Combat the skilled labor shortage using this comprehensive resource to train your own plastics processing experts.
Deep dive into the basics of blending versus dosing, controls, maintenance, process integration and more. plastic part design for injection molding training
This Knowledge Center provides an overview of the considerations needed to understand the purchase, operation, and maintenance of a process cooling system.
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.
Scheduled and unscheduled production disruptions, and projected higher feedstock costs could be key factors.
Entering 2025, prices of major commodity and volume resins are generally in a ‘buyer’s market.’
While PE price reductions were not as apparent, they too were following the year-end price trajectory of PP, PS, PVC and PET.
Going into fourth quarter, prices of the five commodity resins were heading downward, barring supply interruptions.
This month’s resin pricing report includes PT’s quarterly check-in on select engineering resins, including nylon 6 and 66.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Thousands of people visit our Supplier Guide every day to source equipment and materials. Get in front of them with a free company profile.
The all-electric press will connect with auxiliaries in its booth via the LS Smart Factory MES application.
In case you missed it, here’s a short recap of the articles that our readers are taking note of.
Arkansas laboratory can detect and characterize per and poly fluorinated compounds.
Beyond gleaning contacts and information by walking its bustling aisles, the third edition of the Plastics Technology Expo (PTXPO) will present attendees the opportunity to gather more than information on the latest technologies, they can also bring back knowledge.
The Plastics Technology Expo (PTXPO) returns March 18-20 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, with elements old and new.
Plastics Technology’s Hot Shots parts competition is accepting submissions for the 2025 contest, with winners to be announced at PTXPO 2025.
Center will be dedicated to product engineering, materials science and manufacturing technologies.
Südpack’s Multifol Extreme film is well suited for greasy, protein-rich and frozen foods
Across all process types, sustainability was a big theme at NPE2024. But there was plenty to see in automation and artificial intelligence as well.
Exhibitors and presenters at the plastics show emphasized 3D printing as a complement and aid to more traditional production processes.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Multiple speakers at Molding 2023 will address the ways simulation can impact material substitution decisions, process profitability and simplification of mold design.
When, how, what and why to automate — leading robotics suppliers and forward-thinking moldmakers will share their insights on automating manufacturing at collocated event.
As self-imposed and government-issued sustainability mandates approach, injection molders reimagine their operations.
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.
Get your clicking finger in shape and sign up for all that we have in store for you in 2023.
Molding 2023 to take place Aug. 29-30 in Minnesota; Extrusion 2023 slated for Oct. 10-12 in Indiana.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
AIMPLAS is organizing the II Edition of the International Seminar focused on biotechnology applied to the plastics sector. The seminar aims to present the current situation, new developments, and trends in the legislation and regulations governing the plastics industry. To address the challenges and opportunities that biotechnology presents to the plastics sector, as well as the trends and initiatives being implemented to achieve the goals set at the European level, AIMPLAS has organized the second edition of its International Seminar on Biotechnology Applied to the Plastics Sector, which will take place on March 5th and 6th in Valencia in a face-to-face format.
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
In its 25th edition, Plastimagen seeks to reaffirm as the main gateway to the plastic sector in Mexico and Latin America. This event will bring together a variety of leading leaders of the plastic industry, including capital goods, suppliers of raw materials, investors, representatives of organizations and members of the Academy. The event will have as its main objective to promote the transformation of the industry towards a more sustainable model. This will be sought to facilitate robust economic development, and providing solutions aimed at achieving a circular economy. PLASTIMAGEN® MEXICO IS THE BIGEST 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 COMPANIS REPRUBOVE 1,600 Brands from More than 27 Countries, 14 International Pavililons, and A Specialized Pavilion by the National Association of Plastics Industries Industries In Mexico (Anipac). You'll see the latest in plastics processing, design innovations, and materials that support the circular economy.
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, Illinois, for three days of nonstop networking, education and business development opportunities.
LS Mtron is providing a 420-ton injection molding machine to Hard Head Veterans for creation of tactical bump helmets and upcoming E-Class aramid fiber-infused safety helmets.
HHV Injection Molding Lead Daniel Cowart holds HHV products in front of the company’s 120-ton LS Mtron machine. Source: LS Mtron
Hard Head Veterans (HHV) has added a 420-ton LS Mtron injection molding machine to its manufacturing facility to create precision-engineered helmets, accessories and components.
HHV is a veteran-owned manufacturer based in Sweetwater, Texas, known for producing a growing list of ballistic helmets and tactical helmets for military and law enforcement. It also makes Kevy Safety hard hats and safety helmets, which are designed to provide durability, comfort and advanced protection.
LS Mtron says this collaboration will augment HHV’s injection molding technology in its manufacturing process, enabling the production of innovative helmets and accessories, and paving the way for HHV’s upcoming release of an E-Class aramid fiber-infused safety helmet. Class E (Electrical) hard hats are designed to reduce exposure to high-voltage conductors, and offer dielectric protection up to 20,000 volts (phase to ground).
As the first phase of the collaboration, the introduction of an E-Class aramid fiber-infused safety helmet will combine the latest in helmet technology with the precision and durability of LS Mtron’s molding equipment. Aramid fibers (short for aromatic polyamide) are a class of heat-resistant and strong synthetic fibers used in aerospace and military applications, for ballistic-rated body armor fabric and ballistic composites.
This partnership builds upon the existing relationship in which HHV already utilizes a 140-ton machine to manufacture parts on a daily basis. Together, these machines will enable HHV to maintain high production standards and meet the growing demand for its premium helmets and accessories.
“Our continued partnership with LS Mtron is a game changer for us,” says Dub Robertson, plant director for Hard Head Veterans. “We’re already seeing the benefits of their 140-ton machine, which has been delivering top-quality parts daily. The addition of the 420-ton machine will allow us to scale even further, producing helmets with unparalleled precision while maintaining our commitment to U.S. manufacturing.”
The 140-ton machine is already in use for daily production of helmet parts, and the newly added 420-ton machine will be used for the creation of tactical bump helmets and the upcoming E-Class aramid fiber-infused safety helmet. LS Mtron’s advanced technology offers precision engineering to ensure that each helmet component meets HHV’s rigorous safety and quality standards.
HHV says this partnership also reaffirms its commitment to U.S. manufacturing. By utilizing LS Mtron’s cutting-edge equipment, HHV aims to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. and support domestic production.
“South Korea is a close ally of the United States, and LS Mtron’s machines benefit from 0% import duties and no tariffs, making this partnership a significant win for U.S. manufacturing looking to acquire equipment,” Robertson says.
LS Mtron is part of the LS Group, a South Korean-based conglomerate with over 25,000 employees. LS Mtron Injection Molding Machines (LS IMM), a division of LS Mtron, was started in 1969 by South Korea’s LG Corp., one of the world’s largest plastic molders. Founded initially to satisfy its own production needs for injection molded components used in its televisions, appliances, electronics and other products, today LS IMM produces around 3,000 machines per year, not only for use by its network of LS-related and LG-founded companies but also for thousands of molders around the world.
LS IMM says it can provide new custom molding machines to its customers in North America in just 100 days — from casting to cargo or even faster from its stocked inventory.
Molders looking to both monitor an injection molding process effectively and manage production can definitely do both with tools available today, but the question is how best to tackle these twin challenges.
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.
Determining the source of streaking or contamination in your molded parts is a critical step in perfecting your purging procedures ultimately saving you time and money.
Improvements in nozzle design in recent years overcome some of the limitations of previous filter, mixing, and shut-off nozzles.
The Miami, Fl. based injection molder has ordered 11 new injection molding machines from LS Mtron.
LS Mtron’s expanded range of LSG-V vertical machines has 13 models with a variety of injection and rotary table formats.
NPE2024: In addition to new machines, LS Mtron is also launching a new 18-inch multitouch controller from Keba.
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