CASE STUDY

Finding the right lubrication solution for peelable closures in metal food packaging

A metal packaging facility in the Netherlands needed a lubricant that met several performance and composition requirements. A trial was conducted with JAX Magna-Kote 467 FG, which met all specifications and performed well in the intended applications.

Background

A major metal packaging facility located in the Netherlands required a specialized lubricant for its peelable closure applications. This manufacturer produces a wide range of metal containers—including threaded bottles, aerosols, beverage containers, food cans, and other packaging—using materials such as steel, tinplate, and aluminum. Serving diverse industries around the globe, the company relies on peelable closures for products like seafood, dairy desserts, pet food, baby formula, coffee, and nuts. These applications demand a lubricant that performs reliably while also adhering to strict food safety and processing requirements.

Background

A metal packaging facility in the Netherlands required a food-grade lubricant for peelable closures in aluminum and tinplate containers used across various global food sectors.

Challenges

JAX Solution

Challenges

The facility needed a lubrication solution that satisfied multiple technical and regulatory criteria. Specifically, the lubricant had to evaporate cleanly at room temperature, without leaving any residue that might interfere with downstream coating or labeling processes. It also needed to be non-staining on metals such as aluminum and its alloys, free of silicone and PFAS compounds, and accompanied by a clear MOSH-MOAH statement. Additionally, compliance with NSF H1 registration and 21 CFR 178.3570 for incidental food contact was essential. From a performance standpoint, the lubricant also needed to meet a flash point of 60 °C and have a relative density of 0.76.

JAX Solutions

To address these requirements, the facility replaced its existing product with JAX Magna-Kote 467 FG, a high-performance evaporating lubricant engineered for demanding metal forming operations such as beading, flanging, lamination stamping, and can lid production. This formulation evaporates at room temperature, leaving no residue that could affect surface treatments. Its non-staining characteristics make it ideal for use on aluminum and aluminum alloys. Furthermore, Magna-Kote 467 FG is free from silicone and PFAS, includes an available MOSH-MOAH statement, and is NSF H1 registered. It also meets the necessary specifications for flash point and density, making it a strong fit for the application.

Conclusion

Following a successful trial, JAX Magna-Kote 467 FG was approved for ongoing use in the production of peelable closures. The lubricant met every one of the manufacturer’s requirements—both in terms of performance and regulatory compliance—making it a reliable and efficient choice for this high-volume, food-grade packaging operation.