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 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.

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.

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.

“A lot of our customers are still confused,” says Cheryl Sayer, director of engineering at Kortec. “They think it’s two-shot overmolding—sealing off on plastic instead of steel—rather than the skin and the core being injected simultaneously.”

A significant part of Kortec’s offering to customers is its evaluation of the part to be co-injected. “We do a lot of analysis to make sure that those materials are flowing at the correct speed and temperatures to ensure that we get that really great, flat leading edge and the core is positioned exactly where we want it.”

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.

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

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

In the new Kortec Connect package, molders receive the co-injection hot half and the secondary “B” injection unit—Mold-Masters’ standalone E-Multi auxiliary injection system—along with the e-Multi controller. That controller not only establishes the “B” barrel’s settings, but it also regulates the valve-gate openings. Those three-position valve gates utilize a special sequence and allow the speed, profile and compression of injection to be controlled. As part of the process optimization, Kortec Connect takes the signals from the respective injection units for screw position and pressure, and uses the e-Multi controller to graph them, overlaying their data points and allowing the molder to check their synchronization.

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

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

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

Co-injection can still be used to introduce a barrier to oxygen, CO2, or light, but these days it can also be used for sandwiching a high-volume low-cost core, including post-consumer resin (PCR); providing mechanical advantages, where a core material with a different a durometer could be added for a sealing application; or for aesthetics and shelf differentiation, allowing various effects to be molding into a bottle, for instance. Moving past CSD, Kortec has been applied in preforms for dairy, utilizing a white/black/white layering to block UV; as well as pharmaceutical packages.

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.

Kortec Connect incorporates a molder’s existing injection molding machine using the Mold-Masters E-Multi secondary injection unit in combination with a Kortec co-injection hot runner.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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 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

Kortec hot-runner technology and an auxiliary injector convert a standard machine to three-layer co-injection blow molding.

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.

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.

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.

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.

“This has helped a lot of people get into co-injection on just about any monolayer machine,” Sayer explains. “We have not found a machine we have not been able to upgrade.” Back when the Kortec technology was created, it initially targeted barrier PET preforms for applications like carbonated soft drinks (CSD). A two-shot molding machine was requisite and typically tailored for the preform application. Today, the technology—and the parts it can take on—are far more flexible.

Milacron’s co-injection engineers work hand-in-hand with customers to customize the Kortec Connect solution for their specific applications.

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.

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).

FCS Group’s X-Type parallel quartet injection molding machine features four injection units aligned in parallel for a smaller footprint.

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."

That last point is another key differentiator for Kortec today vs. Kortec of before. “We look at that at the onset of the project as well so that if that project or that part goes away, the equipment will still be useful,” Sayer says.

Processors may be familiar with Kortec Complete co-injection technology from Milacron (Cincinnati, OH), which comprises a co-injection molding machine, Kortec hot runner and on-demand engineering support. Now Milacron is introducing Kortec Connect in response to customer requests for a way to upgrade their current injection molding machines with co-injection capabilities.

Steve Morris, President of Milacron Systems, explained: “We have perfected the plastics industry’s first and only co-injection retrofit offering. We’ve combined the 30-plus years of experience from our Kortec co-injection melt delivery technology and utilized the highly successful Mold-Masters E-Multi secondary injection unit to offer customers a cost-effective entry into the high growth co-injection molding market.”

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

This flexible, movable system differs from Kortec’s original entrée into the market: a fixed system incorporated into a new two-shot press with a process developed at Kortec. “In the past, customers would do testing here in our lab and they wouldn’t be as familiar with co-injection,” Sayer explains. “In the end, they’d end up with a full turnkey system, which was possibly a little bit intimidating to them. Now they can kind of walk through the process and understand it before they scale up for full production.”

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.

At NPE2018, Kortec and Mold-Masters rolled out the Kortec Connect concept, pairing Kortec’s co-injection knowhow, with Milacron’s E-Multi secondary injection unit, to bring co-injection to the masses.

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

That simultaneous injection means there is no cycle-time penalty resulting from waiting for one injection unit to finish before the other can start, and it also doubles mold output compared to traditional two-shot molding where a substrate is molded in one cavity and then transferred to another (or the mold itself must rotate) and a second material is overmolded. “If you can co-inject,” Sayer says, “you automatically double the cavitation of a tool.”

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.

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.

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.

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

According to Morris, Kortec Connect can be used on any qualified brand of injection molding machine, provided it has the required performance. “The Kortec Connect offering has been used successfully in molding coffee cups, caps, closures, personal care items, thin-wall and medical parts, and it can also be added to a PET monolayer system, introducing the ability to mold barrier preforms at a fraction of the cost while avoiding an investment in a dedicated PET co-injection machine,” he stated.

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.

Kortec Connect allows customers to invest in co-injection at a lower capital cost and provides the added flexibility of being able to move co-injection technology throughout their facility, eliminating the need for a dedicated co-injection work cell, the company said. Kortec Connect offers “plug-and-play” conversion, with all of the software algorithms and setup contained in the Kortec Connect controller.

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

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

NPE2024: Coinjection of postconsumer resin, in-mold decoration, LSR micromolding and bioplastics processing are just some of the machine displays at Milacron's booth.

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.

Two decades after it was created and five years since it joined up with Milacron and its Mold-Masters brand, Kortec’s co-injection technology can yet provoke misunderstanding among processors.

Sayer says her team “starts with the part” when a new customer comes on, working back from the desired component to a system that will suit it, as well as future jobs. “We’ll analyze the system for a range of parts it can run and there’s always a sweet spot,” Sayer says, “but it doesn’t mean it can be used for another part or another application.”

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

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.

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

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

Join 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