KHS’s Nature MultiPack has developed a new kraft paper carrying handle for PET bottle and aluminium can multipacks. This innovative handle, applied to just two bottles of the pack regardless of the actual number of bottles, features two pre-punched tabs that latch under the bottle’s neck ring, ensuring safe and stable transport.
This cardboard carrying handle is easy to grip and, thanks to its shape, protects the palms from sharp edges and bottle caps. Once at home, the handle can be easily removed and recycled along with other paper materials.
Flexibility is a key feature of the system: the Nature MultiPack supports packs containing between two and eight PET bottles, ranging from 250 ml to 2 l each.
We aimed to create a uniform appearance across all sizes,
said KHS Project Manager, Manfred van Triel. Only minimal adjustments were made to the punching dies to accommodate the diameter and volume of the bottles, ensuring optimal functionality.
Sustainability and innovation
The handle’s design is the result of close collaboration with Hinojosa, a partner specialising in sustainable packaging for the food and beverage sector. Life-cycle tests of the pack, including handling and logistical tests, helped optimise the product. The result is a cardboard handle large enough to include product information and the barcode, yet compact and functional.
We considered it important to find the simplest form possible for the application in the packaging machine,
emphasized van Triel.
Reliability in processing
The BottleClip Carrier is supplied in cartridges, which can be easily loaded into the machines, reducing operator involvement and material consumption. Additionally, the system significantly reduces the space occupied in the machine, saving up to four metres of length compared to machines using traditional plastic handles. This offers a significant advantage for beverage producers with limited space.
