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Best Practices For Plastic Processors

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Knowledge Centers

Resin Drying
Everything you need to know about the importance of proper drying in your production process.

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

Blending & Feeding
Deep dive into the basics of resin blending and feeding, 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

25 Jun 2025
July 2025: Prices for Volume Resins Flat to Down Heading to Third Quarter
Apparent stabilization was driven by supply-and-demand dynamics, but the uncertainty of tariffs and the hurricane season are looming.

21 May 2025
June 2025: Prices for the Five Commodity Resins Flat to Down
This overall resin pricing trend could continue into the start of the third quarter.

15 Apr 2025
May 2025: Prices for 4 of the 5 Commodity Resins Flat-to-Down
PET is the exception from this general trajectory, at least for now.

26 Mar 2025
April 2025: Mixed Bag for Prices of Volume Resins
The end of the first quarter marked higher prices for polyolefins and relatively flat pricing for nearly all other resins.

25 Feb 2025
March 2025 Resin Pricing: Commodity Resin Prices Firm Up
Unplanned and planned production disruptions, rising feedstock costs and variables such as the potential impact of pending tariffs all factor in.

21 Jan 2025
Prices Generally Trending Upward for the Five Commodity Resins
Scheduled and unscheduled production disruptions, and projected higher feedstock costs could be key factors.
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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PTXPO See All

6 May 2025
ICYMI: April Roundup
Catch up on the most-read articles that captivated our readers in April.

9 Apr 2025
Moldmakers Honored at PTXPO 2025
Several awards were presented for individual expertise as well as individual contributions to the industry and community.

8 Apr 2025
ICYMI: March Roundup
Still catching up post-PTXPO? Whether you attended the show or not, there were bound to be some must-read articles that may have slipped past you. Catch up on what you missed.

4 Apr 2025
5 Trends in 3D Printed Injection Mold Tooling
3D printing has moved beyond conformal cooling, and is now being applied to injection molds more broadly. Observations on additively manufactured mold tooling from the Plastics Technology Expo — PTXPO 2025.

31 Mar 2025
PTXPO Recap: Turning E-Waste into Durable Building Materials
Check out what you missed on the PTXPO show floor. Canon and Repolytex showcased a unique solution that skips the costly and complex plastic separation process entirely.

28 Mar 2025
PTXPO Recap: Lightweighting with Foaming Technologies
Check out what you missed on the PTXPO show floor. Foaming technologies have long offered molders a way to reduce part weight, but a new approach demonstrated by Engel and Moxietec takes it further.
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

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

2 Apr 2025
Extrusion: Live and In Person
Log out from your computer and make plans to join us in Boston this May for Extrusion 2025.

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
Building Success in LSR Molding: What Every New Molder Should Know
Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) offers unmatched versatility for producing high-quality, durable parts. If you’re starting a new LSR molding operation, what steps should you take to ensure success and what common pitfalls should you avoid? This webinar serves as a comprehensive guide for newcomers to LSR molding, outlining essential considerations for launching your operation effectively and efficiently. It’ll also explore the key advantages of onshoring production, from improved quality control to reduced lead times. Whether you’re entering the LSR market for the first time or transitioning from offshore production, this session will provide practical insights to help you succeed. Agenda: Understanding the basics: differences between thermoplastic and LSR molding LSR material insights: characteristics unique to LSR and their impact on production Selecting the right dosing equipment: evaluating systems to choose what’s right for your operation Machinery considerations: selecting the correct injection unit type and size (hydraulic vs. electric) and determining the appropriate clamp size for your needs Tooling for success: the critical role of partnering with an experienced LSR mold builder Infrastructure essentials: power requirements and operational setup critical for successful LSR molding

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 911�� 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
How Elite Mold Boosted Efficiency and Cut Sinker EDM with Mantle's Technology Register Now
Calendar See All

2 Sep 2025
Tech Days 2025: Molding, Compounding, Extrusion and Recycling Technologies for an Altered Landscape
Faced with new challenges, as well as longstanding difficulties, plastic processors are on the lookout for new technologies and services that will help them with their day-to-day operations. PT Tech Days is a series of five online presentations being broadcast each Tuesday in September 2025. Presentations will be organized around topics and given by industry suppliers.

30 Sep 2025
Electroless Nickel Conference
Save the date for the 2025 Electroless Nickel Conference! ENC25 will feature electroless nickel education and networking opportunities — all centered around improving quality, maximizing production and making the connections that could power a 911�� through the next decade.

3 Oct 2025
National Manufacturing Day 2025

8 Oct 2025
K Fair 2025
K - The international trade fair for innovations in the plastics and rubber industry K is considered the leading international trade fair in the plastics and rubber industry. Each time, the event attracts a large number of professionals from production, processing and related sectors such as mechanical engineering, the automotive industry, electronics, medical technology, the packaging industry and the construction industry from all over the world to find out about the latest innovations and make valuable contacts. A wide range of products and services in the fields of machinery, equipment, raw materials and measuring technology will be presented. Since the first exhibition in Düsseldorf in 1952, the letter "K" has embodied the fascination for the world of plastics and rubber. The next trade fair will take place in 2025 at the Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre and will be a global magnet for exhibitors and visitors alike. Save the date for K 2025 on 8-15 October 2025.

22 Oct 2025
National Plastics Meeting 2025

11 Nov 2025
MMS Top Shops 2025
Modern Machine Shop’s Top Shops Conference 2025 (TS25) is the event for CNC machining professionals to find data-driven, peer-reviewed best practices for machining technology, shopfloor practices, 911�� strategies and human resources. Founded in 2017 as a live extension of Modern Machine Shop’s annual Top Shops Benchmarking Program, the conference combines technical education, technology displays and 911�� networking all aimed at delivering practical, applicable solutions that have been defined “for shops, by shops.” Whether you are annual Top Shops survey participant or have never seen the survey before, if you are contract manufacturing 911�� interested in building your 911�� through data, technology and process improvement – the Top Shops Conference is your event.

25 Aug 2025 New & Upcoming
National Composites Week 2025 Register Now

Matthew Naitove

Matthew Naitove Contributing Editor

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sustainability 17 Jan 2022

Ocean Plastics in My Wallet

O.P. recycling helps pay the bills.

PET 5 Jan 2022

15 Headlines I’d Like to See in ’22

Extrapolating from recent news and trends, I twisted the dial from “Reasonable Possibilities” to “A Bit of Fantasy”

Recycling 23 Dec 2021

What Were the Big Themes in Plastics in 2021?

What stands out in our coverage over the past year? Five main themes are unmistakable, and—spoiler alert!—Recycling was the biggest headliner.

Stretch Blow Molding 22 Dec 2021

New Online Training in PET ISBM

Paulson Training Programs adds PET injection stretch-blow molding to its library of online training courses.

Injection Molding 13 Dec 2021

Lots of Orders Out There—If You Can Fulfill Them

It’s feast and famine for many plastics processors—lots of 911�� available, but their hands are tied by clogged supply chains and frustrating labor shortages.

Automation 10 Dec 2021

Software for Pattern Pick-and-Place Jobs with Six-Axis Robots

Free software download from Yaskawa Motoman helps define and select repetitive handling patterns.

Automation 10 Dec 2021

Online Robot Marketplace Aims to make Automation Sourcing Easier

Post your automation needs online anonymously just once—and for free—and then compare competing proposals from interested suppliers.

Automation 8 Dec 2021

Tool Changer for Smaller Six-Axis Robots

ATI Industrial Automation now offers a standard tool changer for robots in the 25-35 kg payload class.

color 2 Dec 2021

Teknor Apex Acquires Lanier Color, Expands Into PVC Colorants

Teknor broadens portfolio with PVC color concentrates and specialty compounds for building and construction.

industry 4.0 1 Dec 2021

Why Put Flow Simulation on an Injection Machine?

This emerging technology sounds promising, but its practical benefits have yet to be demonstrated clearly.

Automation 29 Nov 2021

Interface Six-Axis Robots with Injection Molding Presses

Yaskawa Motoman’s new SPI-67 hardware/software interface for six-axis robots is designed for parts removal from horizontal injection molding machines.

Packaging 10 Nov 2021

100% Biobased PET Bottle Gets Closer to Commercialization

It’s not here quite yet, but ability to make both key PET precursor chemicals from plant-based sources is “ready for commercial scaling.”

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