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Best Practices For Plastic Processors

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Knowledge Centers

Training
Combat the skilled labor shortage using this comprehensive resource to train your own plastics processing experts.

Blending & Dosing
Deep dive into the basics of blending versus dosing, controls, maintenance, process integration and more.

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

Size Reduction
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.
Resin Pricing See All

22 Nov 2024
Prices Drop for All Five Commodity Resins
While PE price reductions were not as apparent, they too were following the year-end price trajectory of PP, PS, PVC and PET.

23 Oct 2024
Prices of PP, PET Drop; PE, PS and PVC to Follow
Going into fourth quarter, prices of the five commodity resins were heading downward, barring supply interruptions.

23 Sep 2024
Prices Flat-to-Down for All Volume Resins
This month’s resin pricing report includes PT’s quarterly check-in on select engineering resins, including nylon 6 and 66.

23 Aug 2024
Prices of PE, PP, PVC Up; PS, PET Flat
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.

23 Jul 2024
Prices of PE, PP, PVC, PET Largely Firm, Flat for PS
By most measures, pricing for the five commodity resins appeared to be holding firm going into the third quarter.

21 Jun 2024
Prices Up for PE, ABS, PC, Nylons 6 and 66; Down for PP, PET and Flat for PS and PVC
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.
Collections See All

Resin Drying Done Right
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.

Get Better at Quoting Molded Parts
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.

Screw Design Tips to Boost Productivity
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.

Injection Molding Know How: Best of Bozzelli
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.

Tooling Know How: Best of Fattori
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.

Tooling Know How: Mold Venting
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.

Materials Know How: Best of Sepe
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.

Ultrasonic Welding
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.

Mold Maintenance
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.
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8 Oct 2024 Injection Molding
Equipment Suppliers Show Adaptability and Smarts at TaipeiPlas 2024
Customizable equipment solutions, warm hand-off support, and seamless software integrations highlight Taiwan’s plastics show.

18 Dec 2024 sustainability
Industrial Resin Recycling Diversifies by Looking Beyond Automotive
Recycler equips for new business in medical, housewares and carpeting.

25 Dec 2024 close up on technology
3D Printed Spine Implants Made From PEEK Now in Production
Medical device manufacturer Curiteva is producing two families of spinal implants using a proprietary process for 3D printing porous polyether ether ketone (PEEK).

9 Dec 2024 Sheet Extrusion
Sheet Extrusion, Thermoforming Tips for PLA/aPHA Blends
Biopolymers like PLA and PHA are able to meet sustainability goals while also delivering the performance attributes needed in rigid food packaging. Here’s what testing has shown.

2 Dec 2024 Testing
Using a Melt Flow Indexer to Test Your Pressure Transducer
The MFI tester enables collection of meaningful pressure data in transducers in a relatively short time, providing realistic measures of the response time of a pressure transducer. This information is critical in the interpretation of pressure data measured in an extrusion process.

6 Dec 2024 editorial
An Uphill Journey
Proper end-of-life outcomes for plastics are possible, if we’re willing to put in the work.

20 Dec 2024 Packaging
Packaging Converter Adopts PE-Based Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP) for Food Applications
Videplast and ExxonMobil collaborated on the development of this cost-effective VSP film solution that contains no ionomers.

29 Oct 2024 close up on technology
Open Automation Enables Flexibility in Chemical Recycling
Software-defined equipment control systems can be duplicated, transferred and scaled with ease.

11 Dec 2024 Automation
AMRs and Cobots Target Inspection, Palletizing and Movement of Finished Goods
The same year it marked its 70th year in business, custom injection molder Hoffer Plastics (South Elgin, Illinois) — which routinely reinvests more than 10% of its annual revenue back into new equipment — prioritized automation in that CapEx with some stunning results.

13 Dec 2024 Injection Know How
Bulk, Solid and Melt Density: How to Calculate These Values and Why They Matter — Part 1 of 2
How much resin is contained within a bucket, gaylord or hopper? That depends on the bulk density — a figure you need to learn how to calculate due to its impact on everything from storage and conveying to drying and molding.
Archive See All

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June 2024
- PTXPO
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PTXPO See All

6 Dec 2024
Register Now for Plastics Technology Expo (PTXPO)
The third iteration of the event takes place March 18-20 in Rosemont, Illinois, providing three days of exhibits, technical education and professional networking.

20 Nov 2024
Injection Molded Parts Competition Now Accepting Entries
Plastics Technology’s Hot Shots parts competition is accepting submissions for the 2025 contest, with winners to be announced at PTXPO 2025.

24 Apr 2023
Video: Ultradent Bags Both Hot Shots Prizes at PTXPO 2023
Topping five other entries in voting by fellow molders, the Ultradent team talks about their Hot Shots sweep.

3 Apr 2023
In-Person Exposition Provides a Rich Environment for Discovery of Trade Trends and Technology Applications
Serendipitous Learning Opportunities at PTXPO Underscore the Value of Being Present.

3 Apr 2023
Heated Tapered Nozzle Launches
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.

30 Mar 2023
Ultradent Sweeps 2023 Hot Shots Awards
Ultradent's entry of its Umbrella cheek retractor took home the awards for Technical Sophistication and Achievement in Economics and Efficiency at PTXPO.
NPE See All

29 Nov 2024
Advanced Drainage Systems Opens Engineering and Technology Center in Ohio
Center will be dedicated to product engineering, materials science and manufacturing technologies.

2 Sep 2024
Thin, High-Performance Nylon/PE Barrier Film for Thermoformed Packaging
Südpack’s Multifol Extreme film is well suited for greasy, protein-rich and frozen foods

2 Aug 2024
NPE2024 Wrap-Up: Sustainability Dominates Show Floor News
Across all process types, sustainability was a big theme at NPE2024. But there was plenty to see in automation and artificial intelligence as well.

26 Jul 2024
NPE 2024: Additive Manufacturing Assisting, Advancing Plastics Processing
Exhibitors and presenters at the plastics show emphasized 3D printing as a complement and aid to more traditional production processes.

16 Jul 2024
NPE2024 Sets Several Show Records
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.

16 Jul 2024
AI: The Next Big Thing in Plastics Processing
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.
Molding See All

20 Aug 2023
What Is the Molders’ and Moldmakers’ View?
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.

15 Aug 2023
Leading Molding, Moldmaking Conferences Combine
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.

13 Jul 2023
Getting the Most Out of Injection Molding Simulation
Multiple speakers at Molding 2023 will address the ways simulation can impact material substitution decisions, process profitability and simplification of mold design.

27 Jun 2023
Injection Molding and Moldmaking Automation in Focus
When, how, what and why to automate — leading robotics suppliers and forward-thinking moldmakers will share their insights on automating manufacturing at collocated event.

16 Jun 2023
Pathways to More Sustainable Injection Molding
As self-imposed and government-issued sustainability mandates approach, injection molders reimagine their operations.

29 May 2023
Molding and Moldmaking Conference Agendas Finalized
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.
Extrusion See All

29 Mar 2023
Your Tour Guide to Plastics Technology’s 2023 Events
Get your clicking finger in shape and sign up for all that we have in store for you in 2023.

2 Mar 2023
Robust Molding, Extrusion Conference Programming in the Works
Molding 2023 to take place Aug. 29-30 in Minnesota; Extrusion 2023 slated for Oct. 10-12 in Indiana.
Webinars See All

On Demand
Best Blending Practices for Today’s Production Environment
With the fluctuating costs of materials and the absence of technical staff, it is increasingly important to optimize your workflow and utilize equipment to the best of its ability. This webinar will cover the best blending practices by discussing the characteristics of the best blender, how to use the blender to the best of its ability and how to integrate the blender with other elements of the work cell. Agenda: Characteristics of the best blender How to use the blender to the best of its ability How to integrate the blender into other elements of the work cell

On Demand
Best Practices in Material Selection and Joint Design for Plastic Welding
Understanding plastic material compatibility and joint design is critical to achieving optimal weld strength and meeting industry standards. Discover how to optimize joint configurations and manage material properties to enhance weld reliability, minimize defects and boost efficiency. Gain key insights to optimize your laser and ultrasonic plastic welding processes for better results. Agenda: Learn the principles of plastic material compatibility and their impact on weld strength Discover best practices for joint design to ensure optimal welding integrity Explore strategies for optimizing weld joint configurations for enhanced reliability Understand how to manage material behavior to minimize defects during welding Gain insights into achieving compliance with stringent industry standards

On Demand
The Power of Retrofitting: Enhancing Your IMM for the Future
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

On Demand
Does a Robot Make Sense for Your Molding Process?
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

On Demand
Rotational Molding: Foam Single and Multilayered Parts With CFAs
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

On Demand
Battery Housings: Exploring Plastic Molding Potential for E-mobility
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

22 Jan 2025 New & Upcoming
Building Success in LSR Molding: What Every New Molder Should Know Register Now
Calendar See All

3 Mar 2025
SPE ANTEC 2025
ANTEC® 2025, SPE's Annual Technical Conference, showcases the latest advances in industrial, laboratory, academic, and international work focused on plastics and polymer science. ANTEC® will address a range of plastics technologies, polymer research, new materials, innovative processes, and more. There will also be a focus on scientific, technical, or industrial problems and their solutions. In addition to a comprehensive program, ANTEC® 2025 will offer exceptional networking opportunities, our prestigious SPE awards, symposiums, and our exclusive ANTEC® All-Access VIP Experience.

3 Mar 2025
International Conference on Polymers and Composites (ICPC)
The International Conference on Polymers and Composites (ICPC) aims to bring together leading academic scientists, researchers and research scholars to exchange and share their experiences and research results on all aspects of polymers and composites. It also provides a premier interdisciplinary platform for researchers, practitioners and educators to present and discuss the most recent innovations, trends, and concerns as well as practical challenges encountered and solutions adopted in the fields of polymers and composites.

5 Mar 2025
National Surface Finishing Day
Each year Products Finishing partners with thousands of finishing operations in the U.S. to celebrate National Surface Finishing Day (NSFD) on the first Wednesday in March. NSFD is designed to celebrate and showcase the industry to trade schools, businesses, officials and media, as well as to celebrate employees and staff. The overarching goal of NSFD is to bring further awareness to the important roles plating and coating facilities play in their communities. Facilities are encouraged to host events and work with local media to build awareness about the contributions made by the surface finishing industry. For a helpful guide to reaching out to media outlets, download the NSFD toolkit here. How can you celebrate? Share your company’s story Hold an open house where the public can check out your facility –— either in person or virtual Offer student shop tours to local trade schools Invite local elected officials to visit and get to know your staff Celebrate your employees Share news about what you’re doing on social media and use the hashtag #NationalSurfaceFinishingDay or #NSFD

11 Mar 2025
Plastimagen 2025
En su edición número 25, Plastimagen busca reafirmarse como la principal puerta de entrada al sector del plástico en México y Latinoamérica. Este evento reunirá a una variedad de líderes destacados de la industria del plástico, incluyendo a productores de bienes de capital, proveedores de materias primas, inversionistas, representantes de organizaciones y miembros de la academia. El evento tendrá como objetivo principal impulsar la transformación de la industria hacia un modelo más sustentable. Esto se hará buscando facilitar un desarrollo económico robusto, y proporcionando soluciones orientadas a lograr una economía circular. PLASTIMAGEN® MEXICO is the biggest international exhibition for the plastics processing industry in Mexico and Latin America. This event brings together the entire production chain with top suppliers to meet the needs of various industries. PLASTIMAGEN® MEXICO 2025 will feature over 870 companies representing 1,600 brands from more than 27 countries, 14 international pavilions, and a specialized pavilion by the National Association of Plastics Industries in Mexico (ANIPAC). You'll see the latest in plastics processing, design innovations, and materials that support the circular economy.

18 Mar 2025
PTXPO 2025
PTXPO 2025 is a comprehensive showcase of cutting-edge technologies and innovations within the plastics molding industry. Join fellow molders, moldmakers, brand owners, OEMs and their full suite of suppliers in Rosemont, IL for three days of non-stop networking, education and business development opportunities.

2 Apr 2025
Parts Cleaning Workshop
Critical Cleaning Hands-on Workshop Do it; learn it! The one-day workshop teaches how cleaning and cleanliness testing work. By participating in hands-on exercises of techniques for cleaning and cleanliness verification, attendees gain the understanding and knowledge to make practical, effective, and sustainable manufacturing decisions. While exercises are supplemented by demonstrations and tutorials, the workshop is not death by PowerPoint! Topics include aqueous, solvent, and “non-chemical” cleaning, including cleaning chemicals and cleaning processes (spray, ultrasonics, cyclic nucleation, in-line, batch). Most manufactured product and product contact surfaces require cleaning during (and sometimes after) manufacture and assembly. Examples of areas where effective cleaning is essential include: metal fabrication, product assembly, optics, electronics, microelectronics, wafer fab, medical devices, aerospace/aeronautics, military, and additive manufacturing. WHAT DO YOU CALL CLEANING? There are many different terms for cleaning. Cleaning Precision Cleaning Critical Cleaning Safety/Critical Cleaning Surface Prep for Finishing Technical Cleanliness Residue Removal WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THE WORKSHOP If you or your company fabricates, finishes, maintains or repairs product or product contact surfaces (like reaction vessels), this workshop is time well-spent. If you sell chemicals or cleaning equipment, this workshop will help you better understand and optimize the market for your products. Examples include: Manufacturing Engineers Product Designers Managers Sales and Marketing Managers Facilities Personnel Assemblers, operators Process Technicians Quality Control Personnel Regulatory Affairs Experts (industry, military, and government) Safety/environmental professionals Participants will receive a PDF Certificate of Completion with continuing education credits from Sam Houston State University.

10 Jan 2025 New & Upcoming
Detroit Auto Show Register Now
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Michael Guckes

Michael Guckes Former Chief Economist & Director of Analytics

Consumer Products 31 Oct 2017

Appliance Market Continues Upward Trend

Market drivers support continued expansion.

Packaging 31 Oct 2017

Third Quarter Finished Strong for Plastics Processing

September’s index hit 54. Processing is up about 9% year-to-date from 2016.

Consumer Products 26 Sep 2017

Electronics Production Growth Sets Sights on a Multi-Year Record

Production increases are driven by strong growth in exports.

Consumer Products 26 Sep 2017

August 2017 Index: 56.2

Plastics processors ride manufacturing growth wave.

Automotive 1 Sep 2017

Clearing the Red Tape for Driverless Cars Cuts Both Ways

New technologies and smart legislation could initiate a new round of purchases.

Automotive 31 Aug 2017

July’s Index: 52.9

Overall industry index is up 12% from last July, though processor numbers dip.

Medical 27 Jul 2017

Legislative Haggling Creates Volatility in Medical Market

GOP plan would cut medical-device tax.

Construction 27 Jul 2017

June 2017 Gardner Business Index Plastics: 52.7

Plastics Processors’ Index up by more than 12% vs. last June. Custom processors are humming along.

Packaging 28 Jun 2017

Economic Data, Wall Street Forecasts Point to Packaging Growth

Food/beverage spending and three underlying “macro” trends explain why.

Medical 28 Jun 2017

May’s Index: 56

Industry has grown steadily over last six months.

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