December 2008 Issue
December 2008
Features
Featured articles from the latest issue of Plastics Technology
Productivity Improvements Star At SPE Blow Molding Conference
New and innovative techniques to help processors reduce energy consumption, eliminate secondary operations, and raise productivity were center stage at the recent SPE Blow Molding Conference in Bartlesville, Okla.
Read MoreGet a Grip on Screw Slippage
Screw slippage occurs when the screw in the barrel of the injection machine has difficulty picking up material from the feed throat or is unable to develop enough tack to convey the material down the length of the barrel.
Read MoreAutomotive Plastics Adding More Value in Tough Times
The dramatic global downshifting in automotive manufacturing hasn’t put the brakes on plastics innovation, if recently announced developments are any indication.
Read MoreGlobal Warming: New Challenge for Polyurethanes?
‘Zero-ODP’ is no longer enough. Now, PUR foamers are being asked to consider blowing agents with ‘low-GWP’ (global warming potential). Another environmental push is to expand use of bio-based polyols in rigid and flexible foams. Both were key topics at this year’s PUR conference.
Read MoreYour Business Pricing Update - December 2008
Weak domestic demand, crumbling exports, and plunging feedstock prices brewed a “perfect storm” driving down commodity resin prices in the fourth quarter.
Read MoreAir/Water Cooling Die Doubles Output of PE Pipe
A new high-output extrusion die for large HDPE or PP pipe (110 to 2000 mm OD) combines water-cooling of the melt before it leaves the die with air cooling inside the pipe.
Read MoreYour Business Outlook - December 2008
Already a familiar sight on European store shelves, the eye-catching appeal of "IML" is gaining traction among North American injection molders. The latest tooling and automation designs can handle the higher volumes needed here.
Read MoreRecycled Resin Prices At Year-Ago Levels
Like virgin resins, recycled plastics prices were going through the roof all year long.
Read MoreYour Business In Brief - December 2008
New Top Global Player in AcrylicsMitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd. of Tokyo, Japan, is set to acquire Lucite International Group Ltd. of the U.K. by the end of January.
Read MoreThinking Seriously About Costs
No time like the present for some comprehensive cost control, right?
Read MoreInjection Molding: Taiwan Machine Builders Focus on All-Electrics, Hybrids and IML
There was a brand-new emphasis at this year’s Taipei Plas, the premier plastics exhibition for Taiwanese injection machine builders.
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