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.

Ensconced behind the cavity wall, the sensors are protected from the plastic melt, as well as gases and outside contaminants, reducing maintenance requirements. They can also use more potential placements in the mold, with the ability to be positioned independently of the demolding direction and not requiring space close to the cavity. They only require one mounting hole where the sensor is placed and set with a predefined preload.

Additive technology creates air pockets in film during orientation, cutting down on the amount of resin needed while boosting opacity, mechanical properties and recyclability.

Thousands of people visit our Supplier Guide every day to source equipment and materials. Get in front of them with a free company profile.

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.

Across the show, sustainability ruled in new materials technology, from polyolefins and engineering resins to biobased materials.

Residing behind the cavity wall, Kistler’s sensor measure the strain exerted on the wall to determine part quality, instead of direct pressure readings of the melt. Photo Credit: Kistler

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.

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.

The ‘DryerGenie’ marries drying technology and input moisture measurement with a goal to putting an end to drying based on time.

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.

Plastics Technology’s Tech Days is back! Every Tuesday in October, a series of five online presentations will be given by industry supplier around the following topics:  Injection Molding — New Technologies, Efficiencies Film Extrusion — New Technologies, Efficiencies Upstream/Downstream Operations Injection Molding — Sustainability Extrusion — Compounding Coming out of NPE2024, PT identified a variety of topics, technologies and trends that are driving and shaping the evolution of plastic products manufacturing — from recycling/recyclability and energy optimization to AI-based process control and automation implementation. PT Tech Days is designed to provide a robust, curated, accessible platform through which plastics professionals can explore these trends, have direct access to subject-matter experts and develop strategies for applying solutions in their operations.

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.

Across all process types, sustainability was a big theme at NPE2024. But there was plenty to see in automation and artificial intelligence as well.

Other COVID-19 test makers have also had to pivot as sales decline. Medical device conglomerate Danaher’s 4-in-1 test for COVID-19, flu A, flu B and RSV helped the company beat its COVID-19 test sales slump in Q2 last year.

In a time where sustainability is no longer just a buzzword, the food and beverage packaging industry is required to be at the forefront of this innovation. By adopting circular packaging processes and solutions, producers can meet regulatory requirements while also satisfying consumer demand and enhancing brand reputation. Join Husky to learn more about the broader implications of the circular economy — as well as how leading brands are leveraging this opportunity to reduce costs, increase design flexibility and boost product differentiation. Agenda: The cost and operational benefits of embracing circularity Key materials in circular packaging — including rPET and emerging bioplastics How to design a circular food and beverage package Strategies for selecting sustainable closures to future-proof packaging solutions Optimization and streamlining of production processes for enhanced efficiency How Husky Technologies can enable your sustainable success

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

Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Sustainable Manufacturing Technologies Group helps industrial partners tackle the sustainability challenges presented by fiber-reinforced composite materials.

Ultradent's entry of its Umbrella cheek retractor took home the awards for Technical Sophistication and Achievement in Economics and Efficiency at PTXPO.

When the company shifted focus onto the medical industry, it sought to develop an even smaller sensor suitable for the compact molds used for products such as lenses, syringes and EpiPens. In 2018, Kistler launched the first ever version of a piezoelectric miniature longitudinal measuring pin, which it updated in late 2022. It’s updated version, 9239B miniature longitudinal pin has a circumference of 2.5 mm and can measures strain forces of up to 500N, with a sensitivity of 28.5 pC/N.

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.

Carclo has been implementing changes in response to several operational challenges, including reduced customer demand, high inflation, rising energy costs and ongoing supply chain issues, Doorenbosch said.

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.

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.

One of the most popular hot sauce makers in the U.S. has stopped its production again citing difficulty in sourcing and labor.

Moving forward, Carclo will focus on other diagnostic test markets not related to COVID-19, CFO Eric Hutchinson told analysts.

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.

“The focus of the factories has shown that their operating equipment efficiency has gone up in both of the sites,” Doorenbosch said. “Because if you can do something very well, you will excel in it.”

Due to the plan’s initial success in Europe, Carclo executives made the decision to restructure its U.S. operations the same way, Doorenbosch told analysts.

One answer to these challenges that completely avoids contact, direct or indirect, with the melt: measuring the strain that the pressure of the melt imparts onto the mold’s walls. Kistler’s strain-based cavity pressure measurement is contact-free and uses piezoelectric sensors to generate what the company describes as “precise and reproducible values.”

This month’s resin pricing report includes PT’s quarterly check-in on select engineering resins, including nylon 6 and 66.

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.

A contact-free sensor measures the strain the melt imparts on the mold wall and promises precise, reproducible measurements with lower maintenance, longer service life and blemish-free parts.

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.

Beyond giving unique insight to the potential quality of a part, cavity pressure data is essentially requisite for many components in markets like medical, with direct cavity pressure readings, where the sensor is on the surface of the cavity and in contact with the melt, the gold standard. That presence in the cavity provides the sensors with an unfettered reading of the pressure, but it comes at a cost, with continued direct exposure to the melt of abrasive materials, for instance, wearing them over time, as well as leaving a vestige or witness mark on the surface of the part. The blemishes might be small, but in applications where a class A surface finish is required, like lenses, they are unacceptable.

When, how, what and why to automate — leading robotics suppliers and forward-thinking moldmakers will share their insights on automating manufacturing at collocated event.

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

Sustainability continues to dominate new additives technology, but upping performance is also evident. Most of the new additives have been targeted to commodity resins and particularly polyolefins.

Part of the plan included shuttering Carclo’s injection molding facility in Derry, New Hampshire last year, Doorenbosch added. The company also plans to establish process and technical training centers in the EMEA, U.S. and Asia-Pacific regions “to drive continuous improvement through a very inclusive business approach.”

Multiple speakers at Molding 2023 will address the ways simulation can impact material substitution decisions, process profitability and simplification of mold design.

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.

Kistler supports customers in sensor placement by performing a finite element analysis (FEA). This determines the maximum distance to the mold wall the sensor can be placed and still provide accurate and useful measurements. For the FEA, customers send in a 3D-CAD model showing where they want to place the sensor, and Kistler calculates what the actual sensitivity of the sensor in that position will be. In doing so, the company factors in both the strain on the metal and side forces.

Teel Plastics opened new plant in record time, partnering with AEC & Aqua Poly Equipment Co. to expand production of swab sticks to fight pandemic.

Plastics Technology covers technical and business Information for Plastics Processors in Injection Molding, Extrusion, Blow Molding, Plastic Additives, Compounding, Plastic Materials, and Resin Pricing. About Us

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.

Exhibitors and presenters at the plastics show emphasized 3D printing as a complement and aid to more traditional production processes.

technotrans says climate protection, energy efficiency and customization will be key discussion topics at PTXPO as it displays its protemp flow 6 ultrasonic eco and the teco cs 90t 9.1 TCUs.

Carclo began executing this plan by modifying its manufacturing operations in the Europe, Middle East and Africa regions, Doorenbosch told analysts. The company invested in two main operational platforms, one in the U.K. and the other in Brno, Czech Republic.

Of all the trends you can see at NPE2024, this one is BIG. Not only is the auto industry transitioning to electrification but there are concerted efforts to modify the materials used, especially polymers, for interior applications.

Marceta says Kistler sensors have already been used to measure strain in other applications, such as machining, and the company applied that knowledge when developing the first piezoelectric strain sensor for injection molding. The resulting Type 9247A sensor has a circumference of 4.4 mm and has been applied by molders in the cosmetic and in the automotive industry for several years.

Driven by brand owner demands and new worldwide legislation, the entire supply chain is working toward the shift to circularity, with some evidence the circular economy has already begun.

Cavity Eye provides innovative cavity sensors and data-transmission devices that plug into molds, machines, and auxiliaries.

Successfully starting or restarting an injection molding machine is less about ticking boxes on a rote checklist and more about individually assessing each processing scenario and its unique variables.

Marko Marceta, product manager Plastics at Kistler, says that although this contact-free measurement method does not measure absolute cavity pressure values, it enables injection molders to draw accurate conclusions about them, so that measuring the strain over time produces a very similar measuring curve to other methods. Marceta notes that, more importantly, measuring strain generates reproducible curves, helping molders satisfy quality assurance and regulatory guidelines.

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.

One of the most popular hot sauce makers in the U.S. has stopped its production again citing difficulty in sourcing and labor.

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.

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.

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.

The $35 million for sterile injectable medicines is a good start, but more reform for drug supply and pricing is needed, experts say.

Despite price increase nominations going into second quarter, it appeared there was potential for generally flat pricing with the exception of a major downward correction for PP.

The $35 million for sterile injectable medicines is a good start, but more reform for drug supply and pricing is needed, experts say.

To overcome these challenges, sensors are sometimes placed behind an ejector pin or other mold component that is itself in direct contact with the melt. This positioning gets the sensor out of the cavity, but it can make them susceptible to false readings, if, for instance, the mounting hole isn’t fitted well to the ejector pin. These sensors can also be impacted by gases emitted by the plastic melt, which are often vented through ejector-pin channels. In addition, low-viscosity materials, like liquid silicone rubber (LSR), can leak through to the sensor, impacting the reading and over time requiring cleaning and maintenance. Dust and grime associated with being that close to the molding process can also impact the sensor and its readings over its service life.

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.

Join Wittmann for an engaging webinar on the transformative impact of manufacturing execution systems (MES) in the plastic injection molding industry. Discover how MES enhances production efficiency, quality control and real-time monitoring while also reducing downtime. It will explore the integration of MES with existing systems, emphasizing compliance and traceability for automotive and medical sectors. Learn about the latest advancements in IoT and AI technologies and how they drive innovation and continuous improvement in MES. Agenda: Overview of MES benefits What is MES? Definition, role and brief history Historical perspective and evolution Longevity and analytics Connectivity: importance, standards and integration Advantages of MES: efficiency, real-time data, traceability and cost savings Emerging technologies: IoT and AI in MES

Formnext Chicago is an industrial additive manufacturing expo taking place April 8-10, 2025 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois. Formnext Chicago is the second in a series of Formnext events in the U.S. being produced by Mesago Messe Frankfurt, AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, and Gardner Business Media (our publisher).

This Knowledge Center provides an overview of the considerations needed to understand the purchase, operation, and maintenance of a process cooling system.

Say “manufacturing automation” and thoughts immediately go to the shop floor and specialized production equipment, robotics and material handling systems. But there is another realm of possible automation — the front office.

Gefran says the QE2008-W wireless strain measurement system uses a sampling rate of up to 1000 measurements/sec to measure clamping force, bending and cavity pressure profile.

Processors with sustainability goals or mandates have a number of ways to reach their goals. Biopolymers are among them.

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

While the melting process does not provide perfect mixing, this study shows that mixing is indeed initiated during melting.

While the major correction in PP prices was finally underway, generally stable pricing was anticipated for the other four commodity resins.

Core Technology Molding turned to Mold-Masters E-Multi auxiliary injection unit to help it win a job and dramatically change its process.

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:  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

Marceta explains that one significant difference between the two contact-free sensors is the crystal that measures the strain. While the previous version applied a quartz crystal, the new version now features a PiezoStar crystal specifically grown by Kistler. This update raises the sensor’s sensitivity from 5.9 pC/N to 28.5 pC/N. Kistler says this enables the sensor to measure weaker signals reliably and precisely.

Cost reduction actions include increasing efficiency in machine utilization, streamlining plant layouts and more closely monitoring factory expenses.