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.

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 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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Supply chain concerns, JIT deliveries for critical components, and local problem solving is driving vehicle manufacturers to want their suppliers close-even building "supplier parks" to make relocation easy for smaller Tier 2 companies. Long-distance shipping can be fraught with problems.

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.

MGS Mfg Group, headquartered in Germantown, WI, has been operating in Mexico for six years. MGS Plastics Chihuahua S.A. de C.V. has benefitted from the exploding growth of automotive OEMs in that region, expanding several times since MGS bought an existing, 20-press molding operation in 2008, adding to the overall square footage and increasing the number and range of the injection molding machines. Within the first two years, MGS added two 770-
ton presses, and today MGS Plastics Chihuahua has a total of 48 presses ranging from 50 to 770 tons. MGS Plastics Chihuahua also integrated the company's Universal Multishot Systems portable injection units and rotary platens to enable two-component molding. The company has since added continuous extrusion shuttle blowmolding capabilities. Today, MGS Plastics Chihuahua operates three 40,000-sq-ft production facilities and a 50,000-sq-ft warehouse with offices that total 135,000 sq-ft.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

As a testament to just how fast the automotive manufacturing industry
 has expanded in Mexico, in the last two years, MGS has been visited by automotive companies from Germany, Italy, Japan, Australia, South America, and the United States as they prepare for new platforms for their respective vehicle OEMs. "Several key prospective customers are currently discussing production opportunities for our facility," stated Alvarez. "MGS is also developing strategic alliances within our automotive customer base, and I can only see this trend increasing, as new announcements are made of new assembly plants moving into Mexico."

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

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.

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.

MGS Plastics Chihuahua has obtained numerous certifications that include ISO 9001:2008, ISO/TS 16949- 2009 and ISO 14001:2004. Other investments include installation of new manufacturing systems and equipment, and personnel training, all of which has paid off in existing-customer retention and significant growth in new customer acquisitions.

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.

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

Two production cells running Engel machines demonstrate capabilities in high-speed packaging. For cap molding, Engel is showing off the capabilities of its all-electric e-cap system in its own booth with a 460-ton e-cap 2440/420 US molding 26-mm HDPE beverage caps with tamper-proof bands in a 96-cavity old on a 2-sec cycle. The mold is from Z-Moulds of Austria, and a dry-air system to prevent mold sweating is from Eisbär Trockentechnik of Austria. Caps are optically inspected by a system from Intravis of Germany.

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

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.

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

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

Until she retired in September 2021, Clare Goldsberry reported on the plastics industry for more than 30 years. In addition to the 10,000+ articles she has written, by her own estimation, she is the author of several books, including The Business of Injection Molding: How to succeed as a custom molder and Purchasing Injection Molds: A buyers guide. Goldsberry is a member of the Plastics Pioneers Association. She reflected on her long career in "Time to Say Good-Bye."

As Mexico's automotive and aerospace industries continue to see rapid growth, suppliers are encouraged to locate plants near these OEM and Tier 1 facilities to help reduce cost and time. Many OEMs have been manufacturing in Mexico for decades, bringing in parts and components 
from suppliers in the United States and Canada. That is primarily because there has been a reluctance on the part of smaller, Tier 2 suppliers, such as molders and moldmakers, to site manufacturing plants in Mexico. But those who have gone there are seeing their growth pace in line with their customers.

Barrientos commented that GW Queretaro is "at the top of the supplier pyramid" for its technical capabilities, which include the ability to mold complex, tight-tolerance, functional parts and to provide overmolding and a variety of secondary operations, specifically assembly. "We're looking forward to expanding our assembly capabilities to grow our business scope," added Barrientos. "The types of parts we supply include automotive electronics, electrical drives, panel systems, and other tight-tolerance components. We have many years of experience in manufacturing these parts."

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

GW Plastics has been in business 
since 1955. Headquartered in Bethel, VT, the company made the move to put molding in Queretaro, Mexico 
in 2006, a site that was strategically located to serve its customers throughout Mexico, according to Justino Barrientos, Mexico sales manager for GW. "Following our customers and expanding our footprint in Queretaro meant greater opportunities for us as a supplier," Barrientos said. "The cities on the border were our first targets, but it was not as centrally located, so we went to central Mexico instead. It's strategically located and allows us to reach most 
of the primary automotive facilities within three hours. For JIT automotive programs, it's ideal. Being close to our customers is key."

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.

As Mexico's automotive and aerospace industries continue to see rapid growth, suppliers are encouraged to locate plants near these OEM and Tier 1 facilities to help reduce cost and time. Many OEMs have been manufacturing in Mexico for decades, bringing in parts and components 
from suppliers in the United States and Canada. That is primarily because there has been a reluctance on the part of smaller, Tier 2 suppliers, such as molders and moldmakers, to site manufacturing plants in Mexico. But those who have gone there are seeing their growth pace in line with their customers.

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

An all-electric Engel machine molds four airline cups in under 3 seconds with side-entry automation from Campetella Robotic Center.

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

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).

Because of the tremendous growth of the automotive industry in Mexico - both among OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers - GW and MGS sited their respective plants in strategic locations.

While Mexico may be considered
 a low-cost location, suppliers like GW have to have high-tech, state-of-the-
art plants to meet the requirements of today's automotive OEMs. The 51,500 sq-ft plant is ISO 14001 and ISO/TS 16949 certified. Today, with 20 injection molding presses ranging from 50 to 650 tons, GW Queretaro serves some 
of the major global automotive Tier 1 suppliers that deliver final assemblies to OEMs including Honda, BMW, Audi, GM, Ford, Chrysler, VW, and more. "All these OEMs are expanding and opening new operations, and the Tier 1 suppliers are following them. We work with the Tier 1 [suppliers] to accommodate this increased business," said Barrientos. "We are growing organically and taking advantage of the location-investing in additional capacity to face these challenges."

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

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.

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.

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.

MGS's Alvarez agrees. "The delivery expectations and quality standards of the auto industry are high, so it is imperative that the production team is well trained and supported," he said. "Our Chihuahua team has responded successfully. On April 8 of 2014, the employees of MGS Chihuahua received the Delphi Automotive 2013 Pinnacle Award for Supplier Excellence. Delphi is a long-time MGS customer, going back well before the Mexico acquisition. Their production management and quality teams worked very closely with ours to develop the systems and procedures needed by Delphi."

GW's Barientos sees close proximity to the automotive companies as
 one more advantage over some of the European Tier 1 or Tier 2 suppliers. "The automotive companies have very challenging [delivery] targets, and moving parts from Europe means they bring all these parts in by ship and rail every day," Barrientos explained. "If something goes wrong or if a shipment needs to be replaced, then you are talking about air-freighting parts," he says. Everyone strives for perfection, Barrientos adds, "but sometimes that is
 not the case, so it's ideal to be close to the customer so that if something goes wrong, we can ship parts in a few hours by truck."

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.

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

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 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.

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.

As Mexico's automotive and aerospace industries continue to see rapid growth, suppliers are encouraged to locate plants near these OEM and Tier 1 facilities to help reduce cost and time. Many OEMs have been manufacturing in Mexico for decades, bringing in parts and components 
from suppliers in the United States and Canada. That is primarily because there has been a reluctance on the part of smaller, Tier 2 suppliers, such as molders and moldmakers, to site manufacturing plants in Mexico. But those who have gone there are seeing their growth pace in line with their customers.

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.

According to Marcel Alvarez, director of sales for Mexico, when MGS acquired the facility in 2008, the customer base was primarily electronics, industrial, and appliance OEMs, with very little automotive. "In less than six years, revenues have increased from an average of $500,000 per month to the current $2.5 million per month, with the automotive industry responsible for approximately 40% of those sales," Alvarez told PlasticsToday. "Automotive is the fastest growing industry of our interests in Mexico." Sales for fiscal 2013 totaled $26.9 million.

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.

For extrusion blow molders, challenges of price and availability of postconsumer recycled resins can be addressed with a variety of multilayer technologies, which also offer solutions to issues with color, processability, mechanical properties and chemical migration in PCR materials.

The Tier One automotive supplier with compounding and blowmolding machine capabilities adds the 50-yr-old molder and moldmaker.

In less than a decade in injection molding, US Merchants has acquired hundreds of machines spread across facilities in California, Texas, Virginia and Arizona, with even more growth coming.

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.

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.

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

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.