Two DS Smith Tecnicarton solutions awarded at IPA Awards 2018
Both of them have been obtained in the category of Technological Innovation
Two DS Smith Tecnicarton solutions have been awarded in the V edition of the Inspirational Packaging Awards (IPA Awards). It is a 5-wave foldable export solution and ESD-treated trays for products with electronic components that have been awarded in the category of Technological Innovation. Fernando Arrufat, general manager of the company, was in charge of receiving both awards in the award ceremony held within the framework of EMPACK 2018, which took place in Madrid on 12 and 13 November, where the company also exhibited its latest developments in industrial packaging.
The jury, made up of professionals and experts from the packaging industry, assessed the disruptive nature of the solutions presented by DS Smith Tecnicarton in terms of technological innovation. In particular, the 5-wave folding export solution presents two important innovations. It presents a great improvement on the current folding modes, since it is formed by an exclusive folding system that forms a single piece making pallet, bottom and body at the same time and is designed to be assembled with a single movement, saving costs in the assembly processes.
In addition to the five waves that make up the laminated body, the last one goes in a counter-channel direction (crossed channels), which reinforces the BCT level and increases exponentially the resistance to axial forces. This translates into greater resistance to buckling, greater stacking capacity, saving storage space, and fewer occupational hazards, more safety, less weight, and less assembly time thanks to the replacement of wood reinforcement elements.
As for ESD-treated trays for products with electronic components, there are also two innovations. On the one hand, it has an ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) treatment to avoid electrostatic charges that can considerably damage the product when packed. The packaging is equipped with a specific system that allows the electrostatic current to be discharged automatically through it. This ensures that the parts arrive in perfect condition at their destination.
On the other hand, the packaging has an exclusive assembly system that respects the environment and totally eliminates contaminating elements such as adhesives and glues. At the same time, it ensures the health and integrity of the operators by eliminating staples or any other fastening device that may increase the risk of an accident. It is made up of a series of flanges that make the packaging a very quick and simple assembly and disassembly mechanism, thus reducing time.
It is a monomaterial packaging that can be manufactured in corrugated cardboard or polypropylene, which also reduces the costs of assembly by materials. In addition, the pieces are completely embedded in its interior as both the bottom and sides are die-cut to prevent displacement or damage during transport. Several of these trays can be combined to form a set that completes a container, optimising así́ the space in logistics and transport.
As Francisco Correa, the company's Technical Director, explains, "this type of award is an important recognition by the sector of our innovative effort and, at the same time, a great responsibility. In DS Smith Tecnicarton we will maintain our level of demand to continue offering our customers innovative solutions and customized to the needs that arise.