US Company, 3M Packaging, has developed a cushioning system for the packaging and transportation of delicate produce such as fresh foods.
To help protect fragile items during shipping, 3M introduces a revolutionary solution, 3M Air Cushion Packaging.
Made of durable plastic, the 3M Air Cushion Packaging is essentially a bag within a bag. The inner bag conforms to the shape of the object, while the outer pouch forms a protective air cushion - effectively suspending the item in air. It works simply by placing an object inside the clear plastic pouch and inflating the bag with air using a 3M-regulated inflation device. When fully inflated, the item can then be placed in a box for shipping.
This unique suspension cushioning system is custom-created to fit a variety of products. To ensure the proper fit, 3M says it tests each custom package to ensure it meets specified standards.
"Inflatable packages require special testing considerations," said Dick Sheehan, 3M packaging engineer. "Ambient air pressure at the point of inflation, shock tests at different air pressures, vibration performance and multiple drop heights affect how well the air cushioning works."
Air cushion packaging from 3M offers extra protection when shipping soft foods, such as fruit and vegetables, as well as premium products such as expensive wines.
Surrounded by an envelope of air, air cushion packaging is puncture resistant. In fact, its resistance of G forces makes it suitable to ship by air.
In tests conducted by 3M, when properly engineered and used, air-inflated products offer improved performance and greater protection against shock and vibration when compared to traditional packing materials, such as foam peanuts, newspaper and bubble pack.
The new product can also help reduce waste because less packaging material is needed and because 3M Air Cushion Packaging products can be reused up to five times, depending on the application, the company claims.
The company also says that the cushioning can be custom-designed according to requirements. The cushions can even carry a printed company logo or packaging safety message on the side.
3M is a $16 billion (€16.2m) diversified technology company with leading positions in a range of industries. Headquartered in St. Paul, Minneapolis, the company has operations in more than 60 countries and serves customers in nearly 200 countries.