Case
study
26 YEARS of experience
in packaging technology
Shoe covers
Key requirements
- Ensuring the protection of the maintenance workers’ footwear.
- Compliance with protection and safety regulations..
- Minimising the risk of contamination.
- Universal shoe covers suitable for different types and sizes of footwear.
- Easy and quick to use.
Case solution procedure:
1. Specification of customer requirements.
During the personal meeting with the customer we defined key requirements for the final product, planned annual consumption and the price proposal.
2. Selection of suitable material.
Based on the consultation, it became clear it was necessary to choose a material with anti-static properties, anti-slip treatment and reasonable price for single-use usage. A combination of bubble wrap and LDPE foil proved to be the most suitable solution to ensure the strength and durability of the sleeves. Both layers are joined by a simple but precise weld that withstands the demanding conditions of use.
3. Prototypes production and testing.
We have produced several versions of the sleeves which have been tested in real operating conditions. Based on the feedback we adjusted the design details and created a final prototype that fully addressed the customer’s needs.
4. Shoe size proposal and recommendation.
We have recommended production of the shoe covers in two universal sizes, covering shoe sizes ranging from 39 to 47.
5. Approval of the final design.
The customer approved the final product design based on our recommendations.
6. Customized machine development.
The elliptical shape of the sleeves required a special approach to welding the bubble and LDPE film to achieve an even and tight weld around the entire circumference. Therefore, in collaboration with our machinery supplier we developed a tailor-made machine that precisely directs the temperature and pressure during welding. The machine is also designed to accurately perform both the cutting of the sleeve opening and the final cutting around the weld, ensuring the precise shape and quality of execution.
Result:
- Since the beginning of our cooperation, we have produced and delivered over 500,000 shoe covers.
- The shoe covers are produced in yellow for easy identification in contaminated zones.
- The material used meets safety standards due to its anti-slip and anti-static properties.
- After their use the covers are disposed of as a contaminated material.
The proposed solution provided the customer with:
- Effective protection of the workers’ footwear in demanding environments.
- Ensuring safety according to the current applicable standards.
- Cost efficiency achieved through optimization of the materials and production.
These shoe covers enabled the customer to improve safety conditions and reduce the risk of contamination during maintenance in the nuclear power plant.
