GEA has further developed its GEA PowerPak PLUS thermoforming packaging machine. It can now also mould coated paper.
11 January 2021
Example of paper-based MAP cheese packaging that can be produced with the new PowerPak PLUS packaging machine. (Image: GEA)
GEA has further developed its GEA PowerPak PLUS thermoforming packaging machine. It can now process a mouldable paper composite with special barrier properties.
To date, the thermoforming packaging machine has been used for various packaging solutions such as handle protection, vacuum, MAP and shrink film packaging. Now the GEA PowerPak PLUS can also process a mouldable paper composite with special barrier properties. The more sustainable packaging option consists of more than 80 per cent paper and a small amount of plastic.
GEA PowerPak PLUS can now do more
Thanks to technical modifications to the GEA thermoformer, the thermoforming packaging machine can now also deform coated paper. The unwinding and feeding of the sensitive materials, a newly developed multi-zone heating system in combination with the sophisticated sealing system, simple opening and material separation solutions initially enable the Fresh produce packaged safely and hygienically becomes.
Production line with GEA PowerPak Plus (Image: GEA)
In the moulding station, the coated paper is heated precisely according to the requirement profile with the help of a multi-zone heating system. It is then moulded with the help of vacuum and compressed air. This creates approx. 20 mm high thermoformed packaging, into which the sliced slices are inserted in the next step. Before the packs are separated, the pack is closed and sealed with an extremely thin top film (between 30 and 50 µm).
Display
The motorised unwinding systems for the top and bottom film are connected to the Preferred cycle of the machine synchronised. This means that only very low forces are exerted on both the paper solution and the top film, which are simultaneously unrolled in a controlled and uniform manner. The membrane sealing system also ensures tight and even sealing seams.
Material separation for professional disposal
After use, paper and plastic can be easily separated by the consumer. For this purpose, GEA has integrated the following into the mould of the thermoformer Peel corner punching integrated for punching the paper backing. For disposal, the consumer can simply snap the top corner to separate the thin plastic film from the paper backing and then dispose of it. respective recycling system to the water.
(Image: GEA)
„The packaging market is changing. On the one hand, there are consumers and food retailers who are demanding less plastic. On the other hand, the food industry has to offer safe packaging at the start of the supply chain that fulfils all hygiene and quality requirements on the one hand and the legal regulations to significantly reduce the amount of plastic in packaging on the other. As we always focus on customer needs when developing our machines, this focus was obvious.“ Volker Sassmannshausen, Senior Product Manager Thermoforming Packaging Systems at GEA
