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While maintaining comparable mechanical properties, injection compression moulding of thin-walled plastic parts can considerably reduce the wall thickness of the product and, consequently, the amount of material consumed. Sumitomo (SHI) Demag demonstrates this advantage at Fakuma on a high-performance ElExis SP 200-920 injection moulding machine with a clamping force of 2,000 kN. It achieves material savings of 25% when compared to the standard injection moulding process. Given the dominant role materials play in production costs, this represents a significant cost advantage for injection moulders.

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

Learn here how to take advantage of new lightweighting and recycle utilization opportunities in consumer packaging, thanks to a collaboration of leaders in microcellular foaming and multilayer head design.

During unique laser labelling of the moulded part, the injection moulding machine transmits all significant process data relating to the completed shot to a manufacturing execution system (MES) from BFA (www.bfa.ch) which stores this following fixed correlation with the DMC. This unique assignment of process data can be viewed by visitors to the Fakuma trade fair stand. A hand-held laser scanner scans the DMC and the MES outputs the stored process data for the part in question. Smart signs on the product aid unequivocal long-term tracing of the manufacturing process history at any time and during serial installation. The injection moulder also obtains a retroactive and comprehensive insight into the manufacturing cycle parameters with the aid of this Industry 4.0 application.

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.

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

Partner companies with exhibits relating to Sumitomo (SHI) Demag machinery are Sepro Robotique (Hall A1, Stand 1203), ONI (Hall A5, Stand 5103) and the Kunststoff-Institut Lüdenscheid (KIMW, Hall A5, Stand 5312).

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 PET-LINE features a 5-point dual toggle lever in its fully electric clamping unit. Lock-to-lock time comes in at 1.9 seconds for the 400-ton machine, shortening cycle times and boosting output. The machine be equipped with up to four post-mold cooling stations, with interior and exterior cooling ensuring more uniform preforms.

The high-speed El-Exis machine has evolved over almost 20 years to become the market leader today for injection moulding of plastic packaging. Sumitomo (SHI) Demag has updated it over several generations and continually increased its clamping force range. Current models are available today in the product portfolio as the El-Exis SP with clamping forces of 1,500 to 7,500 kN. Over 2,000 machines are already in use by manufacturers of thin-walled plastic packaging, screw caps and a broad variety of closures. The proven concept employed by the machine was most recently updated again in terms of energy optimisation and is equipped with an OPC/UA interface for communication conforming to Industry 4.0 standards.

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.

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

Three machines will be displayed on the company's own Stand 1105 in Hall B1 of the Friedrichshafen trade fair venue and a further three exhibited in conjunction with partner companies.

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.

During injection compression moulding, plasticised material is already introduced into the cavity prior to complete locking of the mould. The machine closing movement aids distribution of plasticised material in the cavity, reduces the injection pressure requirement and the required clamping force, ensures that the pressure is distributed evenly and, as a consequence, reduces residual stress in the finished part. Warping due to shrinkage is less pronounced as a result, reducing the wall thicknesses and weight of the moulded part. Compression at the highest mould and injection movement velocity, termed speed compression, is a particular challenge for the injection moulding machine and its sensors, control and drive technology. Despite the high speeds involved, the machine guarantees to deliver a high degree of precision and exact reproducibility from cycle to cycle.

The series visor manufactured live is an interior component for fitting inside a series-production car. The polycarbonate (PC) support is overmoulded with ABS from the vertical plasticising unit to achieve partial galvanising. Following removal from the cavity, the robot transports the moulded part to a laser marking station. Instead of depositing the part here, it positions it in front of the Datalogic marking laser (www.datalogic.com) which applies a data matrix code (DMC). This means that the moulded part is uniquely labelled before the robot deposits it for the first time.

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

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

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.

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.

Uniloy is revising its machinery lines across the board and strengthening after-sales services in tooling maintenance, spare parts and tech service.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

With an IntElect 50/360-110 on display, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag is presenting the latest generation of its IntElect electric injection moulding machines at Fakuma. The injection mould for polyamide bobbins is provided by Siemens, while material for the 500 kN machine is supplied by Motan Colortronic. The new servoelectric SDR 5P sprue picker makes its début in the Sumitomo (SHI) Demag portfolio on this exhibit.

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.

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

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.

Highlights include the latest generation of the all-electric IntElect series, a high-speed El-Exis SP machine for injection compression moulding of decorated thin-walled packaging lids and a multi-component Systec Multi injection moulding machine with an Industry 4.0 application. In addition to the IntElect machine, the latest innovation on show is the servoelectric SDR 5P sprue picker.

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

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.

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.

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.

Follow these best practices to minimize loss of time, material and labor during color changes in molding containers from bottles to jerrycans. The authors explore what this means for each step of the process, from raw-material infeed to handling and reprocessing tails and trim.

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.

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

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.

The machine was optimized for processing of recycled PET (rPET), including a new screw design and two-stage injection unit. The KraussMaffei spokesperson said the new PET-LINE will feature a barrier screw optimized for running PET. The two “stages” of the injection unit, include the plasticizing unit with barrier screw and a second stage with a shooting pot where melt is transferred from the plasticizing unit and injected into the mold. Accumulators are used for the hydraulic circuit. The company says the new design makes processing of up to 100% rPET material is possible.

The production cell designed as a complete solution around the El-Exis SP 200 produces decorative lids for food containers. Sumitomo (SHI) Demag is presenting this exhibit in a joint project with Rouxel (www.rouxel-sa.com) as the injection compression mould manufacturer, Machines Pagès (www.machinespages.net) as a specialist for high-speed extraction robots and downstream moulded part handling, Verstraete (www.verstraete-iml.com/de) as experts for decorative labels and Borealis (www.borealisgroup.com) as the polyolefin generator.

The IntElect is a complete series with clamping forces of 500, 750, 1,000, 1,300 and 1,800 kN. The 1,800 kN machine expands the new IntElect series, both in terms of clamping force and upward tie bar clearance, and it fills the gap which existed between models with clamping forces up to 1,300 kN and mid-sized IntElects available with forces of 2,200 to 4,500 kN. Comprehensive modularity and the introduction of intermediate sizes mean that moulders can select their machine from an even more specialised range with up to five screw diameters per injection unit.

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

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

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

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

Coronavirus antibody test kits for Roche will be mass produced at an annual rate of 230 million units using three Netstal machines to clean room mold cups, pipette tips and racks to hold them.

The IntElect control cabinet is integrated in the machine bed, enlarging the space around the machine used for downstream units and improving operator access to the nozzle area and complete clamping unit. The new IntElect design is considerably more compact than its predecessor. The installation footprint is on average 10 % smaller than that of comparable all-electric machines from competitors. For example, the 500 kN version is around half a metre shorter than its predecessor.

In addition to standard equipment, electric ejector packages are also available with increased force and/or speed. The NC5 plus control system is now equipped with a capacitive glass colour touchscreen and, with improved display brilliance and sharpness, can be operated as safely, intuitively and comfortably as a smartphone.

KraussMaffei HighPerformance AG’s Netstal brand has introduced the new PET-LINE of preform injection molding machines, featuring lateral removal of preforms in a design the company says is fully compatible with existing side-entry molds and after-cooling stations.

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.

Updated motor technology and expanded storage potential for brake energy have further optimised the energy efficiency of IntElect machines. Savings of 20 % are achieved when compared to equivalent allelectric machines.

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.

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

With a clamping force of 1,200 to 10,000 kN and up to four injection units, the Systec Multi injection moulding machine series covers every process variant in multi-component engineering and is primarily aimed at sophisticated applications in the automotive industry.

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

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.

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.

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

Generating a clamping force of over 2,100 kN, the Systec Multi 210/580-430h/200v incorporates both a horizontal and vertical injection unit. The system presented prior to delivery to a customer is equipped with the NC5 control and a new operator terminal, a turntable for substrate introduction and a Demag SDR 20 M robot for handling moulded parts.

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.

Other highlights for the new PET-LINE include higher output, energy efficiency, greater ability to run recycled PET and a new control. In a release, KraussMaffei said the PET-LINE positions its Netstal brand as an alternative for molders whose production layout currently utilizes machines with lateral removal and who have a corresponding stock of injection molds, noting the new line can be paired with legacy side-entry molds and associated post-mold cooling stations. KraussMaffei also said its existing Netstal PET-LINE with top entry is still available giving its customers the option for side and top entry.

The PET-LINE also marks the debut on the newest control technology for Netstal—aXos 9. KraussMaffei says this new control emphasizes user friendliness with a new operator panel comprised of a central touchscreen flanked by haptic keys. Navigation occurs exclusively via the touchscreen, while all axial motion is triggered via the haptic keys. The company believes operators will appreciate the advantage over pure touchscreen controlling, noting that the distinct feedback from the haptic keys simplifies “blind” operation with regard to the moving axes.

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.

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).

A completely new generation of highly dynamic drive motors developed in cooperation with the parent company Sumitomo Heavy Industries (SHI) ensures maximum performance levels and an excellent energy balance are achieved with the new IntElect. Design innovations reduce space requirements and improve machine accessibility, ergonomics and precision. The new IntElect is primarily of interest to manufacturers of precision assemblies, engineering components and optical parts.

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 lieu of a planned launch event derailed by the coronavirus pandemic, KraussMaffei has organized exclusive presentations at Netstal’s headquarters in Näfels, Switzerland and digital visits for all those customers who are unable to travel. This hybrid event will run over three months, with interested customers able to sign up for exclusive presentations in Näfels or attend online meetings where the demonstration of a running machine can take place.

Injection molding technologies for packaging and medical molding are on display, with an emphasis on Industry 4.0 functionality.

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Plastics Machinery GmbH in Schwaig near Nuremberg will use Fakuma 2017 to present a cross-section of its current portfolio of injection moulding machines.

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

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.

Netstal’s new PET-LINE has changed from top entry and post-mold cooling above the clamping unit to side entry and cooling alongside the press, offering compatibility to lateral removal tools and after-cooling stations.

Sensitive protection and maximum mould support are important components of the machine concept. The IntElect offers a package of options ranging from standard sensitive profile monitoring of the mould protection force to monitoring of the ejector force and injection pressure profiles. The cutting-edge linear guide system ensures maximum plate parallelism and symmetric application of the nozzle system force. New mould clamping plates designed with the assistance of FEM analysis also contribute to improved production safety, while the stiffness of moving and stationary plates has been significantly increased by up to 30%.

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

The new series launches with a machine providing clamping force of 4,000 kN (400 tons) and a 6000 injection unit with the ability to run molds with up to 128 cavities. KraussMaffei notes that more models will be released in coming years to support production of all common beverage applications. A company spokesperson told Plastics Technology that eventually the range will cover preform cavitation from 48 to 144, with some special preform designs below 48.