Well in advance of the July 2024 deadline set by EU regulations, United Caps has announced the launch of its patent-pending 23 H-PAK tethered closure, especially developed for carton packaging.
The new closure has been designed to be integrated into existing processes and fast production-line implementation. It includes an innovative tamper-evident (TE) band that keeps all parts intact for easier recycling.
Next year in July, when the Single-Use Plastic Directive (SUPD) goes into effect it will become mandatory for caps and lids to remain attached to all beverage containers that are up to three liters in capacity. The Directive is binding for all EU member states and is expected to noticeably reduce the number of plastic caps littered on European beaches. Not only does tethering prevent the cap from getting lost, it enables the cap and pack to be recycled together.
The closure consists of only three pieces – the spout, closure and cutter - instead of the four piece-solutions typically in the market today. Fewer pieces means easier recycling. Its lightweight design reduces exposure to plastic taxes and helps to lower running costs for businesses.
The 23 H-PAK comes with a first-time-use feature to create an optimal access point, while the cutting edge is specially designed to cut through the pre-laminated hole with minimal effort, providing a clean and smooth opening.
According to CEO Benoit Henckes, one of the stand-out features of the new tethered closure is its audible click when opening: “A satisfying sound that lets consumers know their closure is in an open position – once opened, it is in the optimal position for use and the cap stays in position for the perfect pour.”
United Caps’ new 23 H-PAK will be on display at the company’s stand (Hall 10, Stand D67) at Interpack, 4-10 May in Düsseldorf.