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New Products for Cheesemakers
Packaging |
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Aplix Inc. |
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Contact: Quresh Sachee, vice president, global sales and marketing/inter-mold, Aplix Inc., 12300 Steele Creek Road, Charlotte, NC, 28277, 704-504-6547 Aplix Inc. has launched a new reclosable system for easy open and close of cheese packaging. The hook-to-hook system is contaminant-resistant and allows for numerous openings and closings. Company officials note the system was developed due to increased demand for functionality from users. It was designed to be used by the whole family, including people with reduced dexterity. Aplix currently has additional products under development. |
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Bosch Group |
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Contact: Joel Mazmanian, ABI Inc., 29 Broadway Suite 1300, New York, N.Y., 10006, 212-529-2541, FAX: 212-529-4442, e-mail: jmazmanian@abipr.com Bosch Packaging Technology has introduced the Paloma-D2-Delta Robot, the second generation of the Paloma Top Loader series. The top loader is designed for secondary packaging of fresh, chilled and frozen foods as well as several non-food applications. The pick-and-place robot aligns and places pre-packaged and wrapped products into trays and shipping cartons. Positioned on a parallel flow belt conveyor, the cartons are transported and filled in continuous motion. New Gemini 3.0 Software allows simulation of new production processes and products on a virtual machine. A 3-D view helps operators adjust and optimize pick-and-place patterns as well as other settings for each product. All individual parameters can be saved and recalled if required. The software and tool-free changeable form sets, like end-effectors, guarantee changeover time of less than 5 minutes, company officials say. The Paloma D-2 is available with up to three arms. Depending on model and the product, the Delta Robot allows a pick-and-place movement of up to 240 products per minute. With additional corresponding end-effectors, the standard 3-axis arms can be extended to a fourth movement axis. This is necessary if the robot has to rotate the product before placing or if it needs to place several products into tight trays and packages. A vision control system works to ensure that even misaligned products can be picked and placed into secondary packaging. The stainless steel construction of the Paloma-D2 meets all current hygiene standards and regulations for food processing. |
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Clear Lam Packaging Inc. |
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Contact: Lou Belmont, vice president of national accounts, Clear Lam Packaging Inc., 1950 Pratt Boulevard, Elk Grove Village, IL, 60007, 847-439-8570, 847-439-8589 (fax), e-mail: lbelmont@clearlam.com Clear Lam Packaging Inc. introduced EarthClear Renewable Films and Containers under the Project EarthClear Product line. The new films and containers are made from 50 to 100 percent renewable plant-based plastics such as modified polylactic acid (Ingeo PLA), not oil. The thermoformed containers are available in round and square formats for the packaging of grated, shredded or cubed cheese for retail deli applications. Company officials note Clear Lam can provide a variety of barrier levels to meet gas flushing and shelf life requirements. Various party tray configurations also are available for the deli section. Clear Lam also provides EarthClear Renewable Films for top and bottom webs for horizontal form-fill-seal applications of stick, sliced and block cheese packaging. The films seal and cut at high speeds on vertical and horizontal form-fill-seal machinery. They are available in clear, metallized and printed roll stock, and are 100-percent renewable structures compostable in commercial composting facilities. The company also carries co-extruded films that create wide operating windows on form-fill-seal equipment and are more pliable than the earlier generations of plant-based films, company officials say. |
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Cryopak |
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Contact: William Hingle, marketing director, 732-346-9200 ext. 104, e-mail: whingle@tcpreliable.com Cryopak, a provider of temperature-controlled packaging, recently introduced the H-Series to its line of phase change materials. The reusable thermal control panels are made from high density polyethylene (HDPE) plastics and use a spin welding method of sealing to ensure a leak proof closure, according to Anthony Alleva, technical services manager, Cryopak. “They incorporate a handle into the mold to promote easy insertion and removal from the package,” he says. The new panels are designed to maintain dimensional stability when frozen and are available in three standard sizes. They are offered in both Phase 5, which is used for 35.6 degrees Fahrenheit to 46.4 degrees Fahrenheit applications, and Phase 22, which is used for room temperature applications. |
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Cryovac Food Packaging, Sealed Air Corp. |
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Contact: Scott Bossong, marketing director, cheese and dairy, Cryovac, Sealed Air Corp., 100 Rogers Bridge Road, Duncan, SC, 29334, 864-433-2000, FAX: 864-433-2134, e-mail: Scott.Bossong@sealedair.com Cryovac Food Packaging, Sealed Air Corp. has introduced two new products to its packaging line. Cryovac Portion-Pull Bag is a new technology that allows a barrier bag to be removed from a product one strip at a time, keeping unused portions of the product fresh for longer, according to company officials. Using the easy-open technology of the Cryovac Grip & Tear bag, the Portion-Pull bag incorporates 1-inch horizontal side seal tabs to allow consumers and foodservice operators to use only the desired amount without removing the entire product from its packaging. Company officials note this keeps the unused portion of the product stored in the original packaging so it remains fresh until ready for use and reduces food waste due to product spoilage and discoloration. The Portion-Pull bag is designed for use with a variety of non-abrasive applications including processed cheeses and meats. It is available in sizes ranging from 3 to 14 inches wide and 6 to 24 inches long. In addition, the new bag can be used with wedges and blocks of deli cheeses and meats ranging in size from 6 ounces to 20 pounds. Additional new packaging products include the Cryovac Multi-seal Deli Package, which features a reclosable flexible package designed for cheeses and sliced deli meats, including processed poultry. The deli package can be opened and resealed at least 10 times. In addition, the package’s design allows for peg board display. Company officials note that with increased demand by consumers for convenience features, Cryovac is continuing to expands its portfolio of easy-opening and reclosability features. The company also is working on additional automated equipment systems to provide labor savings and improved efficiencies. |
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Curwood to feature cheese packaging including UltraSeal film, Eco-Tite bags at Pack Expo Contact: Dave Engen at CheesePkg@Bemis.com or 800-544-4672 LAS VEGAS — Curwood, part of the Bemis family of companies, will be showcasing packaging solutions for a variety of markets along with sister divisions Clysar and Milprint in booth C659 of the Pack Expo this coming week. At the show, cheese processors will see Curwood UltraSeal film, a new material for shredded cheese applications that is specifically formulated to maximize the performance of ultrasonic sealing on high-speed vertical form-fill-seal gas-flush equipment. UltraSeal is engineered for the unique requirements of natural shredded cheese, including advanced oxygen barrier, abuse resistance and reliable sealing through contamination, the company says. UltraSeal film also seals well through small pleats and wrinkles to eliminate leakers and improve package yield. The high vibration used in the ultrasonic sealing process is able to shake away fines from the seal area, such as shredded, powdered or grated cheese, that might otherwise compromise a traditional heat seal. Curwood says leading equipment companies will be demonstrating the value and performance of Curwood UltraSeal film in their booths at Pack Expo. HayssenSandiacre, part of the Barry-Wehmiller family of companies, will be demonstrating ultrasonic sealing in booth C500 with Curwood’s UltraSeal film. The benefits of the product line, including reduced leakers and superb machinability, can be observed at the HayssenSandiacre booth, Curwood says. Aurizon Ultrasonics, a Kimberly, Wis.-based company, in booth C2306 also will be demonstrating Curwood’s plain and printed UltraSeal film. In this booth, Curwood UltraSeal will demonstrate the flexibility of the film technology in bonding different materials for different applications and end uses. The Curwood booth will provide expert resources to further explore and evaluate the ultrasonic process as well as provide more detailed information about UltraSeal film itself. Curwood also is featuring its Eco-Tite shrink bags at Pack Expo. Eco-Tite shrink bags are a high-performance, sustainable shrink bag option originally developed in Europe to meet stringent European regulations for chlorine-free products. The Bemis technology has now made its way to North America. Eco-Tite bags improve productivity, protection and aesthetics, in a clear, glossy retail presentation. Eco-Tite bags have a heat resistant outer layer, which means bags resist sealing together when overlapped in the vacuum chamber. This durable outer layer also resists punctures and abrasions. A high-flow sealant layer delivers excellent caulking that seals better through wrinkles and folds for fewer leakers, reworks and waste, the company says. Eco-Tite bags have a wider sealing window, or heat seal range, which means bags can be sealed at lower voltages. This wider sealing window results in faster machine speeds, greater productivity, and less energy use, and subsequently, reduced waste and lower costs for processors, the company says. Eco-Tite bags are thinner and stronger than conventional shrink bags, resulting in a 25 percent-33 percent source reduction, a greater product-to-package ratio and less waste in the landfill. An EVOH layer eliminates PVdC and provides superior oxygen barrier, another performance benefit of the technology, the company adds. “Our wide portfolio of flexible packaging options includes high-performance Eco-Tite shrink bags that can help cheese processors increase productivity, reduce waste and minimize costs,” says Dave Engen, market manager for cheese, Curwood. |
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Curwood Inc. |
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Contact: 800-544-4672, e-mail curwoodpr@bemis.com Curwood Inc. has released its Curwood Advantage film for bulk shred cheese. The film is designed to answer the bulk cheese industry’s call to lower costs with a tailored structure that delivers economy while meeting the performance needs of the bulk shred category, company officials say. The new film is a high-barrier structure engineered specifically for vertical form fill seal (VFFS) bulk shredded cheese pouches. As a drop-in replacement for industry standard bulk shred applications, company officials say the film provides significant cost reduction and runs on existing equipment without compromising speed or machinability. The new structure also creates high-integrity seals at lower sealing temperatures, which is designed to reduce energy usage. In addition, Curwood Advantage film was developed to provide abrasion, puncture and flex crack resistance. It withstands the “abusive” environment seen during pack-off and distribution, the company says. The film is ideal for 5- to 20-pound applications. “Because of production demands and the rigors of handling bulk cheese in foodservice applications, it isn’t enough to deliver a packaging material that costs less,” says David Engen, cheese market manager for Curwood. “Costing savings must be accompanied by equivalent or better machinability, throughput, strength and hermetic barrier to deliver a competitive advantage. Curwood Advantage film is the first material to meet that challenge. |
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Curwood Inc. |
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Concact: Curwood customer service, 800-544-4672, e-mail: Cheesepkg@Bemis.com Making its cheese and dairy industry debut at the show will be new Liquiflex Advance bulk liquid films and Liquiflex AV Series equipment. Ideal for dairy applications such as cheese sauce or sour cream, the film/equipment system is designed to give processors of liquid and semi-liquid dairy products and sauces a cost-saving, single-source solution. Liquiflex Advance films are up to 30 percent lighter than competitive films, helping processors meet cost- and source-reduction initiatives without compromising product performance. Liquiflex AV Series bulk liquid VFFS equipment — which will be running in Curwood’s booth during the show — features advanced controls for simplified operation, minimizing downtime and helping ensure consistent quality output. The machine is supported through Curwood’s nationwide network of 37 field technicians and the company’s service center located in New London, Wis. “Liquiflex film and equipment raise the bar for performance in the bulk liquid category,” says Jon Pietsch, liquids market manager for Curwood. “We designed the system to take the abuse of foodservice applications. Ultra-thin yet extremely durable, the films are engineered with outstanding strength and barrier properties to protect the taste and quality of refrigerated, frozen or shelf-stable foods. And the equipment delivers reliable filling with robust technologies.” Also making its cheese-industry debut will be Curwood’s recently expanded Encompass line of rigid and semi-rigid packaging. The Encompass line features many of the popular packaging technologies Curwood absorbed when parent company, Bemis, purchased Alcan Food Americas earlier this year. IDFA show-goers can learn about technologies for everything from single-serve creamer cups to dual-ovenable trays to tray/lid systems for yogurt or cheese snacks. Featured will be new Lite 1 trays, which offer a significant downgauging opportunity. “The Encompass line is a total system solution that sets Curwood apart in this style of packaging,” says Paul Vanden Heuvel, Curwood’s director of marketing for rigid packaging. “We offer a complete range of sheet, film, pre-made trays, lidding, convenience features and sustainable packaging solutions.” Other sustainable solutions to be featured include Curwood Encore rigid and flexible films containing post-consumer recycled plastic; Curwood ReNew films made from bio-derived resins; and Curwood Direct source-reduced films. “The true advantage is that it delivers savings without sacrificing barrier or performance,” says David Engen, Curwood’s market manager for cheese. “In a market where total cost is critical, that can have a huge bottom-line impact.” Curwood also will be showcasing processed cheese packaging that is now in its single-source portfolio following the Alcan purchase. Options include individual wrapped slice (IWS) technology and wax-coated materials for cheese loaves and cream cheese. This addition makes it easier for cheesemakers to streamline their full cheese packaging supply needs with Curwood. “As a leader in cheese packaging for more than 50 years, we deliver the industry’s most in-depth portfolio of cheese packaging technologies,” Engen says. “If you make cheese, we can offer you formats and materials that meet each customer’s demands for barrier, shelf life, shelf appeal, convenience and sustainability.” From a service standpoint, Curwood will be promoting its exclusive Cellular Service Model at IDFA. This model allows Curwood the ability to turn orders around in just two weeks for participating customers. “This is a way for cheesemakers to maintain smaller inventories and lower overall operating costs,” Engen says. |
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Curwood Inc. — A Bemis Division |
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Contact: David Engen, market manager, Curwood Inc., 2200 Badger Avenue, Oshkosh, WI, 54903, 920-303-8621, FAX: 920-303-7306, e-mail: cheesepkg@bemis.com Curwood Inc. has introduced four new additions to its packaging line. Curwood Advantage Bulk Shred Film is designed to meet the bulk cheese industry’s call to lower costs with a tailored structure that delivers economy while meeting the performance demands of the bulk shred category, company officials say. Curwood Advantage film is a high-barrier structure engineered specifically for vertical form/fill/seal (VFFS) bulk shredded cheese pouches. A drop-in replacement for industry standard bulk shred applications, the film reduces costs and runs on existing equipment without compromising speed or machinability. The new structure also creates high integrity seals at lower sealing temperatures, which company representatives say reduces energy usage. Curwood Advantage film was developed to provide abrasion, puncture and flex crack resistance. It is ideal for 5- to 20-pound applications. Curwood also has released its new EZ Peel Reseal Film designed for processors looking for reclosable tray and lid packaging. New EZ Peel Reseal lidstock for semi-rigid or rigid trays offers re-tack for multiple closures. Company officials note added benefits include enhanced sustainability, shelf life, shelf impact and productivity. Additional new releases include the Form-Tite thermoform-shrink film and high-speed thermoform shrink equipment. Rounding out the new additions is IntegraPeel Film, which allows packagers to integrate peel-off promotions directly into the package with Curwood’s new interactive technology. The IntegraPeel peel-away packaging system helps to reduce costs associated with adhesive labels while retaining brand identity and barrier protection. IntegraPeel Film is ideal for peelable coupons, recipes, peel/reveal games or co-branded offers. Company officials say it also makes it easy for consumers to instantly peel off the promotion while leaving the package intact. Because the peel-away portion of the film does not affect the packaging structure, the pouch retains its full barrier properties to keep contents fresh. Company officials also note that unlike promotions printed directly on packaging film, the brand offer can be removed instantly and recipes can be retained without scissors or mess. The IntegraPeel system also is able to guarantee consistent placement for the promotion on every package, preventing misaligned labels or cover-ups of package copy. |
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Delkor Systems |
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Website: www.delkorsystems.com Adam Koller, director of engineering, Delkor Systems, notes that the system comes at a pertinent time for dairy manufacturers in light of recent passage of the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act, which has significantly increased the importance of maintaining a clean and sanitary food plant environment. “We at Delkor truly believe that the challenge is not to build a packaging machine that is compatible with water, but rather a packaging machine which ensures a sanitary environment,” says Dale Andersen, president and CEO, Delkor Systems. “This commitment requires a design focus on optimal cleanability for many aspects of the machine.” The CL-500 Sanitary Case Packer is a servo-driven, gantry-style, pick-and-place robot that was specifically designed to address issues of sanitation and cleanability in the dairy industry, Koller says. The system vertically loads consumer-sized packages into secondary containers for shipment to retail outlets. “Our goal was to design a case packer that was more than washdown; we wanted a machine that was designed for optimal cleanability, and there is a big difference between those two criteria,” Koller says. “It meant that we analyzed each component of the case packer to ensure that we had minimized horizontal surfaces, designed cross members to assist with complete drainage and incorporated stand-off mounting of components for open access.” Koller notes that the system can be configured to handle more than one style of shipper, including regular slotted trays, formed boxes or trays, retail ready display trays or dairy cases. “When it came to product contact components, we designed a quick, tool-less removal of these parts so they could be removed for a sanitary wash,” he says. “As for electrical components, the servo monitors, gear boxes and pneumatics are all IP-69K rated, which means they can receive direct contact from a high-pressure hose.” Other features include NEMA 4X electrical enclosures with sloped tops, stainless steel conduit and sanitary ball feet, as well as 100 percent stainless steel for metal components with FDA-compliant plastic components. Delkor will be featuring video of the Sanitary Case Packer as well as other solutions for top-load cartoning, retail ready packaging and its Spot-Pak system during the Wisconsin Cheese Industry Conference, April 15-16, at Booth #119. |
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Inline Plastics Corp. |
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Contact: Inline Plastics Corp., 42 Canal Street, Shelton, CT, 06484, 800-826-5567, 203-924-0370 (fax), e-mail: sales@inlineplastics.com Inline Plastics Corp. has made environmental and sustainability enhancements to its line of packaging products. Having previously converted its entire line of packaging to polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Inline’s PET material now is being produced using a proprietary method. According to company officials, this process achieves such high energy efficiencies that the material now has a carbon footprint as low as competing materials containing 50 percent post-consumer recycled content from water and soda bottles. Inline’s PET containers also provide clarity and increased resiliency when compared to containers made from post-consumer recycled PET, which lose these attributes through the recycling process, company representatives say. |
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Intelligrated |
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Contact: Samantha Devine, Koroberi Inc., 1506 East Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, 919-945-0566, 919-960-8570 (fax), e-mail: samantha@koroberi.com Intelligrated has introduced its Alvey GS100 family of palletizers, an entry-level addition to its existing line of Alvey palletizers and depalletizers. Capable of speeds up to 30 cases per minute, the Alvey GS100 family of palletizers is ideal for large, multi-line palletizing projects or smaller operations interested in converting from manual to automatic palletizing for ergonomic or labor-saving reasons. The series features a modular design with a small footprint for facilities with limited floor space. Models include: the Alvey GS120 low-speed palletizer with manual pallet handling; the Alvey GS130 low-speed palletizer with semi-automated pallet; and the Alvey GS140 low-speed palletizer with fully-automated pallet handling. Applications include food, beverage, consumers goods and general manufacturing. |
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Markem-Imaje |
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Contact: 866-263-4644 The newest addition to the series is the 5800 High-Resolution, Large Character Inkjet Printer. The 5800 uses Markem-Imaje TouchDry hot melt ink technology, providing a solution for printing text, graphics and GS1-compliant barcodes on cases, trays and shrink wraps. The ink is instant-dry and solvent-free, and company officials note it will not bleed or fade for the life of the case. Markem-Imaje also has introduced its 5600 High Resolution, Liquid Inkjet Printer. The 5600, featuring liquid piezo technology, prints graphics, text and readable barcodes on porous corrugate cases and trays. Markem-Imaje uses a glycol-ether based quick-drying ink that delivers opacity, providing a solution for manufacturers who need to maximize contrast while minimizing ink consumption. The rigid ink management system consists of a large-capacity, self-contained cartridge, which was designed to recover purged ink and to be easily replaced during production. Company officials note further efficiency can be achieved with programmable printhead care that can occur at the user’s convenience, helping to reduce downtime. In addition, the new compact modular design of both printers can be integrated into existing production lines, carton erectors or tapers. Both printers also feature improved form and function compared to the existing 5000 series printers including a smaller footprint design; icon-based user interface; usability and integration features; USB connectivity and lower energy consumption. The company also notes Markem-Imaje’s 5000 series printers work as stand-alone or integrated units on a range of substrates and environments. They can be used in conjunction with CoLOS Enterprise software and also can be equipped with an optional printhead slide assembly for print gap control. |
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Markem-Imaje |
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Contact: 866-263-4644 Markem-Imaje has expanded its 5000 Series high-resolution direct case coding product line, providing packaging professionals with more choices to select the model most applicable to their needs. The newest addition to the series is the 5800 High-Resolution, Large Character Inkjet Printer. The 5800 uses Markem-Imaje TouchDry hot melt ink technology, providing a solution for printing text, graphics and GS1-compliant barcodes on cases, trays and shrink wraps. The ink is instant-dry and solvent-free, and company officials note it will not bleed or fade for the life of the case. Markem-Imaje also has introduced its 5600 High Resolution, Liquid Inkjet Printer. The 5600, featuring liquid piezo technology, prints graphics, text and readable barcodes on porous corrugate cases and trays. Markem-Imaje uses a glycol-ether based quick-drying ink that delivers opacity, providing a solution for manufacturers who need to maximize contrast while minimizing ink consumption. The rigid ink management system consists of a large-capacity, self-contained cartridge, which was designed to recover purged ink and to be easily replaced during production. Company officials note further efficiency can be achieved with programmable printhead care that can occur at the user’s convenience, helping to reduce downtime. In addition, the new compact modular design of both printers can be integrated into existing production lines, carton erectors or tapers. Both printers also feature improved form and function compared to the existing 5000 series printers including a smaller footprint design; icon-based user interface; usability and integration features; USB connectivity and lower energy consumption. The company also notes Markem-Imaje’s 5000 series printers work as stand-alone or integrated units on a range of substrates and environments. They can be used in conjunction with CoLOS Enterprise software and also can be equipped with an optional printhead slide assembly for print gap control. |
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Multivac |
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Multivac develops concept for integrating equipment used for high pressure treatment Multivac Inc. has developed a concept for integrating equipment used for the high pressure treatment of foods into fully automatic packaging lines. Company officials say this means that for the first time, the high pressure treatment of foods within the packaging process can be seen as a viable option. Multivac now can offer the process not only for vacuum packages, but also for modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). According to company representatives, a trend toward more natural food preferences along with regulatory requirements has increased interest in high-pressure treatment of packaged foods. With high-pressure treatment, packaged food is subjected for a sufficiently long period to a high pressure of up to 6,000 bar in a so-called “autoclave,” which is a lockable and air-tight pressure container. Through this process, microorganisms in the food such as Listeria and Salmonella are killed. As the process is conducted under ambient temperature, the company says even heat-sensitive food products can be treated with this method to sometimes quadruple the fresh shelf life. At the same time, the original nutritional value and taste remain mostly unaffected. The new solution comprises a high pressure unit (one ore more autoclaves), which has been developed by the ThyssenKrupp daughter company, Uhde High Pressure Technologies, as well as an automation concept to integrate the process into packaging lines that are laid out to meet the demands of the food industry. In addition Multivac offers a high-pressure-compatible packaging concept that makes the process suitable for MAP packs. The company also offers a wide range of services within which customers can receive individually tailored advice and make use of testing facilities. With the integration solution, the finished food packs are automatically loaded into transport containers and, following the high-pressure treatment in the autoclave, automatically unloaded, dried, printed or labelled if required, and finally packed into cartons. “In this way, it is for the first time that we can process large, industrial scale production quantities fully automatically in a quasi continuous operation,” says Tobias Richter, product manager, Systems Business Group, Multivac. In order to achieve as high a machine throughput as possible, company officials say the available space in the autoclave must be used as intelligently as possible. “Since the high-pressure equipment is round for reasons of optimizing the distribution of pressure forces, the loading pattern also has to be designed accordingly,” Richter says. With a favorable pack shape it is possible to handle 2 to 4 tons of packed food per hour in the high pressure equipment. Multivac supports its customers in choosing the optimum pack shape, in selecting the packaging materials for the pack and in carrying out the high pressure process. Multivac also specializes in the process for MAP packs. Richter notes that with the help of so-called ‘holding torque,’ the company creates short rest periods in which the polymer can regenerate. In this way the packaging material is stressed considerably less and retains its functionality even after the high pressure treatment. |
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Octal offers new material for form packaging Website: www.octal.com DALLAS — Octal Petrochemicals LLC FZC recently announced its new PET sheet innovation, DPET, for form-fill-seal (FFS) modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). “DPET is perfectly suited for form-fill-seal applications. It boosts production efficiency, is easy to recycle and unbeatable for presenting products in refrigerated displays,” says Joe Barenberg, chief operating officer, Octal. Octal says its new laminated structure brings all the advantages that thermoformers have used in traditional food packaging to the FFS MAP segment, including a significant efficiency boost to cheese packaging. According to the company, DPET is tougher and resists cracking and crack propagation. DPET also has reliable high definition forming and excellent resin distribution, especially for deep draw applications, Octal says. Average caliper variation is 1 percent, enabling maximum down-gauging. Other production advantages include faster thermoforming cycle times, faster startups, less waste and precise unwinding. The proprietary DPET production process also ensures that no contamination can infiltrate the polymer, ensuring purity in each package. The Octal production process also has a carbon footprint 25 percent below that of traditionally produced APET films, according to an Intertek study. The direct-to-sheet process eliminates the most energy-consuming and defect-prone processes. Octal adds that the material properties of DPET FFS packaging provide maximum clarity and gloss, presenting the packaging contents in its best light in refrigerated displays. |
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Pearson Packaging Systems |
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Website: www.pearsonpkg.com Pearson Packaging Systems, a manufacturer of secondary packaging equipment, recently introduced a new multipacking infeed for case packing systems. The MPI-300 performs at speeds up to 300 bars per minute, per infeed lane. The design also has the capability to accept up to five vertical infeed lanes. Pearson says the MPI-300 design also has a minimal footprint and allows for fast changeover. “Pearson is proud to be further diversifying our product line to include multipack systems,” says Michael A. Senske, president and CEO, Pearson Packaging Systems. “The MPI-300 was designed and engineered to take up significantly less floor space than more traditional infeed systems. Employing a vertically-stacked collating system, the MPI-300 can be compact while maintaining its high product rates.” |
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Plastic Technologies Inc. |
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Contact: Pam Douglas, 419-725-5620, e-mail: info@plastictechnologies.com Plastic Technologies Inc. (PTI) is making its oPTI lightweight foamed polyethylene terephthalate (PET) container blow molding process available for dairy applications via both stock and custom options. The first stock container is 300 milliliters and features a tall, square profile with a 38-millimeter finish. It is targeted toward milk, drinkable yogurts and other specialty dairy products. According to representatives, the company’s new capability now will provide dairy owners with a broader range of PET container aesthetics and performance capabilities. Containers also provide tactile traction designed to minimize slipping, and company officials note the process blow molds details more prominently, enabling decorations to stand out better. The technology also is capable of producing bottles in a variety of pastel colors to support varieties such as chocolate or strawberry. However, these cannot be recycled as part of the clear PET stream. Company officials also note containers can be made from translucent to opaque depending on the desired aesthetics and performance characteristics. |
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Printpack Inc. |
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By Rena Archwamety ATLANTA — Printpack Inc., one of the top five flexible packaging suppliers in North America with plants in the United States, Mexico, Europe and China, has grown rapidly over the last 20 years through a number of acquisitions. The focus of this privately-held company, however, remains the same as it was when it started in 1956 — long-term relationships with its customers and associates. “J. Erskine Love Jr., the founder of the company, always emphasized the relationship with the customer. He himself was very close to customers,” says Frank Barel, business development manager, Printpack Inc. “It’s still something we very much emphasize, this close relationship with all customers. It’s part of the culture.” Barel says more than just selling a product, Printpack wants to go beyond and understand the customer’s business and marketplace. Printpack will invite customers to its new innovation center in Atlanta and brainstorm about what they would like to see available in packaging. “At Printpack, it’s almost a religion,” Barel says. “We try to put ourselves in the shoes of the customer in order to better serve their needs. It’s something we do day in and day out. It’s part of the training. It’s also part of innovation.” Two of Printpack’s latest innovations that have appeal to the cheese industry include its trademarked Colorpack — a prepress system that provides flexible packaging customers with enhanced graphic detail and vibrant color reproduction — and the trademarked Reseal-it — an easy-open/easy-reclose system developed as a joint venture with a European company. The Colorpack prepress system combines a proprietary set of process ink formulations with prepress separation for high-impact graphics and dramatic shelf appeal, Barel says. Benefits include more vibrant, life-like product shots; an updated graphic look to better capture the original design intent; adding images to packaging without increasing packaging cost; and an accurate proof-to-production-run correlation that effectively manages color expectations between Printpack and its customers. “We saw the need in the marketplace for crisper, more vibrant colors,” Barel says. “When a consumer walks down the cheese aisle, if a package really catches his or her eye, they may grab it, look at it, give it a try.” Reseal-it, which Printpack introduced to the market 3-4 years ago, works similarly to the resealable package of a famous-brand sandwich cookie, Barel says. A label or tab at one end of the package opens like a page of the book. Consumers then can easily pull a cookie or slice of cheese from the package and reseal it. Reseal-it is available in a variety of designs and works with rigid trays or flow-wrap packages. “All our focus groups have shown that the zippered pouch presents a challenge to many consumers trying to retrieve a slice of cheese,” Barel says. “With Reseal-it, slices remain in the package. You open it from the top. You have access, can pull one out and don’t have to take all the slices out of the package. It’s a more user-friendly system.” In addition to new packaging solutions, Barel says Printpack continues to introduce sustainability into both its processes and its product through initiatives such as waste and materials reduction, plant energy conservation and renewable or biodegradable materials. Printpack constantly is looking at growth through acquisitions, organic growth and innovations, Barel says. It also constantly searches for ways to increase its competitive advantage. “We try not to go in and offer ‘Me too.’ We want to offer ‘Me too, plus.’ We improve on existing packaging and do something different,” Barel says. “We want the customer to say, ‘We want to deal with Printpack. They’re always looking for the next step in the process.’” |
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Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics |
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By Alyssa Sowerwine MADISON, Wis. — Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics (SGPPL), a subsidiary of packaging producer Saint-Gobain Corp., Valley Forge, Pa., is spotlighting its critical connections solutions for dairy applications next week at Pack Expo International 2010 Oct. 31-Nov. 3 in Chicago. SGPPL’s critical connections solutions for dairy processing incorporate SaniGard hosing, Transflow tubing and ReSeal fittings to ensure optimum performance under the high pressures and temperatures associated with these operations, says Michael Block, marketing manager of food and beverage at SGPPL, Akron, Ohio. SaniGard hoses are designed specifically for higher temperatures and demanding chemical applications, says Block, noting that the hoses can withstand frequent cleaning without imparting taste or odor. “They guarantee a secure and flexible connection between systems and pipes for loading and unloading raw products in high-traffic areas,” he adds. In addition, SGPPL’s ReSeal fittings are completely reusable and offer savings of up to 50 percent on standard replacement costs over time, he adds. According to Block, the costs and time associated with replacing end fittings on damaged hoses can be significant. With ReSeal fitting technology, fittings are designed to allow for removal and reapplication following hose replacement. “In the past, manufacturers had to replace both the hose and the fittings, but with ReSeal fittings, you are saving time and money as only the hose has to be replaced,” he says. The hoses and ReSeal fittings can be used in all stages of the dairy transfer process, from dairy farms to tanker trucks to plant storage, he adds. The ReSeal fittings typically last through four new hose connections, so in addition to cost savings, the reusable fittings help to cut down on company waste, Block notes. “We strive to make products that are sustainable in manufacturing. These solutions are designed to help companies reduce total system costs, maintenance and repair expenses, resulting in minimized operations downtime,” he says. “The feedback we’ve seen from core customers on savings has been great.” SGPPL’s Transflow tubing minimizes the potential for bacterial growth, promoting a safe and sanitary fluid path, Block says, noting the product’s smooth, non-porous inner surface is less susceptible to particle entrapment. Transflow tubing also is designed for convenience and long service life, and is extremely flexible and easy to install around milk handling equipment, he adds. The tubing’s transparent surface permits detection of equipment deficiencies such as backflow of milk into the air lines while resisting the damage caused by oxidation. Block notes all of SGPPL’s solutions meet stringent food regulatory standards, ensuring product safety, and have been designed for clean-in-place (CIP) convenience with no disassembly required, minimizing operational downtime and associated costs. |
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Standard-Knapp to showcase 939S Versatron Soft Catch Servo Case Packer at Pack Expo Contact: 860-342-1100 or e-mail info@standard-knapp.com PORTLAND, Conn. — Standard-Knapp, a manufacturer of packaging machinery, will be featuring its 939S Versatron Soft Catch Servo Case Packer at Pack Expo 2011 Sept. 26-28 in Las Vegas. Two models will be set up for live demonstrations, including one showcasing the 939S Versatron’s brand new lowering head module and a second standard model featuring light curtain technology. The 939S Versatron Soft Catch Servo Case Packer includes technology that enables packers to handle the thinner, lightweight and more fragile glass containers being used in the mover towards greener, more sustainable packaging. The 939S Versatron minimizes the amount of material needed for container partitions, and major national retail chains have achieved savings as high as 10 percent in the cost of a case, the company says. Standard-Knapp adds that the 939S Versatron shares the features of all of the company’s packers, including long life, easy operations and maintenance allowing for simple and fast changeover, easy-to-use human machine interface (HMI) and outstanding customer service. The new lowering head module is ideal for packers looking for solutions gentler than drop packing for more fragile “green” containers. The lowering head module, also known as a soft placement head, can pick up bottles and other containers and carry them to the packing area, where they can be packed in the case without dropping. The machine places the container all the way to the bottom of the case at 30 cycles per minute. The standard machine will demonstrate the 939 Versatron’s use of light curtain safety protection that provides added safety to the machine while also improving the overall equipment efficiency (OEE). “The light curtain allows for a fast mean time to recover from a jam,” says Patrick Nelson, engineering manager, Standard-Knapp. “With the light curtain, operators can easily see a jam in the machine, reach right through the machine to correct the situation and then get the machine back on line quickly.” |
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TNA |
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Contact: Shayne De la Force, shayne.delaforce@tnasolutions.com TNA, a provider of packaging and processing solutions, will be showcasing its portfolio, including new additions, at Interpack 2011 May 12-18 in Düsseldorf, Germany. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the company’s innovations, designed to improve performance while delivering simplicity and flexibility to the manufacturing process, TNA representatives say. Highlights will include new additions to the TNA Intelli-Flav on-machine seasoning range as well as recent developments to the Roflo distribution products and conveyers, the Robag 3c baggers and multi-head scales. The Intelli-Flav 3 features a dynamic weighing system to control the flow of seasoning powder into the drum This is achieved by incorporating a vibratory weigher control with a close loop load cell system. The machine can be used for both wet and dry seasoning applications. TNA also will showcase its Roflo VM 3, which is designed to prevent and smooth out any build up of free-flowing product. The machine can be combined with the TNA Roflo HM 3 horizontal motion conveyor, a reversible system that offers users control over product speed and direction. In addition, the TNA Robag 3c vertical form, fill and seal (VFFS) bagger will be featured at the show. Operating at speeds of up to 250 bags per minute, the bagger is suitable for use with a wide range of bag sizes and formats. Company representatives note a strong performance level can be achieved with less energy consumption, enabling manufacturers to reduce their carbon footprint and improve their sustainable credentials. The TNA Robag also can be integrated with other processing equipment such as TNA’s multi-head scales. |
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Toray Plastics Inc. |
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Website: www.TorayFilms.com Toray Plastics (America) Inc., manufacturer of polyester and polypropylene films, is offering new Ecodear advanced compostable bio-based films made with renewable resources. Manufactured with polyactic acid (PLA) resin, the new, thin bi-axially-oriented Ecodear films include a metallized heat-sealable film that delivers moisture and oxygen barrier protection and a clear film for use as an inner seal layer or a printweb. New Ecodear films meet ASTM D6400 standard specifications for compostable plastics and have several food and non-food packaging applications. “Interest in compostable films made from renewable resources continues to grow,” says Franco Chicarella, product development manager, Torayfan Polypropylene Film Division, Toray Plastics (America) Inc. “Toray is well-known for its traditional high-performance thin barrier films that support product development, product enhancement, and sustainability goals, such as source reduction and light weighting. Now, with the addition of our new Ecodear bio-based films, customers have even more innovative options available to help them with their sustainability programs.” Chicarella adds that Toray is committed to creating a portfolio of bio-based films and continues to research and develop other renewable resources. Toray has been researching and developing bio-based films since 2007. |
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Zip-Pak |
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Website: www.zippak.com Zip-Pak, an innovator in resealable packaging solutions, recently launched Zip360, a new, flexible pouch format featuring a wide opening and pour-spout functionality to enhance consumer convenience across multiple applications, the company says. Zip-Pak, with global headquarters in Manteno, Ill., launched the product during this week’s PACK EXPO 2010, held Oct. 31-Nov. 3 in Chicago. Developed in conjunction with Triangle Package Machinery Co., Chicago, and Printpack Inc., Atlanta, Zip360 ran on a Triangle vertical form-fill-seal machine in Zip-Pak’s booth during the expo, explains Elizabeth Sheaffer, marketing manager, Zip-Pak. “Consumers are more outspoken than ever about their packaging,” Sheaffer says. “Our goal is to enable brand owners to deliver forward-looking packaging, and Zip360 is an innovative pouch format that addresses consumer desire for convenience through functionality and resealability.” The new pouch format’s wide-mouth opening allows consumers to easily access contents including bulk or shredded cheese, says Sheaffer, adding that Zip360 also enables pour-spout functionality. In addition, the resealable closure eliminates the need to transfer contents into a separate container, Sheaffer notes. “When consumers transfer products to a new container, the brand name gets lost,” she adds. Sheaffer also notes that compared to traditional bag-in-box formats, Zip360 reduces the amount of materials needed to manufacture a package. In fact, Zip-Pak recently commissioned a life cycle analysis, conducted by independent research firm Franklin Associates Inc., comparing 20-ounce bag-in-box formats to 21-ounce resealable flexible pouches, she says, noting the study confirmed that resealable flexible packages offer superior product-to-package ratio, lower energy footprint, lower solid waste footprint and lower greenhouse gas emissions throughout their life cycle. |
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