EPPM February 2013

Borche Injection Moulding machines incorporatethe latest technology at a price that keeps you competitive

Control CAPEX, retain qualityand improve efficiency

February 2013

www.plasticmachineryuk.com

Industry leading power savings | 60 to 6000 tonne capacity | Established support network

in this issueMACHINERY pages 6–15

REGULARS:Latest news 6–8

SHOWCASE: TESTING & INSPECTION 10–12

SPOTLIGHT: PIPE & PROFILE EXTRUSION 13–15

MATERIALS pages 16–23

REGULARS:Latest news 16–19

SHOWCASE: ENGINEERING PLASTICS 20–23

pages 34–35CLASSIFIEDS

INDUSTRY NEWS & EVENTS pages 26–32

Latest news 26–32

APPLICATION FOCUS pages 24

Household Products 24

261615

eppmwww.eppm.com

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© February 2013. While every attempt has been made toensure that the information contained

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FEBRUARY 2013 • WWW.EPPM.COM • 3

Welcome to the first issue of European Plastic Product Manufacturerfor 2013. Last year we saw a surge of innovation, particularly in themachinery field. This year we’re already starting to build on thesuccess of 2012. In this issue, we’re carrying news from Netstal on theElion 3200, which many readers may have seen unveiled at Fakuma.According to reports,this machine hasbeen received‘exceptionally well’so far since its arrivalon the market. Not to mention themachine featured on the front cover of this magazine. These machinesare manufactured by Borche and sold in the UK by Plastic MachinerySales, who are currently receiving phenomenal interest in the fullrange. Find out more on the opposite page. The innovation streak from equipment suppliers is set to continue for2013. And they’re not the only ones with new launches. Rapid NewsCommunications Group, the publisher of this magazine, as well as

British Plastics and Rubber,Medical Plastics News, MiddleEastern Plastics and organiser ofthe Interplas and Mediplas events,has launched a new product whichis an all-encompassing tool for theindustry. Plastrep.com is an onlineglobal directory for suppliers ofany product or service that may beused by plastic processors ormanufacturers at any stage of thesupply chain. There’s moreinformation in our new Events andIndustry News section.Which brings me to yet anothernew arrival. We’ve established two

new sections for EPPM this year. The first is the Application Focus.This will be a showcase for end-products which make innovative usesof plastic materials or processing technologies. Each issue will have adifferent ‘theme’, and we’re starting with household and everydayproducts, inclusive of a range of well-designed items from furniture topackaging. Next time, we’re looking at construction and infrastructure,so I’d be glad to hear from any readers or suppliers who know of anyrecent applications of plastic technologies in this field. The second new section, as mentioned above, is called Events andIndustry News. Whilst we have always accommodated this type ofnews, we wanted to give it a special platform — after all it is a K-Showyear, and I’m anticipating some exciting and relevant news updatesfrom the organisers of this and many other key events in the comingmonths. That’s all the news from EPPM for now. As always, I hope there’ssome useful information in the following pages to apply to yourmanufacturing process.

David Gray, Editor

New year, new products...

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John Sturgess, Director,MG Stuma

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Graham Pickwell, Technical Adviser,

Polymer Training & Innovation Centre

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John Bunker,Member, Worshipful

Company ofHorners

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Omer Kutluoglu, CEO,2K Manufacturing

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Martin Marron, MD,Biffa Polymers

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Jonathon Short, MD,ECO Plastics Ltd.

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Barry Assheton, SalesDirector, CRDM

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Andy Bone, Sales Director, Formaplex

Mark Bonifacio, President, Bonifacio Consulting Services

Pack

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Simon Chidgey,Director, M&H Plastics

Med

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Andrew Feilden,Principle Consultant,

Smithers Rapra

Med

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Graeme Diston,Senior Injection MouldingEngineer, Bausch + Lomb

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Andrew McArthur, Engineering Manager, IKO

Andrew Smith, Head ofManufacturing, Numatic

International

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John Ellis, SegmentManager Polycarbonate,

Bayer MaterialScience

Nigel Brown, FoundingMD, Frontier Aerospace

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Alex Collins, Director,Vannplastics Ltd.

Wire

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Jon Herbert, Director,FS Cables

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Dr Martin Kay,Chief Consultant, Pira International

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Dr Terence A. Cooper,CEO, ARGO Group

International

Regu

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Com

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Vicki Sayer, RegulatoryManager, Colormatrix

Gene

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Clive Maier,Owner and Director,

Econology Ltd.

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Ken Braney, 2010-2011President,Society of

Plastics Engineers

Educ

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UK &

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Charmaine Bowers,Operations Manager, PolymerTraining & Innovation Centre Ad

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Dr Gerd Schmaucks,Independent

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Paul Maley, SeniorMechanical Engineer,

Selex Elsag

Our Editorial Advisory Board is compiled of a cross-section ofthe plastics industry, including processors, consultants,technicians and key industry figures.

James Goddard, Honorary Lifetime

Member, Plastics PipeInstitute

from the editor

“

”

Powered by

4 • WWW.EPPM.COM • FEBRUARY 2013

60 tonne 26500

120 tonne 33000

150 tonne 39500

200 tonne 44000

320 tonne 69000

400 tonne 84500

500 tonne 109000

650 tonne 142000

800 tonne 188000

1000 tonne 225000

1300 tonne 270000

Full range to 6000 Tonnes

cover story

Plastic Machinery Sales has been a primary dealer inused machinery for over 40 years. Due to the changein the industry in the UK, quality used machinesbecame harder to source whilst demand from all areasof the plastic manufacturing business increased.CAPEX restrictions on industry demanded greater costeffectiveness that the existing new machinerymanufacturers struggled to fulfill. The lack of qualityused machines in the market led PMS to look at a newgeneration of machines to bridge this gap.

Borche manufactures a range of injection mouldingmachines up to 6000 tonne capacity. The machines aredesigned in Europe and incorporate the very latesttechnology, giving industry-leading quality at a pricethat is compelling to all users. PMS offers a uniqueservice in the supply of new machines, providingexceptional value and support throughout the UK. Themachines are simple to operate and have a range ofoptions to allow customers to buy exactly what theyneed, and fully guaranteed, reducing the risk of a usedmachine, but at a price that reflects the drive to reducemanufacturing costs.

Key advantages of buying Borche include:

• Industry leading power saving technology (drycycling a 320 tonne machine draws less power than a3 bar electric fire)• 100% guaranteed and support from a dedicated UKteam• Trade-in options on all old and inefficient plant atguaranteed market rates• Customise the machine to suit exactly what the userneeds (users can even change the colour)• Short lead times• Tool trials on all machines prove efficiency andquality

• PMS brings 40 years experience in supplying to theplastics industry• Finance packages available• Toggle and hydraulic options• All logistics and installation dealt with directly by PMS

Alec Farrell, Managing Director of PMS said “Since lastJune we have sold 22 machines into the UK and sincethe start of this year many customers have been soimpressed with the quality that we are taking neworders every week. It is not simply the price (a new,guaranteed 320 tonne machine is only £72,000 fullyinstalled) but the ease of operation, the simple to usecontrol, fabulous power saving technology and shortlead times give our clients the latest equipment at theright price. We have enquiries for a number ofmachines throughout the range including multi-shotcombinations from current users who have seen majorimprovements in their manufacturing efficiencies.”

Example prices for the Borche range (£).

New machinesoffered at used machineprices

Plastic Machinery Sales Ltd.Tel: +44 1299 253 338Email: [email protected]: www.plasticmachineryuk.com

An enquiry costs nothing, and PMS is encouragingreaders to join its clients in the automotive, packagingand general moulding sectors and find out why they areso pleased. Interested parties can visit the group atPDM (stand D020) or visit them directly to see themachines in action.

The BS400 tonne machinefrom Borche.

The BS320 tonne machinefrom Borche.


MACHINERY

Modern machinery and equipment oftenrequires connections not just for electricpower, hydraulics, cooling fluids andpneumatics but frequently also datatransfer, fibre optics, sensors andthermocouples. Stäubli’s CombiTacrange of modular connectors allows allof these connections to be made in onesimple operation, saving time andimproving circuit integrity.Stäubli’s CombiTac programme hasbeen introduced in response to theincreasing requirement for multipleconnections on modern machinery andequipment. It combines the versatility ofselecting the most suitable fluid, air, dataand electrical couplings from their widerange and fitting these onto a single,easy to use, space saving connectorplate. There are over six million possibleconfigurations.Benefits result from speeding up theconnection procedure and alsoeliminating any chance of wrong orcross connection since the connectionplates can only be connected in oneposition. High performance guiding andlocking systems ensure safe and secureconnections. Dry break connectors bringthe added advantage of preventing anyloss of fluid on connection or

disconnection and also preventing anyingress of contaminants into thecircuits.The CombiTac range is IP65 rated (IP68is available on request) and provides acomplete and specially tailored solutionfor each application. The modules canaccommodate seven types of quickrelease fluid or air couplings from 3 to8mm diameter and numerous electricalcontacts, including 4-pole and 2-polemodules from 1 to 8mm diameter withup to 26 contacts per module and acapability up to 600V and 125A. Datatransmission by CAT 5 and 6, EthernetIEEE 802.3, Profibus, Interbus andCANbus; up to 2 contact carriers of 8poles per module. Each CombiTac module has beendesigned to be housed either in amobile housing for manual connectionsor as a rackable solution for automaticconnection. Stäubli’s programme canaccommodate every configuration.Six standard housings can be selectedas well as numerous bespoke designs,as appropriate for the type and numberof connections included and eachspecific application.Applications are wide ranging, wherevera combination of fluid and electrical

connections is required, the flexible andadaptable CombiTac system can providea fast, reliable and safe solution.Stäubli’s team of connection specialistsare available to give advice on how theadvantages of their CombiTacprogramme can benefit manufacturers intheir specific applications.

Stäubli’s CombiTac programme has beenintroduced in response to the increasingrequirement for multiple connections on

modern machinery and equipment.

Stäubli UK Ltd.Tel: +44 1952 671918Email: [email protected]: www.staubli.com/en/connectors

Modular connection system suits all circuits

Primo 200E is a new single-sidemounted dry-cut strand pelletizer fromAutomatik Plastics Machinery, featuringan extra-large cutting width of 200mm. The Primo 200E features a cuttinggeometry with a short unguided lengthbetween the feed rolls and the cut. This geometry enables optimum straightcutting of both hard and very soft plasticstrands.The pelletiser is suitable forcompounding of thermoplastics, forfunctional and additive masterbatchproduction and for the production ofcolour concentrates up to a linethroughput rate of 1.5 tonnes per hour.It features cutting tool sets for hard,abrasive and soft, flexible plastics. Thepellet dimensions can be quicklychanged by means of an optionalautomatic pellet length adjuster. This isdone using a second drive motor for thefeed mechanism with an integratedspeed control.When processing abrasive products andat high production temperatures, thePrimo 200E can be equipped with aseparately driven, wear-resistant metalfeed roll instead of the standardelastomer feed roll.The design of the Primo 200E makes it asuitable choice for the production ofmicro-quantities of colour masterbatchesand concentrates. It features a low-

deposit cutting chamber and enablesshort retooling times, and the cuttingand tool changing process is said to bequick and easy.Automatik Plastics Machinery describesa “strong and rugged” design of thecantilevered pelletizer.The feed geometry is designed withoutany major deflections, so the plasticstrands are not subjected to pre-tensioning prior to cutting. This meansthat even highly fragile polymers such aspolystyrene or highly filledmasterbatches can be pelletized in highqualities.

Automatik Plastics Machinery GmbHTel: +49 6026 503 354Email: [email protected]: www.maag.com

Dry-cut strand pelletiser goes to market

The Primo 200E

Husky Injection MoldingSystems has announced thekick-off of the Husky World

Tour 2013, a new series of globalcustomer events that will take placethroughout the year in the Americas,Europe, the Middle East and AsiaPacific. With multiple local customerevents spanning the globe, the HuskyWorld Tour 2013 is a first-of-its-kindfor the injection molding industry,giving current and prospectivecustomers more direct access toHusky’s latest technologies at a locallevel. The tour will support Husky’sincreasing focus on providingtargeted solutions to help customersin its core markets reduce variability,improve part cost and increaseproductivity.“We are excited about the HuskyWorld Tour 2013 because it will giveus a number of ongoing opportunitiesto showcase our technologies directlyto customers throughout the year,while creating a platform for richer,more focused customer interactions,”said Jeff MacDonald, Husky’s VicePresident of Marketing. “In 2012, keyindustry tradeshows played an

Injection moulding equipment onworld tour

important role in helping launch ourbiggest products and will continue toplay a role for us. Having a numberof product launches in 2013, thisnew approach will allow us tointroduce our latest technologies assoon as they’re ready.”The Husky World Tour 2013 will buildupon the success the company hashad with hosting focused, localcustomer events over the past twoyears. Tour events will includepresentations and technicaldemonstrations from Husky andindustry experts, along withnetworking opportunities forattendees. Serving as Husky’sprimary method to introduceinnovations to the industry for 2013,each tour event will be tailored tocustomers’ specific market andregional needs. To provide dedicatedfocus on this new approach, thecompany will forego its participationin tradeshows for 2013, includingDrinktec and K2013, both held inGermany at the end of the year.

HuskyWeb: www.husky.ca


MACHINERY ROUNDUP

Wittmann Battenfeld is placing anemphasis on its micro machines formedical applications at MedtecEurope in Stuttgart later this month. By developing the electric machines inits PowerSeries range, the group saysit has optimised its offering for medicalapplications and implementingcleanroom systems. Specifically, theall-electric EcoPower and MicroPowerseries will be in focus during theevent.A micro filter made of POM with an80µ grid and a part weight of 1.1mg,which can be used in acousticalengineering as well as in micro pumpsor inhalators, will be manufactured ona MicroPower 15/10, which has beenspecially developed for high-precisioninjection moulding of small and microparts. It will be produced in a 2-cavitymould with 3-platen injection.Of particular interest on theMicroPower, according to WittmannBattenfeld, is the injection aggregate.The two-step injection unit consists ofa screw and plunger, with a shotvolume ranging from 0.05cm³ to 4cm³offering stable production and shortcycle times. The recently-developed Hi-Q shapinginjection-compression mouldingprocess is said to offer the productionof parts with virtually no internal stressand excellent surface finishes. Here,the process parameters fortemperature and pressure are addedto the settings for time and distance,which makes it possible to regulatethe embossing pressure via theclamping force setting for everyspecific process. This enablesaccurate application of the embossingpressure to the entire surface of thepart just above the glass transitiontemperature, causing a drasticreduction in material stress. The machine on display is acompletely integrated cleanroomproduction cell with a rotary disk, partsremoval handling, integrated qualityinspection by imaging and acleanroom module. The machine’scleanroom-compatible design plus thecleanroom module enable a class-6clean air environment according toISO 14644-1. In the applicationdemonstrated at the fair, the parts willbe injected, inspected and depositedinside the clean room.

Wittmann Battenfeld GmbH & Co.KGTel: +49 2354 720Email: [email protected]: www.wittmann-group.com

IMM supplier going micro atMedtec

Silo mixer adapted for process adjustmentA 20m³ Kreyenborg mixing silo withinternal pipe auger has been operatingfor 20 years for Ponachem in Hamburg.Kreyenborg mixing silos are said to beknown for their excellent homogenizationand longevity. Over the course of time,the requirements of the mixing silo (i.e.materials, mixing quality andperformance) often change, wherebyadjustments of the process may berequired.By replacing the pipe auger with anopen mixing screw with specialsegments, the user gained a bettermixing result, a shorter mixing time – 20minutes instead of 4 hours – and wasable to drastically reduce the energy

consumption of the mixer.The results were determined on thebasis of plastic regrind. However, thismixing technology is suitable for all free-flowing materials.Kreyenborg Plant Technology GmbH &Co. KG delivers universal quick mixersas mixing and homogenizing silos for awide rage of applications in the bulksolids industry.In addition to the components andsystems business to these corecomponents, Kreyenborg also providesmodifications and enhancements toexisting mixers and special silos built byKreyenborg as well as othermanufacturers.

KreyenborgTel: +49 251 21405 0Email: [email protected] Web: www.kreyenborg.com

The group will exhibit aMicroPower 15/10.


MACHINERY ROUNDUPRecently launched IMM scores well in the market

With double-valve technology, an injectionspeed of up to 2,000mm/s can be reachedwith extreme accelerations.

The market launch of Netstal’s latestElion 3200 machine has gone“exceptionally well”, according to themanufacturer. The new model has beendesigned for the manufacture ofcomplex moulded parts, in particular forapplications in packaging, closures,medical components and high-precisiontechnical parts. Netstal unveiled themodel at Fakuma 2012.“We are really pleased with the launch ofthe new Elion 3200. Customer feedbackhas been very positive and high demandfor this tried-and-tested machineseries is a ringing endorsementof Netstal’s high product qualityand expertise,” said Dr. HansUlrich Golz, CEO of Netstal.Machines in the Elion series aremodular in design. Theelectrically driven clamping unithas been combined with ahydraulic high-precisioninjection unit that has also featured inthe Evos series. “While feedback fromthe packaging industry has beenespecially outstanding, we have alsohad a positive response from customerswho are in the medical sector andcompanies who manufacture high-precision technical parts,” said Golz.The injection unit is able to reachinjection speeds of up to 2,000mm persecond at extreme levels of accelerationthanks to its dual-valve technology. Thin-walled packaging parts can be formed infilling times of under 0.1 seconds. Thislevel of injection performance meansthat it is possible to minimise materialuse and reduce cycle times. “This is

The new 3200 model from the Elion Series.

clearly proved by our customers’decreased production costs,” said Golz.The combination of different drivetechnologies requires an optimised driveconcept adapted to requirements.Netstal’s drive unit, the Eco Powerunit,takes full advantage of the energy-savingpotential of hybrid technology. Incomparison to conventional,hydraulically driven toggle levermachines, the Elion hybrid reducesenergy consumption by up to 50%.

NetstalTel: +41 55 618 61 11Email: [email protected]: www.netstal.com

Blender handles difficult materialsConair has launched its new TrueBlendblender for plastic processors who wantto make profitable use of bottle flake andother difficult-to-feed materials.“Certain thin, flaky regrind – like PETbottle scrap or thicker film and sheetscrap – has granules with relativelylarge, flat surfaces so they tend to packtogether and bridge in conventionalhoppers,” explained Jeff Bickel, BlenderProduct Engineer. “In the past,processors often found it necessary tore-pelletise these materials so that theycould be handled more efficiently andthat made them less economic to use.By making it possible to easily re-usescrap that would be next to impossibleto process otherwise, the new Conairblender designs can deliver a nice returnon investment.”For small quantities, Conair TrueBlendblenders can be fitted with side feederswith steeply angled sides that helpprevent the regrind from hanging up andbridging. The material then can floweasily through an oversized opening atthe bottom to a horizontal auger thatpositively conveys granules into themixing chamber. Ideal for pipe extrusion or similarapplications requiring high volumes ofregrind, Conair blenders use “lift augers”to eliminate bridging problems andpromote a free flow of material. The liftaugers are positioned at an angle in acorner of the regrind bin and, instead offorcing material out of the bin as mostconventional augers do, they turn in theopposite direction, moving granules upand away from the bottom of the bin.

This movement has the effect of keepingthe material loose so that it can flowmore easily through oversized sidegates and into the mixing chamber. When the full-length access door isclosed, all pellets are contained withinthe mixing chamber, virtually eliminatingwaste and improving accuracy.Throughputs can range from less than23kg per hour on model TB45 to 5455kgper hour on model TB3500. Units withup to 12 ingredient bins can besupplied.

ConairTel: +1 724 584 5500Email: [email protected]: www.conairgroup.com

Conair TB2500 fitted with fluidizing augers isone of two designs developed to handledifficult materials.


ADVERTORIAL

Mouldflo offers injection moulders an affordablesolution for monitoring multiple flow andtemperature circuits within an injection mould.

Even though the mould temperature is one of the mostimportant factors to a stable process, up until now, itwas impossible to tell what was actually happeninginside the cooling circuits. Mouldflo can protect themould and improve part quality by quickly identifyingcooling problems and alerting the moulder to commoncooling circuit problems, such as no water flow fromthe mould temperature controller, blocked waterways,scale/rust build up or incorrect piping.

Injection moulders currently use a range of methods fordistributing and controlling the water flow around thecooling circuit. Traditionally the most common methodhas been with water flow regulators. Although costeffective, flow regulators suffer from a number ofinherent problems including flow restrictions, long piperuns, broken or unreadable sight glasses.

More recently there has been a trend towardsaluminium manifolds mounted either on the mould, orthe platens, which shows significant benefits withregards to flow but, generally these give the moulderno visual indication of flow.

ManifoldThe slimline and compact manifold design has beendeveloped to enable Mouldflo to be mounted into thesmallest space possible next to the machine platens.This keeps pipe runs to an absolute minimum,improving flow rates to the mould and reducing cycletimes.

The Mouldflo manifold is equipped with very compactsensors that are capable of reading both flow andtemperature. The sensor is based upon the vortex flowmeasurement principle which uses a bluff body in theflow path to create small eddy currents (vortices) andthe pressure of this current is measured to determinethe flow through a given cross sectional area. Thesensors have no moving parts; this, combined with alarge flow path, make it ideally suited to mould coolingeven when using heavily contaminated water. Thesensors are integrated directly into the manifoldkeeping size to an absolute minimum; the manifold hasbeen designed to create a fixed linear flow path that isessential for accurate flow measurement.

Interface moduleThe Mouldflo system is equipped with a DIN-Railmounted interface module. This is the heart of thesystem and allows the manifolds to be easilyconnected to external devices. The interface modulefacilitates true ‘plug and play’, allowing multiplemanifolds to be monitored, and also enablesconvenient and simple connection to the touch screen,power supply, alarm signals in/out and machinecommunications. The module is equipped with USBand ethernet. The data generated by the Mouldflosystem can be fed into production monitoring systemsor other ancillary devices such as hot runnercontrollers or the moulding machine control systemusing the onboard communication ports.

Touch screenUsing a remotely mounted touch screen the Mouldflosystem will monitor and display the flow andtemperature for every circuit. The information can bedisplayed in either a graphical or text format. The data

is stored in the internal memory, and is time and datestamped for ultimate traceability. The data can also bedisplayed in a graphical format in order that theoperator can spot any trend in deterioratingperformance for any particular flow circuit. The datacan be read over an ethernet connection, downloadedonto a USB stick or fed into an external productionmonitoring system or directly into the injection machinecontrol system.

Warning and alarm limits can be set for flow andtemperature to all monitored zones individually. Shoulda zone deviate from those settings, then both anonscreen warning and a potential-free alarm signal canbe fed directly to an ancillary device — such as analarm tower, hot runner controller or the injectionmoulding machine to warn that the flow has deviatedoutside of tolerance. The system is capable of storingmultiple mould set-ups on the internal memory whichcan be quickly loaded when a mould is changed withall the correct set-points for any given mould.

IntelligentMould Flow Monitoring

For more information on the Mouldflo system,contact:MouldshopTel: +44 8454 700 701Email: [email protected]: www.mouldshop.co.uk

MouldproTel: +45 7020 3131 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mouldpro.com

Simple overviewThe user can see an immediate overview of coolingcircuit status ‘at a glance’ on a single screen withinstant display status alarms should theflow/temperature go outside of tolerance.

Historical dataHistorical data recording means that a performance logfor each circuit and manifold is stored on the internalmemory allowing the user to track the performance andeasily identify problems.

Event logAlarm errors, warnings and operator changes are allstored with a time and date stamp and can be reviewedat any time.

The slimline and compact design has been developedto enable the Mouldflo manifold to be mounted into thesmallest space possible next to the machine platens.


and blazing red tape dispensers. Theaim of the project was to encourageoffice employees to “Work Happy,” —the tagline for the group.To make sure that the colours co-

Poppin Inc., a designer and seller ofoffice supplies recently decided torelease a product line aimed atbrightening up the work place, includinglime green pen caps, pool blue staplers,

Colour management at Poppin Inc.

MACHINERY

SHOWCASETESTING & INSPECTION

The RM200QC device from X-Rite canaccurately measure slight colour variationsbetween products.

CASE STUDY:ordinated on a variety of materials,including plastic, metal, paper and cloth,Poppin enlisted the aid of X-Rite, aspecialist in colour management, and itswholly owned subsidiary Pantone.

“We set ourselves apart from the big-boxcompetition partly through the use ofvibrant, eye-catching colours defined byPantone and measured with X-Ritetechnology,” said Roger Cole, VicePresident of 9 Kings, Poppin’s sourcingagent. “We’ve built a loyal customerbase because we present stylish coloursin an office setting at the right pricepoint. So having colours match properlyis critical for our business.”Poppin was one of the first to adopt anew technology from X-Rite called theRM200QC.9 Kings Tech Manager Tony Yan from theShanghai office has to travel tomanufacturing plants all over China, sohe takes the RM200QC to each plant tocheck how closely the products matchthe colour requirements from Poppin’sheadquarters in New York City.The palm-sized RM200QCspectrocolorimeter simplifies the waythat the plastic moulding industry cancompare the colours of lab samples orparts in production with referencestandards, then create reports that canbe shared with supply chain partners.Yan uses his RM200QC to ensure thatitems sold as a desk set, such as limegreen scissors and its associated filetray, match each other exactly in colourfor customers who want bright, freshhues that co-ordinate perfectly in theiroffices.“One of the most important factors for usis the control of colour deviationbetween our products that need tomatch in colour,” Yan said. “We useL*a*b* data generated by the RM200QCto check that degree of colour deviationand communicate effectively betweenmanufacturers and our team atheadquarters.”Aided by colour checking instruments,Poppin has been able to tighten colourtolerance from delta E 2 to delta E 0.8with RM200QC. Using the quick checkfunction in RM200QC, the group canalso monitor the colour variations in thesame lot around the range of delta E 0.3in an industry where delta E 2 iscommon.


MACHINERY


facility, including demonstrations of theCEAST drop tower impact system usedpredominantly for ISO and ASTMstandards within the plastics industry, aswell as specimen preparation and meltflow monitoring equipment to theplastics sector.As well as showcasing a range ofmaterials testing machines focused on

One the 23rd January the British Societyfor Strain Measurement (BSSM) hosteda dedicated event at Instron’s EuropeanHeadquarters in High Wycombe. Instronis a leading supplier of testing andinstrumentation equipment, and visitorshad the chance to tour the facility as wellas visit several exhibitors includingPhotron, LA Vision and SmartFibres. Theevent attracted over 100 visitors acrosstwo days and the seminars provided auseful and lively debate for all attendees.The following day, Instron took theopportunity to stage an event of its ownfor customers and interested parties,setting the tone for an informaldiscussion forum amongst leadingfigures in the sector. The brand new ‘Applications Laboratory’(pictured) - a purpose-built facilityhosting new and existing technologies,allows Instron to showcase a range ofrecent product releases that have beenextremely well received in severalapplication areas, including the plasticsindustry.Visitors to the Instron facility were giventhe chance to tour the manufacturing

Materials testing community gathers for educational events

the plastics market, Instron had keyspeakers from the composites industrywho discussed developments in theaerospace and automotive sectors.

InstronTel: +44 1494 456815Email: [email protected]: www.instron.co.uk

According to X-Rite, the new instrumentgoes beyond the capabilities of existingcolorimeters with advanced features thatidentify colour differences betweensamples and standards, opacity, andgrayscale assessment, as well ashighlighting how colours may change inappearance under D65 daylight andIlluminant A household tungsten-filamentlighting.With a measurement time of about twoseconds, the instrument gives results inthe form of a simple pass/fail messageor CIE L*a*b* values and delta E colourdifferences. It also reports results in all ofthe standard colour difference equationsand tolerances, such as CIELAB, CMC,CIE 94, or CIE 2000.The RM200QC memory holds 20standards and up to 350 measurementsautomatically stamped with time anddate and saved as PDF and CSV filesthat can be downloaded via USB cable,so the information can be shared withother stakeholders in a supply chain.Any measurement can be linked withimages of test surfaces, text notes, orvoice messages and the reports can beoutput in multiple languages.“This device is a marvelous tool to assistin our worldwide control of colour,” Yansaid. “It gives accurate colourmeasurements that are accepted byboth the U.S. and Chinese teams as anunbiased standard, so we can makedecisions quickly to maintain customersatisfaction and introduce more coloursto our product line with confidence.”

X-RiteTel: +44 1625 871100Web: www.xrite.com

New solution boosts qualityfor converters

Isra Vision, a provider of optical in-lineinspection systems has developedsolutions in surface inspection forconverters. The systems are designed tofind defects and, together with intelligenttools, can reportedly make a contributionto increasing processing efficiency. The system can be used at all convertingstages, including coating, lamination,metallising and more. Runs can betransparent, covered, semi-opaque,metallised, embossed or dyed. Alsocomposite materials, striped appliedcoatings or coatings with patterns,optical films and plates can all beinspected. It can be installed on variousunits, such as coating lines, re-windersand doctor machines.The fully-automated systems are said tofind optical defects with precision. Thelow-maintenance and networked systemsare based on the most moderntechnology and are constructed in amodular and flexible fashion both in theirhardware and software designs.Adaptation to each customer’sproduction process, regardless of linespeed, web width and the installationcircumstances is straightforward. Thesystem can cope with frequent materialchanges, as the handling of differentproduct related recipes is flexible. Theuse of camera and lighting technologyensures that the smallest and lowest-contrast material defects will be found.

Isra Vision AGTel: +49 6151 948 0Email: [email protected]: www.isravision.com


Luxus Technical CentreOur new 750m2 Technical Centre which is opening thisSpring, we hope will significantly speed up thedevelopment of our high performance thermoplasticpolymers for major customers such as Nissan, Ford,Jaguar, BMW and Renault.The investment has been made possible thanks to thelending we received as a regional winner of the HSBC‘Business Thinking’ award in 2012. It will enable us tomaintain our competitive edge and satisfy new marketsas we extend our reach into Asia and Europe.It will also provide a true technical ‘hub’ right across thebusiness that includes support for our ‘closed loop’wheel bin scheme, know as ‘Bin2Bin’ for localauthorities; to transit packaging recycling for high streetgrocery retailers and research into new technologiesfor the construction industry.

Lightweight polymer developmentBut it is the support it provides for the auto industry thatwill be its primary use, for example we are achievingimprovements in compound design through a newEuropean collaboration project that focuses on thetechnical aspects of recycled polymers in car interiors.

The automotive industry has been transformed inrecent years as its demand for innovative plastics havehelped set new standards in design and environmentalperformance to satisfy both EU emissions targets andcustomer needs. Materials are the very backbone of the automotiveindustry with plastics poised to take a major role. It isan industry which is being impacted heavily by CO2emissions legislation, making ‘lightweighting’ (reducingthe weight of vehicle components) a key objective. Soit is increasingly looking to the plastics sector for newinnovations to help meet the challenge of improved fueleconomy and a cleaner future.EU regulations currently state that a ‘fleet average of130 grams of CO2 per kilometre must be achieved by2015’. In terms of fuel consumption, this target isapproximately equivalent to ‘5.6 liters per 100 km (l/100km) of petrol. In 2012 an average of 65% of eachmanufacturer’s newly registered cars must comply withthe legislation. This will rise to 75% this year, 80% in2014, and 100% from 2015 onwards’.Never before has it been more important to developsustainable materials for car interiors that meetemissions goals and deliver competitive advantage inwhat is a highly sophisticated and rapidly changingmarket. Lightweight thermoplastic polymers are highly flexible,they give both auto designers and engineers thefreedom to deliver truly innovative design. Not onlysatisfying CO2 emissions, but also delivering the ecovalue and affordability that consumers have come toexpect. For the last ten years our sustainable thermoplasticmaterials have been revolutionising auto interior designworldwide and we aim to stay ahead thanks to the nextstage in our continuing investment programme.

Plastic recycler invests in new testing lab

CNC milling machine dedicated to polymer materials

MACHINERY


REPORT:

It has recently lead to the development of Hycolene anew lightweight polymer.Developed to replace standard talc filled grades for carinterior components, Hycolene offers a weightreduction of 10-15% compared to a typical 25% talcfilled material. The result is much lower weight, highlyscratch resistant for vehicle components withoutcompromising on performance and design flexibility.Manufacturers will also have the choice of either primeor a more sustainable Hycolene grade made from up to60% recycled content (from post industrial andconsumer feedstocks).Hycolene has attracted considerable interest sincedevelopment work began and is now being trialed witha number of automotive customers before its goes intogeneral production on current models.

Bespoke polymer testing and analysisThis is how our bespoke lab service works - we liaiseclosely with the customer to gain a full understandingof the final product, application and processing route. Ifwe’re looking at a new material a specification of criticalfactors are agreed and if we’re replacing an existinggrade we test the material and compare our formulationon the same test equipment. This provides thecustomer with meaningful comparative data on whichto evaluate materials or develop new grades if required. Our laboratory is equipped to a very high standardallowing testing for MFI, Izod, FDI, HDT, VICAT, tensileand FITR. The accurate data generated provides the‘building blocks’ for the formulation of new materials. Next colour matching systems and batch specificadditive packages are developed for incorporation viagravimetric feeders during the compounding processon single or twin screw extruders.

LuxusTel: +44 1507 604941Email: [email protected]: www.luxus.co.uk

Ray-Ran Test Equipment Ltd manufactures arange of CNC profile cutting machines which areideal for producing test samples from polymerand plastic material over 5mm thick. A typicalexample is to cut dumbbell samples fromunderground thick wall pipes which are generally50mm or more thick.Metal cutting machines have not generally provensuitable for polymer materials which require veryhigh cutting speeds, in the region of 2,400 to24,000 rpm, to give the desired surface finish andensure that the temperature at the cutting surfacedoes not affect the material characteristics.The Ray-Ran dedicated CNC milling machine canoffer X, Y and Z axis combinations to cater formost test sample sizes. Prewritten programs areavailable and training in the DemonstrationDepartment is freely available. The ball screws and slide ways provide excellentpositional accuracy and low frictions drives which areideally matched to the stepper motor drive systems.The Advanced Micro-Stepping feature gives optimumcutter control when machining contours.Special polymer cutting tools are available which

reduce the cutting surface temperature and giveoptimum surface finish

Ray-Ran Test Equipment LtdTel: +44 2476 342002Email: [email protected]: www.ray-ran.com

Staff from Luxus and Loadhog at the site of the new lab.

Terry Burton, Technical Manager at Luxus, a well-known UK recycler, explains why opening anew laboratory this spring will help accelerate the company’s development of sustainablethermoplastic polymers reshaping automotive design.


MACHINERY SPOTLIGHT

eppm PIPE & PROFILE EXTRUSION

AMI hasannouncedthat a newconferenceon Pipes inInfrastructure

will take placefrom 9-11 April

2013 at the HotelNikko in Düsseldorf.

The conference will focuson plastic pipe systems used withininfrastructure applications, such asdrinking water supply anddistribution, gas transmission anddistribution, underground drainageand sewerage, road and railwaydrainage, land drainage,underground cable protection anddistrict heating.The conference will provide aninvaluable opportunity to highlightthe latest innovations and discusscurrent and future challenges facedby the industry thanks to a panel ofexpert international speakers

gathered by AMI.The different sessions will covertopics such as installationtechniques, developments in materialtechnology and process technology,testing and sustainability. There willalso be a market overview sessionwith papers from AMI and Eandis.Key pipe producers such as WavinGmbH, Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd.,Rollepaal and Georg Fisher PipingSystems Ltd. will share their

experiences and latest developmentsfor the industry.Other companies taking part in theprogramme include Friatec AG,Reinert-Ritz GmbH, Amster-Howard,Hobas, TWI Ltd., SHS EnergieefizienzGmbH and many more.Pipes in Infrastructure 2013 will offera networking opportunity fordelegates representing the entireindustry, including pipe specifiersand installers and end users, resin

suppliers, additive producers,machinery makers, pipemanufacturers and fittings suppliers,testing and certification bodies, etc.The event will offer a comprehensiveoverview of the latest material,technology and business trends.

AMI PlasticsTel: +44 117 924 9442 Email: [email protected]: www.amiplastics.com

NEWCONFERENCELAUNCHED FORPIPES ININFRASTRUCTURE

At the recentEuPR AnnualMeeting, MrRoel van’tVeer, TEPPFA(The

EuropeanPlastic Pipes

and FittingsAssociation) Project

Manager for VoluntaryCommitment, gave a presentation tothe EuPR HDPE and PP workinggroup.In his speech, he highlighted a needto use more recylate as well as thegrowing potential of using PP and PErecyclate in non–pressure sewer pipesand cable protection pipes. EuPR andTEPPFA agreed to set up a jointworking group to investigate thepossibilities to also use (next to thealready existing use of PVC recyclate)PE and PP recyclate while maintainingpipe quality and life expectancy.

TEPPFATel: +32 2 736 24 06Email: [email protected]: www.teppfa.eu

RECYCLATEIN PIPESMAKESTHE AGENDAWITH THE EUPR


MACHINERY SPOTLIGHT


At the 9thWood-PlasticCompositeconferencelater thismonth,

extrusionspecialist

battenfeld-cincinnati will host a

live demonstration of aWPC line in its technical lab. Thedemonstrations will include the newfiberEX 114 parallel twin-screwextruder, which has been designedfor high output and optimisedprocess stability, and is ideally suitedfor the production of solid WPCprofiles.Even though the regional marketsand product variants are changing,WPC still remains a growth market.The demand for WPC in Europe iscontinuing to grow at an annual rateof 20-25%. Decking profiles are still thebestsellers in this branch of theindustry, taking up some 75% of thetotal market volume, while newproducts, injection moulded as wellas extruded, are presenting themachine manufacturers with newchallenges. The conference will focuson the developments in the global

market, including growthopportunities as well as newproducts, trends and machineconcepts.Solid decking profiles, whichconstitute a new trend in the WPCindustry, have developed from theGerman market and are nowgaining in significance throughoutEurope. Because of certainadvantages, they are becoming amore and more importantalternative to the hollow profilespredominantly used so far. Solidprofiles can be cut diagonally withoutany problems, and do not need anyinjection-molded end caps evenwhen cut straight, since there are nohollow chambers that need to becovered. Due to their smaller surface,they also have less capacity forabsorbing moisture and are thereforeconsidered even more resistant toweathering. This is a majoradvantage especially in outdoorapplications such as decks with non-rectangular floor plans.The latest machinery developmentfrom battenfeld-cincinnati is thefiberEX 114 parallel twin-screwextruder. With this model, themachine manufacturer is extendingits portfolio by a second parallelextruder in addition to the fiberEX

135, designedespecially for high-performance WPC extrusion.Even though the range of extrudersfor WPC processing already coversoutputs between 20 and 1,000kg/h,fiberEX 114 significantly extends theportfolio once more with out–putsranging from 280 to 520kg/h. Theparallel extruder enables theproduction of solid WPC profiles withoptimal process stability andmaximum output. It also handlesdifficult, low-density bulk materialsand permits maximum degassingperformance.In close cooperation with a network

of partners, battenfeld-cincinnatioffers a wide range of solutions forthe WPC industry. The group offerscustomised machine concepts fromproject planning to on-site installationand start-up. The portfolio alsoincludes coextrusion solutions whichare sometimes said to be more cost-effective.

battenfeld-cincinnatiWeb: www.battenfeld-cincinnati.com

NEW WPCPROFILEEXTRUDER TORUN LIVE ATCONFERENCE

The new fiberEX 114 paralleltwin-screw extruder


MACHINERY SPOTLIGHT

KraussMaffei Berstorff QuickSwitchcalibration basket for diameters up to450mm.


KraussMaffeiBerstorff’sQuickSwitchsystem for in-linedimension

changes at thepush of a button

is now availablewith immediate effect

for the production of POpipes with a diameter up to 450mm.S.C. Valrom Industrie S.R.L. inBucharest has been producing single-,double- and three-layer PE drinkingwater pipes in a diameter range from250-450mm on a fully automatedQuickSwitch line from KraussMaffeiBerstorff. In addition to single-screwextruders from the 36D series, the keycomponents of the machine are thenewly designed KM-3L RKW 75 QSpipe head, the suction belt and thecalibration basket with QuickSwitchdesign. The QuickSwitch system wasdesigned to meet the demand for highflexibility, small order batches andshort changeover times. The system issaid to be highly effective whenproducing pipes with a larger diameterfrom 250mm. “The bigger the diameterof a pipe, the more complicated andmore expensive it is to change overwith conventionally operatedmachines”, said Michael Hofhus, Headof the Pipe Extrusion Product Group atKraussMaffei Berstorff. “We have supplemented our verysuccessful QuickSwitch system withthe model up to 450mm, thus offeringprocessors an even wider productportfolio and enabling customers tosave even more costs, time andmaterial when switching over to otherdimensions”, Hofhus continued. The system also reportedly increasescompetitiveness since the producercan quickly complete urgent orders.S.C. Valrom Industrie S.R.L. is a long-standing customer of KraussMaffeiBerstorff, and says it has beenextremely impressed by QuickSwitchtechnology. “After years of verypositive experience with QuickSwitchmachines, we also opted again thistime for KraussMaffei Berstorff

because we are really impressed withthe machine quality and effectiveness”,said Catalin Coraci, Managing Directorof S.C.Valrom Industrie S.R.L. “Weregard KraussMaffei Berstorff as areliable partner with whom we canmeet our production requirementsaccording to our plans in a first-classway”, added Coraci. S.C. Valrom Industrie S.R.L., amember of the Valsir Group, is one ofthe largest polyolefin processors in theregion and supplies a wide range ofproducts for infrastructural applicationssuch as pipes for sanitary installationsand heating systems, drinking waterpipes, wastewater pipes and gaspipes. In addition to the recentlyinstalled machine, four otherQuickSwitch lines are in operation atthe production plant in Bucharest.They cover all available diameterranges, i.e. 25-63mm, 75-160mm and160-250mm. The subsidiary S.C.Valrom Ukraine S.R.L. in Vinnytsyaalso operates a QuickSwitch line forthe diameter range 75-160mm.The company enjoys a strong marketposition in the rapidly growing regionin Eastern Europe. It serves over 75%of the Romanian market with itsproducts, but also exports them toneighboring countries such asBulgaria, Moldova, Greece and theUkraine.

New extruder orders for the RussianmarketTwo leading pipe manufacturers fromRussia have also recently chosenKraussMaffei Berstorff as systemssupplier and have invested in PO pipeextrusion systems. As a new customer,Isoljazionny Trubny Zawod (ITZ) isseeking to enter into a long-termpartnership with the company.Polyplastic Group is already aKraussMaffei Berstorff customer andhas placed a follow-up order.Andreas Kessler, General SalesManager at KraussMaffei Berstorff,said: “Our customer Polyplastic, thelargest plastics manufacturer inRussia, is impressed by our proven36D single-screw extrusion technologyand relies on the high quality of ourproducts and our many years ofexperience in systems engineering.Our customer is currently modernisingits machinery with our equipment”.The order is for two models of the 36Dsingle-screw extruder series which willbe integrated into an existingcorrugated pipe production plant.Another extruder model, the KME 90-36 B/R, will be installed in an existingline for the production of smoothHDPE tubes (up to a diameter of800mm). The systems will go intooperation in the spring of 2013.In addition, the largest KraussMaffeiBerstorff compounder line beganoperation at maximum output atPolyplastic’s Saratov facility in May2012. The turnkey plant is based on aZE90*58D UT twin screw extruder andproduces filled polyolefin compounds.Dieter Brunner, Head of SystemsEngineering at KraussMaffei Berstorff,emphasizes, “Polyplastic attaches

great importance tohigh quality andmaximum systemsavailability. By drawingon our expertise inplant and processengineering, we havemet theserequirements. Formore than ten yearsnow, we have beenPolyplastic’s premiumpartner for compoundmanufacturing”.Additionally,Isoljazionny TrubnyZawod (ITZ) with headoffices near Moscowhas invested in KraussMaffeiBerstorff’s large-diameter pipetechnology. ITZ, a newcomer to HDPEproduction, has chosen KraussMaffeiBerstorff technology because,according to the company, “it has atechnical edge over other productionsystems available on the market”. ThePE-encased pipes produced on thenew line (with diameters of up to1600mm) are used for covering PUR-encapsulated steel pipes as heatinsulation. ITZ Managing Director S.N.Frolov said: “We believe that inKraussMaffei Berstorff we have foundpartner with whom we can enter intolong-term business relations. We will

“QUICKSWITCH”SYSTEM SPEEDSUP CHANGESDURING PIPEPRODUCTION

KraussMaffei Berstorff’s large-diameter pipehead KM-RKW39-1600.

be gearing our production to therapidly increasing demand for pre-encased pipes and are confident thatthe systems expertise of KraussMaffeiBerstorff will give us a competitiveedge”, Mr. Frolov added.The company will principally distributeits products in Russia to end users inthe oil and gas industry, as well ashousing construction and municipalservices.

KraussMaffei BerstorffTel: +49 89 8899 2792Email:[email protected]: www.kraussmaffeiberstorff.com


Floor coverings used in long-rangeairliners must meet a wide range ofstrict requirements, predominantly forsafety reasons. This applies inparticular to products that need to befitted in aircraft galleys. With their newDuroflex and Durofloor floor coverings,engineers from rubber specialistMetzeler Technical Rubber SystemsGmbH, based in Germany hasreportedly developed a highly durablesolution. The new, easily bondablenon-slip products are said to featureexcellent abrasion resistance and fireprotection properties and are based,among other materials, on thehalogen-free rubber raw materialLevapren from synthetic rubber groupLanxess, designed to be highlycompatible with a number of fillers andpolymers.“You might imagine the galleys where warm mealsand beverages are prepared for passengers of largerairliners to be small, but they’re not,” said JoachimBormuth, responsible for quality management atMetzeler. “In an Airbus A320, for example, the galleyalready occupies a floor area of around 24 squaremeters, and in larger airliners such as the Boeing 747or the Airbus A380 it can even be in excess of 100square meters.” These facilities need to be protectedagainst fire hazards, not least because of thepresence of electrical appliances such as microwavesand coffee machines and the mass of electric cablesin an extremely confined space. Added to this arefurther requirements such as low abrasion, low soilingtendency, and good bonding to the substrate to helpavoid tripping hazards. Easy and smooth installationmust also be assured.“The airlines therefore apply a strict functionalspecification which demands passing of exactingflame tests, for example; this is often aligned to therequirements stipulated by FAR 25853 of the U.S.Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which alsocontains precise specifications with respect to slipresistance,” continued Bormuth. OEMs frequently addtheir own specifications with regard to dimensionalstability, rippling and abrasion. Impact tests, forexample, check how much floor coverings sufferwhen objects fall on them. It is also important that thematerial’s tensile strength is sufficient to prevent itfrom tearing when being laid. “We additionally have tomake sure that the materials used do not form smallblisters when cabin pressure is reduced,” addedBormuth. “So you see, the field of aviation has its ownquite special requirements.”To date, the most important demands were frequentlymet by flexible coverings or rigid laminates with a toplayer of silicone rubber. These often have thedisadvantage of a low shore hardness, however,which can find expression in comparatively rapid wearand can make the floor sensitive to the falling of sharpobjects. And for many cost-conscious clients theywere not always first choice for financial reasons. “In

MATERIALS

2002, therefore, we started looking for alternativematerials and have put a lot of developmental effortinto the project,” said Bormuth. The material thatfinally convinced his company was a special grade ofLanxess’ EVM synthetic rubber Levapren. A good choice, according to Michael Herrmann,Product Expert from the Lanxess’ High PerformanceElastomers business unit: “In many ways Levapren isan ideal material: the rubber does not contain anyhalogens and therefore does not liberate anycorrosive acidic gases in the event of fire; rescueequipment then remains intact for longer and humanlife and materials are spared. On combustion,Levapren has a low smoke gas density, leavingescape routes free for longer should it come to theworst. To let it never get that far, Levapren can besupplemented with large quantities of flame-retardantinorganic fillers, but still remains easy to process.” Since the engineers from Metzeler decided on arelatively polar grade of the material, which isavailable in many different degrees of polarity, surfacecontamination with oils and other foodstuffs canusually be removed easily, and even aggressivecleaning agents have little impact on the material.Despite the high filler content, it is able to meet thestrict demand for low density that is typical of aviationapplications. In addition, the cost-effective rubber rawmaterial scores well with its good bonding properties,which not only enable the safe and durable laying offlexible Metzeler Duroflex floors, but also allow cost-effective production of the more rigid Durofloorlaminates, all the while maintaining a high standard ofquality. “That is hardly surprising – after all Levaprenis also used as an adhesive raw material,” saidHerrmann’s colleague Frank Taschner. The material isprocessed at Metzeler in a special calender known asan AUMA in which the material is vulcanized in onestep.

LanxessTel: +49 214 30 71582 Email: [email protected]: www.levapren.com

EVM chosen for aircraft flooring


MATERIALS ROUNDUPMedical TPV ranges from ultra-soft to high-hardness

Teknor ApexCompany hasdeveloped two high-hardness grades inits Medalist MD-200series ofthermoplasticvulcanizate (TPV)elastomers,extending the rangeof high-puritycompounds forreplacing rubber inmedical applications.The company willintroduce thecompounds in Europe at Medtech(Stand 1L44). Previously ranging in shore A durometerfrom an ultra-soft 15 to a semi-hard 80,the Medalist MD-200 Series nowincludes an 87 shore A compound, MD-240, and a 43 shore D grade, MD-245.The 43 shore D durometer is roughlyequivalent to a shore A hardness of 93.The new compounds can be extruded,injection moulded, and blow moulded.Suggested applications includeperistaltic tubes, collection and drainagetubes, stoppers for vials, caps andplugs, seals and gaskets, devicehandles, ergonomic soft grips, valves,and diaphragms. The rubber-like properties of MedalistMD-240 and MD-245 include low long-term compression set, high fatigueresistance, prolonged flex life, stability athigh temperatures, abrasion resistance,and long-term sealability. “Among the benefits of the TPVtechnology developed by Teknor Apexfor the MD-200 series are the eliminationof the need for pre-drying, since allgrades are non-hygroscopic, and a lightnatural colour that permits efficient useof colourants,” said Keith Saunders,

Senior Market Manager for theThermoplastic Elastomer Division. “Whatalso sets us apart is that we manufactureour TPV compounds ‘from scratch,’starting with polymers and all otherbasic ingredients, rather than using amasterbatch intermediary. This gives ustight control over properties andconsiderable freedom to formulatecustom compounds that precisely meetcustomer requirements.”Teknor Apex produces Medalistcompounds in dedicated ISO-13485-certified facilities. All standard grades areFDA, RoHS, Coneg, and REACHcompliant, are Drug Master File (DMF)listed with FDA, and are biocompatibilitytested in accordance with ISO-10993-5.Teknor Apex has developed extensivedata for all grades on chemicalresistance and resistance to steam,gamma, and EtO sterilisation. Medalistcompounds are free of animal-derivedmaterials, phthalates, latex proteins, andbisphenol A.

Teknor ApexTel: +44 121 665 2100Email: [email protected]: www.medalistmd.com

PP thermoforming grade offers clarity and stability

Polypropyleneproducer NATPET haslaunched a new PPthermoforming gradebased on Europeangroup Milliken’snucleating agent,Hyperform HPN-600ei.The isotropic shrinkagecontrol, visualappearance andstiffness/impactbalance generated byHyperform HPN-600eican lead to more consistent finishedarticles covering a variety of thicknesses.With improved mechanical strength andexcellent shrinkage control, both inmachine direction and transversedirection, converters may find morestability and control of ovality with bettertop load bearing capability. As a result, unit rejection rates could bereduced, and converters can gain theopportunity to downgauge material.NATPET says that H03TF also displaysexcellent visual appearance both insheet and thermoformed parts evenwhen they are stacked together. H03TFhas regrind stability and does not yellowafter multiple extrusions.Finished products based on H03TF aresaid to offer a high level of quality withgood stacking performance. Milliken’s Hyperform HPN-600ei offers

Reverdia, thejoint venturebetween life

sciences andmaterials sciencescompany DSM andRoquette Frères, aglobal producer ofstarch and starch-derivatives, hasbegun operationsin CassanoSpinola, Italy, at acommercial-scaleplant producing Biosucciniumsustainable succinic acid. The plant,which has a capacity of about 10,000tonnes per year, is claimed (byReverdia) to be the world’s firstdedicated large-scale plant for theproduction of succinic acid fromrenewable resources. It is also thereportedly only commercial facility tobenefit from experience gained usinglow-pH yeast technology on ademonstration plant scale; Reverdiasays this is essential to be able topromise further improvements inproduct quality. Key applications for biosucciniuminclude polybutylene succinate (PBS),polyester polyols for polyurethanes,coating and composite resins,phthalate-free plasticizers, and 1,4butanediol. End products could

Bio-succinic acid plant starts up inItaly

include footwear, packaging andpaints.“We feel honoured and proud toopen this new era in the lives ofReverdia and Biosuccinium,” saidWill van den Tweel, Reverdia’sGeneral Manager. “The new phasewill enable direct and indirectcustomers to start production ofcommercial scale volumes ofmaterials and end products based onbio-based succinic acid. These willbe the first biosuccinium-basedproducts to find operational use inindustry and to show up on retailshelves.”

Reverdia Tel: +31 6 53 18 52 64Email: [email protected]: www.dsm.com

organoleptics with no contamination risk,making the H03TF grade suitable forfood applications.Neaz Ahmed, Assistant ManagerProduct Application at NATPET said:“H03TF, with its enhanced dimensionalstability, is giving packaging customersan opportunity to reduce their cycletimes and achieve better products withless wastage, for all-round productivityimprovements. It is receiving positivefeedback from our customers around theworld in Europe, China and Africa, whowelcome the good processability andperformance of the grade for theirthermoformed applications.”

NATPET Tel: +966 2 604 8668Email: [email protected]: www.natpetpp.com


MATERIALS ROUNDUP

Come and see us atthe K Show 2013

Right across Europe, you couldn’t go farwithout finding our product underfoot.Just think of those 3D schematicssimulating infrastructure — with all thepipes below ground colour—coded foreasy identification: blue for water, yellowfor gas, brown for sewage and so on. Then above the surface, there’s all thepiping inside every building — eventhough that too is typically out of sight.Plastic surpassed metal as the material ofchoice for plumbing systems in Europeback in 2005 and now already accountsfor over 60% of new installations. Thebuilding and construction industry as awhole consumes more than 9.5 milliontonnes of plastics — 20% of theEuropean total — making it second onlyto packaging in volume.The reasons for this growth includedurability and resistance to corrosion,

New internal mould release additives for DICY cured epoxyresin

Axel Plastics Research Laboratories haslaunched two new internal mould releaseadditives for DICY (dicyanamide) curedepoxy resin: MoldWiz INT-1322 and INT-1329. By nature, DICY cured epoxies areamong the most tenacious in theirbonding properties, prompting many inthe industry to search for more effectiveways to release DICY epoxy, resins,compounds, prepregs and laminates.According to Axel’s Product Manager:“In the past, many internal mouldrelease formulations proved ineffective,often killing the cure of the DICY resinand leaving the polymer under-curedand tacky. Axel’s new proprietaryformulations MoldWiz INT-1322 has beendesigned to have no impact on the curekinetics of imidazole or amineaccelerated DICY. For non-acceleratedDICY cured epoxy resin, Axel offers INT-1329, which is formulated for the higherprocess temperatures associated withthese DICY systems. Initial evaluations ofthese two new internal mould release

additives indicates that they have a goodpot life in resin mixes and provide goodrelease from moulds and substrates,making these new internal mouldreleases equally suitable for use inepoxy resin, epoxy compounds andprepregs.” MoldWiz INT-1322 and INT-1329 just twoof the hundreds of products producedby Axel, a 71 year old, ISO 9001registered manufacturer of proprietarymould releases and process aidadditives. All of Axel’s products areREACH compliant and formulated fromraw materials that comply with majorworldwide chemical regulatory lists.Customers are served both throughdirect sales and by a network of 55stocking distributors located in 46countries around the globe.

AxelTel: +1 718 672 8300Email: [email protected]: www.axelplastics.com

MoldWiz INT-1322 and INT-1329 are epoxy resin additives that can improve release of mouldedDICY cured epoxy composite parts manufacture, including aerospace and other industries.

Masterbatch in Pipe ProductionOPINION:Bob Thomas, Technical Director, Colloids, the Makers of Masterbatch,offers us another report on his specialist field. This issue he looks atthe use of masterbatch in plastic pipe production.

Check out the image scanning microscopyabove for example.

In terms of dispersion, agglomeratesand particle size this is what I want tosee (the largest agglomerate here is40 m) — check ISO 18553 for moredetails.And I want to see it in the lab beforethe masterbatch goes out the door. Aproduct recall for plastic piping wouldbe horrendous — for all the reasonsmentioned.

insulation, cost efficiency, minimummaintenance, sustainability, innovationand fire safety. And with this successcomes great responsibility for all thoseinvolved, especially in terms of:• Safety and environment: just think ofthe consequences of failure in, say, a gaspipe,• hygiene and toxicity: particularlyregarding potable water,• reliability: even more demanding whenthe contents of the pipe, including gas oraggressive, chemicals, may affectperformance,• UV protection: pipe is vulnerable aboveground pre — installation,• commercial: installing pipes in theground for example is the most expensivepart of the whole operation (up to 90% ofthe project costs) so the last thing youwant to do is start digging them upbefore time.Which is why getting the masterbatchright is essential, whether meetingexisting formulae that have already beenthrough lengthy and costly approvals, orformulating to introduce improvementsthat typically combine both performanceand commercial benefits.You need the right extruders, processesand know — how, the best technicalequipment and expertise for analysis, andrigourous testing.

Plasticsurpassed

metal as the materialof choice forplumbing systems inEurope back in 2005and now alreadyaccounts for over60% of newinstallations.”“


MATERIALS ROUNDUP

Soft plasticiser-free TPUs developed for footwear applications

The Lubrizol Corporation now offersEstane, a soft plasticiser-freethermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) forathletic footwear applications. Analternative to conventional plasticisedTPUs, Lubrizol’s plasticiser-free TPUsprovide an option for manufacturerssensitive to today’s more stringentenvironmental requirements. Conventional soft TPUs contain aphthalate-type plasticiser that may besubject to regulation by environmentalagencies. Lubrizol’s line of plasticiser-free TPUsare said to exhibit performanceattributes that include flexibility,softness, abrasion resistance andmouldability. They are available in botha polyester series (Estane T460AH,Estane T460A, Estane T465A andEstane T470A) and a polyether series

(Estane T365A and Estane T370A). TheEstane soft plasticiser-free TPUs rangebetween 60A to 77A Shore hardnessand reportedly offer high transparencyand UV stability when compared toTPUs with plasticisers. These productscan also be used as replacements forrubber and PVC in various mouldingapplications. “The footwear industry is facingsignificant challenges in a fast-movingcompetitive environment,” said JustinPark, Lubrizol’s Global MarketingManager for footwear. “Our softplasticiser-free portfolio is just one of theways Lubrizol is positioning itself as aglobal solutions provider for the athleticfootwear industry.”

LubrizolWeb: www.lubrizol.com

Egg incubators given the antimicrobial treatment

It’s hoped that antimicrobialadditives will help boost hatching

rates in egg incubators.

Egg incubators create the idealconditions for the growth of microbesand bacteria that can in turn be harmfulto incubating eggs and can causeembryonic death.To reduce this risk, manufacturerBrinsea has incorporated Biomasterantimicrobial additives into theincubator cabinets during manufacture.Biomaster is embedded within theplastic itself preventing the growth ofbacteria and helping to provide theoptimum environment for hatching.“It’s very frustrating when eggs developbut fail to hatch, often for no apparentreason. We estimate 25% of thesecould be due to bacterialcontamination and the use ofBiomaster antimicrobial additives in ourplastics will help reduce this problemand lead to higher hatch rates” said IanPearce, Managing Director, Brinsea.Ian continued: “Biomaster provides an

added level of protection for your eggsduring incubation. From January 2013Biomaster has been utilised as widelyas technically as possible within ourproducts — providing you withadditional confidence in your hatch”.Adding Biomaster into the Brinsearange of incubators is an attempt tocombat the growth of microbes on theproduct. Paul Morris Managing Directorof Addmaster, the companyresponsible for producing theBiomaster additive. “Its action againstsuch a wide range of bacteria such ascampylobacter, salmonella andlegionella makes it the ideal product toprovide the hygienic protectionrequired for the incubator”.

Biomaster Tel: +44 1785 225656Email: [email protected]: www.biomastertechnology.com

PET compound chosen for auto mirror actuators

Magna Auteca, a supplier of automotivemicro-actuator systems for variouskinds of adjustments has chosen ArniteA, a high performance compoundbased on polyethylene terephthalate(PET) from DSM for use in its latestgeneration of exterior mirror adjustmentunits. The material is said to haveoutperformed several rivals in a seriesof qualification tests.Magna Auteca required a replacementfor PBT, which improved the durabilityperformance for this new application.As a result of this, the company lookedat a wide range of compounds basedon different thermoplastics. Thevalidation period at Magna Autecalasted over a year, during which timethe company put the materials througha wide range of tests. Magna Auteca, located in Weiz, Austria,has now selected Arnite AV2 370XT, a35% glass reinforced PET specificallyintended for applications with extremelynarrow tolerances. The adjustment unit,code-named MR5, will first appear onthe latest version of the Porsche 911. “Arnite XT outperformed PBT, PA66,PPA and competitive PET products onevery single test, due mainly to its highdimensional stability, high stiffness andstrength, and excellent wear andfriction properties,” said MichaelKleinhappl, Design Engineer at MagnaAuteca. He added: “In addition toproviding a top-quality material, DSM

also provided best-in-class supportthroughout the entire applicationdevelopment phase”.“This is a major success for DSM andfor Arnite A,” said Andreas Weinmann,Account Manager at DSM. “MagnaAuteca is a trendsetter for nextgeneration mirror adjustment units withreduced weight and improved quality.We expect the competition will followMagna shortly, and we are lookingforward working with them too!”DSM’s family of Arnite XT grades alloffer dimensional stability due to lowmoisture absorption and a very low andconstant coefficient of linear thermalexpansion (CLTE) which is reportedlycomparable to aluminum. Arnite XT tolerates a wide range oftemperatures and environmentalconditions, including chemicalexposure. DSM is able to produceArnite XT to very narrow specifications(glass fibre content, for example, isspecified to 35.0 +/- 1% versus aminimum 2% margin in competitiveproducts), ensuring an unprecedentedconsistency from batch to batch to fulfillthe demanding requirements for highperformance precision parts.

DSMTel: +31 46 477 3051Email: [email protected]: www.dsm.com

Magna Auteca’s latest generation of exterior mirror adjustment units.


MATERIALS

in the near future because of theimmediate correlation between airflow,air resistance and fuel efficiency.Styron’s intimate knowledge ofdesigning and engineering with longglass fibre products (such as INSPIRElong glass fibre polypropylene (LGF PP)resins) will enable low weight solutionsfor this new requirement.Due to the fact that growing amounts ofelectronics are being introduced underthe bonnet, there is the trend tomicronize applications to optimisespace. It is becoming commonplace forcar manufacturers and processors toenlist plastics manufacturers to helpthem develop smaller applications thatexhibit the same functionality.

What are some common processingchallenges faced when usingengineering plastics in car parts?

Looking to the near future, processing offibre filled products will be hugelyimportant in the automotive processingbusiness. Consequently, currentprocessors are faced with newchallenges, such as predicting the flowof the material which largely influencesthe direction of the (glass)fibres in theresultant parts and consequently itsperformance. Today, processors and carmanufacturers collaborate closely withus because we have the expertise andcapabilities to predict how to model theflow of the materials, how the fibres areoriented in the part, and last but notleast, how to maximise the

What trends are you seeing fromcustomer demands in terms of under-the-bonnet applications using plastic?

Current emission legislation targets andthe aim towards national emissionsreduction targets will requireturbocharged engines to run at a highertemperature in order to reduce theiremission levels. I am convinced that thisconstant legislative pressure will bedriving the use of high-performanceplastics in many under-the-bonnetapplications. Hence, the current trend oflowering heat resistance specificationsfor under-the bonnet-applications will bereversed and favour higher heat plastics(e.g. polyamide). Another solution todeal with the higher heat in the enginecompartment would be to add heatbarriers around the engines. In generalterms, we will see that lower heatplastics will increasingly be used in frontof the engine, whereas high-heat plasticswill increasingly be used on top of theengine because of the specific heatrequirements. Due to increasing fuel efficiencyregulations, car manufacturers are alsolooking closely at how new airflowmanagement technology can helpoptimise aerodynamics in cars. A recentexample of this kind of innovation is theairflow management system of the grillein the Ford Focus, which uses vents tocontrol airflow through the grille to thecooling system and enginecompartment. I am convinced that thistype of innovation will beintroduced into almost all vehicles

Styron and the Automotive Sector

SHOWCASEENGINEERING PLASTICS

Q&A:

function of the fibre in the final part. Due to the upcoming fuel efficiency andemissions legislations, I predict that tenyears from now, there will be a realmarket need for plastic based structuralparts in automotive. The parts will bemade with endless glass and/or carbonfibres to have the required structuralperformance. Whether thermoset orthermoplastic, these will require thedevelopment of completely newprocessing technologies to obtain thenecessary output needed for theautomotive industry. In contrast, theaircraft industry has been developingprocessing technologies for endlessfibres for more than twenty years now,however their technologies are very slowand cannot simply be replicated for theautomotive industry. A further challenge, and one I find verycommonly occurs in this business, is thechallenge for car producers to educatetheir engineers on actively includingmore plastics into their designdevelopment tracks. It is fair to say, thatcurrently, a lot of plastic products do notgo into cars because of the limitedinherent material knowledge of thedevelopment engineers. Overlookingplastics is a missed opportunity, and fora material company like Styron, webelieve we can play an important role ineducating our customers throughout thevalue chain (from processors, partmakers to OEMS).

And how can Styron products help toovercome these?

We have an extensive product line ofengineering resins ranging frompolypropylene compounds and LGF PP,ABS, PC/ABS and polycarbonate resinsfor automotive applications. However, itis the processing capabilities of Styron’sengineering team that can overcome theabove challenges and contribute tomaking us truly unique. Products help indeveloping the part, but it is our materialscience and characterisation knowledge,combined with design engineering andprocessing knowledge that helps carmakers, tool makers and processors tobe more comfortable with introducingmedium glass fibre products in theirend-products. This is a growing trendand a future challenge will be to developstructural parts with medium lengthfibres. One example of this already is thelift-gate of the new Renault Clio.I forecast that the trend of using endlessfibres in the automotive industry will only

Styron is one of the largest suppliers of plastics, with a range of engineering products among itsoffering. One of the key markets for engineering plastics has always been the automotive sector. Asthe demand for lighter vehicles continues to grow, this trend is set to expand. EPPM spoke to Dagmar van Heur, Global VP Automotive for Styron to get his views on what thefuture holds.

take central stage in five or so years, toreplace the chassis part of the vehicle.Styron will develop new products in linewith these new trends.

So plastics are being used more andmore in the sector now because whilstdimensional stability is gettingstronger, the weight remains lighter incomparison to alternative materials.The general consumer may feelnervous about passenger safety - isthis justified?

I understand consumers’ trepidation,because obviously they are not aware ofthe use of plastics in structural parts ofthe cars and they still see steel assomething synonymous to “robust.” Forme, with my industry experience, I knowthat carbon fibre can absorb moreenergy than steel, but your regularconsumer does not possess thisknowledge. This is where we come backto the educational role of plasticscompanies and associations to changethat mindset. Educating and evolvingmindsets is important and should be anongoing process. Moreover, as previously alluded to, it isnot only the consumers, but also carmakers who sometimes feeluncomfortable with using plastics in theautomotive design phase, even thoughextensive R&D work and reports showfor instance that crumple zones can bedeveloped as effectively with fibrereinforced plastics as with steel. What isclear, is that education must extendpassed the consumer base also. As we start a new year, I am excitedBMW, a global automotive leader, willlaunch its first carbon fibre car mid-or-end of 2013 (the tentatively titled BMWi3model). It will be the first example of acar based on new carbon fibretechnology based on endless fibretechnology. It’s a huge step forward!

Lightweighting is important for theenvironment, but so is recyclability.Do your grades offer good recyclingcredentials?

For Styron, lightweighting andrecyclability can go hand in hand, theRenault Clio lift-gate, which was jointlydeveloped by Renault and our R&Ddepartment is an example of this. Formany years, the automotive industry hasbeen looking for alternatives to steel forlift-gates. With this innovative concept,the French car manufacturer not only

Dagmar van Heur, Global VPAutomotive for Styron

An under-the-hood application that Styron recently worked on was the integrated bracketintroduced on the new Ford Fusion. Styron was part of the multi-party collaboration thatsuccessfully developed the new plastic bracket which helped Ford win the 2012 SPEAutomotive Innovation award for Safety. Styron’s INSPIRE long glass fibre polypropyleneresin (LGF PP) contributed to absorbing the impact, consequently helping Ford to meetnew US Safety regulations.


MATERIALS


contributes to weight reduction foroptimal fuel efficiency, but also respondsto waste management recyclingguidelines promoting recyclabilitywithout disassembly. Taking into accountthat the base polymer of the lift-gatesolution is the same, the part can beeasily recycled and used in futureapplications. In the selection of thematerials, Styron was confronted withseveral challenges due to the complexityof the part, consisting of three parts:The inner skin is injection moulded usinga talc filled polypropylene compoundfrom Styron and connects to thestructural part. The structural part is produced with longglass fibre polypropylene resin (LGF-PP)concentrate developed by Styron. Thisconcentrate is diluted directly on themoulding machine with appropriate PPcopolymer resin through dry-blenddirectly. The outer skin is made with Styron’sINSPIRE At-Press talc masterbatchconcept, which injection moulds throughblending of the different components(polypropylene impact copolymer,specifically designed 70% talcmasterbatch and the required colorconcentrate), allowing for a tailouredmechanical performance to meet theOEM specific application requirements.Something that is often overlooked is thefact that a car should also be designedfor disassembly. Styron regularly workstogether as a development partner,advising car manufacturers on how todesign the different parts, so that theycan easily be taken apart. Even though drivers from medium andluxury cars still want the feeling of lowgloss paint in their interiors, we advisecar manufacturers to consider replacingsurfaces in the vehicle with materials thatdon’t need to be painted, but come

Thermoplastic lift-gate solution for the new Renault Clio. Styron contributed in the engineeringphase, but also helped in the material development implementation phase to select and test thematerials required to fulfill the specific requirements.

close to creating the same look and feel.In bypassing the necessity of interiorpaint, this facilitates improvedrecyclability. Unsurprisingly, Styron hasexcellent credentials in this area with ourVelvex, a reinforced elastomers portfoliofor unpainted interior trim applicationsand MAGNUM Super Low Gloss ABS(MAGNUM 3416 SLG) that can easily berecycled, but also has similar aestheticsto a low gloss painted part. An exampleof this is MAGNUM SLG ABS (SuperLow Gloss Acrylonitrile ButadieneStyrene resin) in the new Golf modelwhere Volkswagen wanted to eliminatepaint on the door handles.

Finally, is demand for more plasticautomotive parts really growing asquickly as it seems? Or is the mediaemphasising this trend too much?

This is a very good question. From myperspective we are currently at acrossroads. Over the next two years, Idon’t expect that any growth inautomotive plastics will come from thecar interior; rather it will come fromdeveloping under-the-bonnet or exteriorplastics applications. This however, willnot create exponential growth inautomotive plastics short term. Beginning 2015 however, due to theincreasing emission legislation in Europeand the US on getting better miles pergallon/lower emissions, the amount ofplastics part in vehicles will increaseconsiderably because these ambitioustargets can only be achieved byproducing lighter cars with plastics,(already, improvements in the enginedesign to reduce weight have amplybeen examined).

StyronWeb: www.styron.com

Portfolio re-structured for food contact

Semi finished plastic materials used inthe food industry have to comply withthe requirements of the latest EuropeanRegulation (EU) no. 10/2011. ThisRegulation, also known as the PlasticsImplementation Measure (PIM), isaimed at excluding any toxic effectswhich could arise as a result ofinteraction between food substancesand plastics. Ensinger has restructuredits portfolio of semi finishedengineering plastic products for thefood industry and performed migrationtesting on a multitude of its stockshapes range. In order to guaranteeseamless traceability, customers areprovided with an extensive datapackage along with their stock shapes.The focal element of this data packageis an order specific declaration ofcompliance as outlined by 10/2011.To reflect the complexity of possibleapplication conditions, the Regulationdefines different test simulants, timesand temperatures. Developers can usethe data to derive definitive conclusionsabout adherence to migration values

under application conditions. Thisallows customers to determine at anearly juncture whether a material issuitable for a specific field ofapplication involving contact with food.As the test results obtained byEnsinger are based on concretestandard test methods, the effortinvolved in compiling additionaldeclarations of conformity issignificantly reduced. This is a majorbenefit for users such as finished partmanufacturers who producecomponents for use in food processingplants. All they now have to do is passon the compliance information fromtheir subcontractor and supplement itwith their own data.Since January, compliance certificateshave been available from Ensinger forits polymers which are most commonlyused in food technology applications.

EnsingerTel: +49 70 328 190Email: [email protected]: www.ensinger-online.com


MATERIALS


Automotive OEM opts for recycled resins for car fenders

SABIC’s Innovative Plastics businesshas announced that Renault hasadopted a new post-industrial recycled(PIR) grade of NORYL GTX resin aspart of its ongoing drive to complywith the European Union’s end-of-lifevehicle (ELV) requirements. The OEMadopted the new SABIC material forthe fenders of its 2013 Clio IV and willexpand the resin’s use to theupcoming ZOE electric vehicle. Thefenders are said to offer up to 47%lower greenhouse gas emissions overthe lifecycle of the fender whencompared to steel. Renault started a project in 2010 toreview technical solutions to meet therequirements in Directive 2000/53/ECon the elimination of end-of-life

vehicles. The project, known asICARRE, which stands for InnovativeCAR REcycling +95%, is targeting a95% recovery rate for ELV materials. “Renault’s vision and innovation haveplayed a leading role in themainstream adoption of plastic fendersto achieve key automotive industrygoals of enhanced sustainability anddesign freedom,” said Leon Jacobs,Automotive leader, Europe, InnovativePlastics. “The company’s use ofNORYL GTX resin over 25 years hasconclusively demonstrated thatlightweight thermoplastic body panelsmade from the product are a viable,proven, production-capable solution.Now, with next-generation SABICmaterials that use recycled body

panels, Renault can continue to raisethe bar in automotive innovation.”SABIC provided a wide range oftechnical services, including definingand validating the mouldingconditions, using predictive tools tooptimise the fender design andprocesses, testing applicationrequirements such as impact anddimensional stability, and supportingproduction processes including onlinepainting and assembly.Renault has designed more vehicleswith fenders moulded from NORYLGTX resins than any other automaker.Models include the Twingo, Clio,Kangoo, Scenic, Megane, Laguna,Espace, Wind and Modus. Theautomaker began development of

plastic fenders in 1985 and launchedits first in 1989 on the Clio 16S.Building on its recent success with PIRmaterial, Renault is collaborating withSABIC to develop a closed loopsystem in which the OEM will harvestthe thermoplastic material of fendersfrom end-of-life vehicles for theproduction of fenders for new cars.The aim is for Renault to use a post-consumer recycled grade of NORYLGTX resin, a material already in thevalidation stage, for select vehicles.

SABIC Innovative PlasticsTel: +1 248 926 4219Email: [email protected]: www.sabic-ip.com

Range of polyamide compounds expanded

With the cross-linkable CompaDur PBTcompounds, DimeLika Plast ofGermany has commercialised a rangeof applications with several customers.The expansion of the product rangewith cross-linkable polyamides was alogical progression, according to thegroup. “By cross-linking plastics, plasticcomponents, that is, we are able toimprove the material properties of lesscostly plastics in the melt, so that theycan replace metals, metal alloys andhigh-performance plastics, which arecostly and often difficult to process. Byreplacing high-performance plasticssuch as LCP, PPS and PPA, we cangenerally save five euros per Kilogramand more,” said Hans-Dieter Voss,Managing Director of DimeLika Plast.The basic effect of beta irradiation canbe explained as follows, usingpolyamide (PA) as an example:polyamides are linear polymers withamide bonds which repeat regularlyalong the main chain. Preciselymetered beta irradiation breaks up themacromolecules in the polymer intoradicals and cross-links them into newmolecules. The irradiation causes chemicalchanges to occur. Excitation of themolecules subjects the chemicalbonds in the macromolecules tohomolytic cleavage. Free radicals areformed when the bonds are broken.The key mechanisms of the change arechain cleavages occurring as randomcleavages of bonds. Chain branches,the early stages of cross-linking, form a3D network in the subsequent cross-linkage. The precursor of every cross-linkage is an increase in molar massdue to this branching.Moisture has a positive effect on cross-linking in the PA. Increases in moisturecontent in turn increase the motility ofthe amorphous areas, leading to adecrease in the glass transitiontemperature.

Irradiation improves mechanicalproperties in reinforced plastics (suchas with glass fibres). This is not basedon the cross-linkage of the matrixmaterial, however. It can also beattributed to improved fibre/matrixadhesion. The result of radiation cross-linking is amaterial with a significantly highercross-linkage density which iscomparable to thermosets or high-performance plastics in terms of itsmechanical, thermal and chemicalproperties. Originally a thermoplasticpolymer, the material can nowwithstand significantly highertemperatures of up to 350°C. It has anextremely high heat distortiontemperature and excellent electricaland mechanical properties. PA compounds must contain a specialadditive package in order to be cross-linked. CompaMid PA 6 and PA 6.6contain a specially developed cross-linking additive package which isincorporated during the compoundingstage. The processor thus receivesfinished pellets which can be addeddirectly to the shaping process. Nomould changes or modifications arerequired, and the additive packagedoes not affect the cooling andshrinkage behaviour of the compound. “In the logistics chain (see figure 1),cross-linking is the last step after theshaping process (injection moulding,extrusion, blow-moulding), before thecomponent is transported to the enduser. Today, thousands of tonnes offinished and semi-finished plastic partsare upgraded by radiation cross-linking. The irradiation facilities existingtoday make it possible to perform theirradiation process in a matter ofseconds. With short process times andprofessional logistics partners, thislogistics chain will soon become adaily routine. Large internationalcompanies in the electrical andelectronics industry have been using

Figure 1

The expanded range of PBT compounds is a suitable choice for under the bonnet applications.

radiation cross-linking of plastics totheir advantage for years,” explainedLiborius Flöper, of DimeLika PlastGmbH.

DimeLika Plast GmbHTel: +49 6202 409 72-63Email: [email protected]: www.dimelikaplast.de


MATERIALS


High temp polyamide developed for blow moulded ducts

DSM, the creator of “Diablo”technology, has launched StanylDiablo OCD 2305 BM, a heatstabilised blow moulding grade ofStanyl polyamide 4.6, developedspecifically for hot charge air ducts.DSM claims it is the first hightemperature polyamide suitable forprocessing by extrusion-blowmoulding and with a significant costbenefit compared to PPS, thanks to itslower weight and scrap rate.The group says it is a more cost-effective alternative to metal and PPS(polyphenylene sulfide) and forthermoplastic hot charge air ducts andcapable of resisting continuoustemperatures of up to 230°C.The lower density of Stanyl OCD 2305BM reduces part weight by 7%compared to PPS. Better wallthickness distribution can potentiallyreduce weight by over 10%. The product was developed for theautomotive market, where new EUlegislation has set stringent emissionreduction targets for 2015. This hasled to a trend in smaller vehicles withdownsized engines. Creating thesesmaller engines requires new partdesigns. However, air ducts, either inmetal or injection moulded in plastic,do not offer the design flexibilityneeded to fit complex under-the-hoodgeometries. This means that a bettersolution is to have hot charge air ductsmanufactured using blow mouldingtechniques. The first company todeliver serial ducts from Stanyl DiabloOCD2305 BM is ETM. ETM looked foran alternative blow moulding materialto produce hot charge air ducts forVolkswagen.Speaking on behalf of ETM, Mr.Klockow, General TechnologyManager, said: “ETM sets out to meetthe needs of its customers both fortoday and tomorrow. The new DSMmaterial is clearly designed to addressthe challenges faced by theautomotive industry. We are happy tobe the company which brings tomarket the first blow molded ductsmade in Stanyl Diablo OCD 2305 BM,approved by Volkswagen.”With its Stanyl Diablo OCD 2100 andOCD 2300 injection moulding gradesof polyamide 4.6, DSM has developeda range of polyamides with highresistance to long term heat aging.The company’s Turbo System Teamhas built up considerable experiencein air management applications overmany years. “With this new grade, weare completing the portfolio for airmanagement solutions.” said KurtMaschke, Global Segment Manager,Turbo System. “We now offer solutionsfor all temperatures required, with bothinjection moulding and blow mouldinggrades.”According to Kurt Maschke, ducts inStanyl Diablo OCD 2305 BM are able

to withstand temperatures of up to230°C, according to different OEMrequirements: “Because Stanyl Diablois less dense than PPS, and becauseprocessors using Stanyl Diablo have

better control over wall thicknessdistribution compared to PPS, it ispossible to make parts in Stanyl DiabloOCD 2305 BM that weigh 10% lessthan PPS equivalents.

DSM Engineering PlasticsTel: +31 46 477 3051Email: [email protected]: www.dsm.com



HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS

Bayer says it has noticed growing demand fortransparent, flame-retardant materials forfurniture.

The new range is particularly suited tofurniture applications to be used in publicbuildings.

Major chemistry group offers clear PC grades for furniture

Bayer MaterialScience has developedand launched two new products basedon polycarbonate that meet the DIN4102 Class B and UNI 9177 Class 1standards, which are especiallyimportant for furniture applications to beused in public buildings. The group saysthere is increasing demand from the

furniture industry for transparentmaterials that are flame-retardant.Makrolon FU1007 (the abbreviation FUstands for furniture) is said to have goodflow properties, making it suitable formore customised designs. MakrolonFU4007 was formulated specifically forhigher mechanical loads. Both gradesinclude UV protection and are easy toprocess and colour.“We developed both products at therequest of furniture manufacturers withparticular requirements for flameretardance due to use in publicbuildings,” said Matthias Rothe,Polycarbonate Marketing at BayerMaterialScience. “This makes us theonly supplier in this high-end market androunds out our previous range oftransparent plastics for the furnitureindustry.” Upon request, the companyalso supports customers with the designand trial production for such furnitureapplications.

Bayer MaterialScienceWeb: www.materialscience.bayer.com

Tech devices get a little of that human touch

A world-leading manufacturer ofconsumer electronics has chosen a newthermoplastic copolyester from DSM tocreate an almost skin-like feeling to thesoft touch surfaces of electronic devices,like notebooks and tablets.Applied to the surface using a 2Kmolding technique, to enable costefficient mass production, Arnitel Eco issaid to represent the first use inconsumer electronics of this material.DSM states Arnitel Eco is a highperformance thermoplastic copolyester

APPLICATIONS FOCUS

(TPC) with 20 - 50 percent of its contentderived from renewable resources.These renewable resources are madefrom rapeseed oil. Arnitel Eco reportedlydelivers a carbon footprint reduction ofup to 50 percent when compared toclassic copolyester solutions, thussupporting the need of brand owners formore sustainable material solutions.Francis Aussems, Project Manager ofBio-Polyesters for DSM, said: “Inconsumer electronics, there is a growingawareness of more sustainable material

solutions. DSM is at the forefront withthe development of halogen freematerials for cables and connectors, theintroduction of recycled materials, and,last but not least, the introduction of bio-based polymers like Arnitel Eco andEcopaxx.”


Design student puts plasticin the closet

Last year’s Design Innovation inPlastics competition was won by JamieMansfield, a second year student offurniture and product design atNottingham Trent University. Jamiewon with his collapsible flat-packclothes hanger, which earned him aplacement with one of the world’sleading polymer producers, BayerMaterialScience, at its headquarters inLeverkusen, Germany.By developing a unique, integralmechanism, Jamie designed a plasticscoat hanger with flexible arms thatcollapse and spring back, allowing theuser to attach clothing via the neckwithout having to take the hanger fromthe rail or undo buttons.One of the seven judges, Robin Kent,Managing Director of TangramTechnology, said: “I have never seenthis mechanism before in any form - letalone a coat hanger. It works wellbecause it offers a strong initialresistance to movement, but once the‘break’ has been made, it is then quiteflexible. It’s a good mechanism withother potential uses, particularly insafety applications where you needsomething to resist movement but alsobe very flexible.”This year, the competition’s organisershave announced a theme of ‘SavingLives: Design for Disaster’, whereincandidates should submit designswhich could help alleviate the sufferingof disaster victims. Preliminary judgingwill take place on Tuesday 12th March2013.

Design Innovation in PlasticsWeb:www.designinnovationplastics.org

The patented “Gizmo” closure anddelivery system, which is manufacturedby RPC Bramlage-Wiko, has beenselected for a new range of naturaldrinks.Tea of a Kind, available in Peach GingerBlack Tea, Citrus Mint Green Tea, andPomegranate Acai White Tea is a 100%natural drink, which contains 20 caloriesper 16 ounce bottle and is loaded withantioxidants. A key requirement for thepackaging was to preserve the naturalessence of the teas until the consumerchooses to drink them.The Gizmo closure provides apressurised bottle cap where all theingredients are contained and onlyreleased when the cap is opened. Thismeans the ingredients are mixed at thepoint of consumption to provide a muchfresher drink than any pre-mixed variety

as well as an eye-catching colourchange that enhances the openingexperience.For Tea of a Kind, the Gizmo closurechamber provides protection for thenatural flavours, real brewed tea andpowerful antioxidants without the use ofchemical preservatives. In addition, thechamber defends the ingredientsagainst UV light, oxidation and otherdamaging conditions that can degradethe nutrients and which most bottledbeverages confront in the warehouse,on the delivery truck and on the storeshelf.As the cap is twisted, the ingredientsburst into the bottle and self-mix,creating at the same time a colourchange that provides visual confirmationthat the drink is fresh and ready toconsume.

German closure design “enhances health properties”

The Gizmo system comprises aminiature pressurised injection mouldedchamber which operates in combinationwith various Gizmo closure designs. Thechamber is tailored to hold the preciserequired volume of colours, flavours,vitamins, minerals, herbs orconcentrates. Tea of Kind marks the first application ofthe Gizmo technology by GizmoBeverages, run by the duo of Founder &CEO, Don Park, and Co-Founder &President, Walter Apodaca. Apodaca compared Gizmo to therevolutionary impact the aluminium canhad on the beverage industry. “I’m a partof something that transcends technologyand our generation,” he explained. “Wefeel proud to have brought great tasting,healthy, all natural, preservative-freeoptions to the market.”

RPC Bramlage GmbHTel: +49 4442 881 200Email: [email protected]: www.rpc-bramlage.de


INDUSTRY NEWS & EVENTS

At the end of November 2012, 130representatives from various plasticprocessing firms visited the EngelAustria technology centre inSchwertberg to learn about thepossibilities of MuCell foam injectionmoulding. The seminar – arranged byEngel together with Trexel and otherpartners – attracted a full house. As aresult, Engel has recently confirmed thatit will hold the event again for 2013. “The fact that physical foaming isbecoming hugely more important isclear from the steadily rising numbers ofpeople attending the MuCell seminars”,said Michael Fischer, Sales Manager

Growing interest boosts foam moulding seminars for 2013

(Technologies) at Engel Austria. Twofactors in particular are driving growth:the gathering trend towards lightweightconstruction and the low distortion ofproducts manufactured under theMuCell process. Moreover, it isbecoming easier all the time for plasticsprocessing firms to implement thetechnology. Engel supplies complete,ready-to-use MuCell manufacturing cells.The company imports MuCell systemsfrom Trexel, performs integration withinjection moulding technology for controland safety purposes and offersapplication-specific consulting. The event in late November focused onthe manufacture of highly polishedcomponents for automobile interiors, thesimulation of foamed structuralcomponents (using dashboard carriersas an example) and the cost-effectiveness of MuCell processes.Innovation Engineer Emmanuel Hallauerand Dominique Manceau, R&D Managerat Plastiques du Val de Loire, reportedon their practical experiences; otherspeakers were from Borealis, WobbeBürkle Partner, Digimat, Trexel andEngel. Thin or thick injection, no sink marks,

Full house in Schwertberg: demand is high forEngel’s MuCell seminars.

MuCell foam injection moulding technology will be discussed in detail at the 2013 events.

high dimensional stability and improvedrheological properties – thepresentations illustrated how MuCellovercomes the limitations of compactinjection moulding and opens up newdesign vistas. The MuCell process alsofacilitates the dimensioning of thincomponent areas, while wall thicknessesof 1mm are no longer possible inconventional injection moulding. Inaddition, the sample products on displayclearly showed how MuCell can be usedto cut component weight by as much as20% while significantly reducing carbonfootprints. “The automobile sector is still a focus forour applications”, said Fischer.“However, we’re noticing that more and

more sectors are recognising thepotential of MuCell technology andexploiting the advantages. In 2013 weexpect new medical engineeringapplications to emerge, for instance.”Next year’s MuCell seminars will takeplace on 4th-5th June and 27th-28thNovember 2013; for both occasions, theevents will start at 1pm on the first dayand conclude at noon on the secondday. The venue will be the technologycentre of Engel Austria in the town ofSchwertberg.

EngelTel: +43 50 620 0Email: [email protected]: www.engel.at

Effective from January 1st 2013Biesterfeld Nordic AB, a 50/50joint venture between the

Swedish based family-owned FredHolmberg & Co AB and BiesterfeldPlastic GmbH will start its activitiesfrom its central Nordic head office inMalmö, Sweden. Biesterfeld Plastic, currently holdingthe leading position in pan-European distribution of standardand engineering polymers andelastomers, came to an agreementwith fast-growing Fred Holmberg &Co AB which has developed inrecent years to the leading positionin chemical and polymer distributionin the Nordics with local salesoffices in all Nordic countries. “We believe that now is the righttime to establish Biesterfeld’spresence in the Nordics inpartnership with a strong localplayer. We expect furtherconsolidation in the Nordic regionand we think we have now foundthe right partner to carry this outtogether”, said Carsten Harms,Managing Director of BiesterfeldPlastic GmbH. Fred Holmberg, appointedVerställende Direktör of newly

Major polymer distributor entersNordic countries

established Biesterfeld Nordic ABand family share owner of FredHolmberg & CO AB commented:“We are delighted to start thispartnership with the market leader inPolymer distribution. Our views,values, principles and businessobjectives being privately ownedcompanies are aligned and I amsure this venture will bring highesttechnical skills and service both tothe markets and our commonprincipals here in the Nordicregion.” Biesterfeld Plastic GmbH, a 100%subsidiary company of BiesterfeldAG, is a leading distributor in theEuropean plastics industry withlong-standing sales partnerships ina total of 42 countries. Fred Holmberg & Co AB in commonwith Biesterfeld AG is a 100% family-owned chemical and plasticdistributor in the Nordic region. Thecompany holds a leading position inthe Nordic region.

Biesterfeld Nordic AB Tel: +46 40 6012890 Email:[email protected] Web: www.biesterfeld-plastic.se

Following a request from theEuropean Commission, theEuropean Chemicals Agency

(ECHA) is examining the case forexpanding the restriction oncadmium in plastics from the current16 specific plastic materials listed inAnnex XVII of REACH to all plasticmaterials. ECHA is asking forevidence to help identify the impactof this potential expansion.Anyone who could be affected by awidening of this restriction, or whoholds information on relevant uses ofcadmium and its compounds inplastics, or on possible alternatives,is invited to submit comments via anonline questionnaire available on theECHA website. In particular, theAgency seeks to identify anyadditional plastic materials – made inthe EU or imported, for example, inconsumer articles, and not coveredby the current restriction – whichmight contain cadmium or cadmiumcompounds.The call for evidence provides anopportunity for interested parties toexpress their views at this early stagein the restriction process. Thisinformation will assist ECHA’sdevelopment of an Annex XV

Call for evidence on the use ofcadmium in plastics

restriction dossier on the expansionof the restrictions on cadmium inplastics. The call for evidence doesnot replace the public consultationon restriction proposals prepared byECHA, which forms a standard partof the restriction process and willtake place later.

European Chemicals AgencyTel: +358 9 686180Email: [email protected]: www.echa.europa.eu

Technical plastics recycling andcompounding company Luxus andplastics additive manufacturer Millikenhave been sponsored by the Renault-Nissan alliance to speak at the nextinternational VDI conference, ‘Plastics inAutomotive Engineering’, 13-14th March2013, Mannheim, Germany.Sharing the stage at VDI will be TerryBurton, Technical Manager, Luxus, AdamWatson, Business DevelopmentManager, Milliken and Mark Ellis,Manager Engineer Materials Design,Renault-Nissan. They will be discussingproduct trials of Luxus’ next evolution inpolymer development – a new highlysustainable material for auto car interiorsknown as Hycolene.This new lightweight polypropylenecompound will enable OEMs tosignificantly lower the weight of theaverage car, reduce CO2, deliverimproved fuel economy and help meetEU emissions targets. Developed toreplace standard talc-filled grades for carinterior components, it offers a reducedfiller content of just 10% down from atypical 25%.Hycolene will enable much lower weightvehicle components to be manufactured,without compromising on performanceand design flexibility. But mostimportantly, it’s made from up to a high60% recycled content so its offersmanufacturers a highly sustainablechoice too.Renault-Nissan’s, Mark Ellis explained:“Both Luxus’ technical capabilities and

its desire to push the boundaries ofPolypropylene applications above andbeyond that of virgin material by using ahigh recyclate is a major achievementand one that Renault-Nissan is keen tosupport.”Luxus’, Terry Burton also commented:“We are very pleased to have beenasked by the Renault-Nissan alliance toshowcase our development work withMilliken at this key event in theautomotive calendar.“For the last ten years our thermoplasticmaterials have been revolutionising autointerior design worldwide. But it hasnever before been more important thanit is today to develop sustainablematerials for car interiors that can delivera competitive advantage for OEMs inwhat is a highly sophisticated andrapidly changing market.

VDI WissensforumTel: +49 211 6214-201Email: [email protected]: www.vdi.wissensforum.de

Global automotive group sponsors plastics suppliers to speakat VDI


INDUSTRY NEWS & EVENTS ROUNDUP

Terry Burton, Technical Manager, Luxus in theTechnical Centre.

Rapid News Communications,the publisher of British Plasticsand Rubber, European Plastic

Product Manufacturer, MedicalPlastics News and Middle EasternPlastics, and the organiser of theInterplas and Mediplas UK events, haslaunched a new directory platformwhich will serve the global plasticprocessing sector.Plastrep.com is designed to play hostto companies at every end of thesupply chain, including producers ofraw materials, manufacturers ofmachinery and equipment for everymajor process, as well as distributorsand agents, consultant services andevent organisers. The site is designed for quick andsimple sourcing of a local product orsupplier - wherever the user may bebased. An integrated Google Mapsfeature gives a clear overview ofregional clusters of activitysurrounding the various manufacturingprocesses. The site also offersgenuine user interaction, with theopportunity to leave feedback, reviewsand ‘starred’ ratings, based onexperiences with specific suppliers. A simple contact form system allowsdirect communication with thesupplier. The site’s developers believethat it will grow to be one of the mostefficient resources for fast, reliable

New global directory service launchedfor plastics industry

sourcing. To give more detail on theirproduct range, suppliers can evenhost their own literature on the site. Pooling the readerships of theaforementioned titles, plastrep.comopens the door to a genuinely globalaudience for suppliers and theirpartner offices around the world. Basiclistings are free of charge for allsuppliers to the plastic processingindustry.

Plastrep.comTel: +44 1244 680222Email: [email protected]: www.plastrep.com

Powered by

Plastrep.com is an all-new sourcingtool for processors everywhere.



ESMA has announced a packedprogramme of technical presentations tobe delivered during the AdvancedFunctional & Industrial Printing 2013conference to take place in Düsseldorf,Germany on 6-7 March 2013.Industry experts and keynote speakerswill offer printers, OEMs and Tier 1suppliers over 20 presentations coveringthe best practices, as well as offering aninvaluable insight into the latesttechnologies available. Applications to becovered include automotive, film insertmoulding, nameplate, fascia, printedelectronics, circuit, label and solar celltechnologies. Advanced Functional & Industrial Printing2013 will take place at the Radisson BluScandinavia hotel and the conference

2013 printing conference programme announced

programme will be presented in dualEnglish and German. The programmewill be supported by regular intervalsdedicated to an accompanying tabletopexhibition of leading manufacturers ofmachinery and consumables. With space limited because of the hotelvenue, delegates can register now atwww.AFIP2013.org for only €595,including access to all presentations,exhibition displays, refreshments, lunchand dinner. Further discounts areavailable for multiple delegate bookingsand ESMA members. Advanced Functional & Industrial Printing2013 follows on from the 2011 eventwhich incorporated the MembraneSwitch Symposium and was reportedlydeemed an outstanding success by an

international audienceof over 140 attendeesfrom 19 differentcountries. In feedback,100% of attendeesstated that theconference programmewas good or very good,and 98% said the 20presentations would beuseful to their business. In addition to AdvancedFunctional & IndustrialPrinting events, ESMAhas a staged othersuccessful educational conferences andexhibitions such as the MembraneSwitch Symposium, GlassPrint and CTS& Digital Work Flow.

Conference programme (subject to change):

The 2011 event attracted 140 attendees from 19 differentcountries.

AFIP 2013Tel: + 32 16 894 353Email: [email protected]: www.afip2013.org

Time Presentation Presenter

10:00:00 AM Arrival, registration and table top exhibition11:00:00 Introduction and welcome Peter Buttiens, ESMA11:15:00 Functional printing using screen or digital printing Prof G Hubner, HDM Stuttgart11:45:00 Inkjet for Industrial applications - scope and limitations Christian Gasser, Durst12:15:00 Agfa’s conductive polymer & metallic new inks for functional printing. Olivier Decroly, AGFA12:45:00 Lunch and table top exhibition14:00:00 Business case - Real innovation by Natgraph Alan Shaw, Natgraph14:30:00 UV-curable digital Inks for the IMD process Marabu (speaker to be confirmed)15:00:00 Functional pressure sensitive adhesives Günter Perner, KIWO, Kissel + Wolf15:30:00 Coffee and table top exhibition16:00:00 Photonic sintering of printed conductive structures for OLED & OPV applications Rob Hendriks, TNO Holst16:30:00 Computer to screen technology – the future in screen production Andreas Ferndriger, SignTronic17:00:00 Inks for touch panel decoration Frederic Blancher, Encres Dubuit17:30:00 Screen printing mesh for industrial precision fundamentals for success Alexander Seitz, Sefar18:00:00 Table top exhibition19:00:00 Networking dinner

21:00:00 Close

Time Presentation Presenter

8:30:00 Table top exhibition9:00:00 Volume printing of multilayer products Prof T Claypole, Swansea University9:30:00 Material developments in film insert moulding (FIM / IMD) David Parker, MacDermid Autotype10:00:00 Conductive inks Ryan Banfield, Conductive Compounds/PrintColor 10:30:00 Dual-cure lacquers as protective coating for film insert molding applications Dr Hans-Peter Erfurt & Stefan Zaeh, Pröll11:00:00 Coffee and table top exhibition11:30:00 Computer to screen latest generation - much more than replacing films Alessandro Scolari, G4 Automation12:00:00 Clevios conductive polymers for printed electronic applications Dr Detlef Gaiser, Heraeus12:30:00 High speed flatbed violet and UV imaging technologies, and its applications Bart Wattyn, Xeikon13:00:00 Lunch and table top exhibition14:00:00 Sintering and applications of copper conductive inks Paul Reip, Intrinsiq14:30:00 Printed EL circuits and antennas Steve Jones from PEL & Peter Dyreklev from ACREO15:00:00 Printed humidity sensor circuit with inkjet and aerosol jet printing Patrick Cosemans from Sirris and Qiang Chen from KTH15:30:00 Sum Up Peter Buttiens, ESMA15:45:00 Table tops

17:00:00 Close

Exhibitor list includes:AGFA, Asada Mesh, Durst, Encres Dubuit, Fimor, G4 Automation, Grünig-Interscreen, Heraeus, Hönle, Intrinsiq, KIWO / Kissel + Wolf,MacDermid Autotype, Marabu, Natgraph, PEL, Printcolor, Pröll, SEFAR, SignTronic, Sun Chemical and Xeikon.

ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL & INDUSTRIAL PRINTING 2013 – CONFERENCE PROGRAMME ANNOUNCED

ESMA has announced a packed programme of technical presentations to be delivered during the Advanced Functional & Industrial Printing 2013 conference to takeplace in Düsseldorf, Germany on 6-7 March 2013. Industry experts and keynote speakers will offer printers, OEMS and Tier 1 suppliers over 20 presentations covering the best practices, as well as offering an invaluableinsight into the latest technologies available. Applications to be covered include automotive, film insert moulding, nameplate, fascia, printed electronics, circuit, label andsolar cell technologies. Advanced Functional & Industrial Printing 2013 will take place at the easily accessible Radisson Blu Scandinavia hotel and the conference programme will be presentedin dual English and German. The programme will be supported by regular intervals dedicated to an accompanying tabletop exhibition of leading manufacturers ofmachinery and consumables.

7 March 2013 (Day Two)

6 March 2013 (Day One)


Packaging group to hold European plastic training seminars


As expected by many in mid-2012, the plastics economy inGerman-speaking Europe

could not escape the cooling trendacross much of Europe and Asia inthe second half of the year. Only 20%of companies participating in thesemi-annual “KI Dialog” readershipsurvey of PIE’s German-languagesister publication KunststoffInformation, reported that business inthe second half was better than in thefirst, while 43% said it was worse.Despite this, the industry’sexpectations for the first half of 2013are positive. The economic indicatorsappear to be pointing upward again.This is all the more surprisingconsidering the fact that businesswas already on a relatively highplateau, that was reached withsurprising speed after the severerecession of 2008-2009. That said,polymer prices are still pointingupwards, despite sinking demand.Some 56% of the 536 KI readersreturning the newsletter’squestionnaire were plasticsconverters, with producers anddistributors/traders accounting for 9%and 11% respectively. Machinerymanufacturers, manufacturers ofsemi-finished products, users andrecyclers accounted for 5% each.Around a quarter of the companies

German plastics sector weakens in2012; capital spending remains strong

had more than 500 employees, 30%had a headcount of 101-500 andanother 30% counted 21-100workers. Small firms with under 20employees represented 10-15%. Thelargest companies, led by polymerand machinery producers, were themost export-oriented but, on thewhole, two-thirds of the poll’sparticipants exported less than half ofproduction.Altogether, domestic business wasstronger than the export trade for thecompanies responding. Around 44%said exports had weakened, whileonly 36% said the same of domesticsales. By contrast, about 23% saidboth domestic and export businesshad improved. Among multinationalcompanies, the picture was mostlyevenly divided.Looking ahead, some 31% of the KIreaders believe export momentumwill increase in the first half of thisyear against last year’s second half,with only 19% expecting aweakening. Some 27% indicated thatdomestic sales were likely to pick up,with 20% saying the sales balancewould deteriorate.

Kunststoff InformationTel: +49 6172 96060Email: [email protected]: www.pieweb.com

Plastic Technologies, Inc. (PTI), a global specialist in PET and other plastic-basedpackaging development has announced its 2013 training seminar series. “PTI has a long history of helping companies successfully commercialise newpackaging for well-known global brands. Our annual training seminars enable us todeliver the knowledge our professionals have amassed over the past 25 years to abroader audience,” said Ron Puvak, Director of Business Development andMarketing, PTI.Classes will be taught at PTI’s U.S. corporate headquarters in Holland, Ohio, as wellas its European location in Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland. Subjects, dates andlocations are:

PET Technologies and Applications Plastic Packaging for Sensitive Beverages

March 11-12 (Switzerland) May 14-16 (Ohio)April 2-4 (Ohio) September 3-5 (Switzerland)June 18-20 (Ohio)September 10-12 (Ohio)November 19-21 (Switzerland)December 3-5 (Ohio)

Additionally, the March and November Switzerland dates will also have separate one-day add-on training modules for PET barrier materials and PET recycling.The three-day PET Technologies and Applications training program will includeinstruction on material/resin properties, material handling and drying, injection andblow molding basics, package development fundamentals, heat-set technologies,quality assurance and testing, and the latest recycling information. This trainingtargets those professionals seeking fundamental PET knowledge, or those who wouldbenefit from a refresher course.The two-day Plastic Packaging for Sensitive Beverages training module will includethe latest technical information on PET, as well as polyproplylene, bioplastics andother materials that are suited for these applications. Also included in this module willbe the basics of non-carbonated packages, sensitive beverage packaging materialcompatibility and associated filling technologies, including aseptic. (A recommendedprerequisite for this course is a basic knowledge of PET, including properties andprocessing. This is covered in the PET Technologies and Applications training.)

PTI-Europe SARLTel: +41 24 423 9530Web: www.pti-europe.com/training



As a result of unprecedentedand continuing increases inthe costs of its raw materials,

DSM Engineering Plastics isrequired to increase prices for itsAkulon PA6 polymers andcompounds in Europe. It will alsoincrease prices for Akulon PA6compounds in North America.Effective 1 February 2013, DSM willincrease prices by €200 per tonnein Europe.While DSM Engineering Plasticscontinues to pursue and implementcost savings initiatives targeted atabsorbing the impact of the rawmaterial escalations, this additionalincrease is necessary to ensureDSM Engineering Plastics’sustainable long-term growth.


Supplierannounces PA6price increases

The John Lewis Partnership, amajor UK retail firm, hascommitted to developing a

‘closed loop’ waste plastics strategythrough a new contract with recyclerCentriforce Products.The new arrangement will guaranteethat thousands of tonnes of plasticswaste from the retailer’s Waitrose andJohn Lewis stores are recycled intouseable products by Centriforce, aUK independent plastics recycler.The new contract is part of the JohnLewis Partnership’s strategy tostreamline its waste contractors andkeep complete control andresponsibility for its waste flows,ensuring as much as possible isrecycled.The retailer is also exploringopportunities to reuse Centriforceproducts such as plastic planks andsheeting in its new store constructionprogramme to achieve a true ‘closedloop’ in its plastics waste stream.Centriforce will collect more than3,000 tonnes of plastics waste fromJohn Lewis and Waitrose distributioncentres across the UK annually andbring the waste to its Liverpoolmanufacturing centre.

UK retailer partners with recycler for closed loop strategy“We want to be completelytransparent in our approach to wastemanagement and ensure that asmuch as possible is recycled andthen reused in our own businesses,”said Mike Walters, Recycling andWaste Operations Manager for theJohn Lewis Partnership. “We arecommitted to keeping ownership ofour waste all the way to its finaldestination, rather than selling it tothe highest bidder, or losing controlover what happens to it.Centriforce has capacity to recyclemore than 20,000 tonnes of plasticswaste a year to produce plasticsheets, boards and profiles. Theseoffer a durable alternative to woodand traditional materials and couldfind a wide range of uses in store.Mike continued: “We are working withCentriforce’s innovations team toexplore ways in which we can reusemore recycled plastic products in ourstores in future, especially for newstore construction. We already haverecycled plastic furniture made byCentriforce outside most of ourWaitrose and John Lewis stores.Centriforce planks and posts werealso used recently in an employee-ledproject to build a boardwork throughhistoric woodland close to ourBracknell headquarters.”All waste plastics from John Lewisand Waitrose stores - from warehousepackaging and pallet films to usedWaitrose ‘Bags for Life’- aretransported to central distributioncentres by returning delivery vehicles.“We have had a policy of backhaulingour waste through the space availablein empty vehicles for a number ofyears. It provides the perfect starting

point for recycling,” added Mike. “Wehave declared our aspiration toachieve zero waste to landfill with adiversion target of 95% by the end of2013. Plastics waste plays animportant role in that, but even moreexciting is the possibility that it can berecycled into products we can useagain.”Centriforce has been working with theJohn Lewis Partnership to recycle aproportion of its waste for more thanfive years. However, in the newcontract Centriforce will reprocess allof the John Lewis Partnership’s softplastics. The contract followsCentriforce’s recent investment in itsown mixed plastics sorting line, afacility vital to guarantee theprocessing capacity needed by theJohn Lewis Partnership.“The John Lewis Partnership is taking

a visionary approach to its plasticswaste management which is anexample of good practice not only forother retailers, but for any businesseswith multiple outlets or sitesnationwide,” said Centriforce’sManaging Director Simon Carroll.“By working with Centriforce, theJohn Lewis Partnership can ensure itavoids landfill costs and makes anincome from its waste arisings.Furthermore, it is pioneering closedloop arrangements which provide theperfect demonstration of total wasteownership as well as underpinningthe company’s sustainable corporateresponsibility.”

Centriforce Products LtdTel: +44 151 207 8100Email: [email protected]: www.centriforce.com

The retailer uses recycled plastic furnituremade by Centriforce outside most of itsstores.

Quadrant, a global player in themanufacture of high-performancethermoplastics and composites,presented its international QuadrantAward for the fifth time on January 25th2013. Submission was available tograduates who have written a doctoralthesis in the field of materials andprocesses related to engineering andhigh-performance plastics andcomposites. Of the four prizewinners,the Japanese researcher Dr. NobuhiroYanai won the first prize of €15 000. Dr.Yanai wrote his thesis at KyotoUniversity, Japan and is now anAssistant Professor at Kyushu University,Japan. The event took place at the SwissFederal Institute of Technology (ETH) inZurich, Switzerland. The academic jury awarded the firstprize to Nobuhiro Yanai for his thesisentitled “Controlling Polymer Propertiesin Coordination Nanospaces” for hisdevelopment of elegant strategiesutilising metal organic frameworks totemplate polymeric systems and tailortheir properties at the nanoscale.Formation of polymers in controlled poregeometries leads to control of manyproperties, such as transitiontemperatures in quasi-one dimensionalarrays and two dimensional templategeometries. Yanai tackled theseproblems with a creative combination of

experimental and modeling approaches.Applications include tailored anisotropicconductivity, tailored ion-conductivepolymers, and fluorescence switching bygas absorption. His contributions tofundamental science include a betterunderstanding of pore size effects, andthe origin of transition behavior due toguest-guest and guest-host interactions.The award presented was designed bythe internationally distinguished Swissartist Beat Zoderer. The design of theartist’s multiple is based on the artist’sidea that thermoplastics can be workedin the liquid state. Liquid plastic dripping

Plastics supplier picks ‘prize-winning’ engineering thesis

The winners of the Quadrant Award 2013; Dr. Nobuhiro Yanai (1st prize) issecond on the left.

onto an object such as paper or a panelforms drops of different sizes, which alsoresemble the emergence of innovativeideas in the form of drops ofimagination. Beat Zoderer has translatedthis idea into a relief landscape ofcircles. The base material used was asheet of Ertacetal C blue 50 plasticproduced at Quadrant’s plant in Tielt,Belgium.

QuadrantTel: +41 44 213 66 66Email: [email protected]: www.qplas.com



FrederiqueMutel, JEC

GroupPresidentand CEO.

JEC Europe – Composites Show &Conferences, taking from 12th-14thMarch 2013, at the Paris Porte deVersailles has reportedly sold out ofspace, according to the organisers. Twelve key themes will be highlightedduring the three day trade show: Design,Non-Destructive Testing, Robotics,Aeronautics, Automotive, E-car, WindPower, Carbon, Biocomposites,Thermoplastics, Multifunctional Materialsand Environment. With 50,000m2 of floor space, theequivalent of eight soccer fields, the JECShow will represent the globalcomposites industry and its most recentadvances in the sectors which consumethe most composites, includingaerospace, aeronautics, shipbuilding,railway, automotive, mass transportation,construction, equipment andsports/leisure.“The global composites marketrepresents 81.6 billion euros in valueand 9.2 million metric tonnes in volumefor 2012. This market is growing anaverage of 6% per year. Composites areused more and more often to lightenstructures, aircraft, and vehicles ingeneral, thus improving energyefficiency,” stated Frederique Mutel, JECGroup President and CEO.“Innovation is present in each of thesteps of the value chain. Producers ofraw materials (polymers, as well ascarbon, glass and natural fibers) haveheavily invested in the research anddevelopment of new formulations.Downstream, at the part manufacturing

level, the industry is also highlyinnovative.”Turkey has one of the most innovativecomposites industry in Europe. Active inthe automotive as well as pipe and tankmanufacturing markets, the Turkishcomposites industry represents almost200,000 tonnes for a value of one billioneuros. “The sector, notably in Europe, hasstrongly advanced in the processing ofcomposites. Especially in Europe,innovation is directed towardsmanufacturing, and in particular, massproduction,” said Frederique Mutel. “Ofall the patents granted for composites inEurope in 2011-2012, 52% involvedrobotics and automated manufacturingprocesses. It is probable that thesetechnological advances will primarilyinterest major international contractorsand decision-makers in countries withrapidly growing populations andeconomies.”

JEC EuropeWeb: www.jeccomposites.com

Full house for French composites show

The KraussMaffei Group is bundlingits strengths and expertise for astronger market presence in the UKand the Ireland market. With effectfrom January 1, 2013 the affiliate ofNetstal UK will be moved from Stone(Staffordshire) to Warrington(Cheshire). Under the organisationalumbrella of KraussMaffei (UK) Ltd anindependent market presence of theNetstal, KraussMaffei andKraussMaffei Berstorff brands will bemaintained.“By amalgamating the operationalbusiness units of KraussMaffei andNetstal under one organisational roofwe will be strengthening our marketpresence. We’re bundling theexpertise and skills of ouremployees; strengthening our brandportfolio and improving our range ofproducts and services. This will haveclear benefits for our customers”,said Mike Bate, who has held thepost of Managing Director of the UKsubsidiary KraussMaffei (UK) Ltd.since 2009. With the new structure anindependent market presence of theNetstal, KraussMaffei andKraussMaffei Berstorff brands will bemaintained with a clearly well-knownproduct portfolio and the companywill be able to exploit existingsynergies so as to better serve themarket with all three brands. “Thanks

KraussMaffei combines Netstal withKM UK

to the organisational merger, we canuse coordinated management to offerour customers the right productwhich they need for their specificrequirements and to increase oursales and service power to themarket”, said Bate. Regarding therubber and plastics processingextrusion product portfolio ofKraussMaffei Berstorff the customersin the market will be furthermoresupported by Michael Barltrop ofDBA Machinery.Nigel Baker, MD of Netstal Limited,decided to step down from hisposition and to leave the company. “The company would like to thankhim for all his work and wish him allthe best for the future”, said Bate.Richard Mumford, Director of SalesKraussMaffei, will head up therespective Sales team for bothNetstal and KraussMaffei InjectionMolding Machinery brands. “I amconvinced this step will be acceptedand welcomed by our customers.There will be no reduction in thesales, service and spare partspersonnel that have been available tothe Netstal customer base.”

Krauss Maffei UKTel: +44 1925 644100Email: [email protected]: www.kraussmaffei.co.uk


Teknor Apex has appointedWilliam J. Murray as its newPresident, the company

announced recently. He succeedsJonathan D. Fain, who remains CEOand becomes chairman of the board.William Murray will be responsible forthe company’s worldwidecompounding businesses. TeknorApex operates twelve manufacturingfacilities in the U.S., Europe, andAsia. Mr. Murray has also beenappointed President of Singapore-based Teknor Apex Asia Pacific.“In 35 years with Teknor Apex, Bill

New President for TPE compounderhas come to understand all phasesof our company and has been a keyforce in its development as a globalenterprise,” said Mr. Fain. “As President he will draw on hiswealth of experience to strengthenour mission of serving customers asa unified team, with one focus acrossall disciplines and in allmanufacturing operations.”William Murray assumes his newposition after serving as ExecutiveVice President of the company since2006. He joined Teknor Apex in 1978as a Project Engineer. Subsequent

positions included those of PlantEngineer, Plant Manager, andCorporate Director of Engineering.He was promoted to Vice Presidentof Manufacturing in 1992 and toSenior Vice President ofManufacturing in 2002. At this timehe also became a member of thecompany’s Senior ManagementTeam.

Teknor ApexTel: +44 121 665 2100Email: [email protected]: www.teknorapex.com

William J. Murray, President atTeknor Apex.

PolyOne has acquired advancedcomposites materials producer,Glasforms, as the company

looks to expand its range of specialitymaterials offerings. Purchased for $34 million, PolyOnesays it expects the acquisition to beaccretive to earnings in 2013.Glasforms has grown at a 36% CAGRsince 2010 and in fiscal year 2012reportedly achieved revenues inexcess of $50 million. “Our acquisition of Glasforms marksyet another important milestone inPolyOne’s transformation, as wefurther broaden our specialtysolutions portfolio to include these

Additives group enters composites market with new acquisitionnew and adjacent technologies andapplications,” said Stephen D. Newlin,Chairman, President and CEO,PolyOne Corporation.Glasforms manufactures advancedcomposites products for use inapplications across the electrical andtelecom, energy, transportation,healthcare and security and defencemarkets. End applications includeapplications for endoscopy wands,wind turbine blade stiffeningcomponents, flooring, doors anddecking amongst others.

PolyoneWeb: www.polyone.com

PolyOne is looking toexpand its range ofspeciality materialsofferings. Courtesy ofPolyOne Corporation.


EPPM CLASSIFIEDSADVERTISERS’INDEX

Company Page

Abbey Masterbatch 17, 35

ACS/Cumberland 8

AFIP 2013 31

Albis 27

Battenfeld-Cincinnati 14

Bausano 34

Birmingham Granulators 34

Blow Moulding Machinery 34

Boussey Control Europe 34

Colloids 18

Dalesway 35

DB Automation 34

DME 8

Engel 2

Equipnet 35

Erema 32

Herbold 34

Instron 10

Krauss Maffei 36

Lanxess 7

Maguire 13

Maschinenhandel Borowski 35

Mediplas 25

Med-Tech Innovation 2013 23

Plastico Trading 34

Plastic Machinery UK 1

Plastrep 29

PMH GmbH 35

Process Control 19

PTI-Europe 35

Purgex 16

Rapid WebSmart 33

Rawmec 35

Ray-Ran 11

Renmar 15, 34

Summit Systems 34

Tappex 34

Tinius Olsen 12

TransXL 35

Ultrapurge 21

Vinyl GB 35

Zerma 34


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PROCESSING EQUIPMENT

RE-PROCESSING EQUIPMENT

Renmar LtdTel: +44 844 6933225Email: [email protected]: www.renmarltd.com

Summit RecyclingTel: +44 1827 265 800Email: [email protected]: www.summitsystems.co.uk

RE-PROCESSING EQUIPMENT Cont’d

ANCILLARIES, AUTOMATION & TESTINGEQUIPMENT

To Advertise Here...Contact Tim Guest Tel: +44 (0) 7581 398 723Email: [email protected]

eppm

To advertise here please contact Tim Guest:Tel: +44 (0) 7581 398 723 Email: [email protected]

1350mm Wide Welex Union ABS,HIPS, PMMA Capped ABS Sheet Extrusion Line Comprising 100mm Extruder, Coextruder, 1350mm X 450mm Stack, Guillotine.

4.5” Welex single screw extruder. 30D vented., static mixer, gear pump. 2003.

890mm Welex Coextrusion Welex World Standard sheet Line. 90mm Extruder. Circa 50mm Co-extruder. Gear Pump 900mm Die. 890mm Welex Stack winder. 1998.

1040mm Welex sheet extrusion line: 90mm Welex extruder with gear pump, die head, 1040mm wide Welex 3 roll polishing stack, haul off and winder.

1300mm Battenfeld coextrusion sheet line; 2 x 90mm single screw extruders. 1300mm x 600mm 3 roll polishing stack+ haul, 2 station winder, 1995.

500mm wide RDM 50/3 lid thermoformer, Double heaters, Motor Indexing. Auto Rail Spreading, Counter/ Stacker, 1982 very good condition.

1700mm Bandera Virginio Mai PMMA ABS sheet extrusion line. 80mm extruder, 1600mm Simplas die, 2-7mm thickness. Complete line 1987.

90mm Welex single screw extruder. 5 zone vented fan cooled barrel. 200hp dc motor. 150 rpm max screw speed. 115mm hydraulic screen changer.

4 component Ferlin gravimetric blender model FGB5-4 For up to 500kg/hr. Piovan hopper loaders.

100mm Union single screw extruder. 35D vented with fan cooled barrel. Vacuum vent. 110kw dc motor and drive. Temperature panel 1987.

890mm Welex World Standard sheet Line. 90mm Extruder. Gear Pump 900mm Die. 890mm Welex Stack winder. 1997.

1850mm Battenfeld Gloenco PP PE Cast Film Line: 120mm+60mm extruders, feed-block. 1650mm Cloeren auto die, 1850mm Chill roll, haul off, winder.1993.

1550mm Battenfeld Heidelberg PVCcalender line. ZSE 170mm planetary extruder, 1550mm x 550mm 3 roll calender, haul off winder. 80-800 micron - 600kg/hr 1988.

70mm Battenfeld-kuhne Extruder, Electri-cally Heated Air Cooled 5 Zone, Plug Vented Barrel. Screen Changer.

45mm Kuhne single screw extruder model K45E 30D plugged vented. 20-204 rpm. 24kw dc motor.

6 Colour Omso DM 144 lid printer. UV curing. Up to 8000 lids per hour. In feed, and stacker. Maximum lid height - 25mm. 1997.

1040mm Welex coextrusion sheet line, com-prising 90mm and 63mm extruders, 1000mm wide die, 1040mm x 600mm stack, pumps, haul off, winder.

1000mm wide Kuhne model BDF 100 PET close approach fl ex lip sheet die. Inclined choker bar. Decal facility. Removable bottom lip. Rectangular feed. Year 2000.

1000mm Omv Coextrusion Sheet Line. 120mm Omv Extruder, 60mm Coextruder, Melt Pump, 1000mm X 500mm Roll Stack, Haul Off, Winder.

600mm Rapid Model Gk640 KU granulator 600 x 300mm opening.

TRANSXL INTERNATIONAL THORNHILL SOUTH MARSTON SWINDON WILTSHIRE SN3 4TA ENGLAND MORE MACHINERY, MORE PHOTOS ON THE WEB: www.transxl.co.uk

SHEET LINES

2400mm Cincinnati PVC Sheet line

2300mm Omipa Pmma Extrusion Line

1800mm Virginio Mai 3 layer coex line

1650mm Kaufman Sheet line

1500mm Bandera 3 roll stack

1350mm Welex/ Union line

1350mm Welex 3 roll stack

1300mm Battenfeld coextrusion sheet line.

1040mm Welex Coex sheet line.

1040mm Welex 3 roll stack

1000mm Esde 3 roll Stack

1000mm OMV co ex sheet line

890mm Welex Pet sheet line

THERMOFORMING

700mm Illig RDM 63/15B cup forming line700mm Illig Rv74 Vacuum Former605mm Kiefel KL2 SH Thermoformer,540mm Kiefel KL2EH vacuum former500mm Illig RDM 50/3 Lid Thermoformer6 colour Omso DM144 lid priner

EXTRUDERS

115mm Hartig Extruder, 30d100mm Union extruder.90mm Welex single screw extruder80mm Cincinnati Titan twin screw90mm John Brown Egan single screw extruder70mm Battenfeld-kuhne Extruder60mm Cincinnati coextruder50mm Welex co extruder. 25:1 l/d ratio.50mm Betol extruder 25:1d45mm Kuhne model K45E 30D

DIES

980mm EDI model Ultrafl ex HR75915mm EDI fl ex lip sheet die900mm Kuhne model BDF 90F500mm Masterfl ex fl ex lip cast fi lm die 1987

GRANULATORS

500mm Zerma model GSH-500/600600mm Rapid GK640KU660 x 350mm Cumberland model 6/84.900mm Cumberland Model 4590

Tel: +44 (0) 1793 827666 Email: [email protected] Web: www.transxl.co.uk Over 35 Years of Service


Maschinenhandel Borowski

Used plastic processing machinesInjection moulding, blow moulding and

accessories

Tel. 0049-2173-8950790 Fax [email protected]

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Extruder and Extrusion Lines

Documents

EPPM February 2013