Tetra Pak has introduced a completely new version of its low-cost flip-cap opening exclusively for UHT milk applications and for two of its packages, Tetra Brik Aseptic 1000 Baseline and Tetra Brik Aseptic 1000 Slimline.
The new FlexiCaps have been designed with a clearly visible tamper evidence and opening is performed in one single operation. Pouring is guided by an accurately designed v-shaped pouring hole and the package can be re-closed after first opening.
Tetra Pak claims that overall, packages with a FlexiCap opening have been proven to meet the convenience demands made by consumers when it comes to opening, pouring and re-closing.
This kind of opening is unique in that it is applied to the package in the actual filling machine itself by means of a Direct Injection Moulding Concept (DIMC) applicator which means that not only is it low-cost to apply, but that the customer requires less downstream equipment and can therefore save floor space for a complete packaging line - the company says.
The opening itself is made of a new pre-blended compound which means that all of the components of the material are already mixed and melted together in the same granulate.
Only one single material is therefore fed into the DIMC applicator. A pigment blend, used in extremely low quantities, ensures barrier to light although the final colour of the cap is almost white.
The FlexiCap opening on Tetra Brik Aseptic 1000 Baseline and Slimline packages is currently available on TBA/8 packaging lines.
One of the main advantages about the introduction of new cap design is that many existing models of TBA/8 filling machines, already installed at Tetra Pak dairy customers, can be rebuilt to run FlexiCap by simply adding a DIMC unit and changing some parts of the filling machine.
The opening will also be shortly available on the brand new Tetra Pak A3/Flex filling machine.
A prototype of the FlexiCap version of the new Tetra Pak A3/Flex filling machine will be exhibited in Germany at Anuga FoodTec, April 2003.