RE: [OT]ish suction moulding machine?

["Hawes,Timothy Edward \(GEG\)" <haweste@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Paul,

I think the machine in your link is for the second part of the process
(injecting the atmosphere and sealing the packet) and not for moulding
the initial container.

MAP normally refers to the "modified atmosphere" (gas) inside the
packet, rather than the packaging itself (although the container is
important). It's not an area I work in, but my company is involved, see:
http://www.airproducts.com/Products/Equipment/FoodFreezers/YourFoodProce
sses/specs_freshline.htm

Our gas, coupled with the machine in your link, stops the food going off
and thus preserves it's shelf-life.

However, from my shady school-days memory, the description of your
"plywood with lots of holes and a vacuum cleaner" is spot on :-)

Cheers,

Tim.

> -----Original Message-----
> From: paul bradley
>
> Hello,
>
> the food and chemicals business refer to this application as
> MAP - modified atmosphere packaging (ie the packet you buy
> your sliced ham in).  They can be expensive, such as here:
>
> http://www.globalspec.com/FeaturedProducts/Detail?ExhibitID=15297
>
> however I remember making a very capable device with a hot
> air gun, a piece of ply with lots of holes, and a vacuum
> cleaner.  It was about 15 years ago (about the same time I
> last posted to this group), so I'm afraid I cannot give too
> much help, but I think it's more fun that way.
>
> There may be easier ways to do what you want, though.
> Depending on the detail, it may be better to settle some
> placid material over the 'mould', and then 'harden' it, but
> unless you remember papier mache (sp?) it may hard to get the
> materials.  If I find anything I'll come back to the group.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Paul