Kick off 2026 with a competitive edge at PACK EXPO East. Register now!
Get a jump on your 2026 goals at PACK EXPO East. Put projects in motion, accelerate timelines and solve challenges—all in one trip to Philadelphia.

Coke 'endorses' new mold-making technology

The Coca-Cola Co., Atlanta, GA, has endorsed new technology for making tooling for injection and blow-molding equipment. The process is patented by Metallamics (Traverse City, MI) and improves the cycle times of, in this case, molding of preforms and plastic soft drink bottles.

Pw 16806 S Pw 0200 056

When asked how unusual an endorsement from Coke is, a spokesman pointed to a more relaxed policy in the last 18 months. “Here, we are frankly endorsing this process,” says Rob Baskin of Coca-Cola. “We’ve tested it, we think it works, and we think it will be good for our system.”

What “it” is isn’t so clear. The name for the process stands for “shape making heat exchanger.” The tooling optimizes the transfer of heat from the preform or bottle into the mold. All told, Metallamics president, Dr. Robert McDonald, says nine factors contribute to the process with a potential for boosting cycle times from 10% to as much as 50%.

The AI revolution in packaging robotics is here
Robots that see variations, adjust grip pressure automatically, accept plain-English commands, and predict their own maintenance. Discover how AI is transforming packaging operations.
Read More
The AI revolution in packaging robotics is here
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Hiring remains a major challenge in packaging, with 78% struggling to fill unskilled roles and 84% lacking experienced workers. As automation grows, companies must rethink hiring and training. Download the full report for key insights.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce