Clamshell packaging is capable of storing an array of products from electronics to toys. Clamshells are often criticized for contributing to wrap rage; the heightened level of anger and frustration resulting in the inability to open hard to remove packaging. Although clamshells have gotten a bad rap, they are a very beneficial packaging option. They provide increased security and protection for products. They may be difficult to open, but they keep products safe and secure.

There are a couple different kinds of clamshells. The first kind is the clamshell packaging most commonly found in retail. These clamshells are thermoformed. This is a manufacturing process where a plastic sheet is heated to a pliable forming temperature, then formed to a specific shape in a mold, and trimmed to create a usable product. Clamshells are named because of the hinge it possesses. They can have one or more hinges. A clamshell with a single hinge usually includes a hanger tab, allowing it to hang from store pegs. Clamshells with multi hinges allow the packaging to have a flat base so the product can stand upright. Although these are the ones that gives us the wrap rage, they are a wonderful way to showcase products. The clear plastic allows great visibility to consumers. They are also very versatile, in that they can be designed in many ways that cater to specific products.

The next type of clamshell packaging is clamshell CD/DVD cases. These are a great alternative to traditional jewel cases and paper sleeves. These cases provide excellent security with is strong center hub to keep discs in place. Clamshell CD/DVD cases are a fantastic way to save on storage space. Their slim design allows for more to be stored at once than standard disc packaging.

Ever wonder how clamshell packaging came to be?
Look familiar?

You may not feel familiar with thermoforming, however, it is surprising to find just how often it works its way into daily life.  The plastic plates you picked up for this week’s party are thermoformed.  Those large plastic parts in cars and planes are thermoformed.  The majority of  food, medical, and retail plastic packaging is also thermoformed.

The difference between large thermoformed plastic parts for an airplane and the thin material of dinnerware is referred to as thin gauge verse thick gauge.  Thin gauge means that the plastic is thin enough that it is actually fed through the machine on a roll.  Thick gauge means that the plastic has to be fed through on flat sheets.  Thin gauge is used for items like plastic cups, lids, trays, etc.  It is usually disposable or recyclable.  On the flip side thick gauge is tends to be used for more permanent items.

Now when you go to the store you can feel a little  more informed about your plastic purchases.