One technology, many markets – an overview of the diversity of clipping applications

In the context of increasing demands for efficiency and cost-effectiveness in food production, innovative packaging solutions are becoming even more important. Clip packaging solutions from Poly-clip System enable a significantly reduced material usage while maintaining high product safety. The direct filling and sealing of casings, tubular bags, or nets in a single step shortens processing times, simplifies production workflows, and reduces both packaging volume and material consumption.

Strong foundation in the meat segment

In traditional meat processing, clipping remains a central part of production. Poly-clip System’s clip machines are continuously being further developed and cover all performance levels, up to the automatic double clipper FCA 160 XL for large calibers and high production volumes. With the four-clip solution developed by Poly-clip System, which significantly increases holding force, the popular FCA series can also be used for heavy hanging sausages weighing up to 16 kilograms.

Growth in convenience and snack products
In addition, clip packaging is gaining importance in other segments. Under the name clip-pak^®, Poly-clip System has developed a packaging system that combines all applications in which products are filled into tubular packaging and sealed with clips at both ends. All liquid, paste-like, and highly viscous products (– i.e., pumpable products) are suitable as filling materials. These products are pressed into casings or tubular bags immediately after production using a vacuum filler and then sealed, for example with the TSCA 120 sealing/clip machine, which combines sealing and clipping in a fully automated process. Its range of applications extends from meat products to cheese, soups, marinades, and convenience foods, as well as pet food and more. Equipped with an easy-open film, it is also suitable for producing snack products.

net-pak^® – an industrially compostable complete system for fruit and vegetables
Clipping is also opening up new possibilities in the fresh produce sector. Net packaging for fruit and vegetables can be processed using the net-pak^® system, which reaches its full performance potential with the Somi net clipper. The machine, developed in cooperation with Damarc Agrobotic, handles products ranging from 250 to 800 grams, achieves up to 25 clipped net bags per minute, and can be easily integrated into existing production lines. With net-pak^®, a coordinated complete system made of industrially compostable nets and labels as well as biodegradable clips, Poly-clip System sets new standards in sustainability. Compared to film-based alternatives, net-pak^® stands out due to an extremely low material usage of just 0.5 percent and a significantly lower energy demand.

New applications in the non-food sector

Clip packaging has also proven its value in the non-food sector. The range of suitable products extends from chemical and pharmaceutical applications to pet food and hygiene products, as well as adhesives and sealants, technical pastes, and includes almost anything that is liquid to highly viscous. Users benefit from leak-proof packaging, precise dosing, and high process reliability.

“The variety of solutions we offer clearly demonstrates how flexibly clip technology can be adapted to different requirements. Clipping has evolved far beyond its original field of application and opens up completely new possibilities for our customers, on which our experts are happy to provide comprehensive advice,” says Dr. Alexander Giehl, CEO at Poly-clip System.