In the food packaging industry, maintaining seal integrity is critical to product safety and quality. Pop-opens, where adhesive seals fail, can cause significant disruptions.
Reducing the risk of pop-opens involves several key factors, says Graeme York, key account manager at Henkel New Zealand, starting with temperature control during adhesive application.
“If the adhesive is applied at temperatures that are too high or low, the bond may not form correctly, leading to weak seals that are prone to failure,” says York.
“Achieving consistent adhesive distribution is also crucial. Uneven application can result in weak spots within the seal, increasing the likelihood of pop-opens. To avoid this, ensure equipment is properly calibrated to apply the right amount of adhesive and the necessary pressure to form a secure bond.”
York adds that regular maintenance of equipment is equally important. Nozzles and pumps should be checked and cleaned regularly to ensure they are in good working condition. Clogged or worn-out components can cause improper adhesive flow and negatively impact bonding performance.
“Environmental conditions in the packaging facility also affect adhesion. Humidity can interfere with how well the adhesive bonds to surfaces”
Using the right type of adhesive for specific substrates is also important for achieving optimal bonding.
“Food packaging operations typically involve a variety of materials, and choosing adhesives that are designed to work with those specific surfaces will enhance seal integrity. Technomelt Supra 180 offers exceptional heat resistance and eliminates the need for a dual-shot system. It is specifically designed for hot pack-off applications, making it an ideal choice for situations prone to pop opens due to its superior heat tolerance.”
He says that by focusing on these areas, food manufacturers can significantly reduce pop-opens, resulting in more efficient production and a higher standard of packaging quality.
Sponsored content: For more information, visit www.henkel-adhesives.com or email [email protected].
