And even though per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, did not come into existence until around the 1940s, tod
Swiss dairy company Molkerei Biedermann AG, a member of the Emmi Group, has recently installed an Ishida multihead weigher for handling nuts and cereals, which are packed as separate portions to accompany yoghurts and desserts. The dairy is currently using the Ishida multihead to handle five different products at target weights from 14 g to 25 g and with pinpoint accuracy: the standard deviation for a 25 g weight, for example, is just 0.165 g.
Molkerei Biedermann AG, based in Bischofszell in the canton of Thurgau, is one of Switzerland's most innovative dairies, operating processing lines for milk and cream and for making yoghurt, quark cheese and butter. Growing demand had led the company to urgently seek an automated and more accurate weighing and filling solution for its most popular product lines.
Some of these products are yoghurts and desserts with separate portions of additional ingredients such as cereals or nuts. To keep these ingredients crunchy and fresh until they are added to milk or yoghurt, they need to be packed separately. Molkerei Biedermann’s solution is a double-compartment arrangement involving two pots stacked on top of each other, with the smaller pot also acting as a lid.
These double-compartment packs have proved extremely popular. However, the company found that its existing volumetric dosing system for the cereal and nut mixtures was no longer able to keep up with the throughput necessary to meet rising demand. In particular, volumetric dosing resulted in very high product giveaway due to overfilling. “We were experiencing overfilling of up to 30%,” explains Operations Manager Mario Dux. “We could cope with that when quantities were small, but our production volumes are getting bigger all the time.”
To make sure that the company could weigh its high-value nuts and cereals with much greater accuracy, Molkerei Biedermann decided to invest in a multihead weigher.
Itech, Ishida’s representative in Switzerland, installed an Ishida CCW-SE 10-head weigher, an ideal entry-level solution for multihead weighing needs. The SE-range offers significant advances in speeds and accuracy compared with dosing machines, linear weighers or static weighing solutions.
The rotary filler’s fill rate of 25 portions per minute currently dictates the speed of the line, which is well below the weigher’s capability of up to 70 weighments per minute.
The new weighing and packing solution offers a range of other benefits. While the old filling system led to many line stoppages, the Ishida multihead weigher has not caused a single fault. “What used to happen was that the different product mixtures would get blocked in the funnel during dosing, which interrupted the filling process,” says Mario Dux.
Today, thanks to its Ishida multihead weigher, Molkerei Biedermann can process these tricky products without any hassle. Equally important, the flexibility that this has given the manufacturer has opened up opportunities to implement new product ideas from the marketing department.
Another benefit is the fact that this new weighing and filling solution has significantly reduced product breakages as the system is able to transfer the product more gently into the pots.
Molkerei Biedermann makes its double-compartment products in relatively small batches. To keep the product fresh for longer, the company aims to weigh and pack the product just before it is due for delivery to customers, meaning that product changeovers are frequent. With the Ishida weigher, changing products by calling up pre-sets at the touch of a button on the touch screen display has proved to be a valuable time-saver. To minimise downtime for cleaning, all contact parts can be removed and replaced without the use of tools.
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About Molkerei Biedermann AG:
Molkerei Biedermann AG, based in Bischofszell in the canton of Thurgau, is one of Switzerland's most innovative dairies, operating processing lines for milk and cream and for making yoghurt, quark cheese and butter. Major customers include Swiss supermarket chains Migros and Coop, as well as specialist organic retailers. In addition, the company supplies to customers outside Switzerland.
Molkerei Biedermann was established in 1974 and is now a wholly owned subsidiary of the Emmi Group. (www.biomolkerei.ch)
High packaging quality, maximum flexibility and ease of use: With the VSM® Bulky, Augsburg-based MBM innovations GmbH is setting new standards in the field of vacuum packag-ing. The compact model in hygienic design is a perfect all-rounder for vertical packaging of large products such as ham, pieces of meat or other large and loose containers. Numerous strong performance features not only offer added value for food processing companies, but also make the VSM® Bulky a resilient and at the same time efficient component in the pro-duction process.
The new packaging machine with manual bagging evacuates, gas flushes and seals vertically in a very confined space. It is particular-ly suitable for productions with frequently changing product batches or for applications where a high degree of flexibility is required. Ver-tical packaging enables vacuuming and gas flushing from above in bags directly within transport boxes or E2 crates, cartons or drums, which means that even large packs can be packaged easily and reliably.
High packaging quality and efficiency
The extra-wide vacuum station with double-sided impulse sealing ensures reliable wrinkle-free sealing even with large formats and even with moist pouches. "In addition to the reliable vacuum, the wrinkle-free sealing seam and the double-sided impulse sealing are decisive factors with regard to packaging quality, product protec-tion and shelf-life," affirms Julia Mayer, Product Engineer at MBM.
Other advantages that first-time users particularly appreciate in-clude a fast vacuum time and the fact that the VSM® Bulky is ready to start immediately at the touch of a button. "Separate pre-heating times are eliminated because we do not use a permanently heated sealing bar. This means that the packaging machine con-tributes significantly to higher productivity. This is particularly no-ticeable with frequently changing batches," adds Julia Mayer.
Thanks to the proven VSM® technology, the entire evacuation process takes place under normal atmospheric pressure - without a vacuum chamber. This guarantees a high quality vacuum that is gentle on the product, which is particularly advantageous for sensi-tive product structures.
Flexibility in many respects
The space-saving, slim design allows the versatile VSM® Bulky to be used in almost any work environment. The innovative model is also mounted on castors and can simply be pushed wherever it is needed. However, should modifications be necessary due to spe-cific requirements, MBM offers the possibility to make individual adaptations to the standard machine thanks to its high vertical range of manufacture and comprehensive expertise in special ma-chine construction.
Another plus: The VSM® Bulky has two gas connections so that two different types of gas can be connected for gassed packs with modified atmosphere (MAP packs). Individual programmes with the different gas types and vacuuming times can be stored in the system for this purpose.
Finally, there are virtually no limits to the flexible multi-talent in terms of the range of products that can be processed. The extra-long sealing bar (max. sealing length 1,100 mm) even accommo-dates packaging of very large products and loose packs. Hams, roasts and various pieces of meat, sausage, fish and cheese can be packed safely without any problems. There are also numerous possible applications in the pharmaceutical and non-food sectors.
Easy operation, cleaning and maintenance
In the development of its brand new all-rounder, MBM placed great emphasis not only on optimum performance and machine quality, but also on hygiene, ergonomics and safe working with the ma-chine.
For example, the VSM® Bulky has a hygienic design based on EHEDG [European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group] guide-lines and can therefore be used in sensitive application areas such as the food industry. The integrated cleaning programme for rinsing the suction nozzles and hoses also ensures ideal and effective cleaning of the machine.
The machine is controlled safely and intuitively via the KTP 700 touch panel with a total of ten programme positions. With two-hand operation and protective covers, MBM naturally meets the highest safety standards.
In addition, as with all VSM® systems, MBM customers benefit from a high level of ease of maintenance. Common wear parts can be easily replaced without the need for a service technician, and spare parts are quickly available. This also has a positive effect on machine availability and ultimately on productivity. "In the case of more complex work, our experienced service technicians are also available quickly," adds Julia Mayer.
Optionally, the VSM® Bulky can be equipped with a roller convey-or as well as a bag insertion aid for quick insertion of the bag into cartons or boxes.
About MBM Innovations GmbH
For 60 years, the company has stood for innovation, quality and competence in mechanical engineering. Now in its third generation, the Augsburg-based tradi-tional company combines the down-to-earth values of a family business with a spirit of innovation and modern entrepreneurship.
MBM was founded in 1961 as Sebastian Mayer Maschinenbau GmbH in Augs-burg with a focus on special machine construction and machining activities. With the development of the VSM® vacuum system in 1971 and the construc-tion of the first vacuum packaging machine with the VSM® system, the success story of VSM® machines in the field of cheese ripening began. Further mile-stones in the company's history include the construction of the first VSM® vacu-um packaging machine with automatic bagging using a bag magazine in 1986 and the launch of the first VSM® vacuum packaging machine with fully auto-matic bag feed in 1997. In 2017, the company was renamed MBM innovations GmbH.
Today, with its semi- and fully-automatic vacuum packaging machines, MBM is a powerful and at the same time reliable partner for customers all over the world. The focus is always on developing the best possible packaging solution for the respective requirement. All models are manufactured at the Augsburg site.
Gualapack Spa is announcing its plans for expansion in Brazil, as part of the Group’s continued efforts for a sustainable, global growth through vertical integration.
Gualapack strongly pursues international development to support its positioning on the global market as the world leader in pre-made spouted pouches and a global player in the flexible packaging industry. Brazil has been a strategic area for the company's growth since 2015, when the Group opened the dedicated subsidiary Gualapack Brasil in Iperó / São Paulo by merging with pouch producer Tradbor.
Today, Gualapack continues to invest substantially in this promising region of the world with the acquisition of Teruel Embalagens – Papéis Amália Ltda. Teruel is a traditional family business with 50 years of expertise, specializing in flexographic printing on flexible film at its two factories in Brazil.
With this agreement, Gualapack Brasil aims to achieve various interconnected goals. First of all, being able to manufacture laminates within the company will allow the Brazilian subsidiary to achieve vertical integration in the production of pouches destined to the South American market. Second of all, the acquisition will help Gualapack Brasil align with the Group's global portfolio and grow within its technology crossover strategy – which includes laminates, pouches, injection moulding and filling lines. Finally, the company is effectively incorporating new technologies focused on sustainable packaging solutions, as Teruel has proven capabilities in the development of new products and green technologies, some of which it has patented.
Alan Baumgarten, CEO of Gualapack Brasil, points out that “Teruel’s specialty, which includes its own patented technologies in the country and worldwide, as well as the use of paper in flexible packaging, will make a key contribution to Gualapack’s line of sustainable products. Furthermore, the acquisition allows Gualapack Brasil to align with the company’s global portfolio.”
Thus, after only six years in operation, with this acquisition Gualapack Brasil marks the beginning of a new phase in its history. Now having 3 plants and additional integrated capabilities, the company is poised to reach new levels of opportunity thanks to its determination to invest in new technologies, increase its production capacity, and enable local manufacture of sustainable solutions such as films and mono-material pouches, which are easy to recycle. “This solution is already adopted by large customers of the company in Europe and will now be available in Brazil. Our international positioning allows us to bring disruptive and innovative technologies and products to the country to serve large global and local customers,” explains Baumgarten.
ABOUT GUALAPACK
Gualapack is the world leader in pre-made spouted pouches and a global player in the flexible packaging industry, manufacturing laminates, caps and pouches for baby food, snacks, pharmaceutical products and a wide range of other applications. The company is fully committed to sustainability, which in the past few years has been its greatest driver for growth and innovation. Headquartered in Italy, Gualapack has a global presence in 9 countries worldwide.
ABOUT TERUEL EMBALAGENS - PAPÉIS AMÁLIA LTDA
Founded in 1969 by Amadeu and Amélia Teruel, Teruel has 50 years of specialized expertise in flexographic printing and currently operates two factories in Brazil: a 30,000-square-meter graphics plant in Jaguariúna / São Paulo, and a 20,000-square-meter unit in Ouro Fino / Minas Gerais. Teruel is one of the largest historical converters in flexography, recognized in Brazil and worldwide for high print quality and for product development focused on sustainable solutions. Its state-of-the-art machinery is capable of producing flexible industrial and commercial packaging for various uses and markets.
Mondi, a global leader in packaging and paper, has added to its range of sustainable premium food and pet food packaging solutions with the launch of RetortPouch Recyclable.
The new high-barrier pouch will replace complex multi-layer and unrecyclable packaging for a range of food and wet pet food products. Moist or semi-moist foods that are heat-treated in steam or hot water retort vessels to achieve commercial sterilisation for shelf-stable foods require retort packaging. The aluminium typically used in most solutions has been substituted with an innovative high-barrier film that keeps temperatures high and maintains short processing times during the retort process. The new mono-material retort packaging is fully recyclable, offering a solution that protects the product, provides exceptional shelf life for a mono-material solution and reduces potential food waste.
Mondi has spent over two years researching and testing this product to ensure that several important application needs can be met. The launch of RetortPouch Recyclable is another step towards Mondi’s goal of ensuring that all of its products are reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025 as part of its MAP2030 commitments.
Sustainability is a top priority for Mondi and we are committed to make this innovation available for all our customers by using our customer-centric approach, EcoSolutions. Our fully recyclable solution helps to lower the product’s environmental footprint and customers can be confident that their products will be completely protected throughout manufacturing and transportation and meet their sustainability goals. This is another example of our award-winning expertise in creating sustainable food packaging and delivering circular-driven solutions that work for the customer, the end user and the environment.
About Mondi
Mondi is a global leader in packaging and paper, contributing to a better world by making innovative packaging and paper solutions that are sustainable by design. Our business is integrated across the value chain – from managing forests and producing pulp, paper and plastic films, to developing and manufacturing effective industrial and consumer packaging solutions. Sustainability is at the centre of our strategy and intrinsic in the way we do business. We lead the industry with our customer-centric approach, EcoSolutions, where we ask the right questions to find the most sustainable solution. In 2020, Mondi had revenues of €6.66 billion and underlying EBITDA of €1.35 billion.
Mondi has a premium listing on the London Stock Exchange (MNDI), and a secondary listing on the JSE Limited (MNP). Mondi is a FTSE 100 constituent, and has been included in the FTSE4Good Index Series since 2008 and the FTSE/JSE Responsible Investment Index Series since 2007.
About Mondi Consumer Flexibles
Mondi Consumer Flexibles is part of Mondi’s Business Unit Flexible Packaging and a global manufacturer of tailor-made flexible plastic and hybrid packaging solutions that are sustainable by design. The product range includes pre-made bags, stand-up pouches and high-performance barrier materials with film- and paper-based solutions. Making it possible to provide paper where possible, and plastic when useful. We serve some of the world’s biggest brands and FMCG’s in categories such as fresh food, pet food, home, and personal care. Committed to quality, we provide customer-oriented packaging solutions and cutting-edge innovations developed by our state-of-the-art R&D centre in Gronau. Our network serves customers from 27 operations located in 12 countries.
Enhancing sustainability along the pharmaceutical supply chain: As founders of the “Alliance to Zero,” eight renowned players have been jointly pursuing this aim since June 2021. The purpose of the non-profit partnership is to support pharmaceutical and biotech companies in their transition to net-zero emissions in line with the Paris Climate Agreement. Schreiner MediPharm, as an expert in pharmaceutical specialty labels, is one of the founding members.
The Alliance to Zero pursues the goal of launching net-zero pharmaceutical products in regulated markets by 2030 at the latest. To achieve this, the founding members have committed to developing a joint net-zero offering by 2026 to provide pharmaceutical companies with enough time to finish their total product on this basis.
The Alliance has developed a roadmap for a net-zero emissions concept for pharmaceutical production and the supply chain. Currently necessary steps are being developed and a harmonized language as well as principles for evaluating and monitoring the entire emissions footprint of the pharmaceutical end products are being defined. In addition, the Alliance is planning to collaborate with academic and non-profit organizations pursuing similar goals.
Dr. Thomas Schweizer, President of Schreiner MediPharm emphasizes the importance of the company’s membership in the Alliance: “For Schreiner MediPharm, as a pioneer in the production of innovative functional labels, sustainability starts as early as in product development that considers all lifecycles in order to achieve a reduced environmental footprint. For us, co-founding the Alliance to Zero means another important step toward holistic sustainability. We are convinced that, together with the other alliance partners, we will be able to drive the development of net-zero pharmaceutical products.”
In addition to Schreiner MediPharm, the founding members of the Alliance represent other renowned companies of the pharmaceutical and biotech value chain: Dätwyler, Harro Höfliger, HealthBeacon, Körber Pharma, SCHOTT, Sharp, and Ypsomed. Thus, the Alliance encompasses component suppliers, machine manufacturers and assembly/manufacturing service providers, manufacturers of primary and secondary packaging, and companies that are responsible for the final assembly of the products, or that handle products that have been returned after use.
The founding members of the Alliance to Zero regard their collaboration along the pharmaceutical supply chain as an important step in driving fundamental change to improve the climate footprint. The close collaboration across traditional company boundaries as well as the specialized expertise and individual know-how of each cooperation partner results in the development of holistic solutions that will have a positive impact on the pharmaceutical industry.
About Schreiner MediPharm
Schreiner MediPharm, a business unit of Schreiner Group GmbH & Co. KG based in Oberschleissheim near Munich, is a leading developer and manufacturer of innovative, multifunctional specialty labels and marking solutions with value-added benefits for the healthcare industry. Thanks to its strong solutions expertise and specialized know-how Schreiner MediPharm is a highly capable development partner and reliable quality supplier to leading pharmaceutical and medical device technology companies worldwide.
About Alliance to Zero
The Alliance to Zero is a Swiss-based, non-profit membership association that aims to facilitate the transition of the pharmaceutical sector to compliance with Net Zero emissions in line with the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. The alliance was founded in June 2021 by eight pharmaceutical supply organisations whose collaboration represents the complete value chain of pharma products. Further information can be found at: www.alliancetozero.com
Gualapack Spa is announcing its plans for expansion in Brazil, as part of the Group’s continued efforts for a sustainable, global growth through vertical integration.
Gualapack strongly pursues international development to support its positioning on the global market as the world leader in pre-made spouted pouches and a global player in the flexible packaging industry. Brazil has been a strategic area for the company's growth since 2015, when the Group opened the dedicated subsidiary Gualapack Brasil in Iperó / São Paulo by merging with pouch producer Tradbor.
Today, Gualapack continues to invest substantially in this promising region of the world with the acquisition of Teruel Embalagens – Papéis Amália Ltda. Teruel is a traditional family business with 50 years of expertise, specializing in flexographic printing on flexible film at its two factories in Brazil.
With this agreement, Gualapack Brasil aims to achieve various interconnected goals. First of all, being able to manufacture laminates within the company will allow the Brazilian subsidiary to achieve vertical integration in the production of pouches destined to the South American market. Second of all, the acquisition will help Gualapack Brasil align with the Group's global portfolio and grow within its technology crossover strategy – which includes laminates, pouches, injection moulding and filling lines. Finally, the company is effectively incorporating new technologies focused on sustainable packaging solutions, as Teruel has proven capabilities in the development of new products and green technologies, some of which it has patented.
Alan Baumgarten, CEO of Gualapack Brasil, points out that “Teruel’s specialty, which includes its own patented technologies in the country and worldwide, as well as the use of paper in flexible packaging, will make a key contribution to Gualapack’s line of sustainable products. Furthermore, the acquisition allows Gualapack Brasil to align with the company’s global portfolio.”
Thus, after only six years in operation, with this acquisition Gualapack Brasil marks the beginning of a new phase in its history. Now having 3 plants and additional integrated capabilities, the company is poised to reach new levels of opportunity thanks to its determination to invest in new technologies, increase its production capacity, and enable local manufacture of sustainable solutions such as films and mono-material pouches, which are easy to recycle.
“This solution is already adopted by large customers of the company in Europe and will now be available in Brazil. Our international positioning allows us to bring disruptive and innovative technologies and products to the country to serve large global and local customers,” explains Baumgarten.
ABOUT GUALAPACK
Gualapack is the world leader in pre-made spouted pouches and a global player in the flexible packaging industry, manufacturing laminates, caps and pouches for baby food, snacks, pharmaceutical products and a wide range of other applications. The company is fully committed to sustainability, which in the past few years has been its greatest driver for growth and innovation. Headquartered in Italy, Gualapack has a global presence in 9 countries worldwide.
ABOUT TERUEL EMBALAGENS - PAPÉIS AMÁLIA LTDA
Founded in 1969 by Amadeu and Amélia Teruel, Teruel has 50 years of specialized expertise in flexographic printing and currently operates two factories in Brazil: a 30,000-square-meter graphics plant in Jaguariúna / São Paulo, and a 20,000-square-meter unit in Ouro Fino / Minas Gerais. Teruel is one of the largest historical converters in flexography, recognized in Brazil and worldwide for high print quality and for product development focused on sustainable solutions. Its state-of-the-art machinery is capable of producing flexible industrial and commercial packaging for various uses and markets.
Xaar, the leading inkjet printing technology group, has conditionally agreed terms with its joint partner Stratasys Solutions Limited to sell its remaining interest in Xaar 3D Ltd.
Xaar 3D Ltd has continued to make progress this year, although delays to the development of products due to the COVID-19 pandemic meant that the business would potentially require more investment than originally planned.
The agreement with Stratasys will provide Xaar 3D Ltd with the best opportunity to complete the commercialisation of the product range in the shortest time and enable Xaar to focus on its core business with an injection of cash. Xaar will continue to receive royalties on product and service sales.
Additive Manufacturing will continue to be an important focus for Xaar’s printhead business with the needs of the sector supported by Xaar’s extensive product portfolio and strong partnership approach to working with its customers.
John Mills, Xaar’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “This agreement will provide Xaar 3D Ltd with the best opportunity to continue its progress and leadership in the field of industrial 3D printing. We have enjoyed our partnership with Stratasys and look forward to continuing to work with them to supply printheads to Xaar 3D and share in the long-term success of the business. The agreement will also allow us to focus on our core business and other opportunities in the market that will support our long-term growth strategy.”
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About Xaar
Together with our partners and customers, Xaar has been transforming the world of inkjet technology for 30 years – and we’re just getting started.
With a new leadership team, new technology and new products, we have an exciting roadmap for the future – that will help our partners unleash the true power of inkjet printing and open up a world of opportunities for their business.
We believe true innovation comes from collaboration, which is why all our teams work together in Cambridgeshire where industrial inkjet was born.
Collaboration is at the core of our global partnerships too - whether we’re helping customers enhance their uptime or create production efficiencies from high-speed digitisation - we’re always innovating together.
We know that inkjet technology can not only maximise the efficiency of our partners’ businesses but help them evolve too. That’s why we go on a journey with our customers - offering expert insights and technical support every step of the way. Just like our printheads, Xaar’s partnerships are built to last.
About Xaar
Together with our partners and customers, Xaar has been transforming the world of inkjet technology for 30 years – and we’re just getting started.
With a new leadership team, new technology and new products, we have an exciting roadmap for the future – that will help our partners unleash the true power of inkjet printing and open up a world of opportunities for their business.
We believe true innovation comes from collaboration, which is why all our teams work together in Cambridgeshire where industrial inkjet was born.
Collaboration is at the core of our global partnerships too - whether we’re helping customers enhance their uptime or create production efficiencies from high-speed digitisation - we’re always innovating together.
We know that inkjet technology can not only maximise the efficiency of our partners’ businesses but help them evolve too. That’s why we go on a journey with our customers - offering expert insights and technical support every step of the way. Just like our printheads, Xaar’s partnerships are built to last.
Berry Global Group, Inc. (NYSE: BERY) has announced that its Chairman and CEO, Tom Salmon, has accepted the appointment as an officer of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste, a global nonprofit organization. As a founding member and first converter to join the Alliance, Berry continues its leadership role to help convene a worldwide network of over 80 member companies and partners in the mission to end plastic waste in the environment.
Salmon continues to stand behind the power of plastics, known for its versatility, innovation, and lower overall environmental impact than other packaging alternatives*. Through his leadership, he will help guide the Alliance’s decision-making on global projects that are sustainable, circular, and scalable businesses.
“The selection of representatives across the sectors signifies the necessary collaboration across the plastics value chain,” said Salmon. “Ending plastic waste is only achievable when organizations partner to increase infrastructure, educate, and provide circular solutions to give plastic multiple lives.”
The Alliance aims to advance a circular economy for plastic waste by developing, deploying, and scaling solutions across four strategic pillars: infrastructure, innovation, education and engagement, and cleanup.
“Tom has been a clear voice on how the plastics value chain can transform to become more sustainable and circular, which are essential shifts if we are to tackle the challenge of plastic waste holistically. I look forward to the work we can accomplish together to advance a circular economy for plastic waste,” said Jacob Duer, the Alliance’s president and chief executive officer.
*Source: LIFE CYCLE IMPACTS OF PLASTIC PACKAGING COMPARED TO SUBSTITUTES IN THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA: Theoretical Substitution Analysis. Prepared by Franklin Associates
About Berry
At Berry Global Group, Inc. (NYSE:BERY), we create innovative packaging and engineered products that we believe make life better for people and the planet. We do this every day by leveraging our unmatched global capabilities, sustainability leadership, and deep innovation expertise to serve customers of all sizes around the world. Harnessing the strength in our diversity and industry leading talent of 47,000 global employees across more than 285 locations we partner with customers to develop, design, and manufacture innovative products with an eye toward the circular economy. The challenges we solve and the innovations we pioneer benefit our customers at every stage of their journey.
Spanish flexible packaging producer Emsur Saymopack has increased their productivity and the lifetime of their adapters with the new rotec® Eco Xtra ring from XSYS. This next-generation Eco Bridge technology further improves the durability of the adapters by reducing wear from mounting sleeves.
Stuttgart, Germany – 6 October 2021. The rotec® line of Sleeves & Adapters from XSYS is under constant development with new innovations introduced to help converters improve press performance and print quality. The Eco Bridge adapter is a patented technology that enables significantly easier sleeve mounting, as well as more efficient compressed air usage. The next evolution of the rotec® Eco Bridge maintains these advantages while taking sustainability to the next level. The Eco Xtra is a modified stainless-steel ring that incorporates the revolutionary air supply system of the Eco Bridge, and additionally guards against wear by strengthening the operator-side of the adapter.
The first customer to take advantage of this innovation is Emsur in Spain, who has been testing the Eco Xtra adapter at its Saymopack plant, in Valencia.
“During rough production processes, our adapters were becoming damaged very fast, so we needed to reinforce the operator side. The new ring with the innovative air supply protects the adapter from wear and improves the mounting characteristics quite significantly, as well as the overall lifetime,” says Marcos Gaspar Calatayud, who is responsible for process improvement at Emsur Saymopack
Relying on long partnership
A division of the Spanish multinational Grupo Lantero, Emsur has more than 900 staff across its nine production plants located in the following eight countries: Spain, France, Poland, Russia, the US, Mexico, Brazil and Argentina. With over 30 years of experience, its packaging solutions are exported worldwide to customers primarily in the food sector, but also in the industrial, agrochemical and pharmaceutical sectors, in more than 60 countries.
The Emsur Saymopack plant is located in Algemesí, just south of Valencia, and specializes in flexible packaging production, with both rotogravure and flexographic printing presses in-house. Like all Emsur facilities, it has obtained the ISO 9001 and 14001 certifications and is committed to sustainability based on food preservation, waste reduction and the development of eco-friendly products. An ambitious investment plan undertaken over the past few years has seen the company expand its printing and converting capabilities to fulfil a large portfolio of products for its customers.
Through the XSYS regional agent, LR Flexo, Emsur Saymopack has enjoyed the benefits of rotec® sleeves and adapters for plate-mounting on its wide web flexo presses for more than 10 years. “We have had a great relationship with LR Flexo for many years and we always get the best service,” says Gaspar. “And now with the new Eco Xtra ring, they even developed something designed specifically for our needs. We can now mount our sleeves much faster and speed up the whole process”.
Improving on performance
XSYS rotec® Eco Bridge technology first introduced a completely new system of air distribution for adapters to the market in 2017. An innovative breathable metal ring at the operator side replaced the standard air holes that would normally run along the length of the adapter to allow easy and fast mounting of sleeves. Creating a uniform air pillow, sleeves simply float into place with little effort needed from the operator. This set a new standard in mounting and reduced compressed air usage by up to 90%, while all staff in the pressroom could enjoy an up to 99% quieter operation.
To further improve on the performance, the Eco Xtra Adapter has incorporated the original Eco Bridge technology and its advantages into a new steel ring, making it more robust. “All adapters, including the Eco Bridge, will wear over time, as sleeves are mounted and demounted, hitting the edge of the adapter day in, day out,” explains Uwe Mueller, Product Development Manager for XSYS. “This wear will cause the compressed air to start leaking, which will increase the time needed for mounting, and eventually render it impossible. The new Eco Xtra ring prevents this type of wear, while still ensuring fast and perfect mounting every time.”
At Emsur Saymopack, the entire team in the mounting department are very happy with the improvement, because it makes their daily work so much easier. Gaspar concludes, “Although it sounds like a simple solution, these new carriers with the ‘metal ring at the end’ are a remarkable improvement that makes the mounting of printing sleeves fast and simple. Even more remarkable is that it extends the useful life of the adapter itself. We would like to add this technology to all the adapters we use on our presses.”
“The rotec® adapters are tailor-made to customers’ specification and we are always looking to find new ways to optimize the products for their benefit,” comments Lluis Rebled, Owner/Director of LR Flexo. “And of course, we are very proud to work with Emsur Saymopack and support them in their pursuit to eliminate any problems, big or small, in their flexo printing department. You are only as strong as the weakest link in the process.”
Caption
On the picture from left to right: Marcos Gaspar Calatayud, (Process improvement manager at Emsur), Marc Yaguee Gonzales (Key Account Manager at XSYS), Laura Mondéjar Caballero (Process Engineer at Emsur).
ABOUT XSYS
Formed in January 2021 as a new division of Flint Group, combining Flint Group Flexographic and Xeikon Prepress into a single division, XSYS has been designed to bring more brilliance into the packaging industry – into the lives of its customers and colleagues – using brilliant products and services for brilliant print results and business success. It combines under one umbrella such well-known flexographic and letterpress brands as nyloflex®, Xpress, nyloprint®, nylosolv®, rotec®, FlexoExpert, ThermoFlexX, Catena, TFxX and Woodpecker, to provide a complete flexographic and letterpress prepress solution.
XSYS operates from more than 37 locations around the world and remains one of the largest global suppliers offering both flexographic and letterpress prepress solutions, including plates, sleeves, processors, workflow solutions and expert professional services designed to help these industries move forward with increasing innovation, improved productivity and profitability and a reduced environmental footprint.
The Trend Book is the result of a long-term cooperation between Carlin Creative and Verallia's Marketing teams and de
Milan (Italy) – From 9 to 11 November, one of the most eagerly awaited events in the pharmaceutical sector will be held again at the Milan trade fair: CPhI Worldwide, which, after almost two years, will allow pharmaceutical companies to meet again and directly discuss the challenges they face in the coming years.
For the occasion, Marchesini Group will be exhibiting the BL-A418 CW Print&Check machine with an integrated checkweigher in hall 10 (stand 10K10). This solution for Track&Trace requirements was developed by Neri, a Marchesini Group division that specialises in the production of machines for labelling and tracing cartons.
SEA Vision, the Group’s partner specialising in vision systems, will also be present at the stand. During the days of the fair, it will open the doors of its new Pavia plant to customers and suppliers to show them the new spaces dedicated to technological research and production, geared around the concept of sustainability.
Technical features
The print&check machine with integrated checkweigher BL-A418 CW has been designed to meet the Track & Trace needs of pharmaceutical companies around the world.
The model exhibited, that can process up to 400 cartons per minute, has a load cell fully integrated into the stepper conveyance system.
This solution is much more compact than both the classic one (where the weighing unit is coupled in-line) and the version of main competitors of the market, who offer solutions having weighing units with their own independent conveyance system.
The cartons are fed and accumulated in-line on the inlet belt to ensure a continuous flow of products, even at high speeds. A timing device positions and sets the cartons at the correct distance apart: its special feature is that it is synchronised with the speed of the whole conveyance system and there is no need for any size change-over adjustments.
A load cell is fully integrated into the stepper conveyance system and is able to check the weight of each carton. By integrating the load cell into the toothed belt system of the BL-A418 CW, it is able to verify the position of the cartons at all times: if the weight is correct, the product undergoes the subsequent processes (serialization and marking), then it is sent to the next machine; if on the other hand the weight is not correct, the subsequent process is skipped and the carton is rejected, according to the “Fail Safe” operating logic.
The high level of flexibility of the BL-A418 CW means that all types of printing and vision systems available can be installed on it, which can be customised according to all the current standards worldwide. This special feature makes the BL-A418 CW the most suitable and complete machine for tracking, and serialising cartons, giving a unique identity to all the pharmaceutical products packaged.
CHANEL has just announced new LES EAUX DE CHANEL fragrance bottle caps made with biobased Sulapac® material.
Sustainable innovation approach
It all began with a desire. In 2018, LES EAUX DE CHANEL introduced a new olfactory world to the fragrances of the House: a singular collection, inspired by Mademoiselle Coco Chanel’s favorite places, fueled by the imaginary and composed around freshness.
Consistently, LES EAUX DE CHANEL was conceived with sustainability in mind. Its glass perfume bottles are thinner and lighter*, which means a smaller volume of raw materials and optimized transport, and the corrugated cardboard that is normally hidden was transformed into clean, simple outer packaging whose lack of lamination or glossy coating makes it easier to recycle.
Since 2021, all of the 125 ml bottles in LES EAUX DE CHANEL collection are topped with a biobased** cap, which CHANEL has developed in partnership with Sulapac. For two years, CHANEL teams worked hand-in-hand with the Finnish startup to create an unprecedented cap composed of three layers, made out of 91% biobased materials obtained from renewable resources and FSC™ certified*** wood chips (by-products of industrial side-streams).
Compared to other CHANEL Eaux de Toilette of the same size. ** Made from plant-based materials. *** Wood from FSC-certified responsibly managed forests and other controlled sources. Sulapac’s FSC licence number is FSC-C158142.
In keeping with the rigorous standards of the House of CHANEL, every detail was carefully thought out, including the sensory nature of the material, its resistance to fluctuations in temperature, the unique sound the bottle makes when the cap is put on, the grip, and the depth of the satiny matte finish on the iconic double C engraving. It took no fewer than 48 tries to reach the final product. The project is part of a long-term, collaborative approach that puts sustainability at the center of CHANEL research and development.
Luxury standards leading the way
Sulapac was pleased to welcome CHANEL, a leading brand representing the most demanding luxury segment, among its early investors in 2018.
“CHANEL is definitely one of the forerunners in the luxury industry as they want to invest in the latest sustainable material and technology innovations. We have set a very high-quality standard for our sustainable material, with an ambition to replace conventional plastics,” stated Suvi Haimi, CEO and Co-founder of Sulapac, on the announcement in 2018.
Now, Haimi says: “This first product launch of our collaboration with CHANEL, the biobased LES EAUX DE CHANEL cap made with Sulapac material, is a remarkable milestone for us. It proves that Sulapac meets the highest quality standards.”
About Sulapac
Sulapac® is an award-winning, patented bio-based material innovation for the circular economy. It accelerates the plastic waste-free future with sustainable materials that are beautiful and functional. Like nature. Sulapac was founded in 2016 by Dr. Suvi Haimi, Dr. Laura Tirkkonen-Rajasalo and Dr. Antti Pärssinen. The company has been ranked one of the 100 hottest startups in Europe by WIRED UK in 2018, 2019 and 2021, and one of the Nordic startups to watch in 2021 by Sifted, backed by the Financial Times. The Helsinki-based company’s investors include CHANEL and Sky Ocean Ventures.
WL-1-RT Wraparound Vial Labeling Machine ideal for high-speed vaccine production; Anritsu 10-lane 100% Capsule Checkweigher features novel handling mechanism for reliable feed and reject functions.
Fairfield, NJ – MG America, the U.S. subsidiary of MG2 of Bologna, Italy and a leading supplier of processing and packaging equipment, will debut two new machines at INTERPHEX NYC Booth #2221, October 19-21. One is an enhanced wraparound vial labeling machine ideal for the ongoing production of COVID-19 vaccines; the other is a robust, 10-lane capsule checkweigher with a newly developed handling mechanism.
First, the WL-1-RT Wraparound Vial Labeling Machine, supplied by MG America via machinery manufacturer Packaging Efficiency Solutions, is ideal for high-speed glass vial lines such as those producing COVID-19 vaccines. Capable of applying precisely placed labels to 600 vials per minute, the WL-1-RT features positive vial control via a trunnion transportation system. The unit can accommodate both thermal transfer and laser coding printing operations, and is preconfigured for the integration of an OCR/OCV vision inspection system. Non-conforming labels are rejected prior to application, and infeed/outfeed by-flow tables provide optimal buffering.
Also debuting at MG America’s INTERPHEX booth is the Anritsu 10-lane 100% Capsule Checkweigher KWS9002AP10. Capable of providing comprehensive weigh-check inspection for up to 75,000 capsules per hour, the unit features a newly developed capsule handling mechanism for superbly reliable feeding and rejection functionality. Notably, the Anritsu checkweigher boasts an industry-leading weight measurement accuracy of +/- 0.5mg. The module offers user/domain authentication (user management), and conforms to international industry standards and regulations (FDA 21 CFR Part 11, GDP).
In addition, MG America will showcase two premium capsule fillers. The PLANETA 100 Capsule Filler is a continuous motion machine for medium to high production volumes, capable of speeds up to 100,000 capsules/hour. The unit can fill powders, pellets, micro-tablets, tablets, liquids and capsule-in-capsule, among other formats. The machine’s modular design features two removable dosing stations that can accommodate different dispensing units.
The PLANETA 100 is available with an integrated automatic statistical in-process control system integrated, or MG America’s 100% Multi-NETT weight control system, which is capable of monitoring and controlling each component in a capsule – a useful feature for combination products.
Meanwhile, the FlexaLAB Capsule Filler can produce up to 3,000 capsules per hour and is specifically designed for R&D laboratories, clinical trials, small batch outputs and special productions. The machine can function at continuous or intermittent motion depending on the type of dosing unit installed. Multiple dosing units may be installed and utilized simultaneously, enabling the FlexaLAB to manufacture capsules with combinations of products – an important asset for its research-focused target audience.
The FlexaLAB can fill powders, pellets, microtablets, tablets, liquids, and certain low-dosage powder inhalants. The machine also can perform capsule-into-capsule functions. Other features on the new FlexaLAB include a touch-screen panel with graphics and multi-language display; PLC for machine functions control; and motorized adjustment of machine speed from the monitor. Options such as a 100% weight inspector (for filled capsules) and a dry oil-free air compressor also are available.
About MG America
MG America, a subsidiary of MG2, Bologna Italy, is a leading supplier of an innovative family of precision-crafted processing and packaging machinery that includes capsule fillers, tablet presses, material handling, primary packaging equipment, secondary packaging equipment, checkweighing/weight control systems, tablet & capsule inspection, and line integration solutions. From sales, field service and spare parts to machine trials and local service/support representation, MG America offers a true "Partnership for Success."
MG America is located at 31 Kulick Road, Fairfield, NJ 07004. For more information, call (973) 808-8185 or visit www.mgamerica.com.
A change of format for family-size packs of ice cream wafers from standard printed carton boxes to plastic buckets from Berry Superfos is delivering a number of important benefits for leading Romanian ice cream manufacturer TOPGEL. These include better shelf stand-out, enhanced logistics, and the opportunity for consumers to repurpose the packs.
TOPGEL has selected the Berry Superfos SuperCube® pail in two sizes, 10.8 litres and 5.5 litres, and the round SuperHelio pail in 5.5 litres. The SuperCube® incorporates tamper evidence and an easy to open peel-off lid while, as well as tamper evidence, the SuperHelio pail features a special grid at the rim. During transportation of full pails, the grid ensures extra stability as it allows for increased friction between the pails.
"We appreciate the attractive, top-quality family size buckets from Berry Superfos; they look great and convey our brand image in the best possible way,” commented Olaru Viorel, General Manager of TOPGEL. “Their space efficient shape means that we can be more flexible in our production planning and we also have advantages in respect of our logistics.”
Both packs are decorated with In-Mould Labelling and come with comfortable plastic handles. The look, shape and size make the product stand out on shelf, while offering optimal protection of the delicate wafers.
In addition, an important sustainability benefit is that the buckets’ durable construction means they can be retained and repurposed by consumers.
“The quality of the buckets makes them ideal for long-term repurposing at home,” confirmed Olaru Viorel. “We appreciate this and have made it a selling point in the promotion of our wafers. It presents an added value to the end user and contributes to sustainable consumption.”
The new packaging project for wafers enhances the existing collaboration between TOPGEL and Berry Superfos, which is already supplying TOPGEL with plastic packaging solutions for a range of small ice cream desserts.
“The adoption of the SuperCube® and SuperHelio pails shows how our packs can deliver vital brand promotion and product protection benefits, while helping companies to meet their sustainability objectives, which today is an essential element of any packaging solution,” said Beno Šilec of Berry Superfos. “This is fundamental to our Impact 2025 sustainability strategy.”
For more information on Berry Superfos’s range of packaging solutions, visit www.superfos.com
Within a cooperation project the key industry players Dow Packaging and Specialty Plastics (P&SP), a business unit of Dow (NYSE: DOW), HP Indigo, Cadel Deinking and Karlville together with Reifenhäuser, announce the successful delivery of the first-of-its-kind pouch-to-pouch mechanical recycling concept.
The approach uses a multi-stage process to contribute to a circular economy for digitally printed pouches. Starting with a polyethylene (PE)-based barrier food pouch designed for recyclability, the project team have used mechanical recycling and deinking to create a high-quality dishwasher MDOPE pouch containing 30 percent recycled contents and being itself suitable for recycling.
In a next step, the team is working on the digital product passport R-Cycle to allow for recycling-relevant packaging properties to be recorded and to make the pouch identifiable for high-quality recycling within post-consumer waste management.
Optimal recycling output Delivering the high-quality PE-pouch has required several steps in a coordinated process with each team member applying their experience and capabilities collaboratively: “The requirements for plastic packaging products have never been more complex than today. And we have modified and enhanced our Reifenhäuser production lines to enable films and packages not just to be economical and functional, but to meet the vast
demand for recyclable packaging based on mono-material structures”, commented Ralf Wiechmann, Head of Film Innovation at Reifenhäuser. “For this project we’ve broadened our machinery expertise to co-extrude the new resins on our highly flexible EVO 9-layer blown film line and produce PEbased packaging films at fast line speeds. This project shows that we can successfully both produce recyclable packaging, according to Recyclass and CEFLEX guidelines, and use recycled materials in high value applications if we collaborate effectively along the value chain.”
Next step: closing the loop for traceability As a further evolution of the project, the companies are working to add digital traceability to the pouches in line with R-Cycle, a cross-company initiative to develop an open and globally applicable traceability standard for sustainable plastic packaging. The aim of this initiative is to automatically record recycling-relevant packaging properties during production by providing a digital product passport and to pass them on through the value chain. Using special markings, recycling-friendly packaging can then be identified in the recycling process and sorted into single-type fractions. This is the key to obtaining high-quality recyclates in order to continue efforts to close the loop. R-Cycle is being driven by several major stakeholders in the plastics industry, including Reifenhäuser, which is contributing the technology to the pouch-to-pouch concept.
About the Reifenhäuser Group
With its highly specialized business units, the Reifenhäuser Group is the leading supplier of innovative technologies and components for plastics extrusion. Founded in 1911, the company supplies high-tech solutions all over the world. With its technologies and the know-how of its 1,750 employees, the Reifenhäuser Group has the world's largest competence network for plastics technology. CEO of the group is Bernd Reifenhäuser.
While buying and using cosmetic products, there are different types of packaging. But packaging materials can also have the significant amount of influences over the actual product itself?
There is also another fact that is seen that the different type of product in terms on application also has the fixed tradition of packaging. Such as nail polish bottles are made of glass. Or fairness creams, face wash packaging tubes are made of plastic. Here are the pros and cons of these materials.
Plastic packaging for cosmetics
For instance, Plastic helps people easily squeeze out the proper amount of product that is needed for the application.
Pros
All the reason behind the massive usage of plastic for packaging is that the significantly lower cost than any other material available. Plus the flexibility in terms of usage also helps the cause a lot. And it is light-weight in comparison to other materials.
Cons
The main problem behind using plastic is that after the usage of the actual product inside, the packaging material turns into nothing but a waste and also has a heavy impact over the environmental condition of the planet. Also, resistance to certain type chemicals also limit the usage of it being used up to a state.
Glass packaging for cosmetics
Glass is rather gorgeous of a material for packaging. As many of the renowned brand all over the world use massive amount of glass packaging for their products which undeniably makes them more attractive and posh-looking too. As the chemical structure of glass is of such a manner that is helpful for the packaging for emulsion type products.
Pros
The key benefit of using cosmetics glass bottles is that it has a decorative look and clean too. The composition of glass is relatively stable, and it is not easy to have a chemical reaction with skin care products. And glass is 100% recyclable and can be recycled endlessly with no loss in quality or purity. Glass recycling is a closed loop system, creating no additional waste or by-products. Glass is one of the very few examples where the same material can be recycled over and over again without loss of quality.
Cons
The main reason behind the problems of using glass is that this material is not actually durable and quite fragile in terms of impact. If not treated carefully, the whole product can be wasted due to a single crack in the container. And also the broken, sharp edged pieces can be physically harmful also.
As according to the above discussion, I think glass packaging is better. Because cosmetics often contain alcohol. Cosmetics and plastics are prone to chemical reactions, and plastic bottles are not friendly to the environment. So even though glass is heavy and fragile, it is still the better choice for cosmetic packaging.
The packaging is designed to highlight unique properties of single-origin cocoa.
This packaging is intended to maintain the properties of food for a longer period without the need to add chemical ad
Xeikon has appointed Sean Wu General Manager for Greater China, signalling the company’s increasing presence in the region. In his new role, Wu is tasked with managing the significant growth in interest for Xeikon's digital solutions in China, particularly from label and packaging printers and converters working with the high demands from brand owners and designers, creating unusual, unique and high-end products to meet ever-evolving consumer demand. Wu will also manage and coordinate Xeikon’s new warehousing facility at its Technical Innovation Center in Shanghai, where the company can now provide same day consumables and parts delivery and technical support.
Wu says: "I am pleased to be a part of Xeikon's future plans in China. The Xeikon family is a great community of innovation and forward thinking. I have long admired Xeikon’s technology, and with the huge growth we are seeing in the labels and packaging sectors in China, it is exciting for me to present Xeikon's innovative solutions to these markets. With the new warehousing facility now open in Shanghai, we are able to quickly respond with technical help and 24hr delivery service on parts and consumables. I have been working in the IT sector for almost 30 years – for Hitachi, EMC and IBM. I also worked for many years as General Manager at InfoPrint where I was in charge of selling Continuous Print solutions. My new role is a big opportunity and I now hope to bring my IT and management skills to support Xeikon."
Xeikon’s Innovation Center in Shanghai is designed to house the latest Xeikon equipment to support the expanding Chinese markets. The hands-on centre of digital printing excellence is a welcome place of interaction were visitors and customers can test a variety of applications and options for new revenue streams and business growth. With this new state-of-the-art warehousing facility, Xeikon is now able to deliver a same-day response to its customers across the whole of Greater China.
Xeikon designed its Innovation Center in Shanghai to be a benchmark of excellence. Printing and converting companies are invited to discuss their business strategies and compare results on Xeikon equipment. Wu continues: “We are also able to provide customers with the full suite of Xeikon services, including training and support as well as our online and comprehensive advisory service Transform with its hotline for advice and guidance on digital transformation. With the new warehouse in operation, we can also efficiently handle all our customers’ enquiries with a very fast response and a 24hr delivery”.
Klaus Nielsen, Director & General Manager APAC, concludes: "We are delighted that Sean Wu has joined Xeikon as General Manager for Greater China. He brings a wealth of expertise and proven management skills. The Chinese market continues to expand, and this appointment is the next step in our G2M strategy for this region. In his newly established role, Sean will further develop and strengthen Xeikon business in Greater China.”
