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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

At Cooper Plastics, we offer numerous other value-added services in addition to our structural foam molding service. These services include product development, finishing, assembly, and more. By offering these services, we elevate the experience for our customers and help them get the most out of our partnership.

Boy will debut three new models in its Electric series of machines, which feature a redesigned and more compact drive and inverter technology.

Moretto offers plastics processors and micromolders for a broad suite of auxiliary solutions targeted specifically for precision processing.

It is important to determine which type of bubble your part has, and what the root cause might be. Determining bubble type will allow you to pinpoint the source and determine your next course of action to eliminate the problem.

We can provide customized solutions to meet strength, weight, and materials specifications. Below is an overview of Cooper Plastics structural foam and web capabilities.

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.

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

Key features often include multi-nozzle systems to ensure even distribution of material and foaming agents, as well as precise control over injection speeds, pressures, and temperatures. Advanced structural foam molding machines are also equipped with state-of-the-art monitoring systems that allow operators to fine-tune the process in real time.

Automation is a must-have for molders of pipettes. Make sure your supplier provides assurances of throughput and output, manpower utilization, floor space consumption and payback period.

There are many things to consider, and paying attention to the details can help avoid machine downtime and higher maintenance costs — and keep the customer happy.

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

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

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

Structural foam injection molding is a unique manufacturing process that combines traditional injection molding with a foaming agent to create parts with a foamed core and solid outer skin. The process begins by heating thermoplastic material until it becomes molten. At this point, a foaming agent is introduced into the material, which will later cause the plastic to expand and form the characteristic foam structure. The molten, gas-infused material is then injected into a mold under lower pressure than in conventional injection molding. This lower pressure allows the foaming agent to expand within the mold cavity. When the material contacts the mold walls, the surface cells collapse. This results in a core of interconnected cells surrounded by outer layers that make up a smooth, dense, solid skin.

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

Molders have long used the projected area of the parts and runner to guesstimate how much tonnage is required to mold a part without flash, but there’s a more precise methodology.

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).

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

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.

You must evaluate several factors to identify quality structural foam molding companies. A good place to start is with the level of expertise. Does the company have extensive experience with foam injection molding services? A dependable company will have a proven track record of producing structural foam parts with consistent quality and durability. This means knowing which materials and processes will yield the best results.

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.

One of automation’s key promises is repeatability: the same movement to the same location, time and time again. But to achieve that, all elements involved — robot, machine, EOAT, mold — must be in and stay in alignment.

The material used in the structural foam process is critical to achieving the desired product properties and aesthetics. Selection is often based on application requirements such as chemical resistance, dimensional stability, or the ability to withstand environmental stress. One of the benefits of working with Cooper Plastics is that we have an experienced team that can provide recommendations to ensure the final product is cost-efficient and meets industry and application specifications.

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.

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.

Machine performance and process speeds are critical when using foam to reduce part weight while retaining part integrity.

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

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

Consider the company’s capabilities to manufacture both structural foam and structural web products. That’s something you won’t find with every plastic manufacturer. Think about the company’s quality control and testing protocols as well. A company that takes quality control seriously is a company worth considering.

The injection molder has added a 950-ton Nissei injection molding machine and a Zeiss O-Inspect 543 coordinate measuring machine (CMM) inspection system to its facility in Newton Falls, Ohio.

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.

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

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

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.

Performing fundamental maintenance inspections frequently assures press longevity and process stability. Here’s a checklist to help you stay on top of seven key systems.

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.

Seek transparency from the company you’re considering by requesting a detailed quote. Getting a breakdown of anticipated production costs will allow you to decide whether you want to proceed with the project, make adjustments and get a new quote, or drop the company from your consideration list and vet a different company.

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.

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

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

Plastic injection molding is a cyclical manufacturing process that allows for cost-efficient production of a mass number of identical parts made from either thermoplastic or thermoset materials.

The Canadian-headquartered supplier of injection molding machines, hot runners and tooling announced that Bradley Selleck will become CEO, replacing John Galt who will become chairman.

All injection molding ultimately comes down to the “Man, Mold, Machine, Material and Method.” But those key aspects can be viewed differently if you’re auditing mold changes before startup or troubleshooting changes for an already validated process.

Another quality indicator is the company’s investment in advanced technology and equipment. The best structural foam molding companies like Cooper Plastics have state-of-the-art machines that offer precise control over the manufacturing process, resulting in product consistency and strict adherence to project specifications.

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

The machine we utilize at Cooper Plastics is relatively unique in that it allows us to manufacture both structural foam and structural web products. This versatility enables our customers to get ultra-large plastic parts that wouldn’t be possible with other molding technologies.

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.

An overview on the use of chemical foaming agents (CFAs) to successfully foam single and multilayered rotational molding parts, this webinar will illustrate the multiple benefits rotational molders can achieve, including reducing resin consumption, decreasing part weight, enhancing wall thickness and improving structural rigidity. Agenda: Charging the mold Dosing ratios Venting Optimal decomposition temperatures, cycle times and drop times for drop box applications Cooling considerations

Structural foam molding machines are typically high-tonnage injection molding presses equipped with advanced controls and capabilities to manage the lower pressure required for the foaming process. The machines are designed to accommodate larger molds and produce consistent, high-quality components.

Finally, you never want to overlook customer service. Seek a plastics manufacturing partner that will work closely with you throughout the entire process, from initial design to final production. The company should offer guidance, support, and communication that will ensure a project that you are completely satisfied with.

Structural foam injection molding is a method of creating lightweight, durable plastic products. The process is cost-effective due to reduced material usage and the ability to create large, complex parts in a single molding cycle. The structural foam molding process includes the following steps:

Parts that are made with the structural web process are solid with hollow channels and hollow thick sections packed out by internal injection of low-pressure nitrogen. Benefits of using the structural web process include:

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

Want to partner with Cooper Plastics for your structural foam injection molding needs? Request a free quote or contact us for more information.

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.

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

Structural foam molding is a desirable plastics manufacturing process if you need to produce large, complex parts with excellent strength-to-weight ratios. It is popular for the production of:

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.

Other structural foam materials that can be utilized include polypropylene (PP) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). These materials are known for their strength and impact resistance, making them ideal for components that require a balance of rigidity and reduced weight.

In injection molding, material is fed through a hopper into a barrel where a reciprocating screw mixes and melts the material then injects it into a mold.

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.

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.

Most molders are still relying on “general-purpose” screw designs that go back 30 years. With all of the technical improvements that have been made on machines over that time, nothing has been done to improve melt uniformity. We still use “general-purpose” (GP) screws, which well-known screw designer Bob Dray wisely has called “no-purpose” screws. That is they do not melt plastic uniformly. Processing with a uniformly melted plastic would seem like a high priority, but it has seen little if any attention.

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.

Want to discuss a question or comment related to plastics manufacturing and our services? Contact us via the contact form below. A team member will review your submission and follow up as soon as possible.

As the material cools, it solidifies into a lightweight yet rigid and strong structure. Companies can mold medium wall thickness or very thick wall sections based on need. This makes structural foam injection molding particularly advantageous for producing large, complex parts that need to be durable without being heavy. Additionally, the reduced pressure involved in the process allows for the use of larger molds and can lead to lower material costs, making it an efficient and cost-effective option for many industries.

Automation is a must-have for molders of pipettes. Make sure your supplier provides assurances of throughput and output, manpower utilization, floor space consumption and payback period.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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 cost of structural foam injection molding varies based on many factors, including the type and complexity of the product, material used, project requirements, and production run size. There are additional services that can be added that increase costs. These services include finishing processes like drilling and assembly or various post-production testing services.

NASA’s use of Aurum PI showed properties that make it a candidate for electrical wiring for future aerospace transportation.

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.

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.

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.

Cushion values in injection molding ultimately are an indication of a part’s quality, especially its dimensions. A consistent cushion will create consistent part dimensions.

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

At Cooper Plastics, we are capable of producing both structural foam core and web core plastic products. This versatility is relatively rare in the industry and makes it possible to produce a wide range of plastic structural elements that are durable and cost-effective.

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.