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."

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.

In electric drives, use of Aptiv film has been shown to result in improved thermal management and a reduction of peak winding temperatures vs. traditional laminates.

A breakthrough in the time- and cost-efficient production of complex aircraft parts was recognized with a JEC Innovation Award 2019 earlier this year, for an all-thermoplastic drive-shaft system overmolded with an integral gear that is set to advance the use of thermoplastic composites in aerospace. The OrganoTube and gears of the drive-shaft system are using Victrex AE 250 PAEK unidirectional tape (UDT) and PEEK polymers in combination with innovative processing technologies. This innovation is expected to open up enormous potential for reduced cycle times and large-scale industrial production.

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

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

▪  Electronics: Aptiv films for advanced performance in next-generation electronic devices.—As 'high tech' continues to advance, the trend is to electronic devices that offer improved performance and reliability in new and lighter form factors, while packed with a range of features. Aptiv films reportedly deliver all the benefits of high-performance PEEK polymer in a thin format and so provide the versatility and high performance required to address customers' complex demands for a variety of devices in this fast-moving market. The benefits of Aptiv film include: proven mechanical strength; resistance to wear, high temperatures and harsh chemicals; and electrical stability and low moisture absorption. These outstanding attributes mean that Aptiv film can be applied in a wide range of products, such as micro speakers, 5G RF antenna substrates, and battery insulation, and also in chip and display manufacturing.

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.

Carclo Technical Plastics specializes in injection molding and contract manufacturing services for medical and optics applications. Its largest segment served is diagnostic disposables with significant offerings in respiratory, blood management, ostomy, ophthalmic, women’s healthcare, and surgical products. Carclo employs more than 1,000 employees at eight plants across the United States, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, India and China.

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

Solvay’s KetaSpire KT-857 PEEK extrusion compound eliminates adhesion and sustainability constraints of conventional PEEK or enamel insulation processes.

▪  AM/3D Printing—There is a new PAEK filament for filament fusion (FF) systems and a fine PAEK powder for selective sintering (SS) units. They are said to deliver better results with improved mechanical properties in printed parts and easier printing than past attempts to use PEEK in additive manufacturing. Victrex is investing in these new materials optimized for AM and pairing them with new machine technology in order to create integrated solutions, while working directly both with key industry partners and customers.

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

Carclo plc, an injection molder headquartered in Ossett, UK, recently purchased Precision Tool & Die (PTD; Derry, NH) through its Carclo Technical Plastics division. The deal, worth more than $6 million, expands Carclo’s U.S. footprint, adding a base of operations in the northeast to continue its growth in the region.

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.

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.

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

Innovations throughout the plastics supply chain will be featured at PLASTEC West, which comes to the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA, on Feb. 7 to 9, 2017. For more information and to register to attend, go to the PLASTEC West website.

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 supplier Celanese turned to startup Rafinex and its Möbius software to optimize the design for an engine bracket, ultimately reducing weight by 25% while maintaining mechanical performance and function.

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 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.

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 food and beverage industry, developing the next generation manufacturing equipment is a particularly complex challenge. Companies are facing numerous requirements for health, safety and hygiene established by regulatory authorities, the industry and consumers. To help OEMs meet these demands, Victrex has introduced a dedicated food grade portfolio. Compared to metals, the Victrex FG family of high-performing PEEK thermoplastics offers additional benefits in terms of productivity and performance for OEMs.

“We’ve seen significant new business and opportunities from major OEMs in the region. It was only natural that to continue our growth and follow our philosophy of being close to our customers we target the Northeast as our next logical step,” Charonneau added.

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

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.

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

In electric drives, PEEK film-based electrical insulation can help improve thermal management, reliable operation and reduce overall system cost. With the automotive industry transitioning to electric vehicles, the quest for more efficient high-density e-motors and lower cost is still on. Most e-motor manufacturers have opted to use the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine (PMSM) in which the design of the insulating system is instrumental. Computer simulation from highly regarded third party specialists on an established 80 kW EV e-motor have shown a potential 5% increase torque output in a same size e-motor, enabled by 40% thinner Aptiv slot liner, enabling a 2% increased copper content (slot-fill factor). Additional simulation has indicated that the excellent thermal conductivity of Aptiv film results in improved thermal management and a reduction of peak winding temperatures by 2-3°C (36-37°F) versus traditional laminates.

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.

The unique material delivers a combination of cost reduction, light weight, design freedom, strength and production speed in next-generation components. This includes: up to 6.5x faster for in-situ processing for laser welded AFP processing, up to 40% cost savings vs. metals, and up to 70% lighter than metals with equivalent strength and stiffness.

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.

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

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

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 addition, with the adoption of Industry 4.0 technology, PEEK can offer manufacturers the opportunity to optimize efficiency and also reduce production costs, when compared to the use of metals, as these may require costly multi-step machining to manufacture. Applications on display at K 2019 will include Victrex PEEK injection molded bushing, bearings, and scroll compressors as well as dryer conveyer belts using PEEK-based Zyex fibers.

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

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.

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.

▪  Automotive: Driving innovation in powertrain—Cost-effective polymers, forms and parts for the automotive industry include the tribologically optimized Victrex PEEK polymer, thin Aptiv films and robust Victrex HPG high precision gears. Together, says Victrex, they contibute greater CO2 efficiency and improved durability, as well as a potential reduction in total system cost in conventional, hybrid, and electrical powertrains.

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.

PTD operates 14 injection molding presses ranging from 28 to 400 tons in a 34,000-square-foot facility, which also has Class 10,000 cleanrooms. The company offers precision mold manufacturing as well as a variety of secondary operations, such as ultrasonic welding, automation, assembly and packaging for medical, optical, automotive and electrical applications.

Using the theme “The Element of Invention” at the upcoming K 2019 show, Victrex will spotlight the latest additions to its portfolio of PEEK and PAEK polymers. Included are additive manufacturing (AM/3D printing filaments and powders), composites, films, gear solutions, and a new food-grade family, all of which complement the innovations that followed the invention of PEEK over 40 years ago, which have ranged across key industrial sectors in advanced applications, often replacing metals.

Cost-effective polymers, forms and parts for the automotive industry include Victrex’s thin Aptiv films and robust HPG gears.

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.

Introduced by Zeiger and Spark Industries at the PTXPO, the nozzle is designed for maximum heat transfer and uniformity with a continuous taper for self cleaning.

Join 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

▪  Aerospace: The next dimension of PAEK thermoplastic composites—The aircraft industry has forecast that more than 35,000 new aircraft will be required within the next 20 years. Meeting this kind of escalating demand clearly calls for new approaches and new technologies in aerospace engineering.

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

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.

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).

▪  Energy: Survive and thrive in the extremes.—In 2018, Victrex introduced Victrex CT 200 for applications at cryogenic temperatures [-150°C to -200°C (-238°F to -328°F)]. As the latest member of the Victrex CT PEEK polymers, the 200 grade series reportedly exhibits improved sealing over a wider range of temperatures, compared to commonly used materials such as PCTFE. It does so at low temperatures on account of its greater ductility, and at high temperatures due to its superior creep resistance.

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

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.

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.

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.

▪  Manufacturing & Engineering: Reducing part production costs, while increasing reliability and maintenance intervals.—The reduction of maintenance costs and downtime are just two of many needs across a range of manufacturing and engineering industries. Using VICTREX PEEK solutions can contribute to keeping highly automated industrial environments moving, with minimal maintenance and at the highest safety standard. The metal replacement polymer can enable durable solutions that improve the lifetime of components—for example up to 40% for conveyor belts or two times the operating lifetime for rotor shaft bushings.

During its Mobility Days in Austria, Engel and KTM Technologies debuted an all-plastic molded motorcycle seat base produced via a tape-sandwich process that can run in a standard molding process.

With its gears solutions, Victrex is enabling Tier 1/OEM customers to work with one partner, from concept to commercialization, who supports the development and testing of high-precision Victrex HPG gears, as well as the manufacturing of these gears as a component for integration into larger systems (e.g. within the engine, transmission, pump, actuator, and chassis).

Victrex AE 250 composites have been shown to have mechanical, physical and chemical resistance properties typical of members of the polyaryletherketone (PAEK) polymer family such as PEEK, but with a 40°C (104°F) lower crystalline melting temperature, at only 305°C (581°F).

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.

“The invention of PEEK polymer has clearly had a very positive impact across industries and, in fact, across the globe. We could never have imagined the continuous stream of innovation this high performing versatile polymer would make possible. Visitors to the Victrex K 2019 show booth can look forward to pioneering new grades as well as exciting progress on forms and parts in critical applications where high performance polymers deliver a strong advantage in the development of new markets,” said Victrex CEO Jakob Sigurdsson.

Expansion of Victrex’s PEEK portfolio ranges from 3D printing and films to composites, gear solutions and a food-grade family.

Victrex CT polymers have also been shown to maintain better dimensional stability, with a lower coefficient of thermal expansion than incumbent materials. The higher thermal conductivity of the PEEK material enables a fast response to temperature changes, ensuring the material is engaged with the counter-surface at all times. In addition, laboratory testing indicates that they may require less torque to actuate since they have a lower static and dynamic coefficient of friction compared to PCTFE. This results in less wear, higher performance and a potential for cost savings.

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

Given decades of experience in delivering innovative PEEK thermoplastic solutions for the energy industry in both onshore and offshore oil and gas markets, Victrex understands the need for component reliability and efficiency in harsh environments. These requirements are especially relevant in wind energy which is currently faced with the critical challenge of reducing its Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE). Reducing the LCOE requires the wind industry to design larger turbines to generate greater power output, improve reliability to reduce repair and maintenance costs and deploy turbines in remote and harsh offshore environments. These increasingly demanding turbine requirements are pushing the limits of metals and traditional polymer solutions.

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.

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 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.

Carclo plc (Ossett, UK) recently purchased Precision Tool & Die (Derry, NH) through its Carclo Technical Plastics division. The deal, worth more than $6 million, expands Carclo’s U.S. footprint, adding a base of operations in the northeast to continue its growth in the region.

Aptiv films reportedly deliver all the benefits of PEEK polymer in a thin format and so provide the versatility and high-performance needed to address complex demands for a variety of electronic devices.

Victrex CT 200 PEEK have been shown to meet the increasingly demanding turbine requirements (e.g., wind energy) which are pushing the limits of metals and traditional polymer solution

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.

MD&M West and PLASTEC West attendees can visit Carclo Technical Plastics in booth 1515 and Precision Tool & Die in booth 1495. The events come to Anaheim, CA, on Feb. 7 to 9, 2017.

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

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.

President and Division Chief Executive Mark Charbonneau said, “The acquisition of Precision Tool & Die will not only bring synergy to both PTD and Carclo’s customers in expanded capabilities marrying prototyping, tool making and volume manufacturing, but it will also enable Carclo to grow in the region close to its customers.”

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

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.

The award-winning all-thermoplastic drive-shaft for aircraft utilizes Victrex AE 250 PAEK unidirectional tape for the Organo Tube and gears and PEEK polymers in combination with innovative processing technologies.

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

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

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

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