The present invention is directed to a heat-sealing apparatus of a flow wrapper machine which facilitates efficient, reliable and versatile operation. Notably, the apparatus includes multiple ring gears driven by multiple servo motors in a desirably compact configuration, with the arrangement including quickly removable heat-sealing die heads for efficient operation and service. The improved drive mechanism facilitates more accurate heat-sealing head placement, smoother operation, controlled stops, independent temperature control, and continuous running through die jams. Also included is a four-bar link on the heat-sealing head for opening and closing the heat-sealing dies.

A device for joining together two joining partners includes a first component receptacle for receiving the first joining partner and a second component receptacle for receiving the second joining partner. The first component receptacle and the second component receptacle are rotatable about a first axis of rotation and a second axis of rotation, respectively. The first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation are perpendicular to each other.