Sidel, a provider of packaging equipment, services, and solutions, has bolstered CR Beverage's production capabilities in China with the supply of three high-speed aseptic packaging lines.

This move is aimed at addressing the increased consumer demand for higher quality, healthier, and more environmentally friendly packaged beverages.

Sidel has implemented three lines at CR Beverage's Yixing and Chengdu plants.

The lines include the Aseptic Combi Predis FMa, designed for tea and plum juice, and the Aseptic Combi Predis Fmac, suitable for a range of high- and low-acid products, including carbonated drinks. The lines accommodate bottles with 28mm and 38mm necks.

The Chengdu plant's line is further equipped with four EvoDECO labellers and conveyors, enhancing the facility's production efficiency.

Currently, the lines are operating at a capacity of 54,000 bottles per hour for the 450ml format and 27,000 bottles per hour for the one-litre bottles.

CR Beverage's vice-president said: “We have successively introduced bottled water lines and aseptic lines from Sidel, and all of them have been successfully put into production.

“Especially the aseptic lines have passed the aseptic validation in one go and reached the rated production capacity as scheduled, demonstrating the professional level and high synergy of aseptic technology. We believe that we will have more extensive cooperation in the future.”

The addition of Sidel's aseptic packaging lines is set to play a significant role in fulfilling the market demand for such products.

Sidel Greater China execution project management director Tang John said: “Aseptic validation takes place at customer sites before the commercial acceptance validation (CAV). We are proud to reflect on the performance of all newly installed aseptic lines in China in 2024. 

“All our aseptic complete lines installed in the country in 2024 passed the aseptic validation test with impressive results."