Clamshell blister packaging, also known as clamshell packaging, has emerged into a standard form of packaging format for consumer products. Whether it is an electronic gadget, toy, a piece of hardware, or a number of other articles, those hard plastic containers that are best opened with either scissors or a box cutter are home to a large number of retail products.
What is the advantage that this type of packaging has over others, and why has this type of packaging become so popular across categories? Read this article to find out what clamshell packaging is, how it functions, the benefits of using it, and what product types are suitable for it.
This paper aims at defining clamshell blister packaging and discuss the various features which make it unique.
A clamshell packaging is two plastic sheets prepared in advance that are then joined together by using heat or pressure to form a blister. The sheets create a space that encloses the product and hence the product is secure in the sheets. One of the sheets must be thermoformed, that is, heat induced to make it malleable and then clamped over a mold to form a depression corresponding to an object placed inside.
The thermoformed areas give the creation of round-shaped bubbles that help in encasing the product inside. At the point where the two sheets are joined together by a bonded seam, they create flat rings or flanges. Thus the “clamshell” nickname – the rounded members are capped with flat sealing lips resembling an open clamshell.
Common Materials for Clamshells
While many plastics can be thermoformed into clamshells, common materials include:While many plastics can be thermoformed into clamshells, common materials include:
– PVC: Enables decorative finishes to be effected at little cost but at the same time can expose the products to plasticizers.
– PET: A premium material that is widely used due to its purity and non-flammability
– PETG: Has provided flexibility in its use while increasing its durability as compared to PET
– RPET: These are made out of post-consumer recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
– Polypropylene: A crystal clear material that is rigid and has high impact strength.
The following are the benefits that are associated with clamshell blister packaging:
There are several key reasons clamshell packaging has become a staple across retail and consumer products:There are several key reasons clamshell packaging has become a staple across retail and consumer products:
Visually Appealing
Translucent and semi-circular containers are eye-catching as it allows the consumer to have an unobstructed view of the product. The shape can enhance the appearance of the product, and the additional decorative coatings can add beauty and value to the product.
Tamper Evidence
Because of the closed structure with heat-sealed edges, it also becomes easier for consumers to know whether a particular pack has been opened or tampered with when being bought. This gives a feeling of security and this makes it to be safe.
Protection
The bubbles are uniquely created according to customers’ needs; hence, products remain extremely safe within them. It provides safety against any kind of blows, jolts, vibrations or pressing forces which happen during transportation.
Prevents Theft
Despite the fact that the material used is plastic and quite durable, and the bottles are sealed airtight, making it impossible to open them with bare hands, a blade has to be used. This helps deter shoplifters.
Stackability
Since clamshell blisters are used for the packaging of retail commodities, the flat flanges enhance the possibility of the blisters to be stacked or arranged on shelves in the course of transportation and during the shipping of the containers. This has further reduced the issue of stacking to spaces that are not optimal since the ability to stack allows for the utilization of even the available space fully.
Reduces Material Use
Thermoformed clamshells require fewer materials than boxes and other rigid products since they are formed to the exact shape of the product as shown in the image below.
However, it should also be pointed out that clamshell packaging has its disadvantages concerning the rather complicated process of both consumer access and recycling. Nevertheless, constant innovations are still enhancing these areas.
Here are the various areas where clamshell packaging is most useful:
Clamshell blister packaging brings distinct advantages for products with the following characteristics:Clamshell blister packaging brings distinct advantages for products with the following characteristics:
– Small consumer electronics; phones, tablets, headphones and other smaller allied gadgets.
– Maintenance, repair and space equipment – screwdrivers and other spanners, pliers, sockets and wrenches, shears, and hobby knives
– Toys and novelties – action figures and other toys and collectibles, gadgets
– Personal effects – razors, lighters, watches, cosmetics, and makeup.
– Batteries – sets of batteries or consumables that are used in a household.
The tamper evidence and protection features benefit these smaller, high-value items during shipment, while the clear bags help create eye-appealing store displays. On the other hand, the closed structure together with hang holes or peel/reseal lids is effective when it comes to merchandising.
Clamshells also fit well in cases where the contents are related and have individual components that need to be kept together. Some of the products include jewelry gift sets, manicure and craft kits, gift items etc. The formed compartments help in preventing some part or product from getting mixed or lost with other pieces.
Innovations in Clamshell Packaging
While clamshell blisters have been around for decades, packaging engineers and manufacturers continue evolving the format, including:While clamshell blisters have been around for decades, packaging engineers and manufacturers continue evolving the format, including:
– Reusable and renewable materials such as RPET and PLA.
– Film lid with one or more poke holes, tear strip, easy open tabs, perforations, resealable lids.
– Changed the opening designs with aim of minimizing sharp corners
– Factors such as addition of hang holes, graphics, labeling and exhaust valves
Following are some interesting uses that advertisers and brand owners have put into useful practice; utilizing the back shell for information transfer as opposed to mere cardboard inserts. That is why it is safe to assume that clamshell packaging will not stand still and will also gain new valuable properties as technology and retail evolve.
Maximizing Performance
In order to utilise the benefits of clamshells in your product packaging, it is essential to find a reliable producer. They can control fabrication, design, prototyping, and testing of your package, allowing them to create a high-performance package that defines your brand. Experienced thermoformers provide informed help on material choice, functional improvements, and decorating including printing to foil stamping.
Clamshell blister pack is a popular style for sealing and presenting various kinds of goods in many industries. As technology and choices progress further, it appears brands can use clamshells in new forms while benefiting from the protective elements inherent to the design. Material and structure optimization make clamshell packaging an elegant, one-stop solution to get products from manufacturing to consumer.
