Combat the skilled labor shortage using this comprehensive resource to train your own plastics processing experts.
Deep dive into the basics of blending versus dosing, controls, maintenance, process integration and more.
This Knowledge Center provides an overview of the considerations needed to understand the purchase, operation, and maintenance of a process cooling system.
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.
While PE price reductions were not as apparent, they too were following the year-end price trajectory of PP, PS, PVC and PET.
Going into fourth quarter, prices of the five commodity resins were heading downward, barring supply interruptions.
This month’s resin pricing report includes PT’s quarterly check-in on select engineering resins, including nylon 6 and 66.
While prices moved up for three of the five commodity resins, there was potential for a flat trajectory for the rest of the third quarter.
By most measures, pricing for the five commodity resins appeared to be holding firm going into the third quarter.
Second quarter started with price hikes in PE and the four volume engineering resins, but relatively stable pricing was largely expected by the quarter’s end.
Resin drying is a crucial, but often-misunderstood area. This collection includes details on why and what you need to dry, how to specify a dryer, and best practices.
Take a deep dive into all of the various aspects of part quoting to ensure you’ve got all the bases—as in costs—covered before preparing your customer’s quote for services.
In this collection of articles, two of the industry’s foremost authorities on screw design — Jim Frankand and Mark Spalding — offer their sage advice on screw design...what works, what doesn’t, and what to look for when things start going wrong.
In this collection, which is part one of a series representing some of John’s finest work, we present you with five articles that we think you will refer to time and again as you look to solve problems, cut cycle times and improve the quality of the parts you mold.
Gifted with extraordinary technical know how and an authoritative yet plain English writing style, in this collection of articles Fattori offers his insights on a variety of molding-related topics that are bound to make your days on the production floor go a little bit better.
In this three-part collection, veteran molder and moldmaker Jim Fattori brings to bear his 40+ years of on-the-job experience and provides molders his “from the trenches” perspective on on the why, where and how of venting injection molds. Take the trial-and-error out of the molding venting process.
Mike Sepe has authored more than 25 ANTEC papers and more than 250 articles illustrating the importance of this interdisciplanary approach. In this collection, we present some of his best work during the years he has been contributing for Plastics Technology Magazine.
In this collection of content, we provide expert advice on welding from some of the leading authorities in the field, with tips on such matters as controls, as well as insights on how to solve common problems in welding.
Mold maintenance is critical, and with this collection of content we’ve bundled some of the very best advice we’ve published on repairing, maintaining, evaluating and even hanging molds on injection molding machines.
Thousands of people visit our Supplier Guide every day to source equipment and materials. Get in front of them with a free company profile.
Plastics Technology’s Hot Shots parts competition is accepting submissions for the 2025 contest, with winners to be announced at PTXPO 2025.
The third iteration of the event takes place March 18-20 in Rosemont, Illinois, providing three days of exhibits, technical education and professional networking.
Topping five other entries in voting by fellow molders, the Ultradent team talks about their Hot Shots sweep.
Serendipitous Learning Opportunities at PTXPO Underscore the Value of Being Present.
Introduced by Zeiger and Spark Industries at the PTXPO, the nozzle is designed for maximum heat transfer and uniformity with a continuous taper for self cleaning.
Ultradent's entry of its Umbrella cheek retractor took home the awards for Technical Sophistication and Achievement in Economics and Efficiency at PTXPO.
Center will be dedicated to product engineering, materials science and manufacturing technologies.
Südpack’s Multifol Extreme film is well suited for greasy, protein-rich and frozen foods
Across all process types, sustainability was a big theme at NPE2024. But there was plenty to see in automation and artificial intelligence as well.
Exhibitors and presenters at the plastics show emphasized 3D printing as a complement and aid to more traditional production processes.
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has released final figures for NPE2024: The Plastics Show (May 6-10; Orlando) that officially make it the largest ever NPE in several key metrics.
Discover how artifical intelligence is revolutionizing plastics processing. Hear from industry experts on the future impact of AI on your operations and envision a fully interconnected plant.
Mixed in among thought leaders from leading suppliers to injection molders and mold makers at the 2023 Molding and MoldMaking conferences will be molders and toolmakers themselves.
After successfully introducing a combined conference for moldmakers and injection molders in 2022, Plastics Technology and MoldMaking Technology are once again joining forces for a tooling/molding two-for-one.
Multiple speakers at Molding 2023 will address the ways simulation can impact material substitution decisions, process profitability and simplification of mold design.
When, how, what and why to automate — leading robotics suppliers and forward-thinking moldmakers will share their insights on automating manufacturing at collocated event.
As self-imposed and government-issued sustainability mandates approach, injection molders reimagine their operations.
August 29-30 in Minneapolis all things injection molding and moldmaking will be happening at the Hyatt Regency — check out who’s speaking on what topics today.
Get your clicking finger in shape and sign up for all that we have in store for you in 2023.
Molding 2023 to take place Aug. 29-30 in Minnesota; Extrusion 2023 slated for Oct. 10-12 in Indiana.
With the fluctuating costs of materials and the absence of technical staff, it is increasingly important to optimize your workflow and utilize equipment to the best of its ability. This webinar will cover the best blending practices by discussing the characteristics of the best blender, how to use the blender to the best of its ability and how to integrate the blender with other elements of the work cell. Agenda: Characteristics of the best blender How to use the blender to the best of its ability How to integrate the blender into other elements of the work cell
Join this webinar to explore the transformative benefits of retrofitting your existing injection molding machines (IMMs). Engel will guide you through upgrading your equipment to enhance monitoring, control and adaptability — all while integrating digital technologies. You'll learn about the latest trends in IMM retrofitting (including Euromap interfaces and plasticizing retrofits) and discover how to future-proof your machines for a competitive edge. With insights from industry experts, it'll walk you through the decision-making process, ensuring you make informed choices that drive your business forward. Agenda: Maximize the value of your current IMMs through strategic retrofitting Learn how to integrate digital technologies to enhance monitoring and control Explore the benefits of Euromap interfaces and plasticizing retrofits Understand how retrofitting can help meet new product demands and improve adaptability Discover how Engel can support your retrofitting needs, from free consultations to execution
The aim of this presentation is to guide you through the factors and the numbers that will help you determine if a robot is a smart investment for your application. Agenda:Â Why are you considering automation? What problems are you trying to solve? How and why automation can help Crunch the numbers and determine the ROI
An overview on the use of chemical foaming agents (CFAs) to successfully foam single and multilayered rotational molding parts, this webinar will illustrate the multiple benefits rotational molders can achieve, including reducing resin consumption, decreasing part weight, enhancing wall thickness and improving structural rigidity. Agenda: Charging the mold Dosing ratios Venting Optimal decomposition temperatures, cycle times and drop times for drop box applications Cooling considerations
Join Engel in exploring the future of battery molding technology. Discover advancements in thermoplastic composites for battery housings, innovative automation solutions and the latest in large-tonnage equipment designed for e-mobility — all with a focus on cost-efficient solutions. Agenda: Learn about cutting-edge thermoplastic composites for durable, sustainable and cost-efficient battery housings Explore advanced automation concepts for efficient and scalable production See the latest large-tonnage equipment and technology innovations for e-mobility solutions
Join KraussMaffei for an insightful webinar designed for industry professionals, engineers and anyone interested in the manufacturing processes of PVC pipes. This session will provide a comprehensive understanding of the technology behind the production of high-quality PVC pipes: from raw material preparation to final product testing. Agenda: Introduction to PVC extrusion: overview of the basic principles of PVC pipe extrusion — including the process of melting and shaping PVC resin into pipe forms Equipment and machinery: detailed explanation of the key equipment involved — such as extruders, dies and cooling systems — and their roles in the extrusion process Process parameters: insight into the critical process parameters like temperature, pressure and cooling rates that influence the quality and consistency of the final PVC pipes Energy efficiency: examination of ways to save material and energy use when extruding PVC pipe products
The Detroit Auto Show, formerly known as the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), is located squarely at the intersection of technology and mobility. It’s a global event filled with tangible advances ready to hit the pavement today. Here, the software is as revolutionary as anything out there, and the hardware always looks better with a good polish. You won’t find any devices that will fit in your pocket, but you will discover machines that will move you in the most literal sense. You’ll also connect with thought leaders from around the world, both in and outside the automotive industry, whose collective visions for the future of mobility will shape the way we move for years to come.
ANTEC® 2025, SPE's Annual Technical Conference, showcases the latest advances in industrial, laboratory, academic, and international work focused on plastics and polymer science. ANTEC® will address a range of plastics technologies, polymer research, new materials, innovative processes, and more. There will also be a focus on scientific, technical, or industrial problems and their solutions. In addition to a comprehensive program, ANTEC® 2025 will offer exceptional networking opportunities, our prestigious SPE awards, symposiums, and our exclusive ANTEC® All-Access VIP Experience.
Each year Products Finishing partners with thousands of finishing operations in the U.S. to celebrate National Surface Finishing Day (NSFD) on the first Wednesday in March. NSFD is designed to celebrate and showcase the industry to trade schools, businesses, officials and media, as well as to celebrate employees and staff. The overarching goal of NSFD is to bring further awareness to the important roles plating and coating facilities play in their communities. Facilities are encouraged to host events and work with local media to build awareness about the contributions made by the surface finishing industry. For a helpful guide to reaching out to media outlets, download the NSFD toolkit here. How can you celebrate? Share your company’s story Hold an open house where the public can check out your facility –— either in person or virtual Offer student shop tours to local trade schools Invite local elected officials to visit and get to know your staff Celebrate your employees Share news about what you’re doing on social media and use the hashtag #NationalSurfaceFinishingDay or #NSFD
En su edición número 25, Plastimagen busca reafirmarse como la principal puerta de entrada al sector del plástico en México y Latinoamérica. Este evento reunirá a una variedad de líderes destacados de la industria del plástico, incluyendo a productores de bienes de capital, proveedores de materias primas, inversionistas, representantes de organizaciones y miembros de la academia. El evento tendrá como objetivo principal impulsar la transformación de la industria hacia un modelo más sustentable. Esto se hará buscando facilitar un desarrollo económico robusto, y proporcionando soluciones orientadas a lograr una economía circular. PLASTIMAGEN® MEXICO is the biggest international exhibition for the plastics processing industry in Mexico and Latin America. This event brings together the entire production chain with top suppliers to meet the needs of various industries. PLASTIMAGEN® MEXICO 2025 will feature over 870 companies representing 1,600 brands from more than 27 countries, 14 international pavilions, and a specialized pavilion by the National Association of Plastics Industries in Mexico (ANIPAC). You'll see the latest in plastics processing, design innovations, and materials that support the circular economy.
PTXPO 2025 is a comprehensive showcase of cutting-edge technologies and innovations within the plastics molding industry. Join fellow molders, moldmakers, brand owners, OEMs and their full suite of suppliers in Rosemont, IL for three days of non-stop networking, education and business development opportunities.
Critical Cleaning Hands-on Workshop Do it; learn it! The one-day workshop teaches how cleaning and cleanliness testing work. By participating in hands-on exercises of techniques for cleaning and cleanliness verification, attendees gain the understanding and knowledge to make practical, effective, and sustainable manufacturing decisions. While exercises are supplemented by demonstrations and tutorials, the workshop is not death by PowerPoint! Topics include aqueous, solvent, and “non-chemical” cleaning, including cleaning chemicals and cleaning processes (spray, ultrasonics, cyclic nucleation, in-line, batch). Most manufactured product and product contact surfaces require cleaning during (and sometimes after) manufacture and assembly. Examples of areas where effective cleaning is essential include: metal fabrication, product assembly, optics, electronics, microelectronics, wafer fab, medical devices, aerospace/aeronautics, military, and additive manufacturing. WHAT DO YOU CALL CLEANING? There are many different terms for cleaning. Cleaning Precision Cleaning Critical Cleaning Safety/Critical Cleaning Surface Prep for Finishing Technical Cleanliness Residue Removal WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THE WORKSHOP If you or your company fabricates, finishes, maintains or repairs product or product contact surfaces (like reaction vessels), this workshop is time well-spent. If you sell chemicals or cleaning equipment, this workshop will help you better understand and optimize the market for your products. Examples include: Manufacturing Engineers Product Designers Managers Sales and Marketing Managers Facilities Personnel Assemblers, operators Process Technicians Quality Control Personnel Regulatory Affairs Experts (industry, military, and government) Safety/environmental professionals​ ​ Participants will receive a PDF Certificate of Completion with continuing education credits from Sam Houston State University.
December 2024
From accumulators to X-ray fluorescence analyzers, the 2024 Plastics Technology Handbook & Buyer’s Guide is the reference source for the plastics processing supply chain.
Featured articles from the 2025 Handbook & Buyer's Guide 2024 issue of Plastics Technology
Previous issues of Plastics Technology
