Meet Me in Chicago
In Rosemont, to be more specific. Join us September 21-23 for a first-of-its-kind, in-person event that brings under one roof our annual Molding and Extrusion 2021 Conferences, together with our Amerimold tradeshow.
#editorial
Take the Guesswork Out of Determining Screw, Barrel Wear
New technology from Glycon takes real-time measurements of screw and barrel wear and provides data to guide processors as to when the time may be right to swap out these components.
#closeupontechnology #screws #industry4-0
Busting Myths: How Additive Polymers Affect Builds
With advances in additive polymers, it may be time to consider moving a traditionally manufactured part to 3D printing. #npe
Technology News
Upgraded Ultrasonic Welder Supports FDA 21CFR Part 11
Along with two key software upgrades to Emerson’ BransonTM GSX-E1 2.0 ultrasonic welder is a patent-pending dynamic weld-mode.
Cyclic Olefin Copolymer Earns APR Recognition for Recyclability with HDPE
Polyplastics is developing key data to support industrywide sustainability efforts that will allow companies to confidently use its Topas COC to enhance the performance of recyclable products.
#sustainability #polyolefins
Carbon-Fiber Reinforced PPA for Structural Automotive and Electronic Components
BASF’s new Ultramid Advanced N PPA now offered with carbon fiber reinforcement for a broad range of auto applications and electronics.
#Elastomers
New Liquid and Solid Versions of AA Scavengers for PET Water Bottles
Holland Colours next-generation TasteGuard AA scavenger boasts low dosing, enhanced recyclability of PET.
#sustainability
New Class of Photoplastics for SLA 3D Printing of Durable Prototypes, Tooling, Functional End-Use Parts
Nexa3D and Henkel have announced availability of three functional photopolymers with extended UV weathering stability.
KNOWLEDGE CENTERS
Gain in-depth knowledge in processes, products and technology from industry experts
Injection Molding
Explore articles and videos on the fundamentals of injection molding—everything from machine types to troubleshooting and sustainability.
Resin Conveying
A 360-degree look at resin conveying systems: types, operation, economics, design, installation, components and controls.
Drying
Our Plastics Drying Knowledge Center is a complete multimedia resource on all things resin drying – from system configurations to install and maintenance.
Size Reduction
Learn about sustainable scrap reprocessing—this resource offers a deep dive into everything from granulator types and options, to service tips, videos and technical articles.
Light-Duffusing Color and Additive Masterbatches for LED Light Sources
Tosaf’s new LD masterbatches said to create uniform diffused light on backlit surfaces.
#color
Solid Pin for Cost-Effective Assembly of Two Plastic Components
Spirol’s new BP100 Press-N-Lok Pin boasts quicker assembly time and lower assembly equipment costs compared to screws and adhesives.
High-Flow POM for Medical and Healthcare Industry
Polyplastics has expanded its Duracon POM PM series with the addition of high-flow grade PM27S01N
#Elastomers
YOUR BUSINESS
Prices Still Rising for Volume Resins.
Global supply constraints on feedstocks and some resins, along with strong demand, are driving continued increases.
#resinpricing #Elastomers
Processors Extend 2020 Expansion into New Year
Survey data report quickening expansion in plastics, notably in custom processing.
#economics
Calculators
Use these tools to help guide you through the part design and injection molding process.
Follow These Tips to Maintain the Life of Your Thermoformer
Just a small number of regular adjustments can make a major difference in how your machine performs. Here are some tips and troubleshooting advice.
Additive Manufacturing System Reportedly Revolutionizes 3D Printing
The Inkbit Additive Manufacturing system is said to feature first-of-its-kind closed-loop feedback control, multi-material printing capabilities, and exceptionally-low cost-per-part for final part.
Extrusion: Follow These Tips to Get Profile Die Design Just Right
Calculating polymer flow is fairly straightforward when designing a die for a simple round profile, but as the shapes get more complicated these calculations can get extremely challenging. Here’s what you need to consider.
#dies
UV Stabilizer for High-Speed PET Dairy Bottle Production
Holland Colours’ new Holcomer Thermostretch said to address how to accelerate PET production while maintaining a high level of light barrier protection.
KNOW HOW - EXPERT ADVICE
Extrusion: Follow These Tips to Get Profile Die Design Just Right
Calculating polymer flow is fairly straightforward when designing a die for a simple round profile, but as the shapes get more complicated these calculations can get extremely challenging. Here’s what you need to consider.
#dies
Three Key Decisions for an Optimal Ejection System
When determining the best ejection option for a tool, molders must consider the ejector’s surface area, location and style.
#bestpractices
Tracing the History of Polymeric Materials, Part 4
In this installment we discuss the discovery of Bakelite, the first truly synthetic polymer, known today as phenolic.
#Elastomers
New Player, Different Approach to Automation
Rapid Robotics is a new automation supplier that offers manufacturers an affordable rental model for “ready-to-work robotic machine operators.”
#closeupontechnology
Complete Chiller Line Now Offers Variable Frequency Drives
Delta T Systems announced that its entire chiller product line can now be equipped with variable frequency drives (VFDs) to control the pump motor.
Film Structure Designs Formulated with PCR Debuted by Nova Chemicals
Nova’s new series of customizable film structure designs formulated with post-consumer resin.
#Elastomers
Dukane Expands CNC Machining Capabilities to Meet Growing Demands
Welding equipment maker Dukane anticipates a surge in demand for more complex tooling in the near term and shorter lead times.
CASE STUDIES
Overmolding Overhaul
An articulating mold and versatile auxiliary injection unit helped this molder rethink its tried-and-true approach to insert molding.
#technologyinaction
Betting Big on Recycled PET
Distributor of virgin PET resins PolyQuest is also a growing manufacturer of recycled PET resins.
#sustainability #technologyinaction #planttour
Film Processor Boosts Line Performance with Air-Ring Retrofit
Air-ring upgrade results in output gains up to 23% for leading film processor in Indonesia. Gauge uniformity also improved.
#planttour #technologyinaction #processorsedge