THERMOFORMING | MACHINERY
Going flat out: thermoforming developments
Recent developments in thermoforming include new materials for making EV battery
components, a cockpit for a speedboat and a bio-based cup made from recycled PLA
Thermoforming is a flexible technique that allows the production of many types of part – from packaging to medical products – with relatively low investment in tooling and machinery. TotalEnergies Corbion and Coexpan recently launched a bio-based cup using recycled PLA – which is available in white and with high transpar- ency. After completing tests at Coexpan in Spain, full
validation was achieved for line speeds and output using form-fill-seal (FFS) technology. “We are proud to include this new sustainable
product that increases the number of technical solutions we can put on the market,” said Gonzalo Sanchez, recycling manager at Coexpan. “Having used this material for more than 10 years, we are the leading PLA resin converter in the FFS market.” Environmental stresses have increased pressure
to meet recycling and sustainability targets. With readily available recycled rPLA, brands can offer consumers sustainable options without extra investment or significant changes in existing FFS facilities. Luminy rPLA is a bio-based polymer made from
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sugarcane. It has the same properties as virgin PLA, including food contact approval in the EU, China and the US. Derek Atkinson, senior director of sales and business development at TotalEnergies Corbion, added: “We have a team of specialised engineers to work with our partners and develop the right Luminy PLA grades. And we buy back the used PLA to recycle it at our facilities.” He added that PLA recycling is a more energy-
efficient process than for other plastics. “We appeal to all PLA users to get in touch and set up a collection structure.”
Sheet for inserts Roehm says that its transparent orthopaedic sheet – called Europlex O – makes it easy to manufacture high-quality orthoses. The transparent material is aimed at manufactur- ing high-quality orthoses, shoe inserts and other orthopaedic aids. It is formable at low temperatures – using standard tools – while being very stable. It also has high chemical resistance and withstands both skincare products and sweat.
September 2023 | FILM & SHEET EXTRUSION 21
Main image: TotalEnergies Corbion and Coexpan have launched a bio-based cup using recycled PLA
IMAGE: TOTALENERGIES CORBION
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