Know-How
Improving Twin-Screw Compounding of Reinforced Polyolefins
Compounders face a number of processing challenges when incorporating a high loading of low-bulk-density mineral filler into polyolefins. Here are some possible solutions.
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How Important is Minimizing Residence Time in Injection Molding?
Does a focus on the concept of “minimum residence time” distract attention from areas of injection molding that have more of a direct impact on melt quality?
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How to Select the Right Tool Steel for Mold Cavities
With cavity steel or alloy selection there are many variables that can dictate the best option.
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Tracing the History of Polymeric Materials, Part 25: Silicones
The long road to the development of silicone resulted in a chemistry that is remarkably versatile.
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The Right Way to Design Vents in Single-Screw Extruders
Designing vents for single-screw extruders requires understanding of polymer flow in the screw channels. Some designs are more effective than others. Here are some guidelines.
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The Importance of Melt & Mold Temperature
Molders should realize how significantly process conditions can influence the final properties of the part.
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Extruder Alignment: Important, but Only Half the Equation
The other half? Aligning and supporting downstream equipment. Here are best practices.
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Understanding Flow Fronts and Defects
Flow-front behavior and corrections are key to solving many common molding problems —what is your process’s flow trying to tell you about your part?
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Tracing the History of Polymeric Materials: Silicones
More properly known as siloxanes, silicones are a class of materials where no carbon is present in the polymer backbone.
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How Do You Estimate Cycle Time?
Molders price jobs based on estimated press time, and that is where you can either be very profitable or lose your shirt. But there’s a new, free resource to help you out.
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