CAPS AND CLOSURES | PROCESSING


technology enables dynamic and precise motion sequences, while the rigid toggle lever ensures reli- able force transmission. More recently, at the Plast Eurasia show in


Turkey, Engel demonstrated a Wintec e-win 1800 injection moulding machine for the packaging market. Here, the e-win showed its capabilities by producing flip-top caps from random PP in an 8-cavity mould. Each shot weighed 32 grams, and the cycle time was under 10 seconds.


AI upgrade KHS has upgraded its Innocheck TSI closure inspection unit with an AI-based fault detector. It says this will help to meet the challenges posed by the mandatory introduction of tethered caps in Europe. Tethered caps have been manda- tory for all non-returnable PET bottles in the EU since 2024. Consequently, the number of closure variants – and the demands made on inspection technology – have increased. “Tethered caps were rarely used before the EU


directive came into force,” said Nikita Wall, of labelling and inspection technology product support at KHS. “Conventional systems frequently reach the limits of their capacity where cap inspec- tion is concerned.” In addition, the large number of bottle and cap design variants processed and increasing line capacities present additional challenges, she said. The new AI-based fault detection system on the Innocheck TSI identifies potential defects during cap inspection. The new module makes use of patent-pending algorithms to analyse images of bottle closures in real time. Cameras log the caps in high-resolution quality, while AI models evaluate this data. By applying deep learning, the models adjust to account for any new types of flaw – in- creasing both accuracy and efficiency. “Our customers make high demands of quality


assurance,” said Wall. “In intensive field tests, our AI-based fault detector has proved that it fully meets these requirements.”


Range expansion Aptar Closures has expanded its range of dispens- ing solutions to help speciality sauce brands stand out on shelves. The series includes Tower, Tab Top, Directional Snap Top and Ecolite Directional Pour Spout. Each combines functionality, hygiene and visual appeal, it says. The Tower closure has a flip-top design that


eliminates the need to touch the spout. It is aimed at spicy sauces and oils and is more hygienic than twist-open closures. It supports one-handed operation and delivers clean product cut-off, reduc- ing mess.


Due to the success of Tab Top – which provides


directional dispensing – Aptar has expanded its capacity. It is suited to both thin and thicker sauces or condiments that benefit from a targeted application, to reduce product waste. Directional Snap Top, available in 33-400 and 38-400 sizes, offers controlled dispensing with a “unique aesthetic and several orifice options”, says Aptar. The lightweight Ecolite Directional Pour Spout is


for brands that want sustainability without compro- mising performance. The 28-400 Ecolite closure reduces material use to help brands achieve environmental goals without sacrificing functionality.


Tethered cap At Pharmapack 2026 recently, Sanner showcased its newly developed tethered cap. It adds to the company’s portfolio for sustain-


able effervescent tablet packaging. The cap stays attached, enabling improved recycling and a more


www.injectionworld.com March/April 2026 | INJECTION WORLD 21


Above: KHS has used AI to upgrade its Innocheck TSI closure


inspection unit


Left: Sanner showcased its newly developed tethered cap at Pharmapack 2026


IMAGE: SANNER


IMAGE: KHS


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