A new technology that significantly simplifies the manufacture of rigid plastic containers has been launched by Australia’s Amcor (Hawthorn, Victoria; www.amcor.com). “LiquiForm” uses the consumable liquid instead of compressed air to hydraulically form and fill the container, simultaneously combining both processes into one step. Described by Amcor as a breakthrough, the technology claims to cut operating costs by up to 25% as well as reduce manufacturing risk and provide greater flexibility in container design.

Managing director and CEO of Amcor, Ken MacKenzie, said: “I have been in the packaging industry for over 20 years and in my opinion “Liquiform” has the potential to be one of the most important breakthrough technologies in liquid packaging. This technology will transform the rigid plastic container manufacturing industry, providing significant benefits to all players throughout the value chain.”

Amcor developed the “Liquiform” concept in 2006 and subsequently formed a joint venture which owns the patented technology. Amcor and Swiss beverage packaging provider Sidel (Hunenberg; www.sidel.com) own 50% each in the joint venture which will license “Liquiform” to machine manufacturers. Amcor estimates that the technology would be suitable for approximately 800 blow moulding and filling machines per year and the joint venture will target a significant portion of that annual demand for conversion to “Liquiform”. The first full-scale operation is expected to be commercialised in two to three years.

Agreements have been signed with Sidel, Japan’s largest plastic bottle manufacturer, Yoshino Kogyosho (Tokyo; www.yoshinokogyosho.co.jp) and Nestle Waters (Vevey / Switzerland; www.nestle-waters.com).