Breakthrough technology for flow pack packaging
Coval asserts that its FPC series suction cup is a universal solution for all types of flow pack packaging. FPC stands for FlowPack Cup, and Coval says the suction cup is a real technological breakthrough for a constantly evolving packaging method.
FlowPack packaging provides a number of advantages, including direct food contact, large visible area to show the products, high production rates at low cost, and a large number of applications in various industries – fresh fruits and vegetables, food processing industry, cosmetics, laboratories, and more.
However, when it comes to vacuum handling, flexibility is an absolute challenge, since it implies a high risk of leakage and potentially poor product gripping or the need to compensate with high power. Coval has taken up this challenge with the FPC series suction cup. It is specifically designed ultra-flexible packaging and will “stick to the product” regardless of shape or material. As a result, it is able to handle very high production rates. To achieve this, Coval has worked with packaging machine manufacturers, taking into consideration their constraints and submitting its designs to real-life tests.
Coval says the FPC Series is based on four major innovations:
- Thin and wavy flower-shaped lips that perfectly mould to the packaging, whatever the shape
- Internal cleats that allow for optimised vacuum while preventing any crushing and also strengthen the hold on the product being handled
- Fittings featuring a lateral vacuum distributor that prevent any loss in efficiency when the product is held
- Materials: food-grade silicone and plastic insert meets FDA and CE standards.
The FPC Series is available in two sizes (round – Ø60mm; and elliptical – 120x100mm) and two levels of flexibility – 35 and 50 shore. Manufactured with blue silicone suction cups and plastic fittings, the FPC suction cups are compatible with FDA food standards (FDA 21 CFR 177.2600.) and meet the European regulation (EC) 1935/2004. The superior gripping ability allows for high production rates, with no interruption in the packaging line due to faulty gripping
Visit the Coval website for more information
