Vacuum Formed Blister Packing
Vacuum Formed Blister Packaging is a term for several types of pre-formed plastic packaging such as blisters, Slide blisters, flange folded blisters,carded blisters,double blister,clamshells used for small consumer goods, foods, and for pharmaceuticals.
- The primary component of a blister pack is a cavity or pocket made from a “formable” web, usually a thermoformed plastic. This usually has a backing of paperboard or a “lidding” seal of aluminum foil or plastic.
- Blister packs are commonly used as unit-dose packaging for pharmaceutical tablets, capsules or lozenges. Blister packs can provide barrier protection for shelf life requirements, and a degree of tamper resistance.
What is vacuum formed blister packaging
Vacuum formed blister packaging is a type of plastic packaging created through the vacuum forming process. A plastic sheet is heated and then molded over a product or a pre-designed mold using vacuum pressure. The result is a durable, transparent cavity that encases the product. The blister is then sealed to a backing material, such as cardboard, plastic, or foil, providing a secure and tamper-resistant package.
Materials used in vacuum formed blister packaging
Common materials for vacuum formed blister packaging include:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Durable, transparent, and cost-effective.
- PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): Lightweight and recyclable, ideal for eco-friendly packaging.
- RPET (Recycled PET): Made from recycled materials for sustainable packaging solutions.
- PP (Polypropylene): Heat-resistant and suitable for food packaging.
Vacuum formed blister packaging vs other packaging methods
Feature | Vacuum Formed Blister Packaging | Other Packaging Methods |
---|---|---|
Product Visibility | High transparency | Limited for opaque packaging |
Durability | Strong and protective | May vary depending on material |
Customization | Highly customizable | May require more complex tooling |
Cost | Affordable for mass production | Higher costs for small batches |
Environmental Impact | Recyclable options available | Varies based on material used |
Factors to consider when choosing vacuum formed blister packaging
- Material Compatibility: Select materials that suit your product’s requirements, such as PVC for durability or PET for eco-friendliness.
- Product Size and Shape: Ensure the packaging design accommodates the product securely.
- Sealing Method: Choose between heat sealing and adhesive sealing based on production needs.
- Volume Requirements: Vacuum forming is cost-effective for large-scale production.
- Branding: Consider options for printing or labeling on the backing material for better marketing.
Machines Needed for Vacuum Formed Blister Packaging
Vacuum Forming Machine
- Forms the plastic blister by heating and molding plastic sheets.
Blister Sealing Machine
- Seals the formed blister to the backing material using heat, pressure, or adhesive.
Cutting and Trimming Machine
- Cuts the sealed blister packs into individual units or desired shapes.
Automatic Feeding System
- Automates the process of feeding products into the blisters.
Printing and Coding Machine
- Adds branding, product information, or batch codes to the packaging.