PulPac pioneers paper tube lids with Dry Molded Fiber tech for Scandicore
22 Feb 2022 --- PulPac and Scandicore have developed “the world’s first” paper tube lids made with Dry Molded Fiber technology. An online European art prints store will introduce the plastic-free, fiber-based packaging from Scandicore. PulPac’s patented fiber forming technology can be easily adapted to disposable packaging and other items.
Sanna Fager, PulPac’s chief commercial officer, tells PackagingInsights the key challenge was to redefine the “plastic-language” in the tube’s design while elevating the grip-functionality and user experience.
“The functionality and physical strength of Dry Molded Fiber enables the replacement of products like lids and an array of other products presently made of plastics. This lid is not a single-use product – it can be used, removed, and put on many times.”
“It may not be as durable as plastics, but looking at [environmental] sustainability, that is a good thing. We cannot continue to produce packaging that lasts forever and pollutes the planet,” adds Fager.
All Dry Molded Fiber products are recyclable and repulpable, although Scandicore’s tube is awaiting certification.
PulPac’s fiber expansion
Dry Molded Fiber, invented and owned by PulPac, is a fiber-forming technology that can replace single-use plastic with fiber-based alternatives at a low cost. The patented technology is available to converters that set up their own production.
Sanna Fager, PulPac’s chief commercial officer.PulPac and its partners have established the PulPac Modula standardized machine platform, which is now rolling out to licensees and available at the PulPac Tech Center for sample and bridge volume production.
“We offer a ‘wheat to bread’ setup, delivering application development, toolmaking, and sample production to ease the transition to Dry Molded Fiber,” continues Fager. “In close collaboration with our clients, we develop competitive and market-ready applications.”
“The paper tube lid is a perfect fit for our technology. The quality of the final product was extremely important. Scandicore has been listening to the market, and this solution is in high demand from their customers.”
PulPac recently announced that the European Patent Office intends to grant the Dry Molder Fiber specialist a general patent. Europe becomes the third major region – after the US and Japan – to confirm PulPac’s ownership of the process of dry molding cellulose fibers.
All Dry Molded Fiber solutions are recyclable and repulpable.
Scandicore’s competitive edge
Scandicore is one of the Nordic region’s leading cores and tubes producers for the manufacturing industry. It expects to boost its resourcing and energy efficiencies with PulPac’s technology.
“Safeguarding the environment and the quality of our products are our primary competitive advantages,” says Eva Engström, Scandicore’s CEO. “The physical strength of the Dry Molded Fiber products, in combination with resource efficiency, is where valuable water resources and energy are saved.”
“Meanwhile, significant CO2 reductions makes this a strategic investment for Scandicore,” she adds.
PulPac will manufacture bridge volumes, and the first art print deliveries with the new lid are estimated to reach consumers this spring. The company has also partnered with HS Manufacturing on bio-based barriers and AR Packaging on Dry Molded Fiber cutlery.
By Joshua Poole
