Thermoform-fill-seal

Caraballo, W., Flexibility and Customization Expand Packaging Options (Thermoform-Fill-Seal), MD8cDI, Jan. 2002. 

Brinkman, R. D., Coated vs. Uncoated Webs in Thermoforming/Fill/Seal, Paper, Film and Foil Converter, pp. 78-82, Oct. 1984. 

All the above processes can also be used in a form fill seal process with, for example, thermoforming and cold forming blister packs. Rommelag type bottle pack systems use an extrusion process where the container is formed by either blowing or vacuum (smaller sizes). Immediately after this, containers are filled, and the pack is sealed (welded) by using the residual heat in an extension to the main body of the container. 

The Connofast thermoform-label-fill-seal system of Continental Can Company can be used to produce a microwaveable asceptic container for low-acid products. The container is a coextruded tray or cup combined with a foil-free lid. LDPE provides the food contact surface while the barrier layer is either PVDC or EVOH. 

Film Processing Methods For use on form-fill-seal and overwrap equipment as well as thermoforming equipment. 

Thermoforming as a discontinuous process is often used for Form Fill Seal (FFS) applications. New machine developments allow a continuous output of thermoformed products which can ease the production control of inline FFS machines. 

Figure 16.11 Thermoforming as the initial portion of a rigid form-fill-seal operation.

Thermoforming includes the extmsion of sheets, thicker than 0.25 mm, followed by forming a reheated sheet in an open-face mold by pressure, vacuum, or both. Sheet of less than 0.25 mm thick is therm oformed in-line, and filled and sealed with contents such as processed meats, cheeses, and pastas. 

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