Hexpol TPE to launch EPSeal TPE for caps and closures at Fakuma

EPSeal is a range of TPE compounds from Hexpol TPE's German subsidiary. EU and/or FDA approved, it is intended for use as beverage sealants, and are designed for specific closure applications. The EPSeal product range includes grades which can be used for crown corks, aluminium roll-on closures, PP and HDPE plastic closures of various diameters. There are also grades for wine corks and T-stoppers for spirits with high alcohol content.

EPSeal TPE compounds are PVC free, with excellent organoleptic results a key requirement for sensitive filling goods like mineral water, (materials are tested under DIN 10 955 conditions, together with many bottlers own test methods). EPSeal TPE compounds also offer consistent short, medium and long term opening torques which provides consumer friendly functionality and also make it easier for children and senior citizens to open the bottles. EPSeal TPE compounds are available for carbonated soft drinks, beer, wine, fruit juice and milk based beverages. Including versions for cold fill, hot fill, pasteurisation or sterilisation processing.

Ray Exon, EPSeal business development manager commented said that when the aluminium closure, which is traditionally used for returnable glass with mineral water, was losing its market share position versus the plastic closure, the sealing compounds available for aluminium closures at that time had essentially three weak points: inconsistent sensory results; insufficient sealing; and inadequate consumer opening torques.

Müller Kunststoffe took up the challenge and within a relatively short timeframe developed a sealing compound which solved these issues. The EPSeal 311 TPE compound was born and the aluminium closure has now stabilized its market share.

Peter Ryzko, managing director at Müller Kunststoffe added  that EPSeal TPE compounds deliver the right combination of hardness, elasticity and taste-free properties, they are produced from selected raw materials and handled within strict production parameters configured to suit the very sensitive beverage industry. Supported by diligent attention to product safety and knowledge in current and emerging industry regulations, EPSeal TPE compounds consistently achieve the desired high levels of innovation and quality demanded by the food and beverage industry.