Syntegon upgrades proven Sigpack TTM cartoner platform with lock-style technology for glue-free carton forming

With the lock-style technology, Syntegon is launching the latest upgrade of its proven Sigpack TTM cartoner platform. The lock-style process makes it possible to form completely glue-free cartons and trays from carton blanks. Trays can be produced from 100 percent recyclable materials since they do not require any further gluing steps to securely close the carton.

By eliminating adhesives during forming, maintenance efforts are significantly reduced. This glue-free process enables manufacturers to lower their energy, maintenance, and material costs, and:

• Up to 100 percent recyclable packaging thanks to lock-style technology
• Optional retrofit kit for existing TTM machines
• Fast and flexible changeover from glue-style to lock-style cartoning

Sustainable in many respects

The controlled forming process is one of the key features of the TTM platform. It allows cartons or trays to be formed precisely and facilitates the lock-style process, where carton blanks are closed directly instead of being glued. Eliminating glue in this process step not only significantly improves the recyclability of the packaging; it also saves material and costs.

The conventional gluing process uses glue devices, which result in glue residues and thin glue strings, also known as angel hair. The latter accumulate in the machine and must be removed regularly. The lock-style process eliminates this maintenance effort. Moreover, the lock-style process offers important advantages in terms of sustainability since gluing devices consume most electricity. Hence, manufacturers can reduce both their material and energy consumption.

“The lock-style technology is currently very popular with companies who want to make their production more sustainable,” says Espen Mile, Product Manager Secondary Packaging at Syntegon. “In fact, we can already look back on almost 80 years of experience with glue-free carton forming. Back then, the founder of Kliklok, a Syntegon company, invented the first lock-style cartons. And we have been developing our expertise further ever since.”

Flexible changeover to glue-less forming

Companies can choose between two options when integrating the lock-style technology: they can order it together with a new TTM topload cartoner or retrofit existing machines and benefit from the higher pack style flexibility of their equipment. The retrofit kit enables the TTM platform to form both glue-less and conventionally sealed cartons, which simplifies the switch to sustainable packaging concepts. In addition, the changeover from conventional gluing to the lock-style process takes no more time than a regular format change.

“The upgrade to the TTM platform ensures a gradual switch to sustainable and future-proof solutions. Our lock-style technology addition supports our customers in saving resources – even beyond the use of alternative packaging materials,” Miles explains.