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.

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.

Stabilizer packages can support the current version of the resin while enhancing future uses. One example is post-consumer HDPE bottles that are sorted, ground, washed, dried and then extruded into a fractional-melt pellet. To increase the flow of fractional-melt HDPE, metal stearates such as calcium stearate and zinc stearate that have lubricative properties can be used. These additives have the added benefit of being great acid scavengers, helping to protect stabilizer systems and prevent equipment corrosion.

Plastics processors are finding applications for 3D printing around the plant and across the supply chain. Here are 8 examples to look for at NPE2024.

•  A secondary antioxidant, which works during the melt phase. It destroys hydroperoxides generated during the melt, which would otherwise destroy the primary antioxidant. Secondary antioxidants also help to delay the formation of quinones, a color-changing biproduct that forms when primary antioxidants are consumed.

Often, the base stabilizer package is only sufficient for a single use and is depleted within the first use of the polymer. With an insufficient level of stabilizer in the polymer, harsh conditions during recycling can more aggressively degrade the material and damage its properties.

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

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.

As demand for, and use of, PCR content continues to increase, there has been a renewed focus on the issue of polymer degradation. The properties of PCR content, such as melt flow, color and contamination, are directly related to proper stabilization—either upstream by plastics producers or downstream by recyclers and processors.

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.

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.

For instance, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) adopted new specifications to account for possible failure modes of corrugated HDPE pipes that incorporate recycled content. The new specifications now include a requirement for a minimum length of oxidative induction time, a measure of the level of stabilization present in a resin. The Association recognized that polymer stability was needed to prevent chemical failure in these pipes, or else the use of recycled HDPE would be a liability. Adding stabilizers helps HDPE recyclers meet these stringent requirements and encourages the use of recycled HDPE in drainage pipes by enabling long lifespans.

The properties of PCR content, such as melt flow, color and contamination, are directly related to proper stabilization.

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

•  An antacid that will neutralize leftover catalyst residuals from polymer production. These residuals can negatively affect color and physical properties.

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.

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.

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

Every time a polymer is heated, sheared or stressed during recycling, its original molecular structure can change. These changes affect physical properties such as impact and tensile strength. They also affect melt flow—a key factor in efficient throughput and the complete filling of a mold. Further, recycling can cause a material’s color to change, which can limit the applications in which PCR material is used. Other visual properties, such as gloss or clarity, can suffer as well.

Ian Query is a technical specialist for the Special Additives division of Baerlocher USA. He has held this position since 2018, and is responsible for supporting downstream recycling and wood-plastic composite customers. Prior to joining Baerlocher, Query was a researcher for Nike’s Material Science Innovation team, focusing on material processing innovation and laboratory testing. He also has experience in PVC processing, serving on Emerald Kalama Chemical’s applications team, and performing research on PVC plasticizers. query.ian@baerlocher.com

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.

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 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.

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.

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

However, the recycling industry is demonstrating stronger support for the use of stabilizers. Chemical stabilizers help advance four important goals of the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) to improve the plastics circular economy: increasing supply, enhancing quality, expanding demand and communicating value. Stabilization expands potential uses for PCR content, due to the material’s higher quality vs. degraded resin, and enables more content to be reused for higher-value applications.

One argument against using PCR content is the potential impact on high-speed injection molding, blow molding and extrusion processes. PCR material with poor melt flow can slow throughput. The addition of a stabilizer can help prevent this issue.

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.

Chemical stabilizers can be incorporated during resin manufacturing, allowing the virgin material to be recycled several times. Also, stabilization can be added during PCR material filtration by recyclers, which involves melting and cleaning the resin to remove impurities that cause gels and black specks. Maintaining a constant level of stabilizers in your resin at every stage is key to optimal recycling.

However, re-stabilizing PCR products has, to date, attracted less attention than the larger challenges facing our recycling economy, such as improving recycler education and updating recycling facilities. In the U.S., for example, the recycling industry has invested, and continues to invest, in new technologies to improve the sortation and quality of recycled materials. These efforts should help make PCR content re-stabilization more effective.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS: Roberto Nunez, Ph.D., is business head of the Special Additives division of Baerlocher USA. He has held this position since 2017 and is responsible for managing P&L, sales, marketing, strategy development, innovation, and technical support for the division. Before joining Baerlocher USA, Nunez was a member of the Milliken Chemical executive leadership team for 12 years. baerlocher.com.

When a resin is made by a polymer producer, its structure is highly controlled to provide excellent consistency in physical and visual properties. It is also often accompanied by a base level of stabilizer blends, which allow these properties to remain unaffected by the harsh process conditions the resin will be subjected to during its conversion to the final product.

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).

Despite countervailing forces such as lower virgin resin prices, strong demand continues for post-consumer recycled (PCR) content in applications such as packaging, pipe and furniture. One reason is the commitment by major brands to address consumer demands for sustainable products and packaging. Also, there are new regulations that encourage the reuse of plastics to support circularity. For instance, in 2022, the UK will introduce a Plastic Packaging Tax to incentivize the incorporation of recycled plastic. Also, the Council of the European Union (EU) adopted a directive in 2019 that introduces upcoming restrictions on certain single-use plastic products. It includes targets for plastic bottles to contain at least 25% recycled content by 2025 and 30% by 2030.

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.

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.

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

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.

St. Joseph Plastics grew from a simple grinding operation and now pursues growing markets in recycled PP, food-grade recycled materials, and customized post-industrial and post-consumer compounds.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

During the process of oxidative degradation, polymer chains change in different, negative ways. Polymers like HDPE and LLDPE tend to crosslink, raising melt viscosity and causing artifacts like gels. In polymers like PP, the oxidative degradation process results in chain scission, causing PP chains to be cleaved and melt viscosity to decrease. These changes in melt flow create issues with consistent melt processing. With the inclusion of a stabilizer package, changes to the polymer chains are mitigated and a more consistent melt flow can be expected.

While these infrastructure improvements are critical, PCR material stabilization is also vital to enable the plastics industry to produce the high-quality PCR material needed to meet brands’ requirements. Effective stabilization can:

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

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

Say “manufacturing automation” and thoughts immediately go to the shop floor and specialized production equipment, robotics and material handling systems. But there is another realm of possible automation — the front office.

Join 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

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

Hundreds of tons of demonstration products will be created this week.  Commercial Plastics Recycling is striving to recycle ALL of it.

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.

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.

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.

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 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

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

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

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.

Some recyclers use stabilization technology to improve the quality of their PCR material or to meet customer requests, while others do not—either because their customers are not asking for stabilized PCR content or to avoid adding costs to their product in a market with slim profit margins.

One concern about the use of stabilizers is the potential contamination effects they may have on recyclability. As to be expected, many stakeholders are cautious about contaminating the recycle stream, and industry groups are continuously working to provide practical guidelines. However, additives are becoming an increasingly valuable tool for users of recycled material. Many additives can be used at reasonable levels during resin production while still permitting the material to be recyclable. These additives include stabilizers, nucleating agents, lubricants and impact modifiers.

Learn everything there is to know about desktop injection molding for plastics and which machine will best suit your needs.

An important benefit of stabilizing PCR content is expanded application possibilities. With effective stabilization, PCR material can be used in higher-value applications rather than downcycled into low-value parts.

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

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

Chemical stabilizers can prevent or minimize these undesirable effects. They can optimize melt flow for better processing, preserve physical properties that support better application performance, and prevent or minimize oxidative degradation that can lead to cracking and failure.

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

•  A primary antioxidant, which is active in the processed article. These antioxidants prevent auto-oxidation by capturing oxygen-centered free radicals that propagate the degradation chain reaction.

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.

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.

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

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.