IMA TMC launches W-PACK: sustainable packaging system doubles productivity for personal care products

IMA TMC has introduced W-PACK, an innovative packaging system designed for feminine care and light incontinence segments. The solution replaces traditional low-density polyethylene bags with a more efficient and sustainable approach, using the product itself as a mold-eliminating the need for conventional baggers.

The company states that the system redefines the packaging process by delivering significant improvements in speed, cost-efficiency, and sustainability. While most systems on the market operate at 100 to 120 cycles per minute, W-PACK reaches up to 200 cycles per minute, doubling productivity without compromising quality.

From an economic standpoint, W-PACK reduces packaging costs by enabling the use of thinner films – 25 to 30 microns compared to the standard 35 to 40 microns – while decreasing reliance on single-use plastics.

Sustainability is a key pillar of the technology. W-PACK is compatible with paper-based materials, which are increasingly in demand due to their lower environmental impact. Although paper can cost up to five times more than polyethylene, IMA TMC’s optimized wrapping process minimizes this impact. The system uses hot-melt adhesives, with an option for plant-based glues, keeping adhesive content below 1.8% of the paper’s total mass.

Another highlight is its modular design, which allows for wrapping products of various sizes – from pads to light incontinence items – in single, double, or triple packs up to 290 mm wide. This includes compatibility with larger pack formats common in the U.S. market.

In collaboration with other IMA Group divisions, IMA TMC also enhanced the folding mechanism for a precise, high-quality finish and developed a low temperature sealing system to prevent product damage during the packaging process.

W-PACK is equipped with smart software that continuously monitors the production flow and automatically adjusts speed to optimize performance. It also features four waste elimination systems that support continuous operation, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.

According to IMA TMC, W-PACK sets a new benchmark for speed and sustainability in personal care packaging and is expected to become a game changer in the industry.