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. polypropylene welding
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.
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.
By most measures, pricing for the five commodity resins appeared to be holding firm going into 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.
Whether or not your process setup includes adding cushion depends on multiple factors, including the part being molded. Learn when and how to effectively apply cushion in your process.
Molecular weight might seem like an abstract concept, but it plays a crucial role in determining the behavior of plastics during processing and in their final applications.
When Jeff Smith received a notice evicting his promising business out of his house, it could have been the end of Elite Biomedical Solutions’ and Elite Precision Plastics’ stories before they really got started, instead it was just the beginning.
Future expectations reach 2024 high on the heels of the recent election.
Researchers work to scale up a biomanufacturing process for succinic acid, an important building block for industrial chemicals and a biopolymer precursor.
Plastics auxiliary and primary processing equipment was optimized for running pellets; here’s how you can adjust to the bulk density differences of flake and regrind in drying, conveying, mixing, feeding and processing.
The Plastics Technology Expo (PTXPO) returns March 18-20 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, with elements old and new.
Entering 2025, prices of major commodity and volume resins are generally in a ‘buyer’s market.’
Leading maker of portable sanitation products knew thermoforming, sheet extrusion, rotomolding and injection molding. Then it found the missing link to higher productivity and new markets: blow molding.
DCT saves 60 man-hours per week by shifting from paper records and discrete spreadsheets to a shared, automatic production monitoring platform.
The Plastics Technology Expo (PTXPO) returns March 18-20 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, with elements old and new.
The third iteration of the event takes place March 18-20 in Rosemont, Illinois, providing three days of exhibits, technical education and professional networking.
Plastics Technology’s Hot Shots parts competition is accepting submissions for the 2025 contest, with winners to be announced at PTXPO 2025.
Topping five other entries in voting by fellow molders, the Ultradent team talks about their Hot Shots sweep.
Serendipitous Learning Opportunities at PTXPO Underscore the Value of Being Present.
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.
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
Join us as we celebrate the 50th year of the IPOC Fast facts SPE International Polyolefins Conference 2025: The Preeminent Polymer Conference in the World dedicated to Polyolefins since 1975 The in-person conference will also have online access In-person & virtual participants have access to the mobile or web app for the conference to view the presentations from the speakers for 6-months post-conference. *When access is given by speaker We expect in excess of 875 people from around the globe to participate either in-person or virtually The improved layout of the exhibit floor offers easy access and flow for the 60+ companies expected to exhibit Many sponsorship opportunities to introduce, highlight, and showcase products Monday-Wednesday was opened with a keynote speaker 130+ Technical papers, Sunday afternoon Tutorial Student Poster Competition 2 Evening Networking Socials along with numerous coffee breaks, on the exhibition floor, during the day Meeting rooms are available for rent to meet with customers and suppliers onsite *For exhibitors and also silver level sponsors Exhibition hall open from Monday morning until Wednesday noon
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.
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 itself as the main gateway to the plastic sector in Mexico and Latin America. This event will bring together a variety of prominent plastics industry leaders, including capital goods producers, raw material suppliers, investors, organization representatives and members of academia. The main objective of the event will be to promote the transformation of the industry towards a more sustainable model. This will be done by seeking to facilitate robust economic development, and providing solutions aimed at achieving a circular economy. 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.
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.
While the major correction in PP prices was finally underway, generally stable pricing was anticipated for the other four commodity resins.
Barring any major production or logistical disruptions, prices of PE, PS and PVC were largely expected to be stable through the second quarter, with those of PET likely to move up a bit this month driven by raw material formulation cost increases. The key outlier was PP with the months’ long anticipated major price correction taking place in the April-May time frame. Demand has been characterized as slowed across the board for all five commodity resins, though an upward trend was anticipated. This is largely due to prebuying for restocking primarily due to the upcoming hurricane season.
These are the views of purchasing consultants from Resin Technology Inc. (RTi), senior analysts from Houston-based PetroChemWire (PCW), CEO Michael Greenberg of The Plastics Exchange, Scott Newell, executive v.p. polyolefins at distributor/compounder Spartan Polymers, Mike Burns of Plastic Resin Market Advisors, and resin pricing expert Robin Chesshier.
Polyethylene prices in April were another rollover and this trend had a good likelihood of continuing into the May-June time frame, according to PCW’s associate director for PE, PP and PS David Barry, The Plastics Exchange Greenberg, Mike Burns of Plastic Resin Market Advisors and resin pricing expert Robin Chesshier. Meanwhile, suppliers reiterated their 3¢/lb increase initiatives and issued a May prices hike of 3¢/lb. Chesshier noted that demand for domestic products was down while ‘cheap’ imports continued to arrive and supplier inventories grew, and expected a relatively stable market for PE, barring a major production or supply event.
Burns saw the market as favoring processors and converters, venturing that discounted offers from suppliers and additional sufficient availability in the secondary market is expected to apply downward price pressure on the January 5¢/lb price hike. While PCW’s Barry also did not see potential for another increase and saw prices as remaining relatively stable, he did not anticipate the same scenario for the second half of this year as that of 2023. “We saw a big drop in prices in last year’s second half but there are some different factors at play, including increased prices in crude oil. Also, suppliers’ inventories are more balanced, with exports now accounting for nearly 50% of sales,” he noted.
Reporting on spot market trading, The Plastics Exchange’s Greenberg reported that processors appeared to be amply supplied. “We have been seeing fairly normal order flow, as opposed to the type of activity that signifies either inventory building or destocking.”
Polypropylene prices were poised to fall by double digits in April, in step with propylene monomer, while some further decrease was also projected for May, with this month likely to level off, according to PCW’s Barry, Spartan Polymers’ Newell and The Plastic Exchange’s Greenberg. While suppliers were seeking to implement a margin improvement increase of 2¢/lb in April, these sources saw the outcome as unlikely.
Spartan Polymers’ Newell ventured the months’ long anticipated major correction of PP prices, put off primarily due to planned and unplanned monomer shutdowns, could add up to about 15¢/lb. He noted that between August 2023 and March 2024, PP prices moved up 23¢/lb. Noting that spot prices were flat-to-lower, PCW’s Barry ventured that suppliers reportedly had “ample line time available,” indicating that contract buyers had postponed buying in April.
Demand was expected to be stronger in May, as processors anticipated lower prices. These sources described demand in nearly all sectors as slowed, with orders not materializing as was expected going into second quarter. Still, they anticipated that prebuying in May-June would bolster demand as processors looked to stock up, particularly due to the potential of a very active hurricane season.
The Plastics Exchange’s Greenberg confirmed his company saw active trading as April was ending, reporting that spot market supply began to open up at lower prices, enabling more transactions. “It required slim margins to complete a number of the deals, but sellers were willing to unload material, some at losses, as lower cost replacement material began making its way into the market.”
Polystyrene prices appeared to be settling flat in April, were likely to follow suit in May and possibly this month, according to PCW’s Barry and resin pricing expert Robin Chesshier. This, after moving up a total of 10¢/lb in first quarter, driven primarily by benzene prices. Chesshier ventured that based on market fundamentals and barring any major supply disruption, the PS market prices could remain stable through much of second quarter. Demand was a bit better, but not compared to typical seasonal demand of past years, she noted.
PCW’s Barry reported the implied styrene price based on a spot formula (30% ethylene, 70% benzene) varied by less than 1¢/lb through a six-week period leading to the last week of April. He characterized PS demand as lackluster with no supply issues reported despite some temporary unplanned styrene monomer plant issues.
PVC prices moved up 1¢/lb in April, following the March 3¢/lb and February 2¢/lb hikes, back-to-back increases that have not taken place for a few years in this market, according to Paul Pavlov, RTi’s v.p. of PP and PVC and PCW’s associate director PVC and pipe Donna Todd. Pavlov projected relatively flat pricing for the May-June time frame.
Driven primarily by increased demand for infrastructure projects, demand for PVC was up between 5% and 7% over 2023, Pavlov noted. Commenting on the increases, Todd noted that with the April increase, suppliers would have achieved only 6¢/lb out of the 9¢/lb they had sought so far this year. “Generally speaking, May has been viewed as the last month in which a springtime price increase could be announced, as pricing normally flattens out for the summer barring a hurricane that takes down production facilities.”
PET prices in April appear to be settling flat to slightly up after moving up 4¢/lb-to-5¢/lb in first quarter, all based on raw material formulation costs, according to Kevin Mekaru, RTi’s senior business unit leader, commodity plastics. While he thought PET prices would be a rollover in May, he ventured that an increase could emerge for early June, due to a combination of anticipated prebuying by suppliers as processors built up inventories for the summer season and prices of key raw material paraxylene moving up as the gasoline season kicks in and its availability for PET production becomes tighter. Meanwhile, attractively priced imports continue to be an issue for domestic suppliers.
Temporary upward blips don't indicate any sustained movement in the near term.
Trajectory is generally flat-to-down for all commodity resins.
Flat-to-downward trajectory for at least this month.
Major price correction looms for PP, and lower prices are projected for PE, PS, PVC and PET.
Coverage of single-use plastics can be both misleading and demoralizing. Here are 10 tips for changing the perception of the plastics industry at your company and in your community.
Plastics processors are finding applications for 3D printing around the plant and across the supply chain. Here are 8 examples to look for at NPE2024.
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