“By 2030, nearly 75% of global consumers are expected to demand eco-friendly packaging options, a shift that is already reshaping the industry.” Corrugated packaging, known for its recyclability and strength, is already the preferred choice for brands aiming to reduce their environmental footprint.
The real transformation lies in the machines, and VIG Graphics’ advanced corrugation and laminators are driving it. The next generation of corrugation and laminating systems is built with energy efficiency, glue-saving technology, and recyclable outputs in mind.
The Power Shift With Energy-Efficient Motors
Traditional corrugation machines were designed for speed and output, often with little regard for energy consumption. As a result, older systems consumed vast amounts of electricity, an issue that is both costly for manufacturers and harmful for the environment.
Companies like UKAY Packaging, led by Director Yashaan Shetty, have experienced first-hand how VIG’s energy-efficient motors and VFD-driven drives have changed the game.
“With the VIG laminator, our energy consumption has dropped significantly while production capacity remains at peak performance,” shares Yashaan Shetty.
What Makes These Motors Different?
- Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): These smart systems regulate motor speed in real time, ensuring that energy is only consumed when truly needed. No more unnecessary power drain.
- Reduced Heat Generation: Less energy waste means less heat, which not only lowers the carbon footprint but also extends the life of machine components.
- Savings That Add Up: Reports suggest that switching to energy-efficient motors can reduce energy consumption by 20-30%, translating into substantial cost savings for large-scale production facilities.
For UKAY Packaging, this translated into improved profitability and a stronger sustainability scorecard. With rising energy costs and tightening environmental regulations, energy-efficient corrugation machinery has moved from being a smart upgrade to an industry necessity.
The Glue Revolution With Precision That Saves More Than Money
Glue might seem like a minor part of corrugation, but its environmental and economic impact is huge. Older laminating machines often over-applied adhesive, causing wastage, uneven bonding, and higher production costs.
Maheshwar Packaging, led by Mr. Yogesh Kushare, became the first in the world to install the VIG 2800 “the world’s largest 5 Ply Flute Laminator” and the difference was immediate.The precision metering system on the VIG 2800 has cut glue usage dramatically while ensuring flawless bonding.
Key Benefits of Glue-Saving Systems:
- Minimal Wastage: Only the necessary amount of glue is used, reducing waste and making the packaging cleaner and lighter.
- Eco-Friendly Compatibility: These systems work with water-based or biodegradable adhesives, reducing the environmental footprint.
- Lower Maintenance Needs: Less glue on rollers means easier cleaning and less water used during cleanup, another eco benefit.
For a manufacturer, this precision translates to significant annual savings while also aligning with sustainability goals.
Recyclable Outputs Now Closing the Loop
Corrugated boxes are recyclable, but poor bonding reduces their quality and recyclability. Murtza Mustafa, Director of Zasfa Packaging, emphasizes this point, saying, “The bonding consistency of our VIG laminator ensures stronger, lighter boxes that recycle flawlessly.” Machines like those developed by VIG Graphics combine this precision with compatibility for eco-friendly inks and adhesives, ensuring recycling processes remain smooth and efficient.
Moreover, lighter yet stronger boxes can now be produced with less raw material, further reducing environmental impact. This is a key contribution toward achieving a circular economy, where every box is reused or recycled instead of ending up in landfills.
Sustainability as a Competitive Advantage
In today’s global packaging landscape, sustainability is not just an ethical choice, it’s a business strategy. Brands and manufacturers that invest in eco-friendly packaging technology are:
- Meeting customer demands for greener products.
- Complying with government regulations, which are becoming stricter across Europe, the US, and Asia.
- Qualifying for certifications like ISO, which enhance credibility and open doors to high-value clients.
Adzone Printing & Packaging, a leader in premium print and high-end cartons, has enhanced its corrugation and finishing workflow by integrating VIG’s energy-efficient motor systems and precision glue-metering technology. A significant drop in energy consumption and adhesive use has been the result, along with improved board consistency for high-precision print jobs.
“Our investment in advanced technology isn’t just about efficiency, it’s about staying ahead in a competitive market,” said Mr. Kavindra Singh, Managing Director of Adzone Printing & Packaging. “These upgrades help us deliver superior results while aligning with the sustainability goals of our most discerning clients.”
Technology Leading the Change
VIG Graphics is redefining corrugation machines by making sustainability a core design principle rather than an add-on. Our high-speed 3 Ply and 5 Ply Flute Laminators, powered by energy-saving drives and precision adhesive systems, deliver both top performance and environmental responsibility.
The future of packaging lies where innovation meets responsibility. With rising consumer awareness, stricter regulations, and the global push toward net-zero emissions, corrugated packaging will continue to evolve.
Energy-efficient motors, glue-saving technology, and recyclable outputs are not just technological upgrades, they’re the pillars of tomorrow’s packaging industry. For manufacturers, the message is clear, investing in next-generation corrugation machines means not only higher productivity but also a measurable commitment to protecting our planet.
