Packaging Technology
Shrunk into an attractive shape

interpack 2005 Hall 5 / C24
 

SPECIALLY adapted thermoforming machines that operate by the FormShrink process from Multivac are being exhibited at the interpack in Düsseldorf. The compact R150 model, which is an extension to the machine program in the medium capacity range, is being shown for the first time.

Introduced for the first time in the summer of 2004, FormShrink process allows a film with a glassy appearance to be shrunk snugly around the shape of the product. The film, developed in cooperation with the Japanese film manufacturer Krehalon, fits round the product like a second skin without any wrinkles and presents it attractively.

The pack is produced tailor-made and highly efficiently from an upper and lower web on a fully automatic thermoforming machine. Unusual geometries, fluctuating weights and sizes are not a problem; deviations of up to 20% from the basic design are possible.

A special shape-cutting unit eliminates excess film. In the subsequent shrinking process, the sealed edges around the product are reduced to a minimum, so that its shape and eye-catching visual appeal are emphasized. An optional tear tab, which guarantees quick and clean opening of the pack, provides additional convenience.

The shrink packs are produced extremely profitably on specially adapted Multivac thermoforming machines. A compact R150 model for smaller capacity requirements is now being shown for the first time at Interpack alongside the high-speed R550 machine and the R250.

FormShrink is suitable for many different products. Processed and fresh meat, cheese and dairy products and other foods with a long shelf life, for example, can be packaged with it. Products that up to now have been problematic, such as poultry and others that are sensitive to pressure, can be processed by back-flushing the packs.

More Developments

There are new developments to be seen in the traysealer field too: the compact, fully automatic T 350 model, which packages products extremely flexibly in the medium output range whether they are identical or vary in their shape and weight, will also be demonstrated live on the stand. The machine is being exhibited in combination with an integrated, high-speed labeling and weighing unit from Wipotec GmbH.

This unit takes over the channeled packs at the discharge end of the machine, weighs them at the specified speed and labels them with their actual weight as well as all the legally required information. All the standard tray sizes and material combinations can be processed: they can be sealed with an upper web, cut and discharged at speeds of up to 45 trays per minute

A semi-automatic machine from the compact T 200 series for the production of Darfresh® vacuum skin packs is being exhibited that is designed for smaller capacity requirements and frequent product changes. The advantages of these easily opened packs are their attractive appearance, which enables products to be given distinctive brand impact, and the very long shelf life of the packaged products.

Further major exhibits for the food sector is the “Aromabox”, a brand new, reclosable pack developed in cooperation with fresh and processed meat producer Zimbo, who has been marketing a low-fat product range in self-service outlets since November 2004. A good choice for food products, its innovative lid design can be finished with an attractive multicolor gravure printed motif for optimum product presentation. from the start here, so that the optimum pack is found for every product.

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