At captive processor McConkey, a new generation of artificial intelligence models, highlighted by ChatGPT, is helping it wade through the shortage of skilled labor and keep its production lines churning out good parts.

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

In Australia, Environment and Water Minister Tanya Plibersek announced a 2040 target for Australia to recycle 100 per cent of our plastic waste.

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.

"The EU Commission is setting increasingly stringent targets for products and packaging — for eco-friendly design, recyclability, and recycled content," she said.

The United Nations has described plastic pollution as a global crisis, with microplastics discovered from the deepest oceans, to near the top of Mt Everest.

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.

Most certified "home-compostable" plastics do not fully break down in home compost bins, a citizen science project finds.

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

And this year, the United Nations committed to developing an international, legally binding agreement by 2024 , to "end plastic pollution", which it described as "the most significant environmental, multilateral deal since the Paris [climate] accord".

Thousands of marine mammals, reptiles, fish and birds die every year, usually from starvation, after mistaking plastic waste for food.

A cornerstone of any plan to end plastic pollution is shifting to a circular economic model, where single use is phased out. And a key strategy to achieving that is Extended Producer Responsibility.

"It's very hard, if not impossible, to distinguish virgin from recycled polymer, and so verification systems are becoming important," Ms Millicer said.

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

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

So what if there was a way to trace plastic back to its manufacturer, and even to hold them responsible for its clean-up?

Laws holding producers responsible for their waste will help stop plastic entering the environment. (Getty Images: Reinhard Derschirl )

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

In the European Union, Extended Producer Responsibility is already mandatory for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), batteries, and vehicles.

The code — which could be embedded at either the plastic pellet stage or the product moulding stage, or both — would allow the plastic to be traced back to the manufacturer or the retailer.

We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn, and work.

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

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.

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).

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.

This service may include material from Agence France-Presse (AFP), APTN, Reuters, AAP, CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced.

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.

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

There's now an emerging area of technology that makes it possible to embed a traceable code, which researchers have likened to plastic "DNA", into plastic polymer.

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

And that's not just a factor of supply and production costs, but because demand for recycled plastic is being driven up by brands wanting to meet targets, transition to a sustainable future and craft green images for themselves.

Following Durina, X2F’s Rick Fitzpatrick will present on “Controlled Viscosity Molding.” In a normal injection molding process, extreme pressure is used to induce shearing and lower the plastic’s viscosity such that the material can flow into a mold. As a non-Newtonian fluid, polymer melt fights against this pressure, forcing the use of large machines and molds while also damaging polymer chains and reducing flow control. Controlled Viscosity Molding manipulates non-Newtonian polymer melt to flow and fill mold cavities, using far less pressure and a higher degree of control, creating the opportunity to “rewrite many of the rules of product design and plastic processing,” according to Fitzpatrick.

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.

That can be achieved by the manufacturer, for instance, replacing single-use with reusable products, charging a container deposit fee, and rolling out networks of container collection stations (where consumers can recoup the fee).

"It's not just the consumer or waste management groups' responsibility to deal with plastics, it should also fall on those earlier in the chain," Dr Johnson said.

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.

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

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.

"You could take each piece of plastic [in a dead animal], scan it, and say, 'this was produced by producer X, this Y', and you could almost have a percentage breakdown of who ultimately was responsible for the death of that animal," Professor Barner-Kowollik said.

There's potential to shame plastic manufacturers, or retailers using plastic products, into doing more to curb their waste.

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.

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.

Derek Moeller of CognitionWorks will share “Streamlining Overhead Costs with Generative AI: A Processor's Practical How-To Guide.” Moeller will explore how generative AI can transform production efficiency in plastics. This includes the preservation of valuable “tribal knowledge” within a company via artificial neural memory. The talk will also address how to identify hidden production efficiencies via AI-driven analysis, and cutting-edge advancements in cognitive vision and goal-seeking AI agents. As AI evolves, Moeller says AI-powered employees can help reshape the future of manufacturing.

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

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.

Every Tuesday in October, Plastics Technology will host a series of online presentations given by industry suppliers and subject matter experts. The topics to be covered include:

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.

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.

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.

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

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

The European Union is a world leader in moving away from single-use plastics, said Helen Millicer, a sustainability consultant and director of One Planet Consulting, who wasn't involved with the paper.

Usually called an Extended Producer Responsibility scheme, the theory behind it is if a producer is held responsible for the clean-up of their waste, it becomes more economically viable to avoid creating that waste in the first place.

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.

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.

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.

Start by picking a target melt temperature, and double-check data sheets for the resin supplier’s recommendations. Now for the rest...

Dr Johnson said it could also help to stamp out illegal waste trading, and closer to home, could help clear up the confusion around what does and does not go in the recycling bin.

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

Firstly, say a whale washes up on a beach with a gutful of plastic. Or another turtle is found with a straw lodged in its nostril.

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

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

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

"If it did fall on them more, if there was more of a cost in waste, what we may start to see is a redesign of plastic that would help with things like reuse, recyclability, and the safety of those plastics — it would actually have a whole chain impact if we start to shift towards manufacturer responsibility."

So the researchers have issued a "call to action", for chemists, social scientists, and legal experts to work together, to come up with a legal framework, in tandem with plastic-tracing technology, that makes the manufacturers of a product responsible for its entire life cycle.

Today, more than ever, granulation is an important step in the total production process. Our expert explains a few of the many common traps to avoid when thinking about granulators

X2F says the addition of a rotary table to its machine reduces cycle times and opens up higher-volume production possibilities—up to four million parts per year.

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

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.

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.

Finally Canon Virginia’s Wayne Daniel will talk about “Dual-Mold Injection Molding: Unlock New Levels of Efficiency.” Canon’s Shuttle Mold System can be integrated with new or existing molding machines to enable two molds to run simultaneously. Not only does this greatly enhance production efficiency but, for longer cycle times, leveraging the cooling time of the initial molding cycle to produce parts on a second mold maximizes the use of time and resources. Daniel notes that the seamless combination of a second molding process within the first cycle also reduces energy consumption, leading to not only higher productivity but significant cost savings.

New technologies in injection molding will be the focus of the first session, featuring four speakers and topics ranging from AI and dual-mold processing to reimagined injection units.

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

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.

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.

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 online Tech Days event launches with four speakers addressing new technologies to boost overall efficiency in injection molding operations in different ways, ranging from completely reimagined injection units and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to a novel shuttle system to double one press’s output with two molds.

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

"Currently, to read out a code by itself requires multi-million-dollar equipment and specialist, physical chemists," said Christopher Barner-Kowollik, a co-author on the paper and macromolecular photochemistry researcher at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

"Thinking about how can we use this technology to build a new legal framework to hold manufacturers to account in their production of plastics and the decisions they make around that is key," said Hope Johnson, paper lead author and a socio-legal researcher from QUT.

In a recent paper published in Polymer Chemistry, researchers have rallied the polymer-chemistry community to work towards embeddable codes for plastic, that can be read on small handheld devices in the field, and ideally even on mobile phones.

On Tuesday, Oct. 1, starting at 1 p.m. Eastern and running to 3 p.m. when a moderated question-and-answer session will be held, the first Tech Days session will focus on new technologies and efficiencies in injection molding in each of the four 30-minute presentations.

But ending the anonymity of plastic waste is really only the first step. After all, in many cases — soft-drink bottles, chip packets, retail packaging — we already know where it comes from.

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.

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

Up first, Mike Durina of Md Plastics will speak on “Rethinking the Injection Unit.” Md Plastics has recently commercialized a new injection unit design that seeks to address the deficiencies of the traditional 70-year-old reciprocating screw. One such issue is inconsistent shot size due to variable closing of the non-return valve. Another is unpredictable plastication due to screw retraction. This specifically causes incoming pellets to experience a constantly changing L/D ratio. Durina will discuss how spring-loaded shutoff valves as well as a screw and inline plunger that reciprocate together can help address these issues.

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.

Improvements in nozzle design in recent years overcome some of the limitations of previous filter, mixing, and shut-off nozzles.

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.