Know-How
Tracing the History of Polymeric Materials, Part 27: Liquid-Crystal Polymers
Liquid-crystal polymers debuted in the mid-1980s, but the history of the chemistry associated with this class of materials actually starts a century earlier.
Read More
How Screw Design Can Boost Output of Single-Screw Extruders
Optimizing screw design for a lower discharge temperature has been shown to significantly increase output rate.
Read More
21 Tips to Slash Energy Costs in Molding
This checklist can provide injection molders a good starting point on the path to reduced energy consumption and can generate some money savings on that journey.
Read More
The Impact of Hydraulics on Tool Design, Practical Uses -- Part 2 of 2
Here are more tips on using hydraulically actuated devices on your tools.
Read More
How to Configure Your Twin-Screw Barrel Layout
In twin-screw compounding, most engineers recognize the benefits of being able to configure screw elements. Here’s what you need to know about sequencing barrel sections.
Read More
Tracing the History of Polymeric Materials, Part 26: High-Performance Thermoplastics
The majority of the polymers that today we rely on for outstanding performance — such as polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyphenylsulfone and PPS — were introduced in the period between 1965 and 1985. Here’s how they entered your toolbox of engineering of materials.
Read More
The Impact of Hydraulics on Tool Design -- Part 1 of 2
Get a better understanding of their use, proper sizing, and how the tool design and setup in the machine can impact failures in manufacturing.
Read More
Troubleshooting Vent Flow Problems in Single-Screw Extruders
Vent flow can be a costly problem and a housekeeping nuisance. Here is some advice on how to eliminate it.
Read More
Improving Twin-Screw Compounding of Reinforced Polyolefins
Compounders face a number of processing challenges when incorporating a high loading of low-bulk-density mineral filler into polyolefins. Here are some possible solutions.
Read More
How Important is Minimizing Residence Time in Injection Molding?
Does a focus on the concept of “minimum residence time” distract attention from areas of injection molding that have more of a direct impact on melt quality?
Read More
