These humble but essential fasteners used in injection molds are known by various names and used for a number of purposes.

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.

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).

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

After you pick among the styles, you have to figure out how to control the temperature. nozzle body or the nozzle tip to change the temperature of the melt coming out of the end cap of the barrel. Instead, you want the tip to maintain that temperature, since a hotter or colder ring of plastic around the flow channel will show up as a haze, blush, or halo in your part. Controlling nozzle-body and tip temperature is easier said than done, as there is no easy way to measure. I have seen as much as 200° F (110° C) variation from setpoint in a nozzle body and tip. In addition, there can be a problem in cold runners, where you want the tip at melt temperature but it conducts heat to the sprue bushing of a cold mold, so plastic freezes in the nozzle-tip orifice. You will have to experiment to find what setpoint provides the correct temperature.

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

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.

14. Using protective gloves, start screwing in the replacement nozzle tip. If it does not start or turn easily, do not force it; you might get it on but it probably will not come off. Find out if the threads are stripped on the nozzle or nozzle body.

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.

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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.

1. Find the appropriate tools and safety equipment. These include safety glasses, high-temperature gloves, arm protection, and nickel or molybdenum disulfide antisieze compound. Tools should be an appropriate wrench and a metal rod slightly smaller than the nozzle-tip orifice to clean out the nozzle.

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

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.

Add these up and you are talking thousands of dollars lost per day in each plant. Small part, small price—but it needs attention. My personal preference is the free-flow type, because it resolves each of the above three problems. Whatever your preference, I would avoid mixing nozzles/nozzle bodies—these also have significant issues and are really Band-Aids meant to compensate for poor screw design.

Nearly one fifth of European banana crops come from Europe's southernmost tip — the Canary Islands. In the past, the plant waste was a valuable side-stream. It was used to support tomato plants, to make handicrafts such as baskets and as fodder for cattle and goats. However, factory farming changed the landscape and, once the fruit is harvested, the tree's leftover organic material is simply dumped in ravines. To address this, the BADANA project reversed the tables. EU funding was provided to 12 partners representing the entire supply chain consisting of research and technology developers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and end users. The focus was on the badana, the fibre found in the pseudo-stem layers of the banana tree. The challenge was to find a way to separate the badana from the other parts of the tree to extract high-quality fibres suitable for polymer processing such as injection and rotational moulding. To this end, an automated reverse movement decorticating machine was designed and optimised for both the quality and quantity of the extracted fibre. Subsequently, the fibres were combined with common industrial polymers to produce eco-composites. Scientists then used the new composites to manufacture three products defined by the end users: supports for automobile windows (B-pillars), a kayak and the worktop of a washing machine. Testing demonstrated the excellent suitability for injection moulding of polypropylene compounded with banana fibres to produce green composites. Given the virtually ubiquitous use of injection moulding to form plastic composites, BADANA technology presents an important opportunity for partner SMEs. The eco-friendly materials will be attractive alternatives to many existing products and are expected to open up new markets as well. A comprehensive analysis quantified the multiple environmental benefits that arise from the new process. Banana fibre extraction and use represents a truly sustainable process for production of eco-friendly components in the automotive, packaging and consumer goods industries.

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.

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.

8. First, try to break the nozzle tip loose. Beware of the possibility of the wrench slipping and subsequent movement of your arms, hands, or torso banging against your surroundings. Normally you are cramped for space in this operation.

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

It’s simple, right? Just unscrew the nozzle tip and screw on the new one. Nope. For those of us who have done this a few times, it does not always go this smoothly. Molding involves hundreds of details ... and I do mean hundreds. This one, the nozzle tip, may seem minor. It may be small, but it can cause significant trouble, downtime, lost production, and significant profit loss. How can such a small part cause so much trouble?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: John Bozzelli is the founder of Injection Molding Solutions (Scientific Molding) in Midland, Mich., a provider of training and consulting services to injection molders, including LIMS, and other special- ties. Contact john@scientificmolding.com; scientificmolding.com.

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

9. If you get it started, it should turn easily all the way out. If it turns but with effort, you have either a nozzle tip with bad threads or there is solidified carbon between the threads of the tip and the nozzle body. It will take significant effort to get the nozzle tip completely off. As for why, read steps 12-16.

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When determining the best ejection option for a tool, molders must consider the ejector’s surface area, location and style.

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

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

16. With very low torque—say, less than 15 ft-lb, allow the nozzle tip to come up to temperature—perhaps 5-10 min. Then tighten it. If you tighten it as soon as you put it on, the nozzle tip will heat up, the threads will expand, and you can look forward to the nightmare in step nine.

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.

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.

Europeans eat a lot of bananas. Thanks to new extraction and processing technology, all that waste fibre from banana plants may soon be used in polymer composites for products in the automotive and consumer goods sectors.

The accompanying illustration shows the three most common types: general-purpose, reverse-taper, and free-flow. These screw into the nozzle body. They come in different lengths, but like the nozzle body, do your best to keep them as short as possible as they often add a significant pressure drop, which makes filling and packing the parts more difficult. The general-purpose tip is the most common at most molding shops. However, I consider this a “no-purpose” tip, to be discarded.

That should get you back into production. Remember, if the nozzle tip does not screw in or out easily once it is off the seat, there is something wrong. Forcing it will only make matters worse; you will be wasting more time, effort, and money over something that should not have happened to begin with.

2. Back the barrel/sled as far as possible, though with some machines there might be a better position for ease of access.

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.

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

3. If electrical or thermocouple wires are in the way, turn the power off and take the time to permanently route along them to the non-operator side of the machine. It is safer and you will not get purged material on them, a common problem that causes hours of downtime to replace, at significant cost. It will save you time and anguish in the long run.

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

7. With the barrel up to temperature (heaters can be off if necessary) find the best position for the wrench to provide adequate leverage. On some machines, getting the wrench in place where you can get a decent grip and leverage it is next to impossible. (You wonder some- times if the machinery manufacturer ever has to do this.) A flexible or swivel end to the ratchet can be of help but tends to slip and is not as safe as a direct placement.

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

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

11. If you cannot break it loose, try tapping it with a hammer or add some heat. If you have to use a cheater bar, make sure the wrench is strong enough to take the load—and it had better be a six-point contact type.

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Banana, banana plant, plant waste, waste fibre, polymer composites, badana, rotational moulding, decorticating machine, polypropylene, injection moulding

10. If the nozzle is to be used again, I suggest cleaning it by using a dowel to push the plastic out from the front of the nozzle tip. (Remember to use appropriate heat-resistant gloves.) It is easier to clean while the plastic is molten. Look for carbon, a previous color, or material as a sign of dead space in the bull nose of the nozzle.

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

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.

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

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.

13. Prepare the replacement nozzle tip by cleaning it and ensuring that it matches the radius of the sprue bushing of the mold and has the right size orifice—that is, slightly smaller if it is a cold runner, nearly the same size if a hot runner. Check that seat is clean and flat with no burrs or dings. Check that the nose is clean and not dinged. Double-check that the threads are symmetrical, clean, and lubed with a high-temperature and extreme-pressure anti-sieze compound. I like molybdenum disulfide.

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

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

Never mind ISO 9000; you have a brain—use it. This procedure must be modified for your own situation or conditions. You are responsible for your own safety.

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.

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.

12. Inspect the old nozzle’s threads, nose, and seat for dings, burrs, or any non-uniformity; toss if not in good shape. If reusable, clean and store appropriately. Tossing it into a box or drawer is not acceptable.

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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.

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

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.

5. Ensure the screw is forward with no spit- ting or drooling from the nozzle. Note: This is not a failsafe step—expect resin spitting and take all proper precautions.

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.

1. The G-P tip has a long land, which creates a larger pressure drop. 2. It provides a dead space that is difficult to purge clean. Molders can waste 50 to 100 shots changing colors or materials. 3. Research by well-known molding expert Steve Brammer (The Humble Nozzle) show it can produce higher viscosities and temperatures. (Brammer’s blog is available at short.ptonline.com/HumblNozzl.)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

6. Find the appropriately sized box-end wrench or socket. Use the six-point versions as they are safer because less likely to slip off. Ensure a good safe grip on the common 7/8-in. tip.

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

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

15. Screw the nozzle tip in until it seats but do not torque it tight. Turn it in until it gently seats then back off, wait 10 sec, and seat it again with low torque. Note whether it goes farther in. You are trying to make sure that the nozzle-tip seat is seating to the seat of the nozzle body with no plastic on either seat. Take time here to allow the nozzle tip to heat up and melt any plastic between the tip and nozzle-body seats.

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.

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

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