For a deeper dive into additive manufacturing, you can now subscribe to our Youtube channel, featuring discussion, debriefs, and shots of 3D printing in-action.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Michael Sepe is an independent materials and processing consultant based in Sedona, Arizona, with clients throughout North America, Europe and Asia. He has more than 45 years of experience in the plastics industry and assists clients with material selection, designing for manufacturability, process optimization, troubleshooting and failure analysis. Contact: 928-203-0408 • mike@thematerialanalyst.com

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.

Following further digging, the government department later found that Quicksilver had farmed the order out to a Chinese firm, which was sent a dozen technical drawings and CAD files in order to fulfill it. This, despite the employees responsible for the leak having signed an NDA, agreeing to comply with US export terms, and the manufacturer itself sending the order without trying to gain the relevant license.

There is a myth in our industry that nylon exposed to the air becomes “saturated” and will never dry. But saturation comes from immersion in water and results in moisture content levels of 8.5-9% in nylon 6 and 66. Studies have shown that nylon 66 exposed to typical ambient conditions absorbs approximately 2.2-2.5% moisture by weight of polymer and with some patience and time that moisture is removable. Nevertheless, it is true that once out of the original package, nylon can become more challenging to process.

This is an exponential relationship, so a rise of 20oC will increase the reaction rate by a factor of 4 (22), a 30oC increase quickens the process by a factor of 8 (23) and so on. We know from studies that the base acceleration rate per 10oC increase is not always exactly 2. It has been observed to be as low as 1.8 and as high as 2.5, but using the generic value of 2 enables a reasonable estimate of how a material will survive exposure to elevated temperatures.

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

Operating within guidelines from material suppliers can produce levels of polymer degradation. Get around it with better control over either the temperature of the melt or the barrel residence time.

For the nylon 66, the continuous use temperature, as determined by ISO 2578, was given as 100-120oC (212-248oF). For the nylon 12, the published range was 90-120oC (194-248oF). The question then becomes, what time period is referred to by the term “continuous?” Often this refers to a period of 5,000 hours. But, in discussing this property with the material supplier, they offered that continuous in this case referred to 20,000 hours.

Coverage of single-use plastics can be both misleading and demoralizing. Here are 10 tips for changing the perception of the plastics industry at your company and in your community.

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

Amid Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, military tensions continue to grow around the world, leading many countries to increase their spending on defense-related 3D printing R&D projects. Much of this investment has been focused on ensuring air superiority, with Russia believed to have developed 3D printing-enhanced MiG-31 fighter jets, capable of carrying its advanced ‘Dagger’ hypersonic missiles.

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

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.

Is a two-year-old hygroscopic resin kept in its original packaging still useful? Let’s try to answer that question and clear up some misconceptions.

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.

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.

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.

Publicly at least, the Chinese state has also sought to deploy the technology within aerospace applications for some time now, albeit more in its space-faring than aviation exploits. One such initiative saw the China National Space Administration (CNSA) announce plans to 3D print a moonbase back in 2019, which mirrored similar efforts already underway at NASA and the European Space Agency.

Multiplying this factor by the reference time of 20,000 hours would give an expected lifetime for the material at room temperature of 1,280,000 hours (a little over 146 years). Even if we dial back the acceleration factor to a level lower than anything we have ever observed, 1.5 for example (to account for what are called cage effects), we still end up with a projected room-temperature lifetime of 26 years. Because the lowest projected continuous use temperature for the nylon 66 is 10oC higher, all these projections would increase by 1.5 to two times, to yield a result of approximately 40-50 years.

Price relief is expected to continue through the fourth quarter for nine major commodity and engineering resins, driven by widespread supply/demand imbalances.

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

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.

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.

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.

In response to the findings of its investigation, the US Department of Commerce has subjected the three accused firms to Temporary Denial Orders, or ‘TDOs.’ According to the Department, the sanctions, which cut off their right to export or receive exports in the US, are “some of the most significant” its Bureau of Industry and Security can issue.

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

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.

While the issue of shelf life appears to have no merit in this particular case, there are instances where it can be a concern. This is a combination of the material in question and some questionable practices in storing the materials. We will address these in our next segment.

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.

Quicksilver’s alleged indiscretion, in which it forwarded the resulting parts to its customer complete with a Chinese packing note, is believed to have taken place in August that year, just a month after Rapid Cut is accused of a similar violation.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

US Prototype has a relatively low profile, but the other two firms accused of leaking data to Chinese manufacturers have an established online presence. Rapid Cut and Quicksilver Manufacturing offer the same 3D printing, injection molding, CNC machining, die casting, aluminum extrusion and sheet metal services, but their marketing materials for these are identical, word-for-word.

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

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

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).

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

All three companies are based out of the same site in Wilmington, North Carolina, and headed by CEO Peter Lamporte, who is reported to be declining to comment in the aftermath of the accusations leveled against them.

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.

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

To give everyone the benefit of the doubt, we can select the low end of the published range — 100oC for the nylon 66 and 90oC for the nylon 12. Additional caution can be employed by assuming the warehouse temperature (in Nebraska) averaged 30oC (86oF) year-round. This assumption also makes the math simpler. Now, consider that for the nylon 12, a difference of 60oC (140oF) between 90oC and 30oC would slow down the rate of oxidation by a factor of 26 (64).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, don’t forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter or liking our page on Facebook.

Is there a way to establish an expected shelf life for a material based on published data? In the case of these two materials sitting in my colleague’s warehouse, the answer was yes. The data sheets for both materials published something referred to as a continuous use temperature. This can be a rather loosely defined metric, but it does provide a point of reference for creating an expectation of longevity.

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.

To help counter the threat of Russian air attacks, sensor specialist HENSOLDT has come up with its radar-jamming Kalaetron Attack technology. Featuring uniquely-condensed 3D printed electronics, the system is said to enable the blocking of ‘even the latest Russian radars,’ and protecting Western fighters when deployed at land, air or sea.

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

“Outsourcing the 3D printing of space and defense prototypes to China harms US national security,” Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Enforcement Matthew Axelrod said in a statement. “By sending their customers’ technical drawings and blueprints to China, these companies may have saved a few bucks, but they did so at the collective expense of protecting US military technology.”

Are you looking for a job in the additive manufacturing industry? Visit 3D Printing Jobs for a selection of roles in the industry.

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.

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

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.

For the next 180 days, Rapid Cut, Quicksilver Manufacturing and US Prototype are also prohibited from attempting to use any exception or export control document to get around the suspension of their Export Administration Regulation privileges, so that they cannot commit further breaches, and their ban could yet be extended.

Rapid Cut, Quicksilver Manufacturing and US Prototype are believed to have asked Chinese manufacturers to 3D print satellite, rocket and other defense-related prototypes. However, in the process of placing these orders, the firms shared sensitive technical drawings and blueprints without authorization, hence they’ve now been banned from exporting for 180 days.

A few weeks ago, a longtime colleague emailed me with a question about the shelf life of two nylon materials. One was a 30% carbon fiber-reinforced nylon 66, while the other was a 20% glass fiber-reinforced nylon 12. My colleague’s company had inherited these materials along with the associated molds and their customer had no need for additional molded parts until two years after the jobs had been transferred.

While the US Department of Commerce’s investigation is said to be ongoing, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, has been quick to criticize the sanctions. Not mincing his words, Pengyu labeled the exportation bans “economic bullying,” and suggested that they damaged international trade and free-trade rules, while posing a serious threat to under-fire supply chains.

The US Department of Commerce has suspended the export licenses of three firms after they allegedly leaked confidential defense data to 3D printing service providers in China.

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

This raises a common conversation in the industry regarding the longevity of raw materials if they are kept in storage for an extended period of time, and there are multiple factors that need to be considered. First, is the material in its original packaging and has that packaging been breached in any way? Has it been been punctured with a forklift, or have stacked gaylords collapsed into one another? This will introduce at least the possibility of contamination. In this case, the potential problems are more significant because these are nylons, which are very hygroscopic materials that can absorb significant amounts of moisture from the atmosphere over time.

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

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.

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

But moisture absorption and removal is a reversible process. Ostensibly, shelf-life concerns would pertain to nonreversible mechanisms. Among these would be loss of volatile constituents such as plasticizers. The principal concern, however, is oxidation. All polymers are susceptible to oxidation to some degree. This will depend upon the chemistry of the polymer and the level of stabilization provided against the mechanism. We understand that the rate of oxidation increases with rising temperature, and a useful rule of thumb that governs this relationship between time and temperature states that with every increase of 10oC the reaction rate doubles, thus reducing the expected life of the material by 50%.

According to the US Department of Commerce’s banning order, issued on June 7, 2022, these allegations date back to February 2020, when a US aerospace firm notified officials that there had been a leak. This triggered an investigation, in which it was revealed that Quicksilver had received an order as long ago as July 2017, for parts related to a prototype space satellite this company was developing.

So here is the question for material suppliers: If their own published data suggests that parts molded from these materials could last for a quarter to half a century at room temperature, what is it that makes the pellets from which we will produce these parts so fragile that their integrity would be called into question after 12 months? There is an obvious problem in logic here. A cynical person might conclude that this discussion about shelf life, at least in this case, is a disingenuous playing of a “get out of jail free” card.

The customer was now expressing concern that the raw materials, which were still in their original packaging and had been stored in an indoor warehouse during this time, had expired and that their properties would have been compromised. An appeal to the material supplier brought only a statement saying they would stand behind the material if it was less than a year old.

Baystar's Borstar technology is helping customers deliver better, more reliable production methods to greenhouse agriculture.

Of course, these questions can be readily answered by performing tests on the “old” material and a newly minted lot. Molecular weight determinations can be a good place to begin, and as a follow-up, specimens can be molded from the two lots and the mechanical properties can be compared. But, based on the logic we have gone through above, it would be expected that the material that has been sitting on the warehouse shelf for two years will be perfectly serviceable.

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

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