New RP System® from Mitsubishi offers extraordinary Oxygen and Moisture Protection for shipping and storage
Safeguards Sensitive Electronics, Auto Parts, and Other Industrial Products from Rust and Oxidation for Up to a Decade As shippers and logistics handlers continue to struggle with supply chain delays, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical America is introducing the RP System® to protect products from moisture and oxygen damage that can occur during shipping and long-term storage. Manufactured in Japan and introduced for the first time to North America, the RP System is a unique packaging innovation that protects metals from corroding, retains long-term efficacy of agricultural products, as well as protecting parts from other forms of oxygen- or moisture-based degradation. The RP System is the only product on the market that not only combines protection from both oxygen and moisture, but also effectively allows parts to be stored for years in pristine condition. At a time when industries worldwide face a supply chain crisis, the RP System offers manufacturers, suppliers and OEM’s significant cost-savings through manufacturing flexibility, product protection, and enhanced brand integrity. The RP System works by placing target items that are being shipped or stored into a gas barrier bag that withstands oxygen and moisture penetration. A customized RP agent composed of oxygen- and moisture-absorbing compounds is inserted into the bag. An oxygen indicator can also be included to enable instant verification of oxygen levels. The bag is then hermetically sealed to create an environment in which oxygen and moisture are virtually eliminated, in some cases for up to 10 years of storage. Mitsubishi can customize the specific RP agent required depending on the item being stored. For example, metals require an agent that incorporates robust moisture “scavengers” to ensure an environment that is completely moisture-free, whereas paper-based products require a “moisture neutral” environment. Electronic circuit boards, automotive parts, raw metals, agricultural items, and numerous other industrial products can deteriorate during transport and long-term storage, and this problem has recently been exacerbated by supply chain logjams that have affected global shipping. The RP System is uniquely designed to keep products in the same condition from the time of their manufacture, enabling them to be used months or even years in the future without any degradation in quality or performance. Since the RP System is designed for long-term preservation, the technology provides manufacturers with unique cost-savings. For example, suppliers can store parts for later use, making it possible to stock items and do fewer production runs. This reduces pressure on suppliers who must contend with extended shipping delays and labor shortages currently affecting the global supply chain. Enabling parts to arrive in mint condition, such as automotive parts that are corrosion-free, eliminates time and effort in cleaning or reworking items, resulting in fewer returns, and enhancing brand integrity and overall customer satisfaction. “The timing could not be better for introducing the RP System to the North American marketplace,” said Sean Heal, Sales and Marketing General Manager at Mitsubishi Gas Chemical America. “Keeping products safe at a time of extended shipping delays is more important than ever before, and the RP System offers additional manufacturing benefits and cost-savings because of the long-term protection it provides for storing all types of products in immaculate condition.”
Evanesce® opens first U.S. Based Manufacturing Facility for Sustainable Product Development
The sustainable technology innovator open its South Carolina facility for the production of its 100% compostable, 100% plant-based, and cost-competitive PLA straws Evanesce®, a sustainable technology innovator driven to accelerate the adoption of sustainable and economically viable packaging solutions, has opened its first U.S. production facility in Hampton County, South Carolina. With the launch, the company not only hits a milestone in its global expansion plans but also addresses the worldwide shortage of eco-friendly Polylactic Acid (PLA) products due to overseas shipping delays. By ushering production into the U.S., Evanesce is set to truly disrupt the packaging industry by producing price competitive, 100% plant-based, and 100% compostable single-use products including straws, cutlery, and take-out containers. Spread across 15,000 sq ft, the sprawling new facility is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery that will produce Evanesce’s modified Polylactic Acid (PLA) line of products. Using renewable sources of corn with best-in-class PLA resin, these products are an affordable alternative to plastic and other incumbents. The facility currently has the ability to produce millions of compostable PLA straws per day. These straws are at par or cheaper than paper straws, offer significantly improved durability, and commercially compost within 90 days. “The opening of our first U.S.-based manufacturing facility in South Carolina is an exciting milestone in our growth plan. Being adjacent to I-95, our facility allows us to seamlessly service North America,” said Douglas Horne, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Evanesce, “South Carolina is ripe for industrial disruption and our investment in Hampton County could not have been possible without the support of the State and the County.” Evanesce is ready to inspire big change by delivering innovative and sustainable technology solutions to replace single-use plastics and Styrofoam. In addition to their line of PLA products, Evanesce is also stepping up investments for their patented Molded Starch Technology that upcycles food waste to produce 100% plant-based, and 100% compostable sustainable packaging at almost half the cost of other eco-friendly alternatives available in the market. Production of Molded Starch products including meal trays, meat trays, containers, and cups are expected in 2022. “When Evanesce decided to locate its new facility in Hampton County, we knew it would be incredibly impactful to both the local community and throughout South Carolina. Evanesce’s commitment of $17 million and 78 new jobs was only the beginning of our partnership. This great company shows that, together, we can tackle the growing problem of environmental waste with innovative solutions that are compostable, commercially viable, and cost-competitive,” shared Harry M. Lightsey III, Secretary of Commerce, South Carolina, and guest of honor of the event. The company is set to expand its operations further in the US, starting with a new 114,000 sq ft facility in Las Vegas, Nevada. The facility will include multiple straw lines, molded starch lines, thermo-formers, and lab space. “The expansion of our U.S. manufacturing operations enables Evanesce to address the current supply chain challenges for eco-friendly packaging into a major opportunity by starting production of our innovative sustainable solutions,” Horne added.
PLASTICS releases statement on misguided environmental activist report
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has responded to a new report from Beyond Plastics, The New Coal: Plastics and Climate Change. Common misconceptions perpetuated by biased studies such as this are addressed at ThisIsPlastics.com. “It’s no surprise that an organization named Beyond Plastics would cherry-pick data to fit their narrative in order to raise more money for themselves and attack the work being done by nearly one million Americans in the process. Plastic is lighter and more durable than alternatives and reduces the overall weight of products. Lighter products require less fuel to transport. That’s a fact. Reduced weight translates to a smaller environmental footprint by lowering energy use and carbon emissions. A 2020 Imperial College of London study reviewed 73 lifecycle assessments, and most showed plastic performs better than alternatives from a carbon perspective. Several of those studies found materials used as alternatives to plastic packaging – such as cotton, glass, or metal– have significantly higher CO2 impact or water usage. The same study concluded that if all plastic bottles used globally were replaced with glass, the additional resulting CO2 emissions would be equivalent to adding about 22 large coal-fired power plants. Additionally, if plastic packaging were replaced with other materials, waste and energy consumption would double, and weight and costs would quadruple. For example, plastic baby food packaging provides small but significant environmental benefits over glass jars with impacts reduced by 14% to 27% for primary energy and 28% to 31% for global warming. When comparing plastic and glass baby food jars, plastic containers also release fewer carcinogens into the air and send fewer pollutants into waterways when compared to glass jars. According to a study from University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability published in 2020, numerous life-cycle analyses show plastic has fewer environmental impacts than single-use glass in the majority of environmental impact categories measured. The same study argues that the increasing trend to substitute single-use plastic packaging with single-use glass-based packaging is “particularly troublesome” from lifecycle energy and greenhouse gas perspective.”
Signode launches new Multi FleX1 Electric
The latest addition to the popular Lachenmeier Stretch Hood Technology Line features a smaller footprint, minimized maintenance Signode, a global manufacturer of a broad spectrum of end of line packaging equipment, tools, and consumables, has announced the introduction of its new Multi FleX1 Electric stretch hood technology. The Multi FleX1 Electric is the latest addition to Signode’s popular Lachenmeier brand of stretch hooders used around the globe for optimized load containment. The newest offering features an electrically operated stretch frame and the machine frame movement is electrical as well. Its overall smaller footprint, due to reduced safety-area fencing, means that the Multi FleX1 Electric can also maximize valuable production floor space and be placed closer to a facility’s perimeter. “Our customers count on Signode to listen and respond to their needs with new technology, consumables, and service offerings,” said Mogens Jessen, Global Product Manager for Signode. “The new Multi FleX1 Electric is a direct result of our close collaborations and partnerships across the globe.” The Multi FleX1 Electric shares the same powerful five-sided protection attributes as the traditional Multi FleX1. It has the ability to be fitted with several film rolls, allowing it to wrap multiple load sizes with greater variations quickly. The machine hosts a variety of film patterns, including fully closed hoods, film sleeves, short hoods, and film reinforcement capabilities. The Multi Flex1 Electric is engineered for cubed loads, irregular loads with protrusions, and varying product shapes, and is capable of wrapping more than 200 loads per hour. From palletized goods in the food, beverage, and pharma industry to bricks, blocks, and bagged commodities in the building industry, the Multi FleX1 accommodates variable load sizes and types. Depending on the industry environment where the machine is operating, the Multi FleX1 is now available with either a hydraulically or an electrically operated stretch frame. And with multiple film options, including transparent, colored, perforated, and printed, it can be further tailored for other production requirements from those requiring high-shelf storage to those for transparency to read barcodes. According to Jessen, the machine’s reliability and low maintenance are enabled by its new steel-reinforced timing belt movement. This ensures a well-balanced frame due to its Quatro timing belt suspension, the 4-sided frame suspension as in the existing Multi FleX1. As a leader in transit packaging, Signode provides extensive testing and verification of its technologies and products before application on the production floor. Signode’s International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) certified lab provides a host of state-of-the-art testing devices, including temperature-controlled rooms, drop-test equipment, and vibration tables. It also performs European Safe Logistics Association (EUMOS) testing, which is a dynamic test that can help evaluate the rigidity and stability of a load that is subjected to horizontal accelerations and decelerations during transport. Video and more information: https://www.signode.com/en-us/news/signode-launches-new-multi-flex1-electric/
Squid Ink introduces the CoPilot Max 512i Turbo Printing System
Squid Ink Manufacturing, Inc., a manufacturer of coding and marking systems for product identification and traceability, introduces the CoPilot Max 512i Turbo printing system designed to print superior quality hi-resolution characters on porous or non-porous surfaces. CoPilot Max 512i Turbo utilizes the same active ink system found in Squid Ink’s CoPilot and CoPilot Max printing systems. The revolutionary design allows users to tilt or rotate the printhead in any direction without making height adjustments to the ink supply. In addition, the system prints hi-resolution characters, razor-sharp text, scannable bar codes, and great-looking logos at up to 180 DPI vertical resolution at up to 480 ft/min, offering the fastest print speeds in Squid Ink’s CoPilot family. The CoPilot Max 512i Turbo also features a large 500ml snap-in cartridge, allowing users the ability to swap ink cartridges in a matter of seconds. The CoPilot Max 512i Turbo is available as an oil-based system for printing on porous substrates like uncoated corrugate or as a solvent-based system for printing on a variety of non-porous substrates. For applications that require immediate dry times on non-porous surfaces, the CoPilot Max 512i Turbo also can run UV LED curable inks. With up to 2.8” of print height per printhead, print speeds up to 480 ft/min, and the ability to run up to 2 printheads from one controller, the CoPilot Max 512i Turbo provides a cost-effective solution for making a mark on a wide variety of products and substrates. The CoPilot Max 512i Turbo features a 4.3” full-color touchscreen that allows users to access the system’s internal messages and print functions. Messages are created and edited on Squid Ink’s easy-to-use Orion™ PC Software and transferred via USB, Ethernet, wireless, or optional Windows® tablet. The tablet is ideal for users who want message creation and editing functionality on the production floor. The CoPilot Max 512i Turbo controller features increased processing power to print the messages users want when they want to print them. In addition, faster GUI response time and near-immediate message rendering times allow the Max 512i to keep up with the demands of your fast-paced manufacturing environment. Squid Ink, Eastey, American Film & Machinery (AFM), and Cogent Technologies are all divisions of Engage Technologies Corporation. Squid Ink (squidink.com) manufactures coding and marking systems for product identification and traceability, providing superior quality inks and low-maintenance printing equipment. Eastey (eastey.com) is a leading manufacturer of heavy-duty shrink packaging equipment and automated case sealing systems for packaging applications. American Film & Machinery (afmsleeves.com) supplies shrink labelers and tunnels, shrink sleeves, and tamper-evident bands. Cogent Technologies (cogent-tech.com) manufactures infrared drying systems used to dry ink in the industrial and graphics industries. Engage Technologies Corporation is headquartered in Brooklyn Park, MN, with facilities in Rogers, MN, Spring Lake Park, MN, The Hague, Netherlands, and Shanghai, China. The Company continues to expand sales and services, with authorized distributors strategically located throughout the U.S. and the rest of the world. The CoPilot Max 512i Turbo printing system is available now through Squid Ink’s worldwide network of authorized distributors.
Va Tech, Purdue University Northwest and Cal Poly team up to take Amazing Packaging Race Victory
Students from Virginia Tech, Purdue University Northwest, and Cal Poly Team claimed the winning title at this year’s 2021 Amazing Packaging Race, sponsored by Emerson, on the PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO show floor. Coordinated by show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, and sponsored by Emerson, the race brought together students from six Education Partner schools across the country to complete a series of challenges over four expansive halls of exhibit space. Anna Troutt (Virginia Tech), Andrew Smith (Purdue University NW), and Serena Pu (California Polytechnic State University) outsmarted the competition with their social-media savvy and show floor strategy, meeting the most exhibitors and completing the tasks faster than their opponents. Each student on the winning team took home $1,000 in prize money. “PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO is the world’s biggest interactive packaging classroom and students thoroughly enjoy this annual event,” says Kate Fiorianti, senior manager, education, PMMI. “It’s a great way for future leaders to learn about the industry and test their wits in the field.” Gabby Brophy (Virginia Tech), Harash Bhutada (Michigan State University), and Shayne Babich (Alexandria Technical and Community College) took second place, while Nicholas Magan (Alexandria Technical and Community College), Leslie Kim (Virginia Tech), Alexandria Stein (Clemson) and Morgan Graham (Michigan State) brought home third place. Competing students represented 6 Education Partner schools, including: Alexandria Technical & Community College California Polytechnic State University Clemson Michigan State University Purdue University Northwest Virginia Tech Participating exhibitors included: Baumer hhs Belden BW Packaging Systems B&R Automation Dorner Duravant Fallas Automation FOX IV Technologies, Inc. Frazier & Son Honeywell Intelligrated IoPP Lenze Americas LinMot USA, Inc. Morrison Container Handling Solutions OMAC SICK Siemens Digital Industries Starview Packaging Machinery Syntegon Packaging Technology, LLC Tri-Tronics Company Weiler Labeling Systems
E-commerce expansion to add to the demand for Plastic Protective Packaging through 2031, finds Fact.MR Study
As per Fact MR’s latest report, the plastic protective packaging market is projected to surpass revenues worth US$ 28 Bn by 2031, registering a robust growth at over 6.7% CAGR across the forecast period. In volume terms, the global market for plastic protective packaging exceeded 9 billion tons as of 2019. From 2016 to 2020, the industry maintained a strong growth trajectory, representing a CAGR above 5% to reach a valuation of US$ 14.6 Bn as of 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic has further fueled expansion, as reliance on e-commerce to purchase different categories of merchandise increased exponentially. The plastic protective packaging industry continues to remain influenced by various factors that range from the focus of manufacturers on streamlining and optimization of plastic protective packaging to advancements in plastic properties in line with reduced waste. Sensing the role of protective packaging in the overall end-user experience, leading players in the plastic protective packaging market are focusing on easy-to-use designs, along with consistent branding activities. Key Takeaways from the Market Study The global market for protective plastic packaging likely to expand more than 2x through 2031 Sales of LDPE resin-based stretch wraps are expected to close in at 3 million tons Bubble wraps and air cushions to collectively yield over 50% of global market revenue Europe to show the highest growth, with revenues closing in at over US$ 4 billion in 2019 The U.S to emerge as an opportunistic market anticipated to register a CAGR exceeding 5% until 2031 India and China to emerge as attractive investment destinations across the Asian region “Surging dependence on virtual platforms to purchase various categories of merchandise is helping the e-commerce industry to flourish, thereby generating demand for robust packaging solutions, including plastic protective packaging,” says a research analyst. Competitive Landscape Key players operating in the plastic protective packaging market include Berry Global Group, Inc., AEP Industries Inc., Intertape Polymer Group Inc., Smurfit Kappa Group, Sealed Air Corporation, Signode Packaging Systems Corporation, Winpak Ltd., Kureha Corporation, PREMIUM PACK GmbH, Flexopack S.A., Schur Flexibles Group, Coveris Holdings S.A., Allfo Vakuumverpackungen Hans Bresele Kg, Kuplast Matejka Kumar S.P., and Buergofol GmbH. Leading market players are focusing their efforts on developing innovative products to strengthen their position in the global market and are adopting strategies like acquisitions and mergers. Smurfit Kappa has announced the opening of a new International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) certified lab at its new eCommerce packaging facility in Northampton, UK. This brings with it an expansion of Smurfit Kappa’s network of packaging testing labs and centers that support retailers and producers to develop, test, and launch disruptive packaging solutions for eCommerce at minimal risk and with reliable implementation. These insights are based on a report on Plastic Protective Packaging Market by Fact.MR.
R.A. Jones debuts market-first packaging machinery at Pack EXPO 2021
New paperboard packaging solution will help The Bumble Bee Seafood Company further its commitment to reducing ocean waste without sacrificing product quality At PACK EXPO this week, R.A Jones showcased its future-ready packaging machinery, the Meridian XR MPS-300, customized to support The Bumble Bee Seafood Company’s major shift to a recycle-ready packaging format for multi-pack can products. The packaging equipment is the next evolution of R.A Jones’ multipacker for canned food and beverages, custom-built to replace Bumble Bee’s shrink wrap machines, in a market-first effort to package seafood multipacks with paperboard. The Meridian XR was able to meet Bumble Bee’s needs of enhanced operational performance, speed and reliability because of the equipment’s high adaptability. Unique features of Meridian XR include a four-lane infeed for new packaging options and configurations, an air frame for reliable carton opening, integrated can count verification after loading, six- and 12-inch dual pitch transport, and more. “R.A Jones is dedicated to providing high-quality and reliable equipment that can adapt to meet our customer’s needs of today and tomorrow,” said Jonathon Titterton, CEO of R.A Jones. “The process of developing the Meridian XR with Bumble Bee proves that our industry partners can take an actionable step toward innovation by shifting to sustainable packaging formats. We’re committed to continuing our longstanding history of providing customers with end-to-end insight and engineering expertise, as packaging trends continue to evolve.” R.A Jones’ packaging equipment and technology consultation will fuel Bumble Bee’s bold sustainability goals, including a commitment to provide readily recyclable packaging, an action-driven by consumer, customer, and retailer support. Producing as many as 26 million multipacks (165 million cans) annually, Bumble Bee identified the shrink-wrapped product as an opportunity to continue to meet its commitment to keep plastic out of landfills and out of the ocean. As the first in the seafood industry to invest in and deploy paperboard multi-packaging, the partners set a pace and precedent for the global seafood industry to innovate. “Moving our multipacks from shrink wrap to paperboard was not a simple process, but as a company we felt strongly that it was the right change to make for our planet, our customers, our consumers and also for Bumble Bee as a category leader,” said Jan Tharp, president and CEO, The Bumble Bee Seafood Company. “Engaging with an experienced, values-driven OEM partner to guide our packaging format transition was integral to making this work, so partnering with R.A Jones was a natural next step.” While enhancing product protection throughout the manufacturing process, the partnership’s packaging solution also equips Bumble Bee with an easier-to-read packaging opportunity for conveying product benefits to consumers at the store shelf. The ergonomic benefits of the paperboard also assist in making the packaging more user-friendly and easy to open. When consumer tested against Bumble Bee’s current multi-pack, the paperboard packaging earned significantly higher scores in terms of appeal, purchase intent and was perceived to be demonstrative of environmentally friendly packaging. Retail customers have also expressed enthusiasm for the new paperboard packaging, citing increased flexibility in terms of shelf-space options. The new paperboard multipacks are expected to launch in-stores as early as H1 2022.
The Resin Tax moving through Congress threatens the Plastics Supply Chain and whole economy
This is not a drill. The U.S. Congress is considering a proposal to extract 20 cents per pound on plastic resins produced domestically. There are strong economic arguments against such a proposal, specifically how it affects jobs, consumption, and disposable income. My understanding of the proposal is that the resin tax will be collected from resin manufacturers. This increases the cost of business and puts 68,200 resin manufacturing workers’ jobs at risk. It should be noted that the capital expenditure of resin manufacturing in the U.S. in 2020 was $6.1 billion. For every $1.00 spent in manufacturing, another $2.79 is added to the economy. Hence the proposed resin tax, because it will slow the business activity of resin manufacturing, places $16.9 billion in economic impact at risk. But it doesn’t end there. Resin producers could tack on 20 cents per pound on resin going to processors, increasing processors’ costs. Based on our latest estimates in the recently released 2021 Size and Impact report, there were at least 95,200 employees in plastics bags, packaging film and sheet, and bottle manufacturing in the U.S. in 2020. All told, 163,400 jobs are now at risk due to the resin tax. This, by the way, excludes other jobs in the plastics industry supply chain—such as in equipment manufacturing—that will also be affected by the proposed resin tax over time. With the concentration of resin production and plastics processing in some states, it is easy to see that the proposed resin tax will have an uneven impact on labor. Nevertheless, any jobs and production losses in the plastics industry will also have a negative impact downstream or on users of plastics—intermediate goods in manufacturing or final goods ready for use. More importantly, the resin tax automatically inflates materials costs. We estimate that in 2020, plastics manufacturers’ materials cost was 51 cents per dollar of shipment. The resin tax proposal automatically inflates materials costs by 39.2%, which will eventually be passed along to consumers. What are the products that would carry higher prices? The proposal targets single-use products which contain taxable virgin plastic resin, including packaging, foodservice products, beverage containers, and bags. Proponents of the resin tax may not be aware that some products carry high plastics content. For instance, for every $1.00 of final demand for snack foods, the plastics content is 11 cents. For soft drinks and ice, it is 12.1 cents of plastics content for every $1.00 of final demand. Coffee and tea carry 10 cents of plastic content for every $1.00 of final demand. There are also 7.4 cents for every $1.00 of final demand for paper bags and coated and treated paper. The list doesn’t end here. The resin tax affects all products aggregated under the food, tobacco & spirits category such as frozen food manufacturing, poultry processing, seafood product preparation and packaging, breakfast cereal manufacturing, ice cream and frozen desserts, bread and bakery product manufacturing, dog and cat food, etc. Americans will be consuming these products at higher prices because of the proposed resin tax. And in a way, the resin tax is a regressive form of taxation. It makes one wonder if the U.S. Congress views the consumption of these products as something that carries social costs that need to be mitigated by a tax—similar to a sin tax. The effect of the resin tax will be regressive. The proposal is no different from a selective consumption tax. It increases the market price of the targeted goods that use virgin resin. The demand for these goods is relatively inelastic—meaning consumers will continue to buy despite price increases. This will result in a decrease in disposable income—less money for consumption of other goods and services. The exact impact on consumption along the way is hard to predict since consumers will make some product substitutions as prices change. Despite that, they will be shopping based on budget constraints, making it difficult for those barely making ends to meet to escape the poverty trap. Policymakers must seriously consider whether the proposed resin tax benefits consumers and the macroeconomy.
Preferred by Home Delivery Consumers, Aptar Food + Beverage’s SeaWell™ Active Packaging Systems passes ISTA and ASTM testing
Proven to meet e-Commerce robustness standards and preferred by consumers, SeaWell™ systems maintain seafood quality, freshness, and aesthetics during direct-to-consumer delivery Aptar Food + Beverage – Food Protection, part of AptarGroup, Inc. and a provider in a broad range of food protection and active material science solutions for seafood and fresh-cut produce, passed ASTM (American Society for Testing & Materials) and ISTA (International Safe Transit Association) 3A testing procedures for its SeaWell™ active packaging system, confirming its robustness for e-Commerce seafood delivery. The series of internationally recognized test procedures established by the ISTA and ASTM is the standard for defining how packages should perform to ensure their contents are protected during transit. SeaWell™ active pouches were filled with seafood and tested in multiple parcel configurations under small and standard packaging size parameters. These tests included drop testing, loose load vibration, low air pressure, and vehicle vibration. After undergoing all analyses, the SeaWell™ active packaging system showed no damage, rips, or tears. In addition to passing the ISTA and ASTM protocols, the SeaWell™ system was also tested for consumer preference. In a study executed by marketing research firm Kaplan MRD, participants examined seafood packaged using SeaWell™ technology alongside the same seafood packaged in a traditional polybag. Results from the study indicated that home delivery seafood buyers prefer seafood using the SeaWell™ technology over the alternative traditional plain polybag. “With the ISTA and ASTM standards met and the positive consumer feedback received, Aptar is well-positioned to serve the e-commerce market,” said Neal Watson, VP and General Manager of Aptar Food + Beverage – Food Protection. “We are confident these results will broaden access to seafood home delivery, helping this market deliver fresh, high-quality seafood to customers, leading to a better consumer experience.” Already used in thousands of store locations, the novel active packaging solution utilizes integrated technology that traps and prevents accumulation of excess liquids inside the package, reducing microbial growth and chemical degradation, as well as aiding in odor control. The proprietary technology enables e-commerce businesses to distribute frozen products and allow them to thaw in transit, delivering fresh, mess-free, ready-to-cook seafood for consumers to enjoy in their homes.
Top packaging trend innovations in 2021 and beyond
The global packaging industry is increasingly investing in smart automation and eco-friendly solutions, customizing their offerings as per a wide range of end-use verticals. The volume of packaging materials has witnessed a significant jump since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. With higher sales of consumer electronics and zero plastic waste objectives, innovations such as 3D printing, automated processes, and circular economies will gain the attention of brands and consumers through 2021 and beyond. Some of the prominent developments in the packaging industry include: Safe and Secured Packaging Coupled with Recyclability Securikett, based out of Austria specializes in physical packaging security solutions and has unveiled its patented paper security seal named VOID. The seal is cannot be replaced once it is peeled off from the product, catering to anti-counterfeiting and tamper-proof requirements. The product is made from pulp fiber, which can be recycled eight times. Further, these products are also available in a wide range of colors, sizes, and designs, and are likely to gain traction with rising interest in alternative materials following the implementation of plastic reduction laws across the European Union. Augmented Reality Gains Attention among Brand Owners for Better Consumer Engagement A number of consumer product brands including Coca-Cola and Pizza Hut have taken to integrating augmented reality technologies for their packaging formats. This development is primarily aimed at building consumer engagement. For instance, Pizza Hut launched a limited-edition AR carton allowing consumers to play games through the use of QR codes. Coca-Cola released beverage cups for use in White Castle outlets with brand awareness objectives through AR. Flexible Packaging Formats Achieving Traction The introduction of digitalization processes for packaging in smart retail is a major factor influencing packaging formats. Flexible packaging opens up a number of options for automation in retail including intelligent labeling, RFID labels, and smart tags. Growing consumer emphasis on sustainable purchases is also key to making flexible materials mainstream as primary packaging. In April 2021, UFlex developed and unveiled a new laminate structure based on BOPP film for food products. The company also launched LDPE, paper, and foil 40-gsm structure for pharma packaging applications. The product allows the cross-linking of coatings and inks boosting resistance to abrasion and chemicals, and without greenhouse gas emissions. Repositioning in retail space, particularly for the FMCG sector to improve product shelf life will provide impetus to production. Weight Reduction Remains Important KraussMaffei HighPerformance AG announced a collaboration with SABIC to develop a new thin-wall packaging format under the brand Nestal. The offering will widen the scope of injection molding applications in the packaging sector. Micro-cellular foaming processes are also expected to gain ground, as it not only reduces packaging weight but also has a direct impact on cutting down its environmental impact, without compromising on performance. Cyber Security in Packaging Operations With the rapid adoption of Industry 4.0 connections, the packaging industry is now at threat from hackers and other malicious entities with the rising use of IIoT in the sector. Companies are seeking to strictly adopt best practices while getting rid of compartmentalization in terms of operational technology and information technology. Firewalls between systems and production and process plants are becoming an increasingly popular option. The role of analytics in operations such as warehouse management will also create opportunities for cybersecurity offerings, to minimize chances of disruptions. Achieve Circular Economy through Sustainable Packaging Funding worth US$ 2.73 million was announced by UK Research and Innovation for key projects into the development of sustainable packaging solutions. The effort has been announced as a part of the Future Plastic Packaging Solutions Fund. The projects will include bio-based polymers, reusable formats, dissolvable packaging materials, and circular recycling systems for pharmaceutical blister packs. With notable influence on sustainability, circular packaging design concepts will emerge as a key trend in 2021. Investments towards behavior changes to encourage reuse, recycling, and returns, will play key roles in the future of the industry. Automation Supplemented by Artificial Intelligence is heading the Way Forward With the onset of the covid-19 pandemic, automation in packaging processes has become more important than ever. Higher focus on user health and safety, in addition to developments in blockchain benefits in quality control productivity, and downtime are major factors aiding the adoption of automation tech. Investments by startups and mid-sized companies towards artificial intelligence and analytics will play key roles, driving developments in operations such as direct-to-consumer e-commerce, and also government efforts for the distribution of the covid vaccine. Artificial intelligence will also help to improve return on invested capital (ROIC) by enabling predictive maintenance and generation of packaging format prototypes without the need for human inputs. The aforementioned trends are only some of the many changes being witnessed in the evolving packaging sector. Offerings such as carbon black packaging, specialty paper packaging, molded fiber packaging, and more will have a notable impact on the industry. Leverage new opportunities through tech innovations in a timely manner through MarketNgage, the trusted platform for Packaging market research subscription for accurate, credible, and real-time insights on packaging developments. Gain free credits for features such as datasheets, interactive dashboards, and market playbooks by Signing Up today! About the Author: Anuj Mudaliar, a market researcher from MarketNgage is an experienced market writer, who works closely with the research teams at MarketNgage. With sound research skills and his own style of writing thought leadership articles, Anuj extensively covers developments in several research domains and industries.
PLASTICS releases 2021 Size & Impact Report indicates continued growth
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) just released its much-anticipated 2021 Size & Impact Report at a webinar attended by Association members, non-members within the industry, and members of the media. The 2021 report indicates that the U.S. plastics industry remains one of the largest sectors of the American economy and continues on a strong growth path. “The COVID-19 pandemic has been a difficult test for the plastics industry, but it has proven our durability and resilience as the data continues to demonstrate our positive impact on America’s economy,” said Tony Radoszewski, president & CEO of the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS). “We’re the 8th largest industry in the country and accounted for almost one million jobs and hundreds of billions of dollars in shipments last year.” This year’s report indicates that the U.S. plastics industry accounted for $394.7 billion in shipments in 2020 and 945,300 jobs. When suppliers to the U.S. plastics industry are included, the total shipments figure balloons to $541.5 billion and 1.55 million jobs. According to the most recent data, the plastics industry is the eighth largest industry in America. “The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted a thriving U.S. economy affecting many industries including plastics,” said Perc Pineda, Ph.D., Chief Economist of PLASTICS. “This resulted in an estimated 0.9% decrease in the real value of shipments in plastics manufacturing. The marginal downtick in shipments reflects the capacity and commitment of the plastics industry to meet the demands of the manufacturing and consumer sectors, particularly in a stressful macroeconomic environment.” The annual report features exclusive, new data on U.S. plastics manufacturing, plastics industry employment, and the outlook for plastics domestically. This year’s report showed the plastics industry’s continued, multi-decade track record of strength when compared to the overall U.S. manufacturing sector. Since 1997, the U.S. plastics industry has outpaced all of U.S. manufacturing in terms of growth in real shipments, real value-added, productivity growth, and employment. The 2021 Size & Impact Report includes state-level data and insights that demonstrate the industry’s geographic footprint. State highlights include Texas being home to the largest number of plastics employees with 70,500. The plastics industry is incredibly important for employment across the industrial Midwest. In Indiana, jobs in plastics account for 15.6 of every 1,000 non-farm jobs. Wisconsin is a close second in this regard, with 14.9 of every 1,000 non-farm jobs being in plastics, followed by Michigan and Ohio. According to the report, the outlook for the plastics industry for the remainder of 2021 and into 2022 will be linked to the global economic recovery. The global economic slowdown related to the coronavirus pandemic underscored the importance of a well-functioning global supply chain. The plastics industry could continue to face labor and supply chain-related headwinds ahead. The 2021 Size & Impact Report and an Executive Summary are available for download HERE.
Orbis to showcase innovative sustainable packaging solutions and services at Pack Expo
Reusable packaging helps companies improve supply chain efficiency and meet sustainability goals ORBIS® Corporation, an international provider in reusable packaging, will highlight the circular economy and sustainability by showcasing reusable packaging solutions at this year’s Pack Expo, Booth 8001. ORBIS offers a variety of packaging products — including reusable plastic pallets, totes, bulk containers, and metal solutions — and services that help supply chains find efficiencies, improve the flow of product and sustainability, and reduce costs. ORBIS is exhibiting at this year’s show held in Las Vegas from September 27-29. The booth will highlight the importance of increasing supply chain sustainability by showcasing reusable packaging solutions that can be manufactured, used, reused, and reprocessed without impacting the solid waste stream. The booth also will promote ORBIS’ Ocean in Mind program, which recovers single-use plastic waste collected near major waterways and reprocesses it into reusable packaging for the supply chain. “We recognize that the circular economy concept — which is based on a continuous flow of product in the value circle — is the future of a successful, sustainable supply chain,” said Bob Petersen, VP of marketing and product management at ORBIS Corporation. “That’s why we’re committed to delivering our customer’s reusable packaging solutions that not only streamline product flow but also support supply chain sustainability and a better world for future generations by reducing waste, energy usage, and greenhouse gas emissions.” With sustainability, e-commerce, and automation top of mind for today’s supply chain managers, the ORBIS booth will showcase a variety of sustainable packaging solutions and programs for both retail and industrial supply chains, including: Pallets and totes for use in automation ORBIS offers a family of all-plastic totes that work in all types of retail environments, from manual to highly automated. These totes are dimensionally consistent for seamless integration with today’s high-speed systems — made in a variety of footprints and often customized to meet system requirements — and also feature design benefits for easy picking, mobility, and integration with other packaging. ORBIS’ line of 40×48 pallets is available in rackable, stackable, and nestable styles. 40×48 Odyssey® pallet The 40×48 Odyssey® pallet provides stability with unique design features, including optional steel reinforcements and molded-in frictional elements. These elements minimize load shifting, do not damage cases or products, and prevent pallet slippage off fork equipment. While designed to support loads of 2,800+ pounds, the Odyssey pallet is built to be easily moved, as well as interface seamlessly with automation. Patented molded-in frictional elements hold loads in place during transit. PlastiCorr® reusable plastic corrugated box PlastiCorr® is a direct replacement for corrugated fiber boxes with identical functionality and enhanced features. This sustainable solution works seamlessly with existing automated packaging lines and is ideal for food, beverage, and CPG applications. The patented design of PlastiCorr allows the box’s flaps to fold and straighten like new every time, allowing PlastiCorr to be reused up to 70 times with no change to pack count or pallet configurations. E-commerce solution for in-store and distribution centers E-commerce operations have diverse needs. Distribution centers require picking totes, bins for staging, work-in-process pallets, and shipping pallets. Depending on the level of automation, totes can be designed for manual handling or high automation. In-store e-commerce operation requires tote/cart systems for efficient picking by retail associates and mobile pallets for curbside delivery to consumers. Retail distribution and bulk merchandising The Pally® mobile pallet easily converts from a mobile to a static pallet so the product can be rolled from the distribution center to the truck to the aisle or backroom without down-stacking. It can serve as an in-aisle shopper-ready endcap or point-of-purchase display. The XpressBulk® streamlines bulk merchandising of high-velocity grocery items like milk and bottled water. This new delivery system is designed to streamline product replenishment in stores. Once at retail, this delivery system is designed for quick unload, reducing reliance on retail staff. Custom metal racks ORBIS metal solutions are designed to be extremely durable, while also protecting high-cost sensitive parts throughout automotive and industrial supply chains. Metal rack solutions are engineered to move, transport, and sequence-specific parts, meaning they can be designed to best fit a particular product. They can be configured to any required size, shape, capacity, or style to accommodate the unique needs of different manufacturers. Integrating metal racks and protective dunnage offers to pick efficiencies and helps workers optimize what they bring to the line. With the Reusable Packaging Association, ORBIS will offer two virtual presentations: Choosing the Right Recycled and Reusable Packaging to Help the Environment and Your Supply Chain, presented by: Breanna Herbert, Product Manager, and Sustainability Lead Maximizing Success When Converting to Reusable Packaging, presented by: Bob Klimko, Director of Market Development
Reusable Packaging Association to host Reusable Packaging Pavilion at PACK EXPO 2021 Las Vegas
Featuring 30 Pavilion exhibitors offering the latest reusable packaging innovations The Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) is pleased to announce its 11th Reusable Packaging Pavilion at PACK EXPO 2021 Las Vegas, September 27-29, with RPA member exhibitors of reusable transport packaging products and related services. The Reusable Packaging Pavilion will feature 30 exhibitors: Girton Manufacturing, Booth #7901 Bonar Plastics, Booth #7903 C2it Inc., Booth #7905 Craemer U.S. Corp., Booth #7906 Horen CoRTP+, Booth #7907 Technology Container Corp (TCC), Booth #7909 Kayaplas Kayalar Plastik San. Ve Tic A.S., Booth #7910 Perfect Pallets, Booth #7911 ORBIS, Booth #8001 Liviri, Booth #8004 Reusable Transport Packaging, Booth #8006 TriEnda Holdings LLC, Booth #8008 SSI Schaefer Systems, Booth #8011 Elkhart Plastics, Booth #8013 ID Plastics, Booth #8017 Schoeller Allibert, Booth #8019 The Kennedy Group, Booth #8104 Ongweoweh Pooling, Booth #8107 Greystone Logistics, Booth #8109 Monoflo International, Booth #8111 48forty Solutions, Booth #8114 Acsis Inc., Booth #8118 PTM, Booth #8120 Vantage Plastics, Booth #8205 Wiliot, Booth #8208 iGPS Logistics, Booth #8211 Haidlmair, Booth #8213 CargoTuff, Booth #8214 NimbeLink, Booth #8215 Worldwide Foam, Booth #8310 A preview of the innovative reusable packaging products and solutions on display in the Pavilion can be found on the RPA website, here.
Signode to highlight latest automation advantage at Pack Expo 2021
Signode, a manufacturer of a broad spectrum of packaging, consumables, tools, software, and equipment to optimize end-of-line packaging operations and protect products in transit, is highlighting some of its latest advancements in automation solutions for the packaging industry at Pack Expo 2021 (Las Vegas, September 27-29, Booth #C-5022). “Our customers are increasingly looking to invest in smart automation solutions and Signode is responding,” said Eric Christensen, SVP Packaging Technologies, Signode. “As our organization has for the past 100 years, we are collaborating with our customers to deliver new technologies and equipment that ensure faster throughput, and help them achieve greater profitability.” The Signode team of technical and service professionals will be on-site to demonstrate this new generation of solutions that engender productivity gains with robust ROI implications. Signode’s advancements are already in wide use across the globe, meeting the demands of the supply chain to enable E-commerce growth, enhance product protection, and respond to increasing sustainability requirements. Pack Expo 2021 highlights: New for 2021 — Enhanced StorFast AS/RS Capabilities The high-density modular automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) features a full range of robot-based depalletizing, palletizing and material handling solutions. The newly enhanced cart-based Storfast system now operates at twice the speed with improved control for acceleration and deceleration of the robotic carts. The newly enhanced Storfast components have improved robustness to handle pallets weighing up to 4,400 pounds. New for 2021 – PackPoint automated packaging line with robotic integration Signode’s integrated packaging systems include customizable options including case formers, product delivery systems, case sealing, printing, and label applications. New for 2021 and on display at Pack Expo 2021 will be Packpoint’s integration with robotic picking and packing technology. New for 2021 — Stainless Steel General Purpose Strapping Machines for the food industry The organization’s high-performance SGP strapping machines are designed to maximize productivity with up to 65 plastic straps per minute, designed for integration into conveyor systems or usable as a stand-alone solution. The TüV certified stainless versions with IP 56 rating are well proven in harsh environments and enjoy an outstanding reputation in the food industry due to easy cleaning and disinfecting. The technology will be featured on the Pack Expo 2021 show floor simulating a pressurized washdown environment. Additional featured technologies and products are the market-leading BXT3 battery tool for manual plastic strapping applications; the LDX-RTB 4.0 semi-automatic case sealer, and a wide range of popular protective packaging options, including dunnage airbags, LOCK N’POP water-based adhesive, MultiWall protective packaging, Angleboard edge protection, Reddi-Pac laminated paperboard packaging, Gale Wrap stretch film, and Caretex Container liners. The organization will also unveil new logos and brand identities for some of its most popular automation offerings, including StorFast AS/RS, Lachenmeier stretch hood machines, Octopus stretch wrap machines, and Little David case sealers. The new logos are designed to align these historically independent brands with the complete and integrated automation solutions that Signode provides. The new branding and featured technologies and products at Pack Expo 2021 are a representative sample of the integrated capabilities that Signode offers to the packaging industry. In this era of heightened awareness of automation and its expansion and integration into facilities of all sizes, Signode is focused on offering a comprehensive approach that achieves optimal outcomes through a four-step process undertaken with close customer collaboration. The four-step process includes an initial on-site audit to assess challenges and opportunities; designing equipment, software, and process recommendations; commissioning equipment, configuring software and providing staff training; and scheduling preventative maintenance and providing on-site support post-installation through its 400-member-strong team of Packaging Plus professionals. “We’ve been very active in both broadening and deepening our integrated support models offered by our enhanced Packaging Plus service portfolio and technical staff,” said Christensen. “Seamlessly achieving more automated lines and processes presents unique challenges — from consult and install to on-going service and maintenance — to keep operations up and profitable.”
PLASTICS releases statement in opposition to California SB 343
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) released the following statement after the California Senate passed SB 343, which now moves to Governor Newsom’s desk to be signed into law: “SB 343 puts more plastic in landfills, not less,” said Matt Seaholm, Vice President of Government Affairs at the Plastics Industry Association. “A number of common plastic products like yogurt cups and microwavable trays would be deemed unrecyclable and, therefore, would be landfilled. 4.5 million tons of polypropylene would now be landfilled as a result of this legislation. All of these products and many more are not only recyclable but are currently recycled in California. We urge the Governor to veto this misguided legislation and work with all stakeholders on commonsense solutions to reduce plastic waste, such as increasing investment in recycling infrastructure.” SB 343: SB 343 establishes stringent criteria for what can be considered recyclable, SB 343 creates a definition of “recyclable” which will have impacts on all future legislation related to the circular economy and recycled content mandates. SB 343 includes labeling restrictions for packaging and products, creating more labeling complexity and increasing confusion for consumers. Products with long-standing recycling regimes – such as e-waste and batteries – and products covered under voluntary product stewardship programs, will be prohibited from making recyclability claims and communicating with consumers on the available methods for recycling these products via existing California recycling infrastructure. This will harm recycling and recovery. Materials collected outside of the curbside system should not be required to meet stricter recycling criteria than curbside materials. SB 343 directly will conflict with labeling requirements in 29 other states, Japan, and the EU. Additional Resources PLASTICS June 2021 testimony before the California State Assembly’s Natural Resources Committee
Less than three weeks until PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO opens its doors
Here’s what to expect at the only show this year to reunite the packaging and processing community Industry excitement remains high, with the largest registration week to date for the long-awaited return of live, in person technology at PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO (Sept. 27-29, Las Vegas Convention Center). Visit the show website for up-to-date stats on the first packaging and processing show in 18 months. Show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, will reunite the packaging and processing community with over 1,500 exhibitors, world-class education, and countless networking opportunities spread across four expansive halls at the Las Vegas Convention Center. “We can’t wait to welcome the industry back to the PACK EXPO show floor,” says Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI. “With nearly 2,500 new registrations coming in last week alone, the industry is looking forward to seeing brand new show features, engaging in-person, and exploring new technologies never seen before. It is sure to be a meaningful event not to be missed.” The popular Processing Zone, located in the North Hall, returns this year featuring solutions to increase efficiency, achieve total system integration and help ensure safety. It is complemented by the new Processing Innovation Stage, focusing specifically on the latest breakthroughs in processing. The PACK to the Future exhibit debuts this year, which celebrates the role of packaging and processing through history and the impact it is poised to have on the future. The curated exhibit includes nearly 30 pieces of historical equipment, materials, and photographs spanning 250 years. It will also feature, robotics teams from Las Vegas area high schools showcasing their robots in the Future Innovators Robotics Showcase, sponsored by Rockwell Automation. The accompanying PACK to the Future Stage will offer free, thought-provoking sessions on groundbreaking advancements by industry experts in pharmaceutical and cannabis packaging, wireless factory automation, sustainable alternatives, smart packaging, artificial intelligence, and more. Education will be front and center at PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO 2021, with free 30-minute exhibitor-hosted seminars on breakthroughs and best practices at The Innovation Stages running every day on the show floor. The Forum will offer free, 45-minute learning sessions on the latest industry trends, including small group discussions and Q&As with leading organizations like the OpX Leadership Network, CPA, the Association for Contract Packagers and Manufacturers, The Organization for Automation and Control (OMAC) and PMMI Business Intelligence. Another returning favorite, the Technology Excellence Awards, allows attendees to recognize and vote on innovative exhibitor technology never displayed at a PACK EXPO event. Winners will be announced at the show on Tuesday, Sept. 28. Additional packaging award winners from the past year-plus will reside at The Showcase of Packaging Innovations®, sponsored by WestRock, and located within The Containers and Materials Pavilion. The Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) Breakfast: The New World of Work on Tuesday, Sept. 28, will feature Tracey Noonan, co-founder, and CEO of Wicked Good Cupcakes, as keynote speaker, followed by a panel discussion on how to thrive in this fast-changing world, with Yolanda Malone, vice president of global RD Foods at PepsiCo, and AJ Jorgenson, vice president of strategic engagement at The Manufacturing Institute. The breakfast is sponsored by Emerson, ID Technology, Morrison Container Handling Solutions, Plexpack, Septimatech Group Inc., and SMC. PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO also boasts a large number of Notable Pavilions. The PACKage Printing Pavilion (North Hall) focuses on the advantages of digital printing. The Containers and Materials Pavilion (North Hall) highlights the latest innovations in paperboard, glass, metal, and plastic, flexible and resealable packaging, as well as containers and materials. The Reusable Packaging Pavilion, sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) (South Upper Hall), will showcase sustainable packaging solutions to help reduce waste, cut costs and gain chain efficiency. The Confectionery Pavilion, sponsored by National Confectioners Association (NCA) (South Upper Hall), is the one-stop shop for the latest trends and technologies relating to aeration, batch refining, shaping, cluster production and more. The Workforce Development Pavilion (North Hall) is the place for resources to strengthen and grow the existing workforce. PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO also gets students excited about careers in packaging and processing. The Amazing Packaging Race, sponsored by Emerson, brings teams from colleges and universities to complete tasks at the booths of participating exhibitors. To keep track of all the new additions as well as old favorites, attendees can use My Show Planner to search exhibitors, schedule appointments in advance, add education sessions, and plan routes around the show floor. The show’s mobile app, sponsored by ProMach, syncs with your My Show Planner and is the perfect on-the-go solution to search exhibitors, products, and educational sessions, create and save a personal agenda and navigate from booth to booth using the interactive map. Search “PACK EXPO” in the App Store or Google Play, or visit packexpolasvegas.com/app Registration, which includes access to both PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO, is $30 through Sept. 10 and then increases to $130. For more information and to register online, visit packexpolasvegas.com and hcpelasvegas.com. PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO are implementing the PACK Ready health and safety plan following the current local regulations and will continue to update exhibitors and attendees as things develop. Visit packexpolasvegas.com/packready for the most up-to-date information.
PACT awarded U.S. Patent for Thermo Shield™ Fire Suppressant Shipping Wrap
100% recyclable wrap solution exceeds SAE G27 lithium battery packaging performance standards PACT, LLC, an innovator of packaging and crating technologies, has been granted a US patent for its Thermo Shield™, a paper-based, fire-resistant shipping wrap designed to prevent catastrophes caused by battery explosions during transport. Utilizing a revolutionary technology that actively and automatically cools the internal environment of a corrugated container, the paper-based, 100% recyclable protective logistics product prevents damage to the outside shipping container, suppresses fumes or gasses from escaping, and limits external oxygen supply. Thermo Shield™ comprises a lightweight pleated material with a non-toxic moisture vapor application that ensures the safety of lithium-ion products in transport. The solution can suppress thermal runaway and propagation at temperatures up to 800°C, and restrict the temperature outside the wrap itself to 60°C. Importantly considering the push for sustainable packing solutions, the pleated paper is an eco-friendly material that protects the environment even while shielding items from hazardous thermal runaway events, including fires. The solution’s credentials are a step up from competitors: Thermo Shield™ is a paper-based wrap solution that exceeds the proposed SAE G27 lithium battery packaging performance standards for safety in shipping. The shipper also is lightweight and reusable, lending to cost efficiency both at initial purchase and during use. The urgent industry needs to mitigate dangerous thermal runaway events makes Thermo Shield™ a potentially groundbreaking solution, one capable of drastically limiting the amount of thermal runaway to protect both logistics personnel and valuable cargo. Per the United Parcel Service (UPS), just seven of their customers are responsible for shipping over 40 million lithium-ion batteries per year. Further, the majority of cells or battery packs are produced in Asia, leading to long transit times when shipping to the Western Hemisphere. “Thermo Shield’s one-of-a-kind design allows it to suppress serious thermal runaway incidents, protecting freight transporters and the cargo they’re tasked with delivering,” said Rodger Mort, President of PACT, LLC. “Being recognized with a US patent serves as validation that Thermo Shield™ not only works but does so in a novel, unique fashion.”
La Colombe, Thermo King win the 2021 Excellence in Reusable Packaging Award
Reusable packaging product and service suppliers Schoeller Allibert and Black Forest Container Systems (La Colombe) and Reusability (Thermo King) receive the award with their customers The Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) is pleased to announce not one, but two winners of the 2021 Excellence in Reusable Packaging award program. La Colombe won for their implementation of Schoeller Allibert’s Combo Excelsior Hybrid®, a reusable intermediate bulk container (IBC), as supplied and serviced by Black Forest Container Systems for the transport of liquid products from manufacturing to bottling facilities. Thermo King won for its adoption of reusable steel crates, flexible sleeves, and pallets, as supplied and serviced by Reusability, for distributing auxiliary power and transport refrigeration units from manufacturing to dealers and original equipment manufacturers. The award program recognizes commercial achievements with reusable transport packaging in the commercial marketplace. Applications are evaluated by an independent panel of judges and scored based on the narration of the reuse opportunity, demonstration of business or economic improvements, and quantification of environmental impacts. Both winning submissions this year switched from single-use packaging to reusable products, although in very different market applications. La Colombe implemented Schoeller Allibert’s Combo Excelsior Hybrid® IBCs in 2020 with Black Forest Container Systems as the pooler of the containers to create a closed-loop system of reusable packaging with significant business and environmental benefits. The Combo Excelsior Hybrid IBC has an expected lifespan of 15 years. Thermo King, a brand of global climate innovator Trane Technologies, replaced single-use wooden crates with a combined reusable packaging solution to help achieve their corporate initiative of zero waste to landfills by 2030 and other environmental objectives. “With this reusable packaging solution, we have realized nearly $1 million in annual savings on packaging,” said Bruce Day, Plant Manager for Thermo King’s Hastings, Nebraska manufacturing facility. “Adopting this reusable solution has eliminated the need to landfill packaging after use, reduced labor costs, created a safer environment for team members, and improved product protection.” About the Excellence in Reusable Packaging Award: The RPA Excellence in Reusable Packaging award recognizes companies and organizations that have developed and implemented innovative and measurable reusable packaging solutions in a business-to-business supply chain. 2021 marks the tenth year for this annual award program. Submissions are reviewed by an independent panel of judges who are not members of the Association. RPA would like to thank our expert judges: Rick LeBlanc, editor, Reusable Packaging News Dr. Laszlo Horvath, associate professor and director, Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design at Virginia Tech Michelle Fay, program manager, StopWaste Dr. Ziynet Boz, assistant professor of Sustainable Food Systems Engineering, Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Florida
Quest Industrial launches a new standardized version of its Box Bot in booth C-2825 at PACK EXPO 2021
Quest Industrial is bringing robotic palletizing to more customers and markets with the launch of its new standardized Box Bot – the QB300 series, which is debuting in booth C-2825 at PACK EXPO 2021, Sept. 27-29, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas. The Bot Box, a space-saving robotic palletizer with a small footprint, starting at just 8’x10’, allows an operator to design and produce exact pallet patterns quickly and easily from bags to boxes and other product types. The new standardized version comes with the same features and benefits of the original Box Bot, but is built for those customers who don’t require a lot of added customization in their machine. “There are many customer applications that are relatively straightforward and ultimately don’t need something that’s extremely complex,” said Ryan Womble, Director of Sales, Quest. “We’ve standardized and pre-defined key configurations of the Box Bot, while not sacrificing capability or functionality. Our standardized version enables us to offer a more cost-effective palletizing solution to customers with shorter lead times.” Ideal applications for this new standardized version of the Box Bot include companies that rely on manual palletizing in industries such as food, beverage, consumer goods, and others. Implementing a robotic solution cuts down on labor costs, reduces the risk of employee injury associated with manual palletizing, and increases the predictability of a company’s production output. All models of the Box Bot QB300 series feature a FANUC robot that provides higher stack patterns, which better maximize tractor-trailer loading for more efficient shipping. Creating patterns is accomplished through the QBox custom pallet building HMI-based software, the most technologically intuitive operator interface available on the market. The ability to build your own patterns saves time and money by eliminating the need to have a service programmer onsite to perform the task. Quest is an award-winning, FANUC Authorized system integrator and certified vision specialist, and its systems are capable of direct food contact with U.S. Department of Agriculture compliant and washdown designs. The diverse knowledge base of Quest engineers and programmers encompasses the entire manufacturing process, allowing them to solve virtually any customer application with the appropriate level of robotic automation.