Venture Plastics welcomes director of new business development - custom plastic/Venture Plastics welcomes director of new business development

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Venture Plastics welcomes director of new business development - custom plastic

Author：gly Date: 2024-09-30

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

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

Automotive molder ITW Deltar Fasteners found new life for the battered bolt holes on its machine platens with a solution that’s designed to last.

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.

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

Resin drying is a crucial, but often-misunderstood area. This collection includes details on why and what you need to dry, how to specify a dryer, and best practices.

The 20% GF/PA6 grade, which is also heat stabilized and flame retardant, was selected for its ability to offer high levels of functional integration in limited space plus be compatible with snapfits, heat staking, ultrasonic welding and adhesive bonding. Laminated core-block inserts are used in rotary injection tooling for venting and to control stampings during overmolding.

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.

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

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).

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.

A collaboration between show organizer PLASTICS, recycler CPR and size reduction experts WEIMA and Conair recovered and recycled all production scrap at NPE2024.

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.

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

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.

Said to be the world’s first all-thermoplastic splitgate rear closure system, which is delivered to the assembly line as a ready-to-install module, it is featured in Rivian’s 2023 Rivian R1S all-electic SUV.

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

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.

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

Another first is a patented hybrid battery interconnect board that appears in General Motors’ Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray. Produced by Sun Microstamping Technologies using BASF’s Ultramid B3UG4 nylon 6, it features small and delicate metal current collectors, bus bars and sensing lines in a very compact design to fit in limited packaging space.

The 2024 GM Chevy Corvette E-Ray won the Aftermarket & Limited Edition/Specialty Vehicles Award for its hybrid battery interconnect board. Photo Credit: SPE Automotive Division

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.

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

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

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.

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.

The Safety category award for the 2023 SPE Automotive Innovation Awards went to GMC’s Cadillac Lyriq and Hummer for its intumescent terminal covers. Photo Credit: SPE Automotive Div.

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.

Dozens of teams made up of OEMs, tier suppliers and polymer producers submit nominations describing their part, system or complete vehicle and why it merits the claim as the ‘year’s most innovative use of plastics.’ The annual event typically draws approximately 700 OEM engineers, automotive and plastics industry executives, and media.

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.

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

The 52nd annual Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Automotive Division’s Blue Ribbon Automotive Innovation Awards once again celebrated several “firsts” among eight categories, which included innovations in last year’s added categories of Electric & Autonomous Vehicle Systems and Aftermarket & Limited Edition/Specialty Vehicles, as well as an expanded and renamed Sustainability category. As has been the case for the last several years, thermoplastics and thermoplastic composites led by far in all categories.

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.

Despite earlier anticipated rollover in prices for most of the volume commodity resins, prices were generally on the way up for all going into the third month of first quarter.

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Injection molded by Magna International with Advanced Composites’ 40% glass-reinforced LGF-PP and TPO, it features a complex, deep draw (>80 mm) design, which is said to offer improved perceived quality at lower mass, NVH, and cost vs. metals, and is offered in a two-tone execution. By commonizing grades between the liftgate and the benchgate and focusing on sustainability, parts were reduced from nine to three and with just two materials — a 40% glass-reinforced LFT-PP and a TPO. The CHMSL (center high-mounted stop lamp) and taillamps were carried over from Rivian’s pickup model.

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.

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.

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.

RTi’s Pavlov noted that while first quarter overall was stronger than that of 2023, production was still outpacing domestic demand, despite some increase from the infrastructure sector. He also noted that global demand appeared to have peaked, with some Asian imports coming into the U.S. at competitive prices. PCW’s Todd reported that suppliers were hoping to implement a March increase of 3¢/lb, despite market forecasts showing prices rising by only 2¢/lb. Moreover, some suppliers had doubts the April increase had a chance, as forecasts were for flat pricing that month. “Others, however, said that demand has been growing incrementally each week, and they believe that demand will be strong enough in April to push prices higher regardless of what forecasters have said up until now,” she noted.

The 2024 Ford Mustang Mach E trunk with a PCR-content TPO won the 2023 SPE Automotive Innovation Award for sustainability. Photo Credit: SPE Automotive Div.

According to Plastic Resin Market Advisors’ Burns, any additional increase to the January price increase will swiftly face market challenges due to the discounted resin available in the secondary market. “Downward prime price pressure from the improved offgrade market availability should begin in April. How much of the January 5¢/lb increase is returned? Contract prices could remain unchanged until NPE2024 in May. Processors should focus on recouping as much of the January increase as possible before August and the Hurricane season. The resin markets could potentially achieve two non-market decreases of 2¢/lb to 3¢/lb before August. Exports combined with favorable pricing will limit secondary market price declines.”

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.

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.

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.

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

Toyota’s 2024 Grand Highlander’s seat module received SPE Automotive’s 2023 Innovation Award for the process/assembly/enabling technologies category. Photo Credit: SPE Automotive Division

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

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.

GM’s 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray won the 2023 SPE Automotive’s Innovation Award in the materials category. Photo Credit: SPE Automotive Division

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.

The 2024 Ford F-150 Lighting’s injection-molded LFT-PP frunk was the grand winner of the 52nd SPE Automotive’s Innovation Awards. Photo Credit: SPE Automotive Division

The GMC Hummer EV received the 2023 SPE Automotive award for the electric and autonomous vehicle systems category. Photo Credit: SPE Automotive Div.

Polypropylene prices moved up 4¢/lb in February, followed by a 3¢/lb increase in March, both in step with propylene monomer, which settled at 58¢/lb for March, but a transition was expected, according to PCW’s Barry, Spartan Polymers’ Newell and The Plastic Exchange’s Greenberg. These sources generally anticipated that a major price correction in monomer, which was expected to take place in late 2023 fourth quarter or at least within this year’s first quarter, was soon underway. This due to monomer unplanned and planned shutdowns coming to an end.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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 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.

Going into the first month of second quarter, prices of at least three if not four of the five commodity resins had a likelihood of rolling over, despite price increase nominations for all. PP was an exception, where a long-awaited downward correction appeared to be underway as propylene monomer supply shortages were coming to an end. While higher prices of key raw materials were behind the resin price hikes issued for PS, PET and PP, there was a downward trajectory forecast, barring any major production or logistical disruptions. But, the overall ‘thread’ was that a recovery in demand for key markets was not yet evident.

Said to be the first ever use of a flame-retardant intumescent flexible PVC as an insulator for thermal runaway mitigation in high-voltage batteries for electrical vehicles, this terminal cover appears in General Motors’ 2023 Cadillac Lyriq and GMC Hummer. Injection molded by Molded Precision Components (MPC) for Tier 1 Auto-Kabel (AK) using Pyrophobic Systems’ Lithium Prevent 200 PVC, it replaces ‘traditional’ plastics (PP/PE/nylon) which melt and burn in thermal runaway conditions.

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.

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.

Since 1970, this globally oldest and largest competition of its kind has highlighted the positive changes that polymeric materials have brought to automotive and ground transportation industries, such as weight and cost reduction, parts consolidation, increased safety, and enhanced aesthetics and design freedom.

These are the views of purchasing consultants from Resin Technology Inc. (RTi), senior analysts from Houston-based PetroChemWire (PCW), CEO Michael Greenberg of The Plastics Exchange, Scott Newell, executive v.p. polyolefins at distributor/compounder Spartan Polymers, Mike Burns of Plastic Resin Market Advisors, and resin pricing expert Robin Chesshier.

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

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

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.

The grand award winner which appears in the battery-electric Ford Motor’s 2024 F-150 Lightning is a first in that it entailed converting from compression-molded painted SMC to mold-in-color, injection-molded PP-LFT (40% glass) to produce the industry’s largest Class A composite frunk.

This integrated system is said to enable fast and safe recharging of EVs, and disconnects power in an overcurrent situation to protect passengers. The meter-long parts feature a complex design that offers improved thermal management and reduced component mass. The two UL94 V0 halogen-free materials — one, the PBT, with very-high CTI (comparative tracking index, which measures the electrical breakdown of an insulating material) replaced die-cast aluminum while maintaining superior physical properties and ease of processing. Complex simulation and process optimization were also key to success.

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

With advocacy, communication and sustainability as three main pillars, Seaholm leads a trade association to NPE that ‘is more active today than we have ever been.’

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.

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.

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.

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

Driven by brand owner demands and new worldwide legislation, the entire supply chain is working toward the shift to circularity, with some evidence the circular economy has already begun.

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.

Yet, another metal-to-plastic innovation is the patented battery module side plate in General Motors’ 2024 electric Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray. Injection molded by the Novares Group using RTP Co.’s RTP-299 K X 138337 black PARA (polyarylamide) material, it results in extremely flat side plates for this battery module. The parts boast high dimensional accuracy, stiffness and strength in a complex geometry.

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.

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

Styrene monomer prices, meanwhile, were dropping after they spiked up due to planned and unplanned production shutdowns. Chesshier ventured that some relief was possible in May, if benzene prices dropped further. According to Barry, the implied styrene monomer price based on a spot formula (30% ethylene, 70% benzene) was up about 1 cent at 44.7¢/lb moving into the end of March.

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

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

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.

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

This specially-formulated, high-temperature, high-voltage PVC insulator is used to injection mold various terminal caps and barriers. Safety is increased during thermal runaway because the material maintains high dielectric strength, reducing arcing risk and ignition of gases, and forms a structured char barrier, helping reduce spread of fire from one module to another.

Produced with Celanese’s Celstran PP-GF40 by Cascade Engineering, this conversion resulted in a 48% mass reduction and a 37% cycle time reduction, while eliminating the cost and environmental burden of paint. Also, seal interfaces were improved, secondary routering of holes is no longer needed and the frunk is fully recyclable at end of life. A 4,000-ton injection press and a tool equipped with a 16-drop hot runner system are used to mold parts.

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

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.

PVC prices were moving up in March by another 2¢/lb-to-3¢/lb on top of the February 3¢/lb increase, and most suppliers were out with a 3¢/lb hike for April, according to Paul Pavlov, RTi’s v.p. of PP and PVC, and PCW’s associate director PVC & pipe Donna Todd. Both sources noted that the market was still adjusting as there has not been a month-after-month upward pricing move for a very long time.

A metal-to-plastic innovation, which appears in General Motors’ electric GMC Hummer EV, is the two BDUs (battery disconnect units) which have been integrated into a single system supporting two 400-volt systems. It is injection molded by Lear Corp. using BASF’s 25% glass-reinforced nylon 66 Ultramid 66 H2 G25 V0KB1 and hydrolytically-resistant PBT Ultradur B4450G5 HR.

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.

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

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

This patented injection-molded seat module in Toyota Motor’s 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander hybrid SUV incorporates both temporary and permanent holding features to control cables and dramatically reduce both components and labor at the seat manufacturer.

The high-modulus, creep-resistant, flame-retardant polymer eliminated the need for compression limiters and electrical isolation films, yet withstands extreme pressures from cell expansion and met all mechanical requirements. In addition, four components were reduced to one and many functional features were incorporated in the patented side plates that would not have been possible in metals. Mass was reduced by 37% and cost by 55%.

Versus virgin TPO, the more sustainable grade lowered density slightly and offered better impact at 5°F (-15°C). Concurrent redesign reduced component count from six to one, including eliminating two metal brackets, saving 6.6 lbs of mass, increasing cargo volume and functionality, improving water management, reducing labor and reducing greenhouse emissions by 67%. Cost savings of $26.26 per vehicle are achieved.

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 seat cables produced by Tier 2 supplier Hi-Lex Controls are delivered to Tier 1 supplier Toyota Boshoku pre-routed on the module plate and injection molded with Washington Penn’s 40% glass-reinforced PP. This eliminates the brackets, cable ties and clips typically used to control seat cables, and greatly reduces labor for an assembly operator. The module also reduces rework and scrap due to cable misalignments. In addition, lever pull effort for consumers is reduced because direct cable routing enables use of shorter cables.

With many benefits for numerous potential applications, including in the burgeoning electric vehicle market, Celanese’s Zytel Bonding Technology achieves stronger bonds than overmolding or welding.

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.

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

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

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

Barring any major disruptions, Barry ventured that PP prices, in step with the monomer, could drop by as much as 8¢/lb in April, and a few more cents in May. This based on falling spot monomer prices, down nearly 10¢/lb. While Spartan Polymers’ Newell sees a correction coming, he thought that April could prove too soon noting that monomer inventories were still tight and demand was not great. He ventured that monomer spot prices could still move up a bit more. Both sources noted that while January-February were pretty decent months for demand, it was more likely due to processors restocking. They noted that March appeared to be way off in demand and that a recovery of the market did not appear to be taking place as yet. This was particularly the case for the consumer goods market sector.

The 2023 Rivian R1S won the 2023 SPE Automotive Innovations Award for its thermoplastics splitgate. Photo Credit: SPE Automotive Division

Polystyrene prices were moving up in March as suppliers sought increases of 5¢/lb-to-7¢/lb, primarily based on increases in benzene prices. This, following the 5¢/lb February increase, according to PCW’s Barry and resin pricing expert Robin Chesshier, both of whom ventured that prices were likely to be flat in April and perhaps May, as spot benzene prices were trending downward.

Yet another industry first is a 20% postconsumer-recycle (PCR) content, mold-in-color, Class A structural frunk for Ford Motor’s 2024 Ford Mustang Mach E. It is injection molded by IAC Group using Advanced Composites’ ADX-8327 Recycled Grade TPO, which will also be used in the 2025 model year vehicle. PCR content is sourced from yogurt cups and packaging materials.

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.

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

Noting that PE spot prices were dropping from week-to-week as March came to a close, The Plastic Exchange’s Greenberg ventured that suppliers would have more of a challenge in negotiating March contracts. He noted that there were plenty of lower offers for LLDPE and injection molding HDPE, and that while blow molding HDPE and HMWPE film remained snug, supply was expected to recover as second quarter turnarounds end.

PET prices moved up another 1¢/lb-to-2¢/lb in March, after moving up a total of 3¢/lb the two previous months, all based on raw material formulation costs, according to Kevin Mekaru, RTi’s senior business unit leader, commodity plastics. Meanwhile suppliers were out with increases of another 1¢/lb-to-2¢/lb for April, again based on higher feedstock costs, though one major supplier was seeking 5¢/lb, citing logistical concerns. Mekaru ventured flat-to-up pricing for the April-May time frame, noting that paraxylene costs typically go up as the driving season approaches. He characterized demand as flat, with not much of an upside underway, and noted that lower-cost imports continue to be an issue for domestic suppliers.

Addressing the PP spot market, The Plastic Exchange’s Greenberg noted that while April monomer prices were pointing to a decrease, monomer supplies are still generally tight and prices could still move up if there’s any production hiccup. “We do expect relatively good ongoing PP demand along the way as processors procure spot material to get them by while they wait for contract levels to subside.”

Polyethylene prices in February were a rollover and it appeared that March and April could well ‘follow suit,’ despite suppliers aiming to push through a 3¢/lb hike in March, and some who had issued another 3¢/lb for April. This according to PCW’s associate director for PE, PP and PS David Barry, The Plastics Exchange Greenberg, Mike Burns of Plastic Resin Market Advisors and resin pricing expert Robin Chesshier. Still, as PCW’s Barry put it, “While increases are unlikely in second quarter, PE prices could stay firm due to shipping issues. This barring a big spike on crude oil prices or a major change in Chinese demand.” Resin pricing expert Chesshier conceded on this.

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.

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.