thinnest layer is present in a percentage which is less than a predetermined minimum, so that the whole dispensing part can be considered recyclable based on the regulations in force. 
     In an embodiment, during the conveying step, there is provided changing the orientation of the dose from an initial orientation to a final orientation, in which the above-mentioned face of the dose is positioned transversally, specifically perpendicularly, to the moulding direction. 
     In the final orientation, the above-mentioned face of the dose may lie in a substantially horizontal plane. 
     In the initial orientation, the above-mentioned face of the dose may be substantially parallel to the moulding direction. 
     By changing the orientation of the dose during the conveying step, it is possible to make the final orientation of the dose independent of its initial orientation, in such a way that, whatever orientation the dose has at the end of the dispensing step (that is to say, the initial orientation), the dose can enter the mould with the orientation (that is to say, the final orientation) best suited for the shaping step. 
     In an embodiment, in the initial orientation, the above-mentioned face of the dose lies in a non-horizontal plane, for example in a substantially vertical plane. 
     In an embodiment, the orientation of the dose may be changed with a rotating movement which the dose performs during the conveying step. 
     In addition to the rotating movement, during the conveying step the dose may perform a transferring movement along a path towards the mould. 
     The transferring movement may be a further rotating movement, for example about a central axis which is different from an axis of rotation about which the rotating movement which changes the orientation of the dose occurs. 
     That allows the orientation of the dose to be changed in a particularly simple way. 
     In an embodiment, the dose may comprise a plurality of layers including at least one outer layer, intended to remain on the outside of the dispensing part, and one barrier layer, having barrier properties, particularly against gases. 
     There may also be an inner layer, suitable for facing the inside of the container. 
     In this case, the barrier layer is located in an intermediate position between the outer layer and the inner layer. 
     In an embodiment, the passage surrounded by the neck is opened by removing the membrane in a position downstream of the mould, before applying a closing element on the neck. 
     The closing element may comprise, for example, a cap or a sealing film. Specifically, the membrane may be removed in a plant for producing containers, for example outside the mould and downstream of the latter. In more detail, the membrane may be removed in a position interposed between the mould in which the dispensing part is produced and a welding unit in which the dispensing part is welded to the container body. 
     In an embodiment, the membrane is removed in a cutting step performed downstream of the mould. 
     In an embodiment, the cutting step may comprise cutting an end portion of the dispensing part along a cutting plane arranged transversally, for example perpendicularly, to a longitudinal axis around which the neck extends. 
     The cutting step creates, in the cutting plane, a peripheral edge of the neck, to which a sealing film can subsequently be applied. 
     The sealing film, which is fixed to the neck for example by welding, is intended to be removed by the consumer when the container is opened for the first time, so that it is possible to dispense the product contained in the container. 
     If the dose comprises a plurality of layers including at least one barrier layer, by applying the sealing film along the peripheral edge defined in the cutting plane, it is possible to optimise the barrier properties of the container. 
     In fact, since the barrier layer of the dispensing part emerges in the cutting plane, the barrier layer can be directly joined to the sealing film, which in turn has barrier properties. 
     In this way, it is possible to minimise, or even eliminate, gaseous exchanges between the inside of the container and the outside environment. 
     In an embodiment, the cutting step may comprise cutting the membrane frontally along a closed cutting line, for example along a circular cutting line. That allows minimisation of the quantity of material to be eliminated in order to open the passage surrounded by the neck. 
     In an embodiment, the passage is opened by a user who pierces the membrane after having removed a cap applied on the neck, for example using an end zone of the cap opposite to that in which the cap is applied to the neck. 
     In this case, the membrane performs a protective function for the product contained in the container, until the moment of use. 
     In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus comprising:
         a dispensing device for dispensing a continuous polymeric extrudate in the molten state;   a separating element configured to separate from the continuous polymeric extrudate a dose substantially having the shape of a parallelepiped, the dose having a separation surface along which the dose has been separated from the continuous extrudate and a face adjacent to the separation surface;   at least one mould comprising a first mould part and a second mould part, the first mould part and the second mould part being movable relative to each other along a moulding direction between a closed position, in which a forming chamber is defined between the first mould part and the second mould part, the forming chamber being shaped to obtain a dispensing part of a container, and an open position;   at least one conveying element for conveying the dose along a path towards the mould;   a first movement device for moving the conveying element along said path;   a second movement device for turning the conveying element during said path, so as to change the orientation of the dose until a final orientation is reached with which the dose is released into the mould, said face being arranged transversally to the moulding direction in the final orientation.       

     This allows the obtainment of a dispensing part of a container in a simple way and with good productivity, as described in more detail with reference to the first aspect of the invention. 
     In an embodiment, the first mould part comprises a punch intended for shaping an inner surface of the dispensing part. 
     The second mould part comprises a cavity intended for shaping an outer surface of the dispensing part. 
     In an embodiment, the first mould part is positioned below the second mould part. 
     By positioning the first mould part below the second mould part, the conveying element can release the dose by making it fall onto an upper region of the punch. This minimises the distance that the dose has to travel as it falls freely from the conveying element. This allows a reduction in deformations of the dose and increases its positioning precision in the mould. 
     In a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a dispensing part of a container, the dispensing part having a multi-layer structure which includes at least two layers of polymeric material, wherein the dispensing part comprises:
         an edge zone suitable for being joined to a container body;   a neck extending around a longitudinal axis and surrounding a passage through which a product contained in the container can be dispensed;       

     wherein the neck is delimited, on the opposite side to the edge zone, by a free edge which lies in a plane positioned transversally to the longitudinal axis, said at least two layers of polymeric material both emerging on the free edge. 
     If one of said at least two layers of polymeric material is a barrier layer having barrier properties against gases and/or light, the dispensing part according to the third aspect of the invention may be used for producing a container having particularly good barrier properties. In fact, it is possible to join to the free edge, for example by welding, a sealing film which also has good barrier properties against gases and/or light. Since the barrier layer of the dispensing part emerges on the free edge, the sealing film can be joined to the barrier layer of the dispensing part, which allows optimisation of the barrier properties of the final container. 
     In an embodiment, said at least two layers of polymeric material comprise a functional layer, for example a barrier layer. 
     The functional layer is bent towards the longitudinal axis near the free edge delimiting the neck. 
     Thus, the functional layer has a tubular shape with a transversal dimension that, at the free edge, is smaller than the transversal dimension of the functional layer at a portion of the neck opposite the edge zone. 
     The transversal dimension which decreases towards the free edge is a diameter of the functional layer, if the neck is substantially cylindrical. 
     Thus, the dimensions of the passage at the free edge can be reduced, which allows a reduction in the dimensions of a sealing film intended to be joined to the free edge in order to close the passage. Consequently, it is possible to have a saving in the quantity of sealing film to be used. 
    
    
     
       The invention can be better understood and implemented with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate several example, non-limiting embodiments of it, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view showing a portion of an apparatus for producing dispensing parts of a container; 
         FIG. 2  is a partial cross-section, showing a mould of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view, schematically illustrating a multi-layer dose processable by the apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic cross-section, showing a portion of mould in a step after that of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view, showing how a multi-layer dose is shaped in the mould, in the position of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-section, showing a dispensing part for a tube package; 
         FIG. 7  is a cross-section like that of  FIG. 6 , showing the dispensing part after a cutting operation which has removed a membrane which initially closed a passage of the neck; 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-section like that of  FIG. 6 , showing the dispensing part after a cutting operation which has removed a membrane which initially closed a passage of the neck, the cutting operation being performed according to a method different to that of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-section, showing a dispensing part according to an alternative embodiment, suitable for being joined to a rigid container body. 
     
    
    
     Hereinafter are described a method and an apparatus for producing, by compression moulding, a dispensing part  2  of a container intended to be coupled to a container body for creating a finished container. The dispensing part  2  may also be defined as a “head”, or “shoulder”, or “spout”. In the example described below with reference to  FIGS. 1 to 8 , the dispensing part  2  is usable in a tube package. In more detail, the above-mentioned dispensing part  2  is intended to be joined to a flexible tube, which can be squeezed by a user to make a product contained in the tube come out through a dispensing opening in the dispensing part. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , the dispensing part  2  comprises an edge zone  3 , intended to be joined to the flexible tube, for example by welding. 
     The dispensing part  2  further comprises a neck  4 , positioned on the opposite side to the edge zone  3 . The neck  4  may be externally provided with an element for removable fixing, which may comprise a thread  5 , suitable for allowing a cap to be selectively fixed to the neck  4  for closing the dispensing opening. The neck  4  extends around a longitudinal axis Z. 
     In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, the element for removable fixing may be absent. In this case, the container (for example the tube package) obtained by joining the dispensing part  2  to a container body may be closed by a sealing film fixed to a free upper edge of the neck  4 , for example by gluing or welding. 
     An intermediate portion  6  is interposed between the neck  4  and the edge zone  3 , the intermediate portion  6  having a transversal dimension which gradually decreases from the edge zone  3  towards the neck  4 . If the dispensing part  2  is designed to be joined to a cylindrical tube, the intermediate portion  6  has a frustoconical shape, like an upside-down funnel, and the transversal dimension which gradually decreases is a diameter. However, the dispensing part  2  may also have other shapes, for example if the dispensing part  2  is intended to be joined to a tube having an oval or elliptical cross-section. 
     Inside the neck  3  a passage  50  is defined through which a substance contained in the tube package can be dispenses. The passage  50 , which may have a cylindrical shape, extends along the axis Z. 
     The dispensing part  2  comprises a membrane  43  provided at an end of the neck  4  opposite to the edge zone  3 . 
     The membrane  43  closes the passage  50 . 
     The membrane  43  extends transversally, specifically perpendicularly, to the axis Z. 
     In the example shown in  FIG. 6 , the membrane  43  has a flat shape. 
     In plan view, the membrane  43  may have a circular shape. 
     The thickness of the membrane  43  is less than the thickness of the intermediate portion  6 . 
     In particular, the thickness of the membrane  43  may be between 0.05 and 0.7 mm. The thickness of the membrane  43  depends on various factors, including the ways in which the membrane  43  is intended to be removed or pierced, which will be described below. 
     In the example illustrated, as shown in  FIG. 6 , the membrane  43  has a diameter D 1 . The neck  4  has an internal diameter D 2 , which may be greater than the diameter D 1 . 
     In more detail, in the example illustrated the membrane  43  extends starting from a cylindrical surface  52 , extending around the axis Z and centred relative to that axis, which internally delimits the end of the neck  4  opposite to the edge zone  3 . The diameter of the cylindrical surface  52  is D 1 . The neck  4  has a narrowing  51 , for passing from the internal diameter D 2  to the diameter D 1 . 
     The membrane  43  extends inside a free edge  59 , which delimits the neck  4  at an upper end thereof, that is to say on the opposite side to the edge zone  3 . The free edge  59  may be at the same level as the membrane  43 , or at higher or lower level. 
     In the example illustrated, the dispensing part  2  has a multi-layer structure. Specifically, the dispensing part  2  comprises a central layer  55 , which may for example be a functional layer such as a barrier layer made of a material having barrier properties against gases and/or light. 
     The dispensing part  2  further comprises an outer layer  56  and an inner layer  57 , intended for facing respectively towards the outside and towards the inside of the tube package. The central layer  55  is arranged in an intermediate position between the outer layer  56  and the inner layer  57 . Any further layers may be interposed between the central layer  55  and the outer layer  56 , and/or between the central layer  55  and the inner layer  57 . 
     As is clearly visible in the enlargement of  FIG. 6 , the central layer  55  is present in the membrane  43 . The central layer  55  is also present in other regions of the dispensing part  2  which are distinct from the membrane  43 , in particular in the neck  4  and in the intermediate portion  6 . The central layer  55  may also be present in the edge zone  3 . 
     In the membrane  43 , at least the outer layer  56  and the inner layer  57  are thinner than in the neck  4  and in the intermediate portion  6 . 
     The intermediate layer  55  has, in a cross-section, a profile which follows the geometry of the neck  4 . In particular, close to the narrowing  51 , the intermediate layer  55  is folded towards the inside of the neck  4 , i.e. towards the axis Z. Thus, a transversal dimension (for example a diameter) of the intermediate layer  55  decreases along the neck  3  in a direction towards the membrane  43   
     The passage  50  is intended to be opened so as to allow the substance contained in the tube package to flow to the outside of that package. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 6 to 8 , the passage  50  is opened by removing the membrane  43  after the dispensing part  2  has been produced by compression moulding. 
     In particular, the membrane  43  can be removed in a cutting step, which can be performed before joining the dispensing part  2  to the tube, or possibly even afterwards. 
     During the cutting step, the membrane  43  can be cut frontally, from the inside of the dispensing part  2  or from the outside of the dispensing part  2 . In particular, the membrane  43  can be cut along a closed cutting line which extends around the axis Z. The closed cutting line may be a circular cutting line. 
       FIG. 8  shows an open dispensing part  2   a , obtained by removing the membrane  43  from the dispensing part  2  shown in  FIG. 6 , according to a first cutting method. 
     In the example shown in  FIG. 8 , the membrane  43  has been cut frontally along a circular cutting line having a diameter equal to the diameter D 1 , or slightly less than that diameter, in such a way as to separate the membrane  43  from the dispensing part  2  at, or very near to, the cylindrical surface  52 . This defines a dispensing opening  58 , through which the substance contained in the tube package can be dispensed in an outside environment, after having passed through the passage  50 . 
     The nearer the diameter of the circular cutting line is to the diameter D 1  of the membrane  43 , the wider the dispensing opening  58  is. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , after the membrane  43  has been removed, the central layer  55  emerges in a position facing the axis Z, specifically on the cylindrical surface  52 . 
     A sealing film, not illustrated, may be joined to the free edge  59 , for example by welding, the film being suitable for hermetically closing the tube package. The sealing film is intended to be removed or pierced by a user, the first time the tube package is opened. 
       FIG. 7  shows an open dispensing part  2   b , obtained by removing the membrane  43  from the dispensing part  2  shown in  FIG. 6 , according to an alternative cutting method. 
     Also in this embodiment, the passage  50  is opened by removing the membrane  43  after the dispensing part  2 , shown in  FIG. 6 , has been produced by compression moulding. That is done in a cutting step, which can be performed before joining the dispensing part  2  to the tube, or possibly even afterwards. 
     In particular, during the cutting step an end portion  60  of the dispensing part  2  is cut along a cutting plane P 1 , whose trace is shown in  FIG. 6 . 
     The plane P 1  may be arranged transversally, for example perpendicularly, to the axis Z. 
     The end portion  60  may have the shape of a convex projection, comprising the membrane  43  and an end stretch of the neck  4 . 
     At the end of the cutting step, the end portion  60  is removed and on the open dispensing part  2   b  there remains defined a free edge  159  which delimits the neck  4  on the opposite side to the intermediate portion  6 . 
     As was the case before for the free edge  59 , the free edge  159  may have the shape of a flat circular crown. 
     A sealing film may subsequently be applied to the free edge  159  for closing the tube package. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7 , after the cutting step the central layer  55  emerges on the free edge  159 . After application of the sealing film to the free edge  159 , the sealing film is therefore substantially in contact with the central layer  55 . 
     If the central layer  55  and the sealing film have barrier properties, it is therefore possible to minimise, or even eliminate, the zones of the dispensing part which have non-optimum barrier properties. 
     The embodiment shown in  FIG. 7  therefore allows optimisation of the barrier properties of the dispensing part, and more generally reduction or elimination of any less well-performing zones in a position interposed between the sealing film and the dispensing part  2   b.    
     On the other hand, the embodiment in  FIG. 8  allows minimisation of the quantity of material forming the membrane  43 , which must be thrown away (and hopefully recycled) after the membrane  43  has been removed. 
     However, the quantity of material to be removed is very small, both in the embodiment of  FIG. 7  and in the embodiment of  FIG. 8 , in particular owing to the low thickness of the membrane  43  and respectively of the end portion  60 . 
     It is stressed that, owing to the reduction in the diameter of the intermediate layer  55  near the narrowing  51 , it is possible to minimize the dimensions of the sealing film that has to be applied on the free edge  59 ,  159  for closing the passage  50 . 
     In the examples illustrated, the membrane  43  has the shape of a flat disk. That simplifies production of the membrane  43 , as well as minimising the quantity of material which forms that membrane. However, other shapes of the membrane  43  are possible, which could for example be concave, or convex, or have other forms. 
     In the example illustrated, the membrane  43  has a substantially uniform thickness. However, this condition is also not necessary. 
     Moreover, the membrane  43 , or the end portion  60 , could have weakening lines, for example in the form of local thinning or scoring which does not pass through the whole thickness of the membrane  43  or respectively of the end portion  60 . The weakening lines allow facilitated breaking of the membrane  43 , or of the end portion  60 , in predetermined positions. 
     The membrane which closes the passage  50 , instead of being removed in a cutting step, may be pierced or removed by a user, the first time the tube package is opened. In particular, the membrane which closes the passage  50  may be pierced using a piercing element specially prepared at one end of the cap opposite to the further end of the cap which engages with the neck  4 . 
     The central layer  55  is not necessarily a layer made of a material having barrier properties against gases and/or light. For example, the central layer  55  could be a layer made, partly or completely, of a recycled polymeric material, or filled with special fillers. In this case, the inner layer  57  and the outer layer  56  prevent the material of the central layer  55  from making contact with the product contained in the container, and/or from being visible from the outside. 
     The dispensing part  2  may comprise a number of layers different to what is shown in  FIGS. 6 to 8 . In particular, the dispensing part  2  could comprise only two layers of polymeric material. 
     In an embodiment not illustrated, the dispensing part  2  could also have a single-layer structure, that is to say, be formed by a single layer of polymeric material. 
     The dispensing part  2  is not necessarily intended to be joined to a squeezable tube in order to form a tube package. 
     For example, a dispensing part of a container similar to that shown in  FIGS. 6 to 8  could be intended to be joined to a flexible container body, for obtaining a pouch container. Alternatively, a dispensing part of a container similar to that shown in  FIGS. 6 to 8  could be joined to a semi-rigid container body, for example made by folding and welding a laminated packaging material. 
     The dispensing part of a container could also be intended to be joined to a rigid or semi-rigid container made of polymeric material, for example a bottle, as in the case of the dispensing part  102  of a container shown in  FIG. 9 . 
     The dispensing part  102  comprises a neck  104 , extending around an axis Z, and having a substantially cylindrical shape. On the outside of the neck  104  an element for removable fixing may be provided, the means for removable fixing being suitable for removably engaging with a cap, not illustrated. The means for removable fixing may comprise a thread  105 . 
     The dispensing part  102  further comprises, on the opposite side to the neck  104 , an edge zone  103  suitable for being joined to a container body, not illustrated, for example by gluing or welding. In the example illustrated, the edge zone  103  has the shape of an annular protuberance which projects from the neck  104 . 
     The edge zone  103  may have a diameter equal to, or greater than, an external diameter of the thread  105 . 
     A membrane  143  is further provided, the membrane  143  being positioned at one end of the neck  104  opposite to the edge zone  103 , so as to close a passage  50  surrounded by the neck  104 . 
     The membrane  143  is similar to the membrane  43  shown in  FIGS. 6 to 8 . The membrane  143  can be removed by a cutting operation, using methods similar to those described with reference to  FIGS. 7 and 8 . It is also possible for the membrane  143  to be removed by the user, the first time the container comprising the dispensing part  102  is opened. In this case, the membrane  143  could for example be removed as a consequence of the interaction between the cap and the membrane  143 , the first time the cap is unscrewed from the container to open the latter. 
     For that purpose, the cap may be provided with a hooking element suitable for engaging with a cam profile, not illustrated, provided on the neck  104 , in such a way as to produce a lifting of the membrane  143 , when the cap is rotated in order to open it. This causes a break in an edge along which the membrane  143  is joined to the neck  104 , with a consequent detachment of the membrane  143  from the neck  104 . 
     It is also possible, in particular if the membrane  143  is removed due to interaction with the cap, that on the dispensing part  102 , directly on the membrane  143  or near it, one or more scored lines or weakening lines are provided. 
     In the example illustrated, the dispensing part  102  has a multi-layer structure, but its structure could also be of the single-layer type. 
       FIG. 1  shows an apparatus  1  for producing, by compression moulding, a dispensing part  2  of the type shown in  FIG. 6 . The apparatus  1  can also be used for producing the dispensing part  102  shown in  FIG. 9 , or other, similar dispensing parts. 
     The apparatus  1  comprises a dispensing device for dispensing a continuous polymeric extrudate  8  in the molten state. In the example illustrated, the dispensing device comprises a co-extrusion device  7  for dispensing an extrudate  8  having a multi-layer structure, that is to say, comprising a plurality of layers of polymeric materials which are different to each other. However, this condition is not necessary. In fact, the dispensing device of the apparatus  1  could alternatively be configured to dispense an extrudate  8  having a single-layer structure. 
     The co-extrusion device  7  may in particular be configured to dispense an extrudate  8  comprising an intermediate layer, interposed between two peripheral layers. The intermediate layer may be a barrier layer made of a material having barrier properties, for example against gases and/or against oxygen and/or against light. The peripheral layers, which may be the same as each other or different, may be made of materials intended to give the dispensing parts which will be obtained the desired mechanical and/or aesthetic properties. In particular, the peripheral layers may be selected in such a way that they allow the dispensing part to be easily and stably joined to a tube. 
     In an alternative embodiment, the intermediate layer may comprise a recycled polymeric material or a material with suitable fillers added to it. Interposed between the peripheral layers and the intermediate layer there may be respective auxiliary layers, for example a layer of compatibility promoting material whose purpose is to improve the adhesion between the intermediate layer and the peripheral layers. 
     The co-extrusion device  7  has an outfeed opening  9  for dispensing the extrudate  8 . 
     In the example illustrated, as visible in  FIG. 1 , the outfeed opening  9  is facing downwards. The co-extrusion device  7  is configured to dispense an extrudate  8  downwards, according to a vertical or substantially vertical outfeed direction E. However, this condition is not necessary. 
     The apparatus  1  further comprises a moulding device, which in the example illustrated has the structure of a moulding carrousel  10 , only part of which is visible in  FIG. 1 . The moulding carrousel  10  is rotatable about a respective axis which, in the example illustrated, is positioned vertically. The moulding carrousel  10  is provided, in a peripheral region thereof, with a plurality of moulds  11  each of which is configured to shape a dose of polymeric material, obtained by cutting the extrudate  8 , in such a way as to obtain the dispensing part  2  or  102  by compression moulding. 
     A conveying device  12  is interposed between the co-extrusion device  7  and the moulding carrousel  10 . In the example illustrated, the conveying device  12  has the structure of a conveying carrousel. The conveying device  12  comprises a plurality of conveying elements  13 , each of which is arranged to convey, towards the moulding carrousel  10 , a dose  14  of polymeric material which has been separated from the polymeric material flowing out of the co-extrusion device  7  or more generally out of the dispensing device. 
     The apparatus  1  further comprises at least one separating element for separating the doses  14  from the extrudate  8 . 
     In the example illustrated, a plurality of separating elements  19  is provided, each separating element  19  being associated with a conveying element  13 , in particular supported by the conveying element  13 . For example, each separating element  19  may have the structure of a cutting edge which delimits a conveying element  13 . 
     When the separating element  19  passes below the outfeed opening  9 , the separating element  19  cuts a dose  14 , particularly by scraping it from the outfeed opening. The dose  14  remains adhering to the conveying element  13 , particularly to a conveying surface  18  thereof, so that it can be conveyed towards the mould  11 . 
     The separating elements  19  may have a different structure to that illustrated. For example, each separating element  19  could comprise a blade fixed to the conveying element  13 . 
     It is also possible to have a separating element  19  independent of the conveying elements  13 , in particular a separating element positioned upstream of the conveying elements  13  and separate from the latter, for example a blade which rotates in a position interposed between the outfeed opening  9  and the conveying elements  13 , or a laser beam. 
     The outfeed opening  9  may have a rectangular shape or a square shape, so as to supply an extrudate  8  in the form of a strip having a rectangular or square cross-section. If the cross-section of the strip is rectangular, the base of the rectangle may be much larger than the height, even if this condition is not necessary. 
     The separating element  19  is configured to separate from the extrudate  8 , in particular by cutting, successive doses  14  each of which, as is better illustrated in  FIG. 3 , substantially has the shape of a parallelepiped. 
     The term “substantially” is used here to indicate that, despite the shape of the dose  14  being theoretically a parallelepiped shape, the dose  14  may actually undergo deformations which make its shape not perfectly parallelepiped. That happens because the dose  14  is made of a polymeric material in a viscous state, which is not rigid and may easily be deformed. When the dose  14  is separated from the extrudate  8 , a separation surface  65  remains defined on the dose  14 , where the dose  14  was previously joined to the extrudate  8 . Therefore, the separation surface  65  is a surface where the separating element  19  interacted with the extrudate  8 . 
     The separation surface  65  is arranged transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the outfeed direction E. The separation surface  65  is substantially flat. 
     The dose  14  further has a face  22  adjacent to the separation surface. The face  22  is arranged transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the separation surface  65 . In the example illustrated, the face  22  is arranged parallel to the outfeed direction E. The face  22  is substantially flat. 
     In the example illustrated, the face  22  is a larger face of the parallelepiped defined by the dose  14 . In particular, the face  22  has a greater surface area than the surface area of the separation surface  65 . 
     In detail, as shown in  FIG. 3 , the dose  14  may have a thickness S which is much less than its transversal dimensions L 1  and L 2 , in such a way that it is similar to a “wafer”. The transversal dimension L 1  is measured along the outfeed direction E of the dose  14  from the co-extrusion device  7 , whilst the transversal dimension L 2  and the thickness S are measured transversally to that direction. The transversal dimensions L 1  and L 2  may be equal to each other. 
     The transversal dimensions L 1  and L 2  are the dimensions of the face  22 . In an embodiment not illustrated, the thickness S may be equal to one of the transversal dimensions L 1  or L 2 . It is also possible that the thickness S is equal to both of the transversal dimensions L 1  and L 2 , in which case the dose has the shape of a parallelepiped with faces which are the same as each other, that is to say, of a cube. 
     The dose  14  may have a plurality of layers which may comprise an intermediate layer  20 , shown in black in the figures, interposed between two peripheral layers  21 , shown in white in the figures. The intermediate layer  20  may be a barrier layer made of a material having barrier properties, for example against oxygen and/or against gases and/or against light. Alternatively, the intermediate layer  20  may comprise a recycled polymeric material or a material with appropriate fillers added to it. The intermediate layer  20  is intended to form the central layer  55  of the dispensing part  2  or  102 , whilst the peripheral layers  21  are intended to form the outer layer  56  and respectively the inner layer  57 . 
     In an embodiment not illustrated, the dose  14  may have a single-layer structure, that is to say, be formed by a single layer of polymeric material. 
     The layers which form the dose  14  may be arranged substantially (where the term “substantially” is due to the high deformability of the dose  14 , as explained above) parallel to the face  22  of the dose  14 . 
     More specifically, the layers forming the dose may in turn take the form of flat or parallelepiped layers, which are positioned in contact with each other at respective surfaces which are substantially parallel to the face  22 . 
     The conveying device  10  may comprise a central body  15  which, in the example illustrated, is in the form of a drum having a substantially cylindrical geometry. The central body  15  is rotatable about a central axis H owing to a movement device not illustrated. The central axis H may be substantially vertical. 
     The conveying elements  13  are supported by the central body  15 , in a peripheral region of the latter. 
     When the central body  15  rotates about the central axis H, the conveying elements  13  move along a path from the co-extrusion device  7  towards the mould  11 , so as to carry the dose  14  to the mould  11 . This movement defines a first movement of the conveying elements  13 . The first movement is a transferring movement for transferring the dose  14  along a path towards the mould  11 . 
     In the example illustrated, the path along which the conveying elements  13  move during the transferring movement is a closed path, in particular a circular path around the central axis H. In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, the path of the conveying elements  13  from the co-extrusion device  7  towards the mould  11  could be a non-circular closed path, or a non-closed path, for example linear. 
     The non-circular closed path is particularly suitable if it is desired that the of the conveying elements  13  overlaps that of the moulds  11  not just at one point, but at a portion with greater length. That allows the conveying element  13  to remain over an element of the mould  11 , for a time long enough to ensure that the dose  14  is released into the mould  11  without positioning defects. 
     Each conveying element  13  is also configured to perform, in addition to the transferring movement and during the transferring movement, a second movement or rotating movement, by rotating about an axis of rotation thereof, which in  FIG. 1  is indicated by X and shown for only one conveying element  13 . This rotating movement allows the orientation of the dose  14  to be changed, as described in more detail below. 
     In order to perform the second movement or rotating movement, in the example illustrated, each conveying element  13  is supported by a support  16 . A plurality of supports  16  is provided, the supports  16  being positioned in a peripheral region of the central body  15 . More specifically, the supports  16  are mounted on a lateral surface of the central body  15 . The supports  16  are fixed relative to the central body  15 . Each support  16  may have an “L” shape. 
     Each support  16  supports a conveying element  13 , rotatably fixed to the support  16  by a pin  17 . Each pin  17  extends along the respective axis of rotation X. 
     Each axis of rotation X is arranged transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the central axis H. The axes of rotation X may lie in a single plane and be for example arranged radially relative to the central axis H. 
     Each conveying element  13  is delimited by the conveying surface  18  suitable for contacting the dose  14  for conveying the dose  14  towards the mould  11 . 
     In the example illustrated, the conveying surface  18  is flat. This structure of the conveying surface  18  is particularly suitable for conveying doses  14  which have the shape of a parallelepiped, as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     While the conveying element  13  conveys the dose  14  towards the mould  11 , the face  22  of the dose  14  is arranged in contact with the conveying surface  18 . 
     The intermediate layer  20  lies in a plane substantially parallel to the conveying surface  18 . 
     The conveying element  13  may have a suction device, not illustrated, which is selectively operable for retaining the dose  14  in contact with the conveying surface  18  during conveying. 
     The conveying element  13  may also have a blowing device, not illustrated, which is selectively operable for making it easier to detach the dose  14  from the conveying surface  18 , so that the dose  14  can be delivered to the mould  11 . 
     In an embodiment not illustrated, in place of the blowing device or in combination with it, the conveying element  13  may be provided with a sort of piston, that is to say, a mechanical element which, at the appropriate moment, pushes the dose  14  downwards, thereby helping the dose  14  to detach itself from the conveying surface  18  so that it can be released into the mould  11   
     The conveying element  13  may be provided with a thermal conditioning device, in particular in the form of a heating device, so as to avoid excessive cooling of the dose  14  during conveying. Alternatively, the thermal conditioning device may be in the form of a cooling device, so as to avoid excessive adhering of the dose  14  to the conveying element  13 , if the conveying element  13  tends to overheat. 
     A second movement device, not illustrated, is associated with each conveying element  13 . The second movement device may for example be housed in the central body  15 , for rotating the conveying element  13  about the relative axis of rotation X, so that the conveying element  13  can perform the rotating movement. 
     The second movement device is distinct from the first movement device. In the example illustrated, the conveying element  13  is positioned, for most of the path around the central axis H, in such a way that the conveying surface  18  is facing downwards, in particular lying in a horizontal plane. 
     In one region of its own path around the central axis H, the conveying element  13  passes near to the co-extrusion device  7 , in particular below the outfeed opening  9 , from which the extrudate  8  comes out. 
     Upstream of the co-extrusion device  7 , the conveying element  13  rotates about the respective axis of rotation X thereby positioning itself in a collecting configuration P, shown in  FIG. 1 , in which the conveying element  13  collects a dose  14  separated from the extrudate  8 . In the collecting configuration P, the conveying surface  18  may be vertical, or tilted slightly backwards relative to the vertical direction. 
     In this way the dose  14 , which comes out of the outfeed opening  9  along the substantially vertical outfeed direction E, rests on the conveying surface  18 , which is also positioned substantially vertically, consequently adhering to the conveying surface  18  owing to the viscosity of the polymeric material. More generally, in the collecting configuration P, the conveying element  13  is positioned in such a way that the conveying surface  18  is substantially parallel to the outfeed direction E of the dose  14  from the co-extrusion device  7 . 
     The dose  14  is received by the conveying element  13  in the collecting configuration P, whilst the dose  14  has an initial orientation which in the example illustrated is substantially vertical. In an alternative embodiment, in the collecting configuration P, the dose  14  could have a non-vertical orientation, for example because the outfeed direction E is not vertical. 
     After having received the dose  14  in the collecting configuration P, while the conveying element  13  is moved around the central axis H by the central body  15  (transferring movement), the conveying element  13  continues to rotate about the corresponding axis of rotation X (rotating movement). The conveying element  13  rotates about the axis of rotation X until it reaches a releasing configuration R, shown in  FIG. 1 , in which the dose  13  is released into the mould  11 , as described in more detail below. In the releasing configuration R, the conveying surface  18  is facing downwards and may be, in particular, substantially horizontal. 
     In the releasing configuration R, the dose  14  has a final orientation which makes it suitable for being released into the mould  11 . 
     After the dose  14  has been released into the mould  11 , the conveying element  13  may remain in the releasing configuration R, that is to say, with the conveying surface  18  facing downwards, until the conveying element  13  returns near to the outfeed opening  9  of the co-extrusion device  7 , and upstream of the latter. 
     As is better illustrated in  FIG. 2 , each mould  11  comprises a first mould part  23  and a second mould part  24 , which are aligned with each other along a moulding axis Y, which may be vertical. The first mould part  23  may comprise a punch  25 , arranged to shape an inner surface of the dispensing part  2 . In contrast, the second mould part  24  is intended to define a cavity  26 , also shown in  FIG. 4 , in which the dose  14  is shaped. 
     The first mould part  23  is arranged below the second mould part  24 . 
     The first mould part  23  may comprise a base element  30 , which supports the punch  25 . 
     The base element  30  may be fixed to one end of a rod  31 , connected to an actuator, for example of the hydraulic or mechanical type, for moving the first mould part  23  relative to the second mould part  24  along a moulding direction parallel to the moulding axis Y. 
     The first mould part  23  may also comprise a sleeve  32 , which surrounds the punch  25 . 
     The sleeve  32  may be movable between an extended position shown in  FIG. 2 , in which the sleeve  32  projects towards the second mould part  24 , and a retracted position not illustrated, in which the sleeve  32  is further from the second mould part  24 . The sleeve  32  is pushed into the extended position by an elastic element  33 , which may comprise a helical spring. The sleeve  32  may be brought into the retracted position by overcoming the thrust of the elastic element  33 . 
     The sleeve  32  is movable between the extended position and the retracted position by sliding along the moulding direction, that is to say, parallel to the moulding axis Y. 
     The first mould part  23  may also comprise a fixing ring  34 , suitable for being fixed to the base element  30 , in particular by screwing the fixing ring  34  on the base element  30 , in order to keep the punch  25  fixed relative to the base element  30 . 
     The fixing ring  34  allows limiting of the movement of the sleeve  32  which, in the extended position, makes contact against an inner rim  35  of the fixing ring  34 . 
     The punch  25  is delimited by a first forming surface  36 , suitable for internally shaping the edge zone  3 , the neck  4  and the intermediate portion  6  of the dispensing part. 
     The punch  25  is furthermore delimited by a resting surface  37 , suitable for supporting the dose  14  in the releasing position R, that is to say, when the dose  14  is released by the conveying element  13 . In fact, as described in more detail below, since the punch  25  is positioned below the cavity  26 , the dose  14  is positioned on the punch  25  when it detaches from the conveying element  13 . 
     The resting surface  37  may be a flat surface. 
     In plan view, the resting surface  37  may have a circular shape. 
     The resting surface  37  is arranged transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the moulding axis Y. 
     The resting surface  37  delimits an upper region of the punch  25 , at the moulding axis Y and near to the latter. 
     The resting surface  37  may be substantially parallel to the conveying surface  18 , when the conveying element  13  is in the releasing configuration R. 
     The second mould part  24  may comprise two or more movable inserts  27 , which may be moved between a forming position, shown in  FIG. 2 , and a disengaging position, not illustrated. In the forming position, a second forming surface  29  is defined between the movable inserts  27 , the second forming surface  29  being intended to shape the outer surface of the edge zone  3 , of the intermediate portion  6  and of the neck  4 , including the thread  5  of the dispensing part  2 . In the disengaging position, the movable inserts  27  move away from each other to allow a dispensing part  2  just formed to be extracted from the mould  11 . In particular, in the disengaging position, the movable inserts  27  allow the extraction from the mould  11  of undercut parts of the neck  4 , for example the thread  5 . 
     The movable inserts  27  may be moved between the forming position and the disengaging position by rotating about respective pins  28 . In this case, the movable inserts  27  may be shaped like levers hinged to the pins  28 . In more detail, the movable inserts  27  are hinged to the pins  28  at respective end regions of the movable inserts  27  opposite to the second forming surface  29 . 
     In the example illustrated, each movable insert  27  is delimited, near its end on which the second forming surface  29  is made, by an outer surface  38 . When the movable inserts  27  are in the forming position, their outer surfaces  38  define a frustoconical surface suitable for shapingly coupling with an inner surface  39 , made on the sleeve  32 . This ensures that the first mould part  23  is positioned in such a way that it is centred on the moulding axis Y, relative to the second mould part  24 . 
     The second mould part  24  further comprises a central forming member  40 , arranged in a central position relative to the movable inserts  27 . 
     The central forming member  40  may be mounted in a stationary position along the moulding axis Y. The movable inserts  27  may be movable along the moulding axis Y relative to the central forming member  40 , for example against the action of a spring  41 . 
     The central forming member  40  is delimited by a forming surface  42 , suitable for operating in conjunction with the resting surface  37  of the punch  25  for shaping the membrane  43  of the dispensing part, as described in more detail below. 
     During operation, an extrudate  8 , comprising for example a plurality of layers of polymeric material, is dispensed by the co-extrusion device  7  and comes out of the outfeed opening  9  along the outfeed direction E, as shown in  FIG. 1 . The layers which form the extrudate  8  lie in respective plans which are parallel to each other and to the outfeed direction E. 
     The central body  15  of the conveying device  12  rotates, for example continuously, about the central axis H. The conveying elements  13  supported by the central body  15  in this way move along a closed path, which in the example illustrated is shaped like a circle centred on the central axis Z. This is the first movement, or transferring movement, of the conveying elements  13 . 
     The path of the conveying elements  13  passes below the outfeed opening  9  of the co-extrusion device  7  in a dispensing zone in which the doses  14  are dispensed 
     Upstream of that dispensing zone, each conveying element  13  rotates about the corresponding axis of rotation X, so that the conveying element  13  is in the collecting configuration P, when the conveying element  13  is below the outfeed opening  9  of the co-extrusion device  7 . In that configuration, the conveying element  13  interacts with the extrudate  8 , from which a dose  14  is separated owing to the separating element  19 . The latter cuts the dose  14  along the separation surface  65 , in particular immediately below the outfeed opening  9 . The dose  14  rests on the conveying surface  18 , which is arranged parallel, or almost, to the face  22  of the dose  14 . 
     In the collecting configuration P, the conveying surface  18  is also arranged parallel, or almost, to the intermediate layer  20  of the dose  14 . 
     The conveying surface  18  has a larger surface area than the surface of the dose  14  facing the conveying surface  18 , that is to say, than the face  22 . The dose  14  is collected by the conveying element  13  whilst the dose  14  has an initial orientation, which in the example illustrated is substantially vertical. The dose  14  adheres to the conveying surface  18  without undergoing significant deformations. Even the intermediate layer  20  remains substantially undeformed. 
     The conveying element  13  now moves away from the co-extrusion device  7  carrying the dose  14  with it. The dose  14  remains adhering to the conveying surface  18  owing to its viscosity and possibly owing to the suction device of the conveying element  13 , which retains the dose  14  in contact with the conveying surface  18 . 
     Simultaneously, the conveying element  13  continues rotating about the respective axis of rotation X, thereby changing the orientation of the dose  14  until the dose  14  is brought into a final orientation in the releasing configuration R. This is the rotating movement of the conveying element  13 . In the releasing configuration R, the conveying surface  18  of the conveying element  13  is facing downwards and in particular is oriented horizontally, like the dose  14  adhering to it. 
     Therefore, when passing from the collecting configuration P to the releasing configuration R, the dose  14  is turned from the initial orientation to the final orientation. 
     The path of the conveying element  13  overlaps the path of the moulds  11  at least at one point, where the dose  14  is released by the conveying element  13  onto the punch  25 . 
     At that point, the conveying element  13  is in the releasing configuration R and is also interposed between the first mould part  23  and the second mould part  24 , which are at a distance from each other. 
     The conveying element  13  now releases the dose  14  which it is conveying. The dose  14  is deposited on the punch  25 , in particular on the resting surface  37  which delimits the top of the punch. That can happen with the aid of the blowing device or a mechanical element, which act on the dose  14  so as to detach it from the conveying surface  18 . 
     It should be noticed that the resting surface  37  is horizontal, that is to say, parallel to the surface of the dose  14  facing it, when the dose  14  is in the final orientation (corresponding to the releasing configuration R). The resting surface  37  of the punch  25  is also parallel to the conveying surface  18  of the conveying element  13 , when the latter is in the releasing configuration R. 
     This minimises deformations of the dose  14  when the latter passes from the conveying element  13  to the punch  25 . 
     Moreover, when the conveying element  13  is in the releasing configuration R (corresponding to the final orientation of the dose  14 ), the distance between the dose  14  and the resting surface  37  of the punch  25  is minimal, or even null. The conveying element  13  therefore allows control of the position of the dose  14  until the latter passes onto the punch  25 . This too allows the prevention of unwanted deformations of the dose  14 , which could compromise its correct positioning on the resting surface  37 . 
     The dose  14  may be correctly positioned on the resting surface  37  also owing to its parallelepiped shape. In fact, the dose  14  is delimited by a plurality of flat faces, including a further face  43 , opposite to the face  22 , which is intended to rest on the resting surface  37  of the punch  25 . The flat shape of the further face  43  allows the dose  14  to remain stably resting on the resting surface  37 . 
     The stability of the dose  14  is increased when, as in the example illustrated, the dose  14  has a thickness S which is, even significantly, less than its transversal dimensions L 1  and L 2 . This allows the position of the centre of gravity of the dose  14  to be lowered, when the dose is resting on the punch  25 . 
     After having released the dose  14  onto the resting surface  37  of the punch  25 , the conveying element  13  moves away from the mould  11 . 
     The sleeve  32  is in the extended position shown in  FIG. 2 , whilst the movable inserts  27  are in contact with each other in the forming position. 
     The first mould part  23  is gradually moved towards the second mould part  24 , thereby moving the dose  14  towards the movable inserts  27 . In the position of  FIG. 2 , the dose  14  has made contact with the movable inserts  27 . 
     As the movement of the first mould part  23  towards the second mould part  24  along the moulding direction Y continues, the movable inserts  27  engage with the sleeve  32 . More specifically, the outer surface  38  shapingly couples with the inner surface  39 . That allows the first mould part  23  to be centred relative to the second mould part  24 , and also allows the movable inserts  27  to be kept in the forming position, that is to say, in contact with each other, despite the pressure applied by the material of the dose  14 , which would otherwise tend to move the movable inserts  27  away from each other. When the sleeve  32  has made contact with the movable inserts  27 , between the punch  25 , the movable inserts  27 , the central forming member  40  and the sleeve  32  a closed forming chamber is defined, inside which the dose  14  will be shaped to obtain the dispensing part  2 . This forming chamber initially has a volume greater than the volume of the dispensing part  2 . The volume of the forming chamber is gradually reduced, while the first mould part  23  is pushed towards the second mould part  24 . When that happens, the sleeve  32  is pushed towards the retracted position by the movable inserts  27 , which apply a force able to compress the elastic element  33 . 
       FIGS. 4 and 5  schematically illustrate a step in which the dose  18  is being deformed between the punch  25  and the movable inserts  27 . The forming chamber has not yet reached its definitive shape and volume. It should be noticed that a central portion of the dose  14  has adopted a dome shape in its surface facing the central forming member  40 . Four corner portions  64  project from the central portion of the dose  14 , the corner portions  64  corresponding to the corner regions of the parallelepiped shape which the dose  14  initially had. 
     The intermediate layer  20  emerges on the lateral faces of the dose  14 . 
     As movement of the first mould part  23  towards the second mould part  24  continues, the dose  14  is completely shaped, until a closed position of the mould  11  is reached, in which the forming chamber has a shape corresponding to the shape of the dispensing part  2 . 
     In particular, in the closed position, between the resting surface  37  of the punch  25  and the central forming member  40 , the membrane  43  (or  143 ), which closes the passage  50  surrounded by the neck  4  is shaped. Therefore, in the closed position the resting surface  37  is not in contact with the central forming member  40 , but is placed at a distance from the central forming member  40  corresponding to the thickness of the membrane  43  (or  143 ). 
     After the dispensing part  2  has been left in the mould  11  for long enough for its shape to stabilise, the mould  11  may be opened so as to remove the dispensing part  2  and begin a subsequent moulding of a new dose  14 . Downstream of the mould  11  a cutting device may be provided, the cutting device being suitable for performing the cutting step by which the membrane  43  or  143  is removed. 
     The cutting device may be provided on the apparatus  1 , or in a position downstream of the apparatus  1  along a container production line, particularly for tube packages. 
     The cutting device may in particular be interposed between the mould  11  in which the dispensing part is produced and a welding unit in which the dispensing part is fixed to the container body, in particular to the tube. 
     If it is desired to obtain an open dispensing part  2   b  of the type shown in  FIG. 7 , the cutting device may comprise a circular blade, rotatable about its own axis in the cutting plane P 1 . The cutting device may further comprise a motor device for causing a rotating movement of the dispensing part  2  and the blade relative to each other. In particular, the dispensing part  2  may be rotated about the axis Z, whilst an axis of the circular blade remains in a stationary position. It is also possible to keep the dispensing part  2  stationary and to rotate the axis of the circular blade around the dispensing part  2 , so that the circular blade interacts with the end portion  60  over an angle of 360° about the axis Z, for separating the end portion  60  from the neck  4 . 
     The cutting device which cuts the end portion  60  may be similar to the cutting device which, in prior art machines for making caps by compression moulding, creates a cutting line which separates a cup-shaped body of the cap from the tamper-evident ring. 
     If the membrane  43  is instead removed with a frontal cut, so as to obtain an open dispensing part  2   a  of the type shown in  FIG. 8 , the cutting device may comprise a suitable blade, which interacts with the membrane  43  from the inside or from the outside of the dispensing part  2 . In this case too, it is possible to rotate the blade around the axis Z and keep the dispensing part  2  stationary, or vice versa. 
     Both in the embodiment of  FIG. 7  and in that of  FIG. 8 , in place of the blade it is possible to use a different type of cutting element, for example a laser beam. 
     The cutting device will of course be absent if the membrane is pierced or removed by the user. 
     In an embodiment not illustrated, in the mould lithe punch  25  may be positioned above the cavity  26 . In this case, the dose  14  may be released by the conveying element  13  into the cavity  26 , or delivered to the punch  25  which, although being positioned above the cavity  26 , retains the dose  14  with the aid of a source of suction. 
     If the method and the apparatus described above are used in combination with a dose  14  having a multi-layer structure, a dispensing part  2  or  102  of a container is obtained in a simple way, with a central layer  55  evenly distributed in the dispensing part. The thickness of the central layer  55  may even be very small, which allows the quantity of material which forms the central layer  55  to be kept below a minimum percentage, so as to allow recycling of the dispensing part after its use.