With a total investment of around CHF 5.5 million the company is investing in state-of-the-art technology, but also emphasizes its commitment to recyclable packaging production in Switzerland. "By investing in the new extrusion line with upstream decontamination we are beginning our own production of recycled PET film. Our flagship projectnPAC2PAC proves the feasibility of a closed loop for PET packaging from the Swiss collection bag. As a founding member of RecyPac we are doing everything we can to ensure successful implementation of plastic collection. In this way we are shaping the future of packaging." explains CEO Reto Bachmann.
Film is extruded again from used drink bottles and food packaging. — for the production of new packaging. With this investment BACHMANN FORMING AG has already fulfilled the requirements of the EU Packaging Directive (PPWR) for 2030. Additionally, the die-cut skeletons generated during the process comprising around 30% of the material, thermoforming are fed back into the cycle on site without any loss of quality i.e., without downcycling. Around 2,000 tons of material are recycled this way every year. The result is a closed material cycle with a significant ecological and economic impact.
Process Steps at a Glance:
Crystallization: In this step the regrind from the industry is heated to over 120°C. The drying process increases the viscosity, significantly improving the quality of the films.
Decontamination: A highly developed, super-clean decontamination process ensures that The PET regrind is approved for food contact again. PET from consumer recycling is processed hygienically under precise conditions: (high heat, vacuum, and time). If these parameters are not met, the material is rejected and must go through the decon process again. The cleaning efficiency of 97% to 99.5% exceeds the strict requirements of food authorities BLV (CH), EFSA (EU), and FDA (US).
Extrusion: In the central production line the cleaned PET flakes are melted and then processed into films of the desired thickness and transparency via the calender. Precise control of temperature, pressure, and roller geometry ensures the highest quality.
