Know-How
How Much L/D Do You Really Need?
Just like selecting the extruder size and drive combination, the L/D should be carefully evaluated.
Read MoreTake Proper Care in Feeding Your Extruder
Everything that happens in an extruder starts at the feed throat, so proper attention to that zone’s temperature pays off in quality and productivity.
Read MoreTracing the History of Polymeric Materials: Polyphenylene Oxide
Behind the scenes of the discovery of PPO.
Read MoreHow Many Parts Will My Mold Make? Part 1
Follow these guidelines to extend the life of a mold and reduce repair costs.
Read MoreWhy (and What) You Need to Dry
Other than polyolefins, almost every other polymer exhibits some level of polarity and therefore can absorb a certain amount of moisture from the atmosphere. Here’s a look at some of these materials, and what needs to be done to dry them.
Read MoreWhat is Backpressure and How Should We Calculate It?
Does using an intensification ratio to calculate backpressure result in an accurate reflection of what’s happening in the barrel? Newer machine technologies have us revisiting an old project with fresh eyes.
Read MoreTracing the History of Polymeric Materials: The Commercialization of Acrylic
We covered the invention of acrylic in our last installment. Here, we discuss its commercial development.
Read MoreWhat to Do About Weak Weld Lines
Weld or knit lines are perhaps the most common and difficult injection molding defect to eliminate.
Read MoreSmaller Screws Impose Bigger Challenges
Very small extruder screws work just about like their larger cousins, but some critical differences make them harder to design and machine.
Read MoreAre Your Sprue or Parts Sticking? Here Are Some Solutions
When a sprue or part sticks, the result of trying to unstick it is often more scratches or undercuts, making the problem worse and the fix more costly. Here’s how to set up a proper procedure for this sticky wicket.
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