FlexiCap: a very low-cost opening for two leading Tetra Brik Aseptic

Tetra Pak first pioneered the Direct Injection Moulding Concept (DIMC) for FlexiCap in 1998 when it released the opening especially for chilled applications.

Tetra Pak first pioneered the Direct Injection Moulding Concept (DIMC) for FlexiCap in 1998 when it released the opening especially for chilled applications. Now, it has introduced a completely new version of this very low-cost and reliable flip-cap opening exclusively for UHT milk applications and for two of its most popular packages, Tetra Brik Aseptic 1000 Baseline and Tetra Brik Aseptic 1000 Slimline. FlexiCap Characteristics: FlexiCap has a clearly visible tamper evidence and opening is performed in one single operation. Pouring is guided by a very accurately designed v-shaped pouring hole and the package can be re-closed after first opening. 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. Its uniqueness: 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 materials: 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 unique pigment blend, used in extremely low quantities, ensures barrier to light although the final colour of the cap is almost white. Equipment: The FlexiCap opening on Tetra Brik Aseptic 1000 Baseline and Slimline packages is currently available on TBA/8 packaging lines. What is interesting about the introduction of FlexiCap 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. For further information, visit www.tetrapak.com.