Polylam FAQ

WHAT IS POLYLAMINATE MATERIAL?

Polylaminate material is a three-layer structure of aluminum/polyethylene/aluminum designed to mimic the look and characteristics of tin. The properties of the three-layer structure provide the malleability of tin at a greatly reduced price.

ARE POLYLAMINATE CAPSULES MANUFACTURED LIKE A TIN CAPSULE?

Unlike the one part tin capsule, Polylaminate capsules are formed by wrapping material around a spindle and then applying an aluminum top disk. Due to this type of forming, the Polylaminate capsule has a side seam.

HOW ARE POLYLAMINATE CAPSULES APPLIED TO THE BOTTLE?

Polylaminate capsules are spun down on the bottle in the same manner as tin. The same equipment can be used for both types of capsule.

ARE THERE LIMITATIONS TO POLYLAMINATE CAPSULES COMPARED TO TIN?

Although the Polylaminate material is very malleable, it is not as soft as tin. The spinner equipment and rollers need to be in good working condition to achieve a smooth look on the bottle. In addition, certain bottles finishes with aggressive drip beads might be challenging for the Polylaminate material properties.

I AM HAVING DIFFICULTY APPLYING MY POLYLAMINATE CAPSULES. CAN YOU HELP?

A few tips for proper Polylaminate capsule application:

• Make sure all of the spinner rollers are clean and free of defects. For best results, the spinner should berotating clockwise (viewed from the roller side) at approximately 1200 rpm.
• The bottle should enter the spinner completely centered and perpendicular to the rollers.
• When using a bench top spinner, insert and remove the bottle slowly (3 seconds in and 3 seconds out).
• Check the spinner bands for wear and adjust for more tension to eliminate wrinkles, less tension to eliminate tearing.

ARE THERE HEAVY METALS IN POLYLAMINATE CAPSULES?

All products used to make Polylaminate capsules are certified to meet or exceed CONEG heavy metal requirements.

ARE POLYLAMINATE CAPSULES FDA APPROVED FOR FOOD STORAGE?

No. Polylaminate capsules are a secondary, decorative closure and not intended to contact wine or other beverages. The bottle must have a cork or stopper to contain the beverage.

IS POLYLAMINATE MATERIAL RECYCLABLE?

Special recyclers accept Polylaminate material to recover the aluminum. G3 recycles its Polylaminate waste and can assist you with your recycling efforts.

WHAT IS THE STANDARD BOTTLE FINISH?

For most 750ml bottles, with a GPI-3115 wine capsule finish, a 28.8mm capsule will function well. If you have any questions, G3 can assist you in determining the correct size for your specific bottle finish.