New thermoform filling technology that can curtail need for cutting in plastic beverage cans

26-Nov-08

A new thermoform filling technology claims it can cut out the need for cutting in plastic beverage cans. The preformed design of its blow moulding PET canning systems can better retain product stability for non-pasteurised beverages as opposed to cutting plastic to make way for metallic closures. As part of the system's design the use of PET for the main body of the can or package can be easily styled, while retaining a flange area that is prepared for sealing with standard closures upon filling. The group claims the flange offers a more effective means of protecting and sealing a product compared to cutting plastic material and additionally adding a closure. In addition to retaining shelf life in goods like carbonated beverages, Invento says that the pre-blow moulded design of the packages, which are carried on special protective trays during transportation, can reduce shipments requirements by ten times, for equivalent empty aluminium cans. Poland-based Invento says that it is currently looking to work with partners to implement its new packaging system, which combines polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and metal packaging for a number of uses in beer and soft drinks. According to the company, the technology, which has been in development for the last four years, can be implemented into existing aluminium can filling lines and resist internal pressure for up to seven bars. The company is currently looking at market potential in some Western European areas such as Germany, the Netherlands or Spain.