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

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.

31 May 2024
Prices Drop for PP, Largely Flat for PE, PS, PVC, and PET
While the major correction in PP prices was finally underway, generally stable pricing was anticipated for the other four commodity resins.

9 May 2024
Prices for PE, PS, PVC, PET Trending Flat; PP to Drop
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.
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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Latest Issue See All

14 Oct 2024 best practices
Get the Most From Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastic Composites Parts
There are five specific areas that designers and manufacturers need to consider to realize the potential of these unique materials.

25 Sep 2024 economics
Plastics Processing Activity Contraction Continues in August
Four months of consecutive contraction overall.

18 Oct 2024 Sheet Extrusion
How to Decrease the Extrudate Temperature in Single-Screw Extruders
In many cases, decreasing the discharge temperature will improve product quality and perhaps even boost rate. Here are ways to do it.

16 Oct 2024 Medical
Custom Molder Pivots When States Squelch Thriving Single-Use Bottle Business
Currier Plastics had a major stake in small hotel amenity bottles until state legislators banned them. Here’s how Currier adapted to that challenge.

11 Oct 2024 Materials Know How
Polymer Science for Those Who Work With Plastic — Part 1: The Repeat Unit
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.

7 Oct 2024 Automation
Injection Molder Amplifies Automation for Optimized Production
AIM Processing has parlayed small part molding expertise and aggressive automation, even for short run production, into a highly successful custom molding business.

9 Oct 2024 sustainability
The Importance of Mass Balance in Chemical Recycling
Approaches to mass balance can dramatically impact calculations of recycled content.

2 Oct 2024 editorial
COVID-19’s Long Shadow
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.

4 Oct 2024 best practices
Annual Benchmarking Survey of Injection Molders Released
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.

21 Oct 2024 best practices
Fighting Dust and Noise in Regrind Operations
Mayhew Basque Plastics implemented lower speed granulators to deal with challenging materials.
Archive See All

September 2024

August 2024

July 2024

June 2024

May 2024

April 2024
- PTXPO
- NPE
- Molding
- Extrusion
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PTXPO See All

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.

27 Mar 2023
Temperature Control Units on Display at PTXPO
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.

23 Mar 2023
Shibaura Machine Company PTXPO Spotlight
Shibaura discusses the upcoming Plastics Technology Expo (PTXPO) March 28-30
NPE See All

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.

15 Jul 2024
Additives Boast Sustainability Without Sacrificing Performance
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.
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

23 Oct 2024
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

13 Nov 2024
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
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

On Demand
Extrude Your Expectations: The Ins and Outs of PVC Pipe Extrusion Technology
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

On Demand
Digital Transformation of MES in the Plastics Industry: Impacts and Insights
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

On Demand
Design and Produce Food and Beverage Packaging for the Circular Economy
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

9 Oct 2024 New & Upcoming
Rotational Molding: Foam Single and Multilayered Parts With CFAs Register Now
Calendar See All

1 Oct 2024
Tech Days 2024
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.

17 Oct 2024
SPE Conference — Additive Manufacturing: Printing the Plan for the Future
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.

8 Apr 2025
Formnext Chicago 2025
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).
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