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

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

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

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.

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

You also don’t want to overmold LSR onto a cold substrate, which will slow curing, Bishop cautions. In two-shot overmolding that’s not a problem—residual heat in the thermoplastic part will help cure the LSR. But if the substrate is molded separately, it may need preheating in a conveyor oven or with a hot plate.

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

A great deal of work and artistry goes in to designing and creating kids’ toys. Watch a toy dinosaur made by Schleich go from pencil sketch to Tyrannosaurus rex figurine ready to terrorize the sandbox in this "How It’s Made" video from the Science Channel, via The Kid Should See This. ​

The KE2090 Select-Hesive LIMS silicone comes in 10 to 70 Shore A hardness. It bonds to PC, PBT, PPO alloys, PEEK, and polyphenylsulfone, according to Shin-Etsu’s Eric Bishop.

Having already invested upward of $70,000 on tooling for the two-cavity LSR overmolding tool, Amerimold Tech needed to find a prompt and efficient solution to avoid incurring even more costs for pretreatment, rejects, and waste. Company president Michael Schon contacted Shin-Etsu Silicones to ship overnight a 5-gal sample pail of its KE2090-40 Select-Hesive LIMS product for a test run in the LSR mold.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

•Consistency counts. If you follow all the advice above, you should get good results with self-adhesive LSR regardless of whether you use two-shot molding in one machine or separate molding in two machines. But with two machines, it definitely helps to use automated (robotic) transfer from one to the other, Bishop says. That way ensures a consistent substrate temperature for overmolding and also avoids any contamination from a human operator handling parts.

NPE2024: Absolute Haitian says Generation 5 of the servo-hydraulic Haitian and electric Zhafir machines lines emphasize efficiency, performance and intelligence.

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

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.

•Demold gently. Even though LSRs have good “green strength” right out of the mold, when the mold opens, adhesion and curing may not have achieved their final state. So avoid pulling or stretching the LSR during demolding. Bishop notes that a PTFE mold coating can help with release of the LSR.

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

Implementing a production monitoring system as the foundation of a ‘smart factory’ is about integrating people with new technology as much as it is about integrating machines and computers. Here are tips from a company that has gone through the process.

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.

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

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

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.

Plastics Technology covers technical and business Information for Plastics Processors in Injection Molding, Extrusion, Blow Molding, Plastic Additives, Compounding, Plastic Materials, and Resin Pricing. About Us

In 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.

Hard/soft overmolding has become a fundamental technique for injection molders in recent years, and a growing number of molders are extending that technology thermoset/thermoplastic combinations. In some applications, liquid silicone rubber (LSR) offers advantages over TPEs in its heat resistance, extreme low-temperature flexibility, chemical resistance, and inherent lubricity. While good long-term adhesion can be an issue in overmolding TPEs onto rigid thermoplastic substrates, the challenge is even greater with LSR on thermoplastics.

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.

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

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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.

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.

•Mechanical interlock helps. Even with self-bonding LSR, it’s good insurance to incorporate some form of mechanical interlock between the materials into the part design. Allowing LSR to penetrate through-holes onto the back side of the part is a good example. A rough finish on the overmolding interface area can help, but isn’t required with a good self-bonding material.

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

The pipe and fittings manufacturer’s new 200,000-square-foot facility represents a $200 million investment and will create 150 jobs.

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

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).

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.

Hard/soft overmolding has become a fundamental technique for injection molders in recent years, and a growing number of molders are extending that technology thermoset/thermoplastic combinations.

•Keep it clean. “Cleanliness is critical to adhesion, so keep the substrate clean and dry,” says Bishop. That is less of an issue if the substrates are molded in a two-shot mold with the LSR, rather than molded separately and transferred from one machine to another.

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.

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.

•Serve it up hot. “It is vital for substrate parts to be hot,” Bishop states. “The bonding of LSR to the thermoplastic is a chemical reaction. It needs a combination of time, temperature, and pressure. In general, he says, hotter is better. Typical mold temperatures for LSR are 300 to 400 F and the minimum is 250 F. The LSR has to achieve at least that internal temperature to cure adequately. Hotter is also faster—meaning shorter cure cycles.

•Watch out for additives, mold releases. Bishop advises against usin thermoplastic substrates with internal mold releases or “self-lubricating” additives, though they do not always create an adhesion problem. External mold releases are a definite no-no. And avoid any additives containing sulfur or amines, which inhibit cure of LSR. That means amine-based antistats can be a problem.

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.

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.’

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

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.

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.

•Do a preliminary test. To get a good idea of how well your substrate material will bond to a particular LSR grade, it’s a good idea to send a representative part or sample plaque of the substrate material to the LSR supplier for testing.

Mixed in among thought leaders from leading suppliers to injection molders and mold makers at the 2023 Molding and MoldMaking conferences will be molders and toolmakers themselves.

In 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.

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.

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.

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

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.

The Korean maker of injection molding machines featured eight machines in its nearly 14,000-square-foot booth with additional presses at Yushin and Incoe’s booths, as it targets 20% market share.

A handful of test shots were molded with Select-Hesive self-bonding material without any pretreatment. According to Schon, “Incredibly, the sample run was successful on the first shot, creating a perfect bond with no UV light treatment required—and more importantly, no rejects.” After passing additional tests, the client gave the go-ahead for a 25,000-piece initial run. Because of the time savings due to the absence of rejects, that initial run was expanded beyond the 10,000 parts initially scheduled.

Can’t get enough of watching toy creation? Check out "The Secret Story of Toys"to see action figures and the people who create them by Anthony Ladesich also via The Kid Should See This.

Preparing the substrate surface with chemical primers or plasma or UV treatment has been one approach to the adhesion challenge. To minimize processing steps, LSR suppliers have come out with newer “primerless” or “self-adhesive” grades that bond well on their own with thermoplastics (see accompanying case history). Even so, there are some rules to observe in order to obtain good results. Here are some key points of advice offered by Eric Bishop, North American marketing manager for Shin-Etsu Silicones of America, Inc. in Akron, Ohio (shinetsusilicones.com). Shin-Etsu supplies Select-Hesive LIMS for primerless adhesion to thermoplastics.

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.

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

An alternative solution would have required Amerimold Tech to spend $17,000 for variable-frequency light-pumping (VFLP) equipment to UV pretreat the PC surface prior to overmolding. VFLP was tested and provided some improvement but it still failed.

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.

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

Last year, Amerimold Tech Inc. was facing serious cost and time overruns if it could not solve an overmolding adhesion problem. The Marlboro, N.J., custom injection molder was producing a thermal controller housing for a leading manufacturer. The chassis, front cover, and keypad were molded in polycarbonate, and then the keypad was overmolded with LSR in a second tool and press. Amerimold’s client had an existing loyalty to a particular material supplier, whose self-bonding LSR material was already specified for the project. However, the material’s adhesion to PC was insufficient without pretreatment. The client had tried having the parts overmolded in Asia. But testing of initial samples produced a 60% scrap rate due to inadequate adhesion of the self-bonding LSR to the PC keypad.

The original model for the T. rex toy featured in this video came out of a 3-D printer, but many toy figurines are still sculpted in clay by hand. However, once the primary model is made it provides the basis for a silicon mold that in turn lets workers create a few hard plastic molds that can be handled. The plastic mold version of the toy shapes the metal production molds — molten plastic can be poured in the latter and pressed to form the final toys. Artists hand paint those at the Schleich factory.