The history of fibre casting: from inventiveness to global packaging change
The origins of moulded fibre can be traced back to the end of the 18th century, when an inventive mind named Martin L. Keyes developed the first moulding machine for paper plates. The discovery and continuous development of moulded fibre as a packaging material has revolutionised the way we protect, transport and store products.
Martin L. Keyes and the birth of fibre casting
Martin L. Keyes, a pioneer of his time, was a man of incredible ingenuity and determination. His fascination with transforming wood waste into useful products led him to develop the first moulding machine for paper plates at the end of the 19th century. His vision was clear: to recover waste and turn it into an innovative packaging solution. In 1903, he founded Keyes Fibre, a company that over the years developed into one of the world's largest manufacturers of moulded fibre packaging for fruit and vegetables.
A turning point for fresh eggs
In 1931, the outstanding shock-absorbing properties of moulded fibre gave rise to the idea of storing and transporting fresh eggs in special moulded fibre packaging. This innovation revolutionised the egg packaging industry and offered a safer and more efficient way of storing and transporting delicate foods.
Sustainability as a driving force
With the rise of the environmental movement in the 1970s, Keyes responded to the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. The company proudly announced that 33 per cent of its fibre consumption came from recycled waste paper and cardboard. Although the use of post-consumer materials in food packaging was banned by the federal government at the time, Keyes was able to integrate recycled fibres into packaging materials for non-food applications.
Versatile development in the 20th century
The 1990s marked a turning point for fibre casting as it expanded from food packaging to industrial solutions and design packaging. The introduction of 3D design was crucial to this development, as it enabled the design and manufacture of customised solutions. A real revolution for the packaging industry. This opened up a wide range of applications for moulded fibre products, strengthening their position as a reliable and flexible packaging solution.
With the founding of buhl-paperform GmbH in 1996, we entered into the production and development of sustainable packaging solutions made of moulded fibre. Since then, we have played a key role in various innovations in the field of fibre-cast padding. What began as a division of Heinrich Buhl GmbH with a prototype system has developed into an internationally successful family business and is regarded as a pioneer in the field of moulded fibre packaging. Over the past decades, the company has grown and experienced many changes. However, one thing has remained constant: The fascination for the versatile packaging material cast fibre and the drive to continuously develop innovative packaging solutions to transport your products safely.
The unique properties of moulded fibre parts
The success story of moulded fibre parts is based in particular on their exceptional product properties. From optimum shock absorption and breathability to customised packaging solutions, moulded fibre parts are setting new standards. The low environmental impact, outstanding cushioning functions, individual design, 100% recyclability and the ability to compost make moulded fibre parts an ideal packaging option for an almost unlimited number of industrial applications.
The legacy of fibre casting
The story of Faserform is an inspiring journey through the world of packaging and sustainability. From the visionary beginnings of Martin L. Keyes to Faserform's global presence in a variety of industries, it shows how innovation, adaptability and environmental protection can go hand in hand. Today, Faserform is not only an efficient packaging solution, but also a symbol of the shift towards more sustainable and smarter packaging alternatives. The story of Faserform reminds us that progress and environmental protection can go hand in hand to create a better future.
