01. Jul 2020
PulPac unveils world's first dry molded fiber pilot line
The industrialization of the disruptive Dry Molded Fiber technology just received a considerable boost with the unveiling by the Swedish start-up PulPac of its very first pilot line. The technology has been developed as an alternative to single-use plastics, and will be licensed to manufacturers and brands setting up their own production lines.
“We have invented the first industrial method that can convert cellulose fibers into packaging that is price competitive enough to replace single-use plastics at scale. And it is possible to utilize all types of cellulose fibers, virgin, residue or recycled”, said Linus Larsson, CEO of PulPac.
The new pilot line is fully automated. Raw paper pulp is fed through a mill to break it up into fibers. These are then formed into a web that is fed into a standard plate press. The press is equipped with unique tooling that compacts the fibers into a mold.
“Any offcuts and excess web can be fed back into the system to minimize waste. Barriers and surface decorations are easy to add in-line, rolling all manufacturing processes into one. So, there is no need for additional steps”, Larsson explained.
Already, the technology has generated interested in the industry, with the first clients and partners already implementing the technology. The dry forming enables high-speed manufacturing of fiber products of almost any shape or use. It saves energy and reduces CO2 emissions. It also presents many design and tech advantages that traditional fiber molding methods cannot meet.
“Our vision is to be a world leader in innovative packaging that is both sustainable and commercially successful. We help clients to disrupt the industry and set a new and sustainable standard for packaging and single-use products,” Larsson concluded
www.pulpac.com