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VisiPak, a Sinclair & Rush brand, proudly announces a breakthrough in packaging technology with a new PET material (recycle code 1) that can be sealed using existing RF Welding equipment. This innovation reintroduces the option of securely sealing clamshells utilizing RF sealing technology, which was previously only feasible using PVC (recycle code 3) or PETG (recycle code 7 ) packaging options which are very difficult to recycle given current technologies. This often led to the use of trapped blister packages which were cost-prohibitive. In addition, trapped blisters are not easily recyclable due to the application of adhesives to secure the paper cards to the plastic PET blisters.
The need for secure packaging in retail environments is critical to prevent theft and tampering, which poses a significant loss for retailers. Major retailers have been requiring a switch from PVC or PETG packaging to PET. The challenge of sealing PET clamshells with automated processes has forced brand managers to switch to less effective packaging options. Welding is a common method for sealing a package, and PET is increasingly popular due to its recyclability. VisiPak, aware of the challenges in sealing clamshells with RF, heat, and ultrasonic welding, collaborated with material suppliers to find a solution. VisiPak, has developed an industry-first solution allowing PET clamshells to be sealed using already available sealing equipment.
Extensive testing has shown that the new material creates a robust seal, making it impossible to pull apart and does not cause the PET plastic to become brittle when subjected to RF sealing, heat sealing, or ultrasonic sealing. The stress of heat and friction is the common failure point when attempting to seal alternative PET options. This advancement allows manufacturers to automate the packaging process efficiently.
Tests on existing sealing equipment and tooling formerly used for PVC and PETG clamshells in various wall thicknesses, temperatures, and sealing cycles have consistently produced secure packages. While exact sealing parameters may vary based on individual customer conditions, the new PET material has proven to be highly effective with a wide operating window.
Jeff Barket, Director of Sales & Marketing for Sinclair & Rush, stated, “For brand managers seeking a tamper-proof, durable seal with PET clear plastic (recycling code 1), this is a game changer. Before VisiPak introduced this option at Pack Expo 2024, the only RF sealable clear packaging options were PVC or PETG, which did not meet major retailers’ sustainability requirements. Other PET materials either failed to seal or created weak bonds that were brittle and easy to break.”
VisiPak Unveils New Crystal Clear PET Plugs Resulting in Fully Recyclable Packaging
VisiPak also, is excited to announce the launch of its innovative PET Plugs, marking a significant step towards sustainable packaging solutions. By converting its line of clear plugs to PET, VisiPak now offers customers the opportunity to create a completely recyclable PET tube container when paired with VisiPak PET packaging tubes.
These new clear PET Plugs, made from #1 resin (recycling code), come in two styles: the flat-surfaced Poly plug and the Hanger plug. Both can be used with open-end PET tubes or applied to sealed-bottom PET containers. The Hanger plugs are designed for single peg and euro-peg hooks. All options ensure an industry exclusive clear 360° product display. Each style is available in 10 popular in-stock sizes. Custom options are also available.
Jeff Barket, Director of Sales and Marketing, comments, “Our shift to PET plugs is driven by VisiPak’s commitment to meet the needs of our customers as well as our goals to be on the bleeding edge of affordable sustainability options. We are proud to contribute to eco-friendly packaging with a first of its kind fully recyclable PET extruded container packaging solution. This product is not only superior to the product it replaces in clarity and sustainability, but VisiPak is able to offer all of this without any increase in pricing! VisiPak is excited to introduce this sustainable packaging option featuring the recycling code 1.”
