A Lifetime of Innovation in Plastics Machinery: Wolfgang Meyer

Wolfgang Meyer, inducted into the Plastics Hall of Fame in 2024, is a distinguished German mechanical engineer renowned for his transformative impact on the plastics machinery industry. With a career spanning over half a century, Meyer's innovative contributions to injection molding, blow molding and sustainability have shaped the landscape of plastics manufacturing.

Meyer’s journey began in 1970 at Bayer in Germany, where he developed the pioneering polycarbonate structural foam molding process and its applications. In 1975, he joined Schloemann-Siemag and subsequently moved to the United States to work with Beloit Corp., the licensee for Schloemann-Siemag’s structural foam injection molding machine technology. His expertise and leadership abilities were quickly recognized, leading to his appointment as sales manager for Europe at Battenfeld headquarters in 1977.

Upon returning to the U.S. in 1980, Meyer ascended to the role of president of Battenfeld of America Corp. Under his guidance, Battenfeld became a key supplier of small injection molding machines for precision parts. The company also gained recognition for its large machines with automation, including the largest in North America with an impressive 9,000 tons of clamping force.

In 2000, Meyer joined SIG Kautex as president during a period of transition. Recognizing the need for innovation, he introduced 3D suction blow molding for automotive air ducts, revitalizing the company’s product line. Renamed Kautex Machines, the company shifted its focus to German industrial packaging machines and smaller shuttle machines assembled in China under Meyer’s leadership. He expanded the company's sales territory to include Mexico as well as Central and South America, establishing a robust network of sales and service staff to support new business ventures.

Meyer’s tenure as president of W. Müller USA from 2010 saw further advancements in plastics technology. He successfully promoted tri-layer technology for processing recycled content, enhancing sustainability in single-use bottle applications. Meyer’s strategic vision and dedication to innovation propelled W. Müller's business of retrofitting extrusion heads on existing blow molding machines to new heights.

Today, as the principal of Plastics Business Consultants, Meyer shares his wealth of industry experience with companies seeking guidance on extrusion blow molding applications and machinery. He represents blow molding machine manufacturer Bekum America in the Northeastern U.S. and serves as a member of the company's board of directors, contributing to its strategic direction.

Meyer's contributions have been widely recognized, earning him the prestigious Engineer of the Year Award from the Society of Plastics Engineers. From 2019 to 2021, he served as president of the Plastics Pioneers Association, advocating for the industry's future generations.

Beyond his professional achievements, Meyer is deeply involved in his community in Tewksbury, New Jersey, where he resides.