December 2013eMagazine

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Thermwood!latest!Model!5!Axis!CNC!Router!arrives!in!Australia!

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Flecknoe(is(the(first(to(take(delivery(of(Thermwood‘s(latest(design(in(5(Axis(CNC(routers(The(model(77(Flecknoe!are!responsible!for!sales!and!service!for!Thermwood!machines!all!through!this!region!From!New!Zealand!Philippines!Singapore!Malaysia!and!Australia!Being!Perth!base!is!Idea!for!support!and!travel!we!can!be!in!most!cities!overnight!!With!the!Thermwood!factory!in!the!USA!we!are!12hours!ahead.!So!customers!can!have!almost!24!hour!free!phone!support!The!Thermwood!machines!are!very!reliable!as!there!is!1!technician!in!the!UK!to!look!after!150!machines!Think(you(would(love(a(5(axis(CNC(and(you(need(a(3(axis(CNC(router(The!Thermwood!5!axis!CNC!routers!have!all!of!the!functions!of!the!Thermwood!3!axis!smart!router!They!can!have!a!vacuum!table!fitted!and!run!all!of!the!powerful!features!that!Thermwood!has!developed!So!you!can!have!the!best!of!both!worlds!Twice!the!fun.!Smart!routers!save!you!material!Smart!routers!save!labour!Smart!routers!are!easy!to!use!

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PlastixANZ eMagazinepublished & distributed by:

Grange Products Pty. Ltd.68 Parkhurst Dve.,

Knoxfield 3180Victoria

Australia+613 9018 7674

info@plastixanz.com.au

PlastixANZ eMagazine for the Australian & New

Zealand plastics industry

The Australian economy has experienced difficulties in 2013.

We are all hopeful, with understandable expectations, that 2014 will be a more positive year for manufacturing.

Government will be more stable.

Decisions, we expect, will be with the future of manufacturing & positive growth to the forefront.

Automation is crucial to overcome our high cost base.

Export must be considered at every opportunity. This provides the volumes we require for our quality products.

Traditionally, Australian & New Zealand manufacturing has been creative & flexible. Two features we must build on for 2014 & beyond.

Go for it!!

TBS

NZ manufacturing growth continues2013 DEC 9New Zealand’s manufacturing sector experienced a total increase of 0.5 per cent by sales volume in the most recent quarter, despite a downturn in meat and dairy.

The Economic Survey of Manufacturing from Statistics New Zealand shows the total volume of sales was up after a 3.5 per cent fall in the previous quarter.

News website voxy.co.nz notes that the main shifts in sales were in metal (up 6.6 per cent) and petroleum and coal product manufacturing (up 8.0 per cent).

"Although meat and dairy volumes fell, stock levels are very high for the end of a September quarter," said labour statistician Blair Cardno.

"Outside meat and dairy, we saw a broad-based increase across the manufacturing sector in the quarter."

Meat and dairy sales volumes were down 2.7 per cent.

The result follows a robust BNZ-Business New Zealand PMI result for October of 55.7, well above the 50 separating contraction from expansion.

Commenting on the October PMI, BNZ economist Craig Ebert noted that all the categories tracked were in expansion, though possible problems around capacity constraints were a concern.

ARBURG Technology Days 2014Four days of “live” production efficiency

Don’t miss out on the ARBURG Technology Days 2014, to be held from 19 to 22 March. The four-day event at our company headquarters in Lossburg will once again offer customers from all over the world the opportunity to experience our bundled expertise in machine technology, robotic systems and production efficiency – both in theory and in practice.

A unique event for the industryWith more than 5,500 visitors from around 50 countries, the ARBURG Technology Days are one of the highlights of the international plastics industry. With over 40 exhibits, innovative applications, specialist presentations and guided tours, we will present all aspects of the potential and future of plastics processing, We never lose sight of production efficiency – from the production of one-off parts or small-volume batches with the freeformer to the manufacture of large series with our ALLROUNDER injection moulding machines.

Visit our technology daysWednesday to Friday: 8.30 am to 4.00 pmSaturday: 8.30 am to 2.00 pm

Further informationWatch this space for the latest details about the ARBURG Technology Days 2014 programme.view the video ARBURG Technology Days

AUSPLAS @ NMW 2014: FERTILE GROUND FOR GROWTH

The move to incorporate Ausplas - Australia’s only national trade exhibition for the plastics industry - into 1DWLRQDO�0DQXIDFWXULQJ�:HHN��10:��ZLOO�VLJQLðFDQWO\�increase the number of buyers visiting Ausplas, says event organiser Reed Exhibitions.

Ausplas will be incorporated into NMW 2014 from 13 – 16 May 2014 at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park. This will be the first time in 24 years that Ausplas will be staged in Sydney, and the synergies with NMW will underpin a larger, more diverse audience – providing greater opportunity to connect buyers with plastics exhibitors.

Anthony Reed, Exhibition Director for NMW 2014 comments, “Given that more than one third of the plastics industry’s output is to manufacturers – and that NSW is now Australia’s largest manufacturing region –NMW 2014 should provide enormous potential for plastics industry companies to make new contacts.”

“Certainly, our research suggests this is the case. A survey of visitors to our most recent NMW showed some 84% said they believed there would be great value arising from the plastics industry’s involvement,“ Reed said.

Most importantly, NMW – Australia’s largest manufacturing industry event – has a long track record of attracting manufacturing industry business decision-makers. According to plastics industry exhibitors at this year’s NMW, these industry leaders are quick to respond to demonstrations of how plastics can improve their end products.

Pacific Urethanes comments that they made significant new contacts at NMW 2013, including one that could see its products used at the core of an iconic sporting item.

Jim Hall, Director of Pacific Urethanes says, “One manufacturer just happened by our stand – and as we were talking, he realised our products could replace an unreliable element of his production process. From there, we’ve begun discussions that could lead to a major contract.”

“My view is that the future of the plastics industry is in finding these sorts of new applications – and NMW a great place to seek out potential partners. Having NMW and Ausplas together is only going to highlight these opportunities - so I’m very much looking forward to the 2014 event,” Hall adds.

There is strong interest in Ausplas 2014. If you’d like to be part of it, or would like more information, please visit nationalmanufacturingweek.com.au OR E: nmw@reedexhibitions.com.au T: +61 2 9422 2568

PVC Pipe Retrospective 2013 - The Issues and Successes

It’s time to look back at the year that was and the issues in the PVC pipe industry for 2013 and see how they compare to what were the issues and trends in 2012.

Some of the constant issues for the industry remain the same, pipe corrosion, burst water mains and the use of PE or DI pipes where PVC pipes have proven superior time and time again.

Read our 2013 PVC Pipe Retrospective.

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Maer release new range of plastic bottle neck trimmer machines

MAER S.A of Girona Spain, specialists in the design and manufacturer of high speed rotary trimmers for neck cutting of plastic bottles and containers, have released a new range of spin trimmers- the SB3 Series.

The SB3 Series is based on the superseded TC-4 model with some significant improvements namely:

· A reduced compact footprint

· Improved accessibility from both sides of the machine

· Simplified format change over

· Easier access for cutting blade changeover and adjustment

The new machine has an open design to allow for a greater degree of control and visual inspection of the bottles during the trimming process.

The SB3 Series has been designed to handle small plastic bottles made by extrusion blow moulding for food use - in particular single serve yoghurt drink bottles. The machine can be integrated post the blow moulder or into the filling line before the bottle filler, with production outputs of up 8,000 bottles per hour.

MAER is represented in Oceania by HBM Packaging Technologies.

Take a closer look The industry’s first integrated solution provides the lowest total cost to produce, best-in-class preform quality, new levels of production flexibility, tooling compatibility and extended mold life.

www.HyPET-HPP.com

AdConcepts-HyPET-HPP-Teaser-v5.indd 1 13-11-25 4:36 PM

Husky  launches  HyPET®  HPP5  –  the  next  step  in  system  level  performance  for  high  volume  PET  preform  production  

Husky  Injection  Molding  Systems  today  announced  the  launch  of  its  next  generation  HyPET®  HPP5  preform  molding  system.  Building  upon  the  proven  technology  of  the  HyPET®  platform,  enhancements  have  been  made  to  HyPET®  HPP5  that  make  it  even  more  capable  of  delivering  the  lowest  total  cost  to  produce  while  providing  exceptional  preform  quality.  These  enhancements  allow  for  up  to  12%  productivity  improvement  over  the  previous  generation  system  and  are  complemented  by  all  new  levels  of  production  flexibility,  tooling  compatibility  and  the  industry’s  first  integrated  solution  for  extended  mold  life.  “Husky  is  commiNed  to  offering  customers  the  best  return  on  their  investments  through  continuous  innovation.  When  developing  our  new  HyPET®  HPP5  system,  we  listened  to  what  our  customers  were  telling  us  and  with  that  feedback  in  mind  designed  a  system  that  would  help  them  run  a  more  competitive  injection  molding  operation,”  said  Robert  Domodossola,  Husky’s  Vice  President  of  Engineering  and  Business  Development.  “HyPET®  HPP5  is  the  result  of  meaningful  technology  refinements  to  many  areas  that  combined  offer  the  most  complete  and  integrated  injection  molding  system  for  preform  manufacturing  on  the  market  today.”  Cross-­‐‑generation  mold  compatibility  Designed  to  satisfy  the  needs  of  customers  with  a  large  installed  base  of  tooling,  HyPET®  HPP5  offers  customers  the  ability  to  utilize  molds  from  previous  generation  products.  Simplified  cross-­‐‑generation  mold  compatibility  packages  make  upgrading  equipment  easier  and  help  to  preserve  valuable  floor  space,  while  allowing  customers  to  manufacture  a  complete  product  range.  In  addition,  a  combination  of  technical  solutions  offer  enhanced  production  flexibility,  which  makes  the  replacement  of  legacy  assets  more  viable.  

Improved  maintenance  and  extended  mold  life      A  key  enhancement  to  the  HyPET®  HPP5  system  is  the  addition  of  the  industry’s  first  integrated  solution  for  extended  mold  life,  which  helps  to  significantly  improve  performance  and  reduce  maintenance  costs.  Benefits  include  a  60%  increase  between  required  mold  maintenance  intervals  and  extended  tool  life  up  to  10  million  cycles  without  excessive  wear  or  flash.  Sensors  ensure  correct  mold  installation  and  detect  misalignment  between  mold  halves  during  operation.    If  misalignment  is  detected,  sensors  signal  the  operator  through  the  Polaris™  HMI  and  provide  specific  instructions  to  correct  misalignment,  allowing  the  vertical  position  of  the  cold  half  to  be  adjusted  and  the  mold  aligned  without  the  use  of  a  crane.  Additional  features  to  reduce  maintenance  and  machine  downtime  include  an  improved  procedure  to  align  neck  rings  to  the  cavity  plate  and  specialized  anti-­‐‑wear  coatings  that  extend  greasing  intervals  up  to  120,000  cycles.

 Performance  and  energy  improvements  The  CoolPik®  dehumidification  unit,  standard  on  HyPET®  HPP5  systems,  has  also  been  improved  by  replacing  the  desiccant  wheel  dehumidification  and  air  to  water  heat  exchanger  with  refrigerator  combined  cooling  and  dehumidification.  The  HyPET®  HPP5  offers  air  cooling  and  dehumidification  efficiency  improvements  that  can  yield  a  more  than  20%  reduction  in  energy  consumption.  For  carbonated  soft  drink  preform  applications,  when  combined  with  beNer  melt  control  and  other  advantages,  a  cycle  time  improvement  of  up  to  3%  can  be  achieved.  Improved  ease  of  use  The  latest  HyPET®  HPP5  is  much  more  sophisticated,  with  software  and  hardware  that  have  been  designed  to  work  together  seamlessly.  The  system  has  undergone  considerable  improvements  to  streamline  operation,  including  upgrades  to  increase  automation  and  simplify  controls.  The  Polaris™  HMI  has  been  redesigned  with  a  19-­‐‑inch  full  color  LCD  display,  more  intuitive  layout  for  easier  access  to  screens,  and  the  ability  to  monitor  and  control  auxiliaries.  Operating  software  and  menu  screens  have  also  been  enhanced  to  simplify  start-­‐‑up  and  logic  has  been  provided  to  act  on  the  auxiliary  feedback  and  alarms  during  operation.  The  Altanium™  temperature  controller  is  now  also  fully  integrated  and  can  be  controlled  using  the  Polaris™  HMI.    Further  simplifying  start-­‐‑up  and  improving  ease  of  use  is  Husky’s  patented  intelligent  Mold  ID  technology,  which  provides  information  on  mold  maintenance,  process  set-­‐‑up  and  operation  for  each  start-­‐‑up.  

For  more  information  on  HyPET®  HPP5  click  here.  

Are “smart routers” the next wave?

We all know about smart phones. Smart TVs and even smart cars are becoming more common. Now, we also have smart CNC routers. In all these cases, the “smart” version does more. Smart phones do more than make phone calls and smart routers do more than cut parts.

The fundamental advantage of a smart router is that it makes a lot more money from nested based business. Just like smart phones, smart routers do cost a bit more but they make that back in short order. It is interesting to note that the substantial benefits of a smart router are not in actually cutting parts, but in all the details required to cut parts. It also shines when things go wrong. Most folks considering a router for the first time do not realize that the vast majority of their cost will not be running the router, but instead, will be in a myriad of details required to run the router. Preparation, programming, hold down, procedures, sorting, scrap, assembly and error handling are the main cost areas. Ordinary routers do not focus on these areas. They rely on the user to take care of them and usually it’s not all that easy. The operator must be both skilled and well trained to work within the limits of these systems. Smart routers address these areas in a big way. They address the areas where you spend the most money because that’s where you can make the most money. Ordinary routers may seem less expensive at first, but may prove to be much more expensive in the long run.

The basis of a smart router is that, instead of a machine that just executes a program, smart routers automatically perform numerous functions that otherwise must be done by skilled, and expensive people. Smart routers aren’t just controls that move a machine. They actually know the job they are doing, so they can make judgment calls that make it much more efficient. Smart routers also perform valuable new functions that are just not possible with an ordinary router. For example, with a smart router you can run a complete custom cabinet shop, producing custom sized cabinets without a programmer, without a computer and without software - with just the machine itself and a cabinet library.

Smart routers process part programs two ways. First, they process CNC programs in the traditional way using output from virtually any design software. Smart routers can even run existing programs written for other brand machines, even if those programs contain codes specific to those machines. This means, with a smart router, you can use software configured for about any machine and you can run programs you already have without reprogramming. Smart routers are pretty much compatible with anything, but if you are running nested based programs, there is a better approach.

In the second approach, instead of using a traditional CNC program, developed with software and a PC, smart routers use part data and create the actual cutting programs within the machine itself. Several major software vendors already offer database output to smart routers plus, any software that can output DXF files will work with smart routers. You send the design to a smart router and it, rather than you, worries about how to make the parts. There are significant advantages to this approach.

The first is tremendous flexibility. You can bring parts in from several different sources, including DXF files, nest and cut them as a single job. That’s right, you can run parts from different software packages together, in the same job. You are not tied to a single rigid software path and you do not need to go through the steps of taking your designs and turning them into CNC programs. Also, smart routers adjust programs for their own operating characteristics or for the tooling that is available. For example, a smart router knows how large a part it can hold and cut in a single pass. If a part is smaller, it cuts it in two passes, first leaving a skin and then removing the skin in a second pass. If the part is even smaller it just leaves the skin and lets you remove it.

A common problem in nested based machining occurs when the actual material thickness varies from the thickness that was originally programmed. With ordinary routers, you either have to reprogram the entire job and develop a new CNC program for the new thickness or live with the inevitable mismatches. With smart routers you simply input the actual thickness at the beginning of the job and it adjusts everything automatically.

Smart routers address backside machining in a different way. A smart router groups all parts that need backside operations on the first few sheets of a job and does the back operations on the full sheet. The machine instructs you to load the sheet with the backside up and then does all the backside machining on all parts. Notches are machined on the sheet edges so when it is flipped over, it can be precisely positioned against locator pads. When the parts are cut and removed, they are complete, front and back. This saves a lot of labor compared to doing back operations one part at a time. You save sorting, identifying, selecting the backside program, loading and unloading parts and you save a lot of scrap when parts are identified, positioned or oriented wrong, which happens all too often.

And since we are talking about scrap parts, replacing them is really easy with a smart router. At the end of a job, simply scan the labels of any parts you want to recut and the machine nests them on any material still on the table so you can recut them. This saves a lot over having to create new CNC programs to make replacement parts. With a smart router you can even add parts from previous jobs to a new job, provided you are running the same material (it watches that). When replacements parts from another job are cut, a red bar on the label lets you know this part is for a different job... MORE

Government GrantsMany   businesses  are   unaware   of   government   assistance  programs   that   could   help   them,  or   they   find   the  applica:on  process  too  difficult.    But  it  can  be  worth  the  effort.  For  example,  many  firms  associated  with  the  plas:cs  industry  could  benefit   from   the   Australian   Government’s   Enterprise   Connect   ini:a:ve.   Enterprise   Connect   helps   eligible   small   and  medium  businesses  grow  and  become  more  produc:ve  and  compe::ve.  

As   the   core   Enterprise   Connect   service,   the   Business   Review   provides   in-­‐depth   analysis   of   a   business’   strengths,  weaknesses  and  opportuni:es  for  growth.    Business  Advisers  with  extensive  private  sector  experience  work  directly  with  business   owners   and   managers   to   provide   independent   tailored   advice   and   prac:cal   recommenda:ons   for   business  improvement.  The  Business  Review  is  delivered  at  no  charge  and  is  oJen  the  gateway  to  a  range  of  other  tailored  services  such  as  the  Tailored  Advisory  Service  and  Researchers  in  Business.  

AJer  comple:ng  the  Business  Review,  businesses  may  be  eligible  for  a  Tailored  Advisory  Service  grant  of  up  to  $20,000  in  matched   funding.   Businesses   use   the   grants   to   engage   a   consultant   who   has   the   exper:se   to   help   implement  recommenda:ons   flowing   from   the   Business   Review   Report   to   support   capability   improvement.     The   Researchers   in  Business  program  supports  the  placement  of  researchers  from  universi:es  and  public  research  agencies  into  businesses,  to  help  develop  and  implement  new  ideas  with  commercial  poten:al.  Through  Researchers  in  Business,  firms  can  access  up  to  $50,000  to  pay  half  a  researcher’s  salary  costs.  The  researcher  usually  works  in  the  business  for  between  2  and  12  months.  Unlike  many  grant  programs,  Researchers  in  Business  is  non-­‐compe::ve  and  fully  facilitated,  making  it  fast  and  simple  to  apply.   Projects  can  include  product  and  process  development,   inves:ga:on  of   new  technologies,   research  on  customer  behaviour,  or  developing  new  business  models.    

For  more  informa:on  on  Enterprise  Connect  visit  enterpriseconnect.gov.au  or  call  131  791.  

TCL Hofmann are a fully licensed importer of ODS’s (Ozone depleting substances) that are found in Industrial Chilling Equipment, and we are also members of the Refrigerant Reclaim Australia program.

150 Woodlands Drive, Braeside VIC 3195 Tel: 03 8586 2900 Fax: 03 9580 8322

Email: sales@tclhofmann.com.au

Industrial Chillers

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TCL Hofmann distributes quality NITSU chillers to the Australian market. Our chillers can shorten cycle times and speed up plastic curing to help eliminate the risk of deformation and shrinkage of end products. We stock a wide range of chillers (both air and water cooled) for all applications.

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Ingeo Biopolymer Conference Speakers and Program Announced

The Innovation Takes Root International Conference and Ingeo™ Users’ Forum, February 17-19, 2014, in Orlando, Florida, has assembled a world-class roster of speakers and developed an in-depth program covering the latest innovations involving the world’s leading biopolymer – Ingeo.

Speakers representing more than 50 companies, including thought leaders from such organizations as 3M, Unilever, Danone, Lego, Kimberly-Clark, Kodak, the U.S. Green Building Council, the Green Sports Alliance, Green Blue, and European Bioplastics will headline NatureWorks’ international Ingeo™ biopolymers conference, Innovation Takes Root 2014, Feb. 17-19 in Orlando, Fla.

Internationally recognized innovation consultant and futurist, Jim Carroll, will open the conference. Carroll has a track record of providing unique guidance on cutting edge trends and identifying opportunities for innovation to some of the most prestigious organizations in the world. He was named by Business Week as one of four leading sources for insight into creativity and innovation.

Ingeo performance resins, made from plants not oil, are used in thousands of consumer and industrial products – everything from compostable cold-drink and coffee cups to computers and printers. Additive manufacturing or 3D printing with Ingeo PLA, one of the fastest growing markets for this biopolymer, will be highlighted at the conference by Stratasys, one of the industry’s leading manufacturers of 3D printers and 3D production systems for rapid prototyping and direct digital manufacturing. Six tailored breakout sessions will share the latest in biobased innovations, from raw material to retailer, across a breadth of markets:

• New frontiers in fibers and nonwovens• New markets – 3D printing and beyond• Expanding durable applications with Ingeo compounds• Performance advances in flexible packaging • Venue cost savings with Ingeo foodservice ware• Expanding the focus in rigid packaging

Plenary sessionsFollowing Carroll’s presentation on Feb. 18th, the plenary session continues with an exploration of the evolution of bioplastics from niche to mainstream material. On Feb. 19th, the plenary session will cover the European perspective on bioplastics. A series of workshops will be offered Feb. 17th.

Described by NatureWorks as a collaborative user forum for the global Ingeo community, the 2012 conference attracted 330 attendees, representing 177 companies and 25 countries. A similarly full spectrum of the plastics industry is expected at the 2014 forum, including brand owners, manufacturers, converters, and equipment, additives and blends suppliers.

“Innovation Takes Root is like no other conference because all the attendees and the sessions focus on a single, broadly applied performance bio material,” said NatureWorks President and CEO Marc Verbruggen. “This shared interest generates excitement and lively discussions all throughout the conference hall.”

Visit the Innovation Takes Root website www.innovationtakesroot.com to register and to obtain information on the just-announced program, world-class speakers, sponsors, sponsorship opportunities. Discounted conference room rates are available until Jan. 17th. Follow NatureWorks on Twitter (@natureworks) for the latest conference and company updates.

PROGRAM AT A GLANCE

WHO ATTENDS

A collaborativebiopolymer forum

for the global ingeocommunity.

Conference Registration: www.innovationtakesroot.com

Expanding Durable Applications with Ingeo CompoundsPerformance Advances in Flexible PackagingVenue Cost Savings with Ingeo Food ServicewareExpanding the Focus in Rigid PackagingNew Frontiers in Fibers and Non WovensNew Markets - 3D Printing and Beyond

Moving from Niche to MainstreamBioplastics - The European Perspective

CONTACT US

Ɣ Brands Ɣ RetailersƔ Sustainability Managers Ɣ Marketers

Ɣ Packaging ProfessionalsƔ Process EngineersƔ Product Designers Ɣ ResearchersƔ Academia Ɣ Media

FOR MORE INFORMATIONAustralia New ZealandTony Seers Rick Poynter Phone: +61 3 5442 6904 Phone: +64 9 412 6154Email: tony@seeplas.com.au Email: rick@poynteragencies.com

REGISTRATION AND SPONSORSHIPAndrea ZiadiConference Manager, NatureWorksPhone: +1 952 562 3300Email: andrea_ziadi@natureworksllc.com

Orlando, FL | February 17-19, 2014Orlando World Center Marriott

With over 300 attendees representing more than 170 companiesin 25 countries at our 2012 conference, you'll find a multitude of opportunities at ITR 2014 to launch new products, meet new customers, or build brand awareness.Large segments of representatives of the Ingeo channel includingblends and additives suppliers, scientists and academics, equipment manufacturers, distributors, converters, brand owners,retailers, and media attend ITR.

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PH: +61 7 3278 4490 info@aipack.com.au www.aipack.com.au

PARTNERS PACKAGE

2014 AIP NATIONAL CONFERENCE: PACKAGING & INNOVATION EXCELLENCE

TUESDAY 17TH AND WEDNESDAY THE 18TH OF JUNEPACKAGING & PROCESSING WEEK

Sofitel Wentworth, 61-101 Phillip Street, SYDNEY NSW 2000

Designed for everyone, from packaging designers, technologists and engineers to sales and marketing people. The biennial AIP National Conference is the largest packaging conference of its kind in Australia and New Zealand. Run by industry for industry. The AIP National Conference has been leading the way in professional and personal development for decades.

Chemicals Business Checklist• Chemicals Business Checklist (PDF 2.4MB) | (DOCX 1.1MB)

The Chemicals Business Checklist has been developed from a need identified by the Standing Committee on Chemicals (SCOC) to provide high level summary information about starting and developing a chemicals business in Australia.

Industry has often expressed concern about the complexity of the chemicals and plastics industry and its regulatory environment which can lead to confusion about requirements and compliance activities given the number of jurisdictions and agencies involved.

The Checklist is a supplement to the business.gov.au educational checklists “Starting Your Business” and “Growing Your Business”.

The Checklist will provide high-level, general summary information about the Australian chemicals and plastics regulatory framework including those parts regulated by the states and territories and a comprehensive list of contacts or links to more detailed information.

This Checklist covers many of the issues that those establishing and operating a chemicals business need to be aware of. It provides high level, whole of system information about chemicals and plastics regulation in a simple format.

The aim of the checklist is to enable better understanding of the regulatory landscape in Australia and direct users to relevant information to ensure chemicals business are compliant, safe and sustainable.

The overarching aim of the checklist is to improve efficiency in the chemicals and plastics regulatory system by addressing identified information gaps. 

Mulford Plastics has been instrumental in pioneering much of today’s wide applications of plastics through the Asia Pacific Region. This includes innovative materials sourced from a diverse range of technology leading manufactures that are now used across a host of dynamic industries: from Building and Construction, Corporate Signage, Shop-fitting, Engineering, Mass Transportation, Digital Printing through to Electrical and Electronic industry.

- See more : Visit website

Global polymer and thermoplastic micro molding market at a CAGR of 14% to 2019

Micro molding is used for manufacturing micro switches, connectors and airbag sensors in the automotive industry. It is expected to grow at an estimated CAGR of nearly 14% from 2013 to 2019. Global thermoplastic micro molding demand from drive systems and control is expected to reach over US$89 mln by 2019, as per Research and Markets. Medical and healthcare applications dominated thermoplastics micro molding market and accounted for 35% of the total market in 2012. The rapid development of micro fluidics technology mainly in North America and Europe is expected to drive the market for micro molding in medical and healthcare over the forecast period. Micro molding is used for manufacturing micro connectors in telecom fiber optics. Telecom fiber optics application is expected to exceed US$95 mln by 2019. Silicone is the major raw material used for micro molding, owing to its physical and chemical properties. However, silicone is costly and impacts the profitability of molders. In order to reduce manufacturing cost, polymers came into existence in the 90s. Polymer based micro molded products find applications in almost all of the application areas where silicones are being used. Polymers are further classified as thermosets, thermoplastics and elastomers out of which thermoplastics are majorly used for various applications in end-use industries. In the medical industry, micro injection molding is conducted to manufacture parts such as sensors, implants, tubes, catheter tips, micro optics and others. Molded products are slowly replacing machined components that have been used traditionally in the industry. The growing trend of small devices coupled with increasing number of minimally invasive surgeries per day has been boosting the demand for micro sized parts from medical device manufacturers. The key advantage of micro injection molding over micromachining is cost savings. Micro injection molding takes a fraction of time to mold the components and utilizes low cost raw materials compared to machining and results in high cost savings.

Engineered Thermoplastics Australian Owned & Australian Manufacturing DUROMER PRODUCTS PTY LTD Ph: +61 2 9426 7300 | Fax: +61 2 9426 7399 | www.duromer.com

Powder Coating Plastics

Duromer Products continues to spreads its plastic wings, and now they are becoming shiny.

One of the advantages of thermoplastics is its ability to be coloured, therefore eliminating secondary operations such as painting, but this can cause a challenge when it comes to assembles that include the combination of metals and plastics. A red colour matched plastic may technically be the same colour as a red powder coated mating metal part, but when they are assembled the difference can be “chalk & cheese”.

Injection moulders and material manufacturers work hard to achieve surface finishes such as texture, reflection, surface roughness and/or gloss, in the attempt to provide the best looking part for clients and their applications, but may fall short through no fault of their own. As in the “Road Runner”, a coyote just can’t be disguised as a sheep, regardless of what it is wearing. This is also true when trying to match the appearance of plastics with metals. The solution is to powder coat the plastic, but how to achieve this. Traditional powder coating techniques use electrostatic charges to attract the dry powders to the parts that require coating. Traditional injection mouldable plastics will not allow this to happen, especially with any consistency. The reason is the material to be powder coated with traditional methods needs to be conductive, but traditional plastics for injection moulding are not conductive, actually they are very good electrical insulators, with a surface resistivity of greater than 1010 ohms. Duromer Products now has added to their brand range of products, materials that have the capability to be powder coated with traditional powder coating techniques. These materials include Duralon AS5106, a nylon 6 which has a surface resistivity of less than 103 ohms, as well as Duralon AS5104-A1, which is also a nylon 6, with a surface resistance of 102-104 ohms. Traditionally powder coating curing temperatures are 2000C, therefore it is important that the material used is able to withstand these temperatures. Both Duralon AS5106 and Duralon AS5104-A1 have a HDT of 2160C, which will provide the thermal properties to allow the parts to be correctly cured, as well as the heat performance to avoid deformation during the baking process. Both grades are glass reinforced nylon 6, with Duralon ET5106 having a higher loading providing improved stiffness and impact resistance. Duromer Products would welcome the opportunity to help with your part development and keeping manufacturing in Australia.

FEDERAL MINISTER OPENS WORLD CLASS MANUFACTURING AND TECHNICAL

CENTRE FOR PACIFIC URETHANES IN MELBOURNE AUSTRALIA

Local Federal MP and Minister for Small Business, Bruce Billson,

launched the expansion of a state of the art polyurethane

manufacturing and technical centre at Carrum Downs on 27

November 2013.

Mr Billson said he was delighted Pacific Urethanes had

made the decision to expand locally.

“Small businesses are the real job creators in our local

economy and so therefore it’s pleasing to be able to open

the expansion of a world-class business based in our

own backyard,” Mr Billson said.

“The expanded facility will house 10 staff and produce

thousands of tonnes of polyurethane for national and

global distribution.

“This Australian owned company is part of a $60 billion global industry and specialises in the development and production of

polyurethane systems which is used in many household appliances including refrigerators, hot water systems, bedding,

furniture, carpet underlay and also for home insulation”.

Polyurethane is also used by industry for building panels, abrasion resistance, corrosion protection, weight reduction, adhesive,

and coating applications to name a few.

Pacific Urethanes has more than 100

customers in Australia and Asia and exports

to countries in the Asia Pacific region

including Indonesia, Thailand, China, Vietnam

and New Zealand.

Pacific Urethanes Director and General

Manager Owen Stam said “it hadn’t been all

smooth sailing for the small business in the

current manufacturing environment, but

thankfully it had -temporarily - avoided a

carbon tax king-hit by a sheer technicality”.

“When the carbon tax was introduced our

costs looked like ballooning. A key raw material

luckily missed the first wave, but would no doubt have been caught down the track”, Mr Stam said

“The planned removal of the carbon tax by the new Federal government enables us to plan for the future with confidence” he

added.

The Minister “wished Pacific Urethanes well in growing from a small business to a much larger one"

"Marplex - Proudly Local" Marplex is a leading supplier of quality plastics in Australasia, with one of the broadest and most versatile product ranges of any plastics company in the region. Marplex offers one of the largest sales and marketing teams of their kind, a high level of customer service, and – importantly – strong technical support.

Originally, Marplex was solely a manufacturer. Today, the company comprises a blend of product that is locally developed and manufactured, product that is manufactured under license, and products that are traded. This provides enormous flexibility in what we can provide in terms of quantity and type of polymer.

As a customer should you require a straightforward, simple, off-the-shelf product, then we can offer that. If you’re after a customised product – be it a colour or particular physical property profile – to suit an application, end use, or specification, then we can formulate and manufacture a product here, locally, in order to achieve those aims.

At Marplex we view ourselves as being an important entity and player in the Australian plastics industry as well as the broader manufacturing industry. Maintaining that locality is particularly important to Marplex. We value-add, and we support the industry by employing people into it. We’re perpetuating the value in the industry, and sustaining that industry knowledge – and we’re doing it in the most cost effective way that we can in order to remain competitive, and provide that competitive edge and level of service our customer base requires.

Product Range:

ØABSØABS/Nylon alloysØAcyrlic (PMMA)ØASAØGPPS & HIPSØNylon 6, 66 & 12ØPBTØPE & PP additive masterbatchØPET resins & compoundsØPolycarbonateØPolycarbonate alloys, PC/ABS, PC/ASA, PC/PETØPolyethylene resins & compoundsØPolypropylene resins & compoundsØPolyacetal (POM)ØPPSØSANØThermoplastic elastomers

"Marplex - Proudly Local"

For more information and expert advice on ALL your travel needs, call Graeme or Paul on 039500 8355 or visit our websites

www.tradefairs.com.au or www.travelcentre.com.au

Ambassador Travel (Division of Passport Travel) Level 1, 12-14 Glenferrie Road, Malvern 3144 Licence 31054 Phone: 61 (3) 9500 8355 Fax: 61 (3) 9509 0111 Email: tradefairs@travelcentre.com.au

BOOK with EXPERIENCED TRAVELLERS

Fiji experience

If you’re looking for an escape that will take you away from it all does Tom Hank’s “Castaway” island have any appeal? Blue Lagoon Cruises have recently added an overnight stop there among the extensive daily activities available when you cruise the Yasawa Islands, Fiji aboard the cruise ship “Fiji Princess”. A 3, 4 or 7 night cruise might include swimming with manta rays, fire dancing, cave visits and interaction with local island villagers for a unique cultural Fijian experience.

Call to talk with experienced travellers on 03 9500 8355

Trade Event Calendar Ambassador Travel

Travel to Trade Fairs Around the World

3-Dec 6-Dec Labelexpo Asia Shanghai The Largest Label Printing Event in Asia 19-Jan 21-Jan Intersec Dubai International Exhibition for Security, Fire, Safety & Health 11-Feb 13-Feb Oman Plast Oman Trade Exhibition for the Plastics Industry 11-Feb 13-Feb Tire Technology EXPO Cologne Exhibition and Conference for Tire Design and Manufacturing 17-Feb 20-Feb Saudi Plastics & Petrochem Riyadh International Plastics & Petrochemicals Trade Exhibition 17-Feb 20-Feb Saudi Pack & Print Riyadh International Trade Fair for the Printing & Packaging Technologies 3-Mar 5-Mar Sino-Pack 2014 Guangzhou 21st China International Exhibition on Packaging Machinery & Materials 3-Mar 5-Mar Pack Inno 2014 Guangzhou China (Guangzhou) International Packaging Products Gala 4-Mar 6-Mar Plastics & Rubber Vietnam Ho Chi Minh International Plastics & Rubber Technologies & Materials Exhibition 4-Mar 6-Mar Propak Vietnam 2014 Ho Chi Minh International Processing, Filling & Packaging Exhibition 6-Mar 8-Mar India Plast Chennai Trade Exhibition for the Plastics Industry 12-Mar 15-Mar Rubber Technology Expo Bangkok International Exhibition of Rubber, Latex & Tyre Technologies 7-Apr 11-Apr Tube Dusseldorf International Tube & Pipe Trade Fair 16-Apr 18-Apr Plastic Japan Tokyo International Exhibition for the Plastics Industry 23-Apr 26-Apr ChinaPlas 2014 Shanghai 28th International Exhibition on Plastics & Rubber Industries 8-May 14-May Interpack Dusseldorf Processing and Packaging Leading Trade Fair 16-Jun 19-Jun Argenplas Buenos Aires International Plastics Exhibition 3-Sep 6-Sep Indoplas Jakarta International Plastics Exhibition 3-Sep 6-Sep Indopack Jakarta International Packaging Exhibition 20-Sep 2-Oct Interplas Birmingham The British Plastics Show 10-Jan 13-Jan ArabPlast Dubai Arab International Plastics & Rubber Industryu Trade Show 5-Feb 10-Feb Plastindia Ahmedabad International Plastics Exhibition 23-Mar 27-Mar NPE Orlando International Plastics Showcase 5-May 9-May Plast 2015 Milan International Plastics & Rubber Industries Exhibition 19-May 21-May Plast-Ex Toronto Trade Exhibition for the Plastics Industry

We wish our members, readers, friends and families a very Happy, Safe & relaxing Festive and holiday season.

Drive Safe -- Be Safe

We need you in 2014!!!