The above procedure ensures that the mold is securely fastened to the platens and will not shift or loosen during production. But there is one final step to consider, which will help prevent premature tool wear and rejected parts.

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

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.

Injection molding PEEK requires meticulous attention to material handling, equipment capabilities, mold design, and processing parameters. By adhering to these key elements, manufacturers can produce high-quality, reliable PEEK parts suitable for demanding applications across various industries. For more detailed guidance and best practices, consulting with PEEK material suppliers and injection molding experts is recommended.

Injection Molding Machine: Utilize a well-maintained injection molding machine with appropriate specifications for processing PEEK material, including barrel temperature control, injection pressure capability, injection speed control, and shot size capacity.

This 1-day technical conference and exhibition showcases innovative developments in materials, processing and equipment for the additive manufacturing industry. This conference is specifically designed to inform, update and educate plastic processors about implementing new additive manufacturing technologies. Hear technical presentations on the newest advances in additive manufacturing related to: design, materials development, processing equipment and enabling technologies, new applications and more. See exhibits from engineering plastic suppliers, compounders, molders, design and engineering firms and machinery suppliers. Experts will show you how to apply the latest technologies to your next project or program. The conference includes a full day of technical presentations, plenary and keynote presentations on business trends; breakfast, lunch and breaks; exhibits of advanced technologies and an evening networking reception.   Note: Additive Manufacturing Media executive editor Stephanie Hendrixson will moderate the Supporting AM Adoption in Northeast Ohio panel at 11:20 a.m.

a. Grade 8 bolts should engage the relatively soft die-cast platens by a minimum of 1.5 times their diameter to prevent stripping he threads. Two times their diameter is preferred (see Table 1). b. Ideally, the mold clamp should be square with the mold and the toe of the clamp be fully engaged in the slot.

With over 100 tons of PEEK material molding production experience, Ming-Li Precision's expertise in PEEK material molding positions the company as a leader in producing high-performance components for industries that demand the best in material properties, precision, and durability. With advanced molding techniques, custom tooling, and stringent quality control backed by IATF 16949 certification, Ming-Li delivers PEEK parts that meet the most exacting standards, ensuring reliability and performance in the most challenging applications.

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.

34. Install the hex nuts or socket-head cap screws on the end of the knockout rods with a ratcheting socket wrench or other suitable tool until they are tight.

Ming-Li Precision offers advanced capabilities in molding PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone), a high-performance engineering thermoplastic known for its exceptional mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and thermal stability. With over 100 tons of PEEK material molding production experience, Ming-Li is a valuable partner for industries requiring precision and durability in challenging environments.

This CW Tech Days virtual event will explore the technologies, materials and strategies used by composites manufacturers working in the evolving space market. Presentations from industry experts will emphasize the use of composite materials in applications requiring the weight savings, structural benefits and ability to withstand extreme temperatures that only composites can provide.

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 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

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

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.

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

a. This is a good rule of thumb. Most machine manuals will specify the minimum mold size for a given machine. Some machines even have placards mounted on the frame. b. The smaller the mold, the more the platens will “wrap around” or bow when clamped under high pressure. This can cause flash in the center of the mold. c. If the mold is excessively small, catastrophic damage to the platen can occur.

Ernie Di Siro is the Molding Manager for Nordson EFD LLC, a proprietary injection molder. He has 40 years of injection molding experience – starting out as a machine operator. Contact ernie.disiro@nordsonefd.com

Venting and Degassing: Ensure proper venting and degassing of the mold cavity to eliminate trapped air and gas bubbles during the injection process, preventing defects such as voids, bubbles, or surface imperfections in the molded parts.

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.

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

a. If the bolts are not lubricated, 85% of the torque is used to overcome friction and only 15% is available to produce bolt load. If the bolts are lubricated (with cadmium plate, molybdenum disulfide, anti-seize compounds, etc.), the friction is reduced and greater preload is produced with the same torque.

a. You can make sure the locating ring remains engaged in the platen alignment hole by occasionally looking at it from the barrel side.

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

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).

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.

Join this webinar to explore the transformative benefits of retrofitting your existing injection molding machines (IMMs). Engel will guide you through upgrading your equipment to enhance monitoring, control and adaptability — all while integrating digital technologies. You'll learn about the latest trends in IMM retrofitting (including Euromap interfaces and plasticizing retrofits) and discover how to future-proof your machines for a competitive edge. With insights from industry experts, it'll walk you through the decision-making process, ensuring you make informed choices that drive your business forward. Agenda: Maximize the value of your current IMMs through strategic retrofitting Learn how to integrate digital technologies to enhance monitoring and control Explore the benefits of Euromap interfaces and plasticizing retrofits Understand how retrofitting can help meet new product demands and improve adaptability Discover how Engel can support your retrofitting needs, from free consultations to execution

technotrans says climate protection, energy efficiency and customization will be key discussion topics at PTXPO as it displays its protemp flow 6 ultrasonic eco and the teco cs 90t 9.1 TCUs.

19. Attach the clamps on the fixed-platen side to prevent the mold from rotating or the locating ring from disengaging from the alignment hole, but do not yet fully tighten the bolts to the specified torque value.

Quality Control and Inspection: Establish comprehensive quality control measures and inspection procedures to monitor part dimensions, surface finish, and physical properties. Conduct regular inspections and testing to verify part quality and consistency.

Near Net Shapes – What are their benefits? Near net shapes are great for geometries that result in a poor machining yield from a stock shape or those requiring complex tools that are not cost justified by the volume of parts.

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.

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.

What are the basic building blocks of plastics and how do they affect the processing of that material and its potential applications in the real world? Meet the repeat unit.

Injection Unit: Ensure that the injection unit is properly calibrated and equipped with precision metering and mixing systems to accurately dispense the PEEK material into the mold cavity. Pay attention to screw design, back pressure control, and screw/barrel alignment to prevent material degradation and ensure uniform melt quality.

A well-trained and knowledgeable setup person understands the importance—and dangers—associated with the job. They have a heightened respect for their safety, as well as the safety of others, and for the molds, machines, and equipment they work with. They are an extremely valuable asset to every molding company.

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

Piotr Witaszek is the plant manager for LMT-Mercer Group, Inc., a custom injection molder with multiple facilities. He has 25 years of injection molding experience, starting out as a machine operator. Contact pwitasek@lmtproducts.com.

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.

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.

a. Keep your fingers away from the chain links. b. Make sure no one is in the immediate area during this process. Use safety cones, barrier tape, or other preventive measures.

Tool Fabrication: Fabricate the mold tooling using high-quality materials and precision machining techniques to achieve tight tolerances, smooth surface finishes, and durability. Verify the accuracy of the mold components through thorough inspection and validation.

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.

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.

Plastics Technology Top Shops Benchmarking Survey provided both unanimous responses and divided results, but pervasive throughout is the sense of an industry still grappling with the aftermath of 2020’s global pandemic.

Material Selection: Choose the appropriate PEEK material grade based on the specific application requirements, considering factors such as mechanical properties, temperature resistance, chemical resistance, wear resistance, and regulatory compliance.

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a high-performance engineering thermoplastic known for its excellent mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and thermal stability. When it comes to injection molding PEEK, certain key elements and considerations are essential to ensure successful processing and high-quality parts.

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

Five industry pros with more than 200 years of combined molding experience provide step-by-step best practices on mounting a mold in a horizontal injection molding machine.

What started out as a routine request from one Plastics Technology columnist to another to review a draft for an upcoming article led to five highly experienced industry professionals collaborating to create this article about something virtually every molder does every day—sometimes many times a day—mounting a mold in a press.

20. Use only hardened-steel washers designed to distribute the load on the clamp. Soft “hardware-store” washers will deform and come loose.

In many cases, decreasing the discharge temperature will improve product quality and perhaps even boost rate. Here are ways to do it.

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

26. Advance the moving platen up against the back of the mold. a. Look and listen for the knockout rods binding or bending.

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.

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

Training and Expertise: Ensure that operators and technicians receive proper training and have expertise in PEEK injection molding techniques, equipment operation, mold maintenance, and troubleshooting to address any challenges that may arise during production.

Part Ejection and Handling: Implement reliable part ejection mechanisms (e.g., ejector pins, air ejection) and handling systems to safely remove the molded parts from the mold cavity without damage or deformation.

a. Check for “dings” or raised areas on the mold and platen—especially the locating-ring alignment hole. Stone flush if necessary.

More than four years on, there are aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic that linger in their impacts to the plastics market and are made visible in our annual survey.

35. Stroke the ejectors forward and backward a few times to make sure they function properly and nothing is binding or squealing.

AIM Processing has parlayed small part molding expertise and aggressive automation, even for short run production, into a highly successful custom molding business.

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.

John Klees is a retired plastics specialist with more than 40 years of processing, part and mold design and construction expertise.

15. With your hand on the side or top edge of the mold, guide it into the machine and engage the locating ring into the alignment hole in the fixed platen.

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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.

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.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS: 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 specialties. Contact john@scientificmolding.com; scientificmolding.com.

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

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.

Currier Plastics had a major stake in small hotel amenity bottles until state legislators banned them. Here’s how Currier adapted to that challenge.

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.

a. Check for obstructions above the machine, such as sprinkler heads, ceiling fans, etc. b. Check that the robot, picker, or other automation is safely out of the way.

On occasion you might hear the leader pins hit the bushings when you slowly close the mold. This is not uncommon when hanging a mold that doesn’t have a lifting strap or interlocks that help vertically align the two mold halves. To correct the problem, the mold half attached to the moving platen should be “re-hung” with a slight amount of lift or pre-load from the hoist. This usually helps, but does not solve the root cause, which is platen tilt. Platen tilt will be the subject of a future article.

36. Wipe off any dirt or grease you may have deposited on the machine and clear the area of your tools and equipment. If you want to maintain a clean work environment, lead by example.

PEEK plastic exhibits superb mechanical properties and is highly resistant to chemicals and thermal degradation, making it a highly desirable material for plastic injection molded products. PEEK resin holds up well against high temperatures and long-term liquid submersion and is very durable in harsh environments. PEEK plastic makes an excellent reinforcement material, providing great tensile strength with low weight.

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

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

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

Before digging in, take note: No single procedure is correct for all applications. This procedure most likely will need to be modified to suit your special/unique situation or conditions. Also note that for safety reasons, the general procedure outlined here requires the pump to be turned on and off repeatedly. This and all other applicable safety requirements must be observed.

No more guessing about whether mold-mounting bolts are tightened properly, with an alternative to unreliable torque measurements.

There are five specific areas that designers and manufacturers need to consider to realize the potential of these unique materials.

c. The clamp bolt should be as close to the mold as possible. You want the pressure of the bolt acting on the toe—not the heel (see Fig. 1).

a. If the clamp pressure has not been established yet, use a high pressure value for large molds or large parts, and a medium pressure value for small molds or small parts.

a. “Click-type” torque wrenches help ensure all of the clamps have the same amount of torque. If all the clamps are not torqued evenly, the one(s) with the lower torque value may come lose.

By addressing these key elements and optimizing the PEEK injection molding process, manufacturers can produce high-quality, precision-molded parts with consistent performance and reliability for a wide range of applications.

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

Mold Temperature Control: Maintain precise control over mold temperature using water or oil circulation systems to achieve uniform cooling and solidification of the PEEK material, preventing defects such as warpage, shrinkage, or surface irregularities.

a. Only use shouldered eyebolts, or preferably, swivel-type hoist rings. b. Eyebolts must be threaded all the way in and tightened. c. Two eyebolts are safer than one and can help prevent the mold from tilting. d. Ideally, the location of the eyebolt is at the mold’s center of gravity, so it does not tilt.

Mold Design: Design the mold with precision to accommodate the desired part geometry, gating, venting, and cooling requirements for PEEK injection molding. Consider features such as draft angles, parting lines, and vent channels to facilitate mold release and minimize defects.

Injection Process Optimization: Optimize process parameters such as barrel temperature, injection pressure, injection speed, cooling time, and hold pressure to achieve consistent part quality, minimize cycle times, and prevent defects such as warpage, sink marks, or surface blemishes.

Jim Fattori is a third-generation injection molder with more than 40 years of molding experience. He is the founder of Injection Mold Consulting LLC, and is also a project engineer for a large, multi-plant molder in New Jersey. Contact jim@injectionmoldconsulting.com; injectionmoldconsulting.com.

a. Make sure ejector bars are the correct length, the same length, that they are straight, and the threads are in good condition. b. If the mold is equipped with knockout extensions, the ejector bars should be flush or slightly recessed from the face of the moving platen when the machine ejector (aka butterfly) plate is fully retracted.

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

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.

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.

Ming-Li works with a wide variety of materials in our injection molding processes. The high strength-to-weight ratio and heat tolerance of PEEK plastic makes it a popular choice for a wide range of applications including aerospace, biomedical, pharmaceutical, fiber optics, automotive, industrial, and more. In addition to standard injection molding, PEEK resin is also used in overmolding applications to fabricate reinforced components for aerospace and automotive.

a. If the bolts are too short, with insufficient engagement, or too long and “bottom out,” you can strip the threads in the platen.