SIG Combibloc New Screw Cap is a Real Lightweight

The screw cap combiCap is based on a process developed by SIG Combibloc that has already become internationally established in use with other SIG Combibloc closures.

1/26/2011 --- With the new screw cap combiCap, SIG Combibloc is expanding its product range by adding a new screw cap that really scores in one weighty respect. The new closure mechanism weighs just 1.85 grammes. Less weight means fewer raw materials are used, which is good news for the environment.

The screw cap combiCap is based on a process developed by SIG Combibloc that has already become internationally established in use with other SIG Combibloc closures. In this process, the screw cap is applied over an overcoated hole. Later, the closure, which is affixed to the carton pack after the product has been filled, is easily opened by the consumer with a single twist, as the cardboard layer has already been removed and only the thin aluminium and polyethylene layers need to be pierced. At SIG Combibloc's packaging plants, holes of the correct size are punched in the raw carton board before it is laminated. Once the product has been filled into the carton pack at the customer's plants, the screw cap is applied to the overcoated hole.

Lightweight and convenient
The closure consists of a flange with integrated cutting ring and a screw cap. With a single twist of the screw cap, the tamper evidence feature on the original seal is broken with an audible click. At the same time, the twisting motion opens up the overcoated hole cleanly and smoothly. The tamper evidence feature enables the consumer to see immediately whether the carton pack still has its original seal, or has already been opened. To reclose, the cap is screwed back on, ensuring the carton pack remains leak-proof.

Handling tests in Spain, Poland and Germany have shown that combiCap is well-received by consumers, thanks to its convenient opening behaviour and smooth pouring action. Consumers are finding the closure mechanism very easy and comfortable to grip. Hanno Bertling, Product Manager Opening Solutions at SIG Combibloc: “When developing new products and enhancing existing ones, we make every possible effort to ensure that we systematically continue to reduce the proportion of non-renewable raw materials our products contain. Over the past few years, we've achieved enormous reductions in the quantity of materials used in the closure mechanisms, and thus reductions in the weight of the closures as well. The first screw cap on our aseptic beverage carton packs weighed 4.9 grammes. With combiCap, we've now brought out a screw cap that weighs just 1.85 grammes. With the design and development of combiCap, we're now offering an ideal closure in the very price-sensitive milk segment. combiCap will be offered exclusively for the combiblocSlimline format”.

combiCap can be applied to the carton pack using the existing closure applicators from SIG Combibloc. Only a minor adjustment to the machine is needed. No modifications in size or shape are necessary for the secondary packaging of filled carton packs. Standard trays can be used.

Making its début with the Humana group of companies
The Humana group of companies is the first customer to launch combiCap in Germany. Rolf Janshen, managing director of the Humana group of companies: “Particularly when it comes to filling UHT milk products, the market demands closures that enable businesses to manufacture their products in a way that is efficient and environmentally sound, and to offer the consumer convenient solutions. This is where combiCap really convinces. We're delighted with the market feedback and consumer response so far”.
All the components of the carton pack including the closure can be recycled after use. In summer, further dairy enterprises will be bringing out products with combiCap.