Packaging for Solar Companies, Part 1
The solar industry is extremely strong and diverse in Arizona, with firms manufacturing a wide variety of products, including components for solar power generation, energy efficient products of all kinds, solar cooking products, solar construction and building products, components for wind power generation, and solar water heating. This is the first in a series of posts highlighting packaging topics of special interest to solar companies.
Solar Companies and the Need for High Performance Cushioning Products
Many solar products and components are extremely fragile. As a result, solar companies should periodically evaluate cushioning materials to make sure they are using the best packaging materials available. Cushioning products and delivery systems are continually improving – if your firm has not reviewed options within the last six months, you may be unaware of cushioning technologies that can more efficiently reduce damage and increase throughput.
The options for product protection are almost endless. Alternatives vary in terms of cost, sustainability, degree of customization, speed of application, and versatility. Here are a few cushioning product groups that have wide appeal to solar companies.
Foam in bag cushioning systems. These systems mix liquid chemicals in a plastic bag, after which they expand into solid foam. The foam bags can be molded around the product or preset in a mold. Foam in bag packaging is extremely versatile and offers superior cushioning performance. In addition, it is safe to use and easy to recycle or dispose of.
Corrugated build-ups. Corrugated material can be fabricated in multiple layer blocks or die cut pieces to fit around a particular solar product to provide blocking, bracing, and cushioning. Particularly effective for heavy or bulky components, corrugated build-ups have far better sustainable attributes than the rigid polystyrene foams they often replace.
Rigid polyethylene foams. Polyethylene foams can also be fabricated for blocking, bracing, and cushioning. Polyethylene foams can be obtained in a wide variety of densities, giving them a bit more flexibility than corrugated build-ups. Polyethylene is easier to recycle and reuse than polystyrene foams, which is one reason why we prefer it as a plastic cushioning option.
High performance bubble packaging, flexible foams, and multi-layer paper cushioning. For smaller products, items that need to be wrapped, or applications that require both cushioning and void fill, high quality bubble, flexible foams, and multi-layer paper packaging remain cost effective and reliable alternatives. These materials are lightweight yet strong, and can be obtained in a wide variety of preselected sizes or delivered on demand at the packing station.
If you would like assistance in reviewing cushioning options for your solar products, please contact us. We’ve worked on many solar packaging applications throughout Arizona and may have new ideas for you to consider.
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Packaging Materials, Packaging Equipment, Packaging Solutions
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