An upgraded version of the LeakMonitor has been introduced by Plastic Technologies, Inc.(PTI), Holland, Ohio.

WEB EXCLUSIVE: PET Packaging specialist Plastic Technologies, Inc. (PTI) has launched a free app that calculates the intrinsic viscosity (IV) of blends of virgin and recycled PET.

Now the foam isn’t just on top of the beer, it’s all around it.

 WEB EXCLUSIVE: Now the foam isn’t just on top of the beer, it’s all around it.

Several new developments include a brand-new compression blow process, the first foamed PET bottles, and a preform decontamination approach for aseptically filled products sold at ambient temperature. Attendees also saw a new stack-mold Multi-Parting Line concept that doubles bottle output within the same machine footprint. (Additional NPE blow molding news appeared in May and June—see Learn More box.)

While occupying a relatively small category of exhibits, blow molding will present no lack of innovation at NPE.

Many plastics processors are just starting to become familiar with the terms “additive manufacturing” or “additive fabrication,” which refer to a group of processes that build up parts by successively adding material, often in layers.

High expectations for biopolymers— an emerging class of materials derived at least in part from biological activity—are being tempered by the realities of the marketplace.

Thermal and mechanical testers, color and appearance sensors, vision inspection devices and CMMs—the NPE had them all in more compact, economical, and easy-to-use models.

A new water-resistant, hand-held closure testing device measures the application and removal torques of closures at the bottle filling line.

The newest generation of 3D simulation software takes aim at screw designs as well as hot-runner, mold, and part design.

Maybe this time the often-predicted breakthrough will actually occur. What could make the difference are improved resins, clarifiers, and machinery.