How to produce high barrier packaging with metal-free material?

At Pack Expo 2015, Amcor's AmLite metal-free packaging technology will be running on Inever's new MVC 1200 machine to create a lightweight, transparent material that offers superior product protection, strong seal and appearance.

"Packaging that shows the product inside increases consumer trust and the likelihood of purchase. For sensitive products however, this was typically not a practical option, and they were hidden behind aluminum-based or metallized packaging," explained Marco Hilty, Vice President, Strategy and R&D for Amcor Flexibles Europe and Americas. "AmLite gives packaging designers and marketing teams a cost competitive alternative."

In addition to transparent, AmLite is also available with a white sealant layer, resulting in brighter printed colors by eliminating the grey background of metal-based materials.

At Inever's stand, the white version of AmLite will be running on the new MVC 1200 Vertical Form Fill & Seal (VFFS) four side machine. Available in 900mm and 1,200mm film reel, the new MVC concept combines a continuous technology and intermittent seal process, providing high quality seals at high speed.

This technology allows the use of high quality films up to 100 micron thickness and is able to produce up to 120 strokes/minute per lane (for example: 1,000 sachets/min 70x120mm, 50ml).

AmLite was developed using Amcor Barrier Coating, a micro-thin transparent barrier layer that is deposited on a base web. The lightweight material offers barrier levels approaching that of aluminum, according to Amcor.

As said, AmLite also utilizes special high performance grades of polyethylene (PE) or oriented polypropylene (OPP) sealant, for better performance on packing machines and a reliable seal.

"AmLite can offer a significant environmental benefit by reducing material use," added Wojciech Skalbani Global Sales & Marketing Director Technical Products for Amcor Flexibles Europe & Americas.

In a lifecycle analysis, AmLite reportedly provides a 40% carbon footprint reduction and 21% weight reduction compared to standard aluminum-based materials. Metal detectors can also be used after packs are filled and sealed to ensure product safety.

AmLite can be used for a range of ambient wet and dry food products, as well as medical and personal care products like powders and lotions, Amcor stated.

Pack Expo 2015 will be held in conjunction with Pharma Expo in Las Vegas, the US from September 28-30.