EPPM 19.4

September 2017 Volume 19 | Issue 04

UNLEASHING THE POTENTIAL OF 3D PRINTING Cover Story | Page 8

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Volume 19 Issue 04

IN THIS ISSUE Pg 6

Pg 30

INDUSTRY NEWS

CAPS AND CLOSURES

Mergers and acquisitions are the biggest disruptors in plastics. HuntsmanClariant is a step closer to becoming one of the biggest materials development powers in the industry and Davis-Standard is to acquire Maillefer.

Starting with a look at the child-resistant packaging market, we share the caps and closures news that piqued our interest in recent weeks.

Pg 8 COVER STORY: HP HP’s additive manufacturing technology can produce end-use parts quickly, making it ideal for mass production.

The technology vanguard goes in-depth in our cover story.

Pg 10 RECYCLING MACHINERY At a time when difficult-to-recycle plastics are under the spotlight as the circularity challenge faces the entire industry, the machinery that can do the tricky jobs could save the day.

Tel. +44 (0) 1244 680222 Fax. +44 (0) 1244 671074 Web: www.eppm.com C.E.O. duncan wood

editorial editor rose brooke rose.brooke@rapidnews.com assistant editor john carlon john.carlon@rapidnews.com

production

Pg 35 MACHINERY NEWS Our roundup of the biggest machinery stories to hit the European plastics industry headlines.

Pg 36 MATERIALS NEWS We round up the biggest materials stories to jump off the screen at us recently, and share an exciting feature on how recycled plastics are finding their way into a lightweight, stormproof roof tile.

Pg 40

art & production robert wood

advertising group advertising manager lisa montgomery lisa@rapidnews.com senior sales executive neil bamford neil.bamford@rapidnews.com tel: +44 (0) 1244 680222

subscriptions subscriptions@rapidnews.com qualifying readers europe - free, ROW - £249 outside qualifying criteria £249

Pg 20

FAKUMA PREVIEW

WIND TURBINES

It’s that time again. Fakuma is but a month away so we share the first half of our show preview.

In this special feature, EPPM reveals how Covestro is at the forefront of renewable energy innovation.

head office Carlton House, Sandpiper Way, Chester Business Park, Chester, CH4 9QE.

please subscribe online at www.eppm.com

Address changes should be emailed to subscriptions@rapidnews.com.

European Plastic Product Manufacturer is published by Rapid Plastics Media Ltd.

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EVENTS

HEATING AND COOLING Heating and cooling in plastics processing is a delicate and often unsung science, we explore the latest.

With Interplas 2017 taking place this month, and preparations already underway for Italy’s home show Plast 2018, we focus on what to look forward to at both exhibitions.

Pg 26

Pg 50

FILM AND SHEET

EUREKA SERIES

Film and sheet extrusion, materials and additives enable packaging to get lighter and tighter across a spectrum of sectors. We look at what’s making an impact.

Scientists have found a way of making a versatile plastic out of sugar and carbon dioxide. We investigate this interesting non-oil feedstock polymer.

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Each issue is distributed in print and digital format to 17,845 buyers and specifiers in the European plastic processing industry. © September 2017.

While every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained within European Plastic Product Manufacturer is accurate, the publisher accepts no liability for information published in error, or for views expressed.

All rights for European Plastic Product Manufacturer are reserved, and reproduction in part or whole without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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From The Editor

Space race For a while it was cost, and then it was quality, and while both are essential in the decision-making process prior to investing in any technology, there is a new factor to consider.

I am talking of course about sustainability, which can in some cases hold greater sway than the price tag or the stamp of approval from a respected body or manufacturer.

it is becoming a bit of a ‘space race’ up and down the supply chain as to who can bring the greenest, highestquality, best-value products to market

This trend is extending far outside of plastics, touching every aspect of our lives, even down to what Covestro CEO Patrick Thomas describes as the ‘economics of energy’. In our spotlight feature on Covestro materials science’s contribution to the wind turbine industry, the lengths plastics can go to in transforming entire industries - right down to the tariffs being paid by householders - is quite mind-boggling.

This holistic approach to sustainability is separating the innovators from the cruisers in plastics and with helping to achieve circularity as the ultimate sustainability target, it is becoming a bit of a ‘space race’ up and down the supply chain as to who can bring the greenest, highest-quality, best-value products to market - and with show season getting into gear, the stage is set for the best in European plastics processing to show us what they’ve got.

I love the autumn show season. It’s a great opportunity to meet old friends and colleagues and to introduce yourself to those who have up until that point been a faceless contact over email or a disembodied voice over the phone. EPPM is supporting its friends at Interplas this September where we will be reporting from the show floor, while we will be making the familiar trip across the water to Friedrichshafen for Fakuma in October, right at the heart centre of the European industry.

If you are going to be at Interplas or at Fakuma then please send EPPM your show news. Especially if you are a smaller business looking to make yourself heard. European plastics processing is just as much about the family-run SMEs as it is about the international manufacturing juggernauts (many of which, incidentally, are also family-run), and I am excited to hear every story. Hopefully, I will see you on a show floor very soon.

Rose Brooke, Editor

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INDUSTRY

HuntsmanClariant merger ‘on track’ Proto Labs invests €4m to boost growth in Europe

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roto Labs has announced it is investing €4 million to boost growth across Europe.

Clariant and Huntsman have published their first official update.

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he materials science giants in the plastics processing field plan to form HuntsmanClariant in December 2017 or January 2018 and have agreed upon a joint strategic direction for near- and longterm value creation based on continued focus on growth, expanding existing strong downstream presence, and reaping the benefits of complementary product portfolios.

The companies have announced their merger will offer the breadth of reach to deliver an additional organic sales revenue growth of around two per cent annually at approximately 20 per cent EBITDA margin and delivering synergies in excess of $400 million (£302.5 million, €338.8 million).

HuntsmanClariant’s position as a leading global specialty chemicals company will further benefit from complementary research and development schemes and technological expertise, as well as shared knowledge in sustainability and cross-fertilisation in innovation and technology. Moreover, there is a clear joint understanding of the combined company’s

future core segments and the direct majority of investments will be directed to growth areas and growth regions.

The company's merged portfolio will be simplified to complement Huntsman’s entrepreneurship and efficiency, and Clariant’s innovation and business excellence. Plastics and Coatings and Textile Effects will be managed for cash and turnaround while all other businesses will be managed for growth and margins.

It is not expected any regulatory roadblocks will obstruct the merger from going through, while a preliminary CFIUS filing has also been submitted.

The merger, according to the companies, will create value for all stakeholders via a stronger balance sheet, higher cash flow, increased stakeholder returns and lower financing costs and will allocate capital for organic growth and value creating portfolio management.

This cash injection is a response to existing and forecast demand for Proto Labs' advanced manufacturing services across Europe, with the finance to be spread across the company's facility in Telford, UK, and mainland Europe.

"Proto Labs offers a supremely fast and reliable service," said Lee Ball, Proto Labs UK General Manager. "Our continuous investment allows us to meet the ever growing needs of our thousands of customers across all industries."

In June and July of 2017 Proto Labs digital manufacturing service providers in 3D printing, CNC machining and injection moulding made a significant purchase of Haas CNC machines and Arburg injection moulding systems.

Across Proto Labs' two sites in Germany, demand for additive manufacturing services is on the rise.

"The rapid increase in order intake is being fuelled by more customers, across varied industry sectors, now realising the extensive possibilities to prototype parts with complex geometries cost-effectively using 3D printing technology," commented Daniel Cohn, Managing Director of Proto Labs 3D printing business in Feldkirchen, Germany. "For certain parts, the only possible option is to manufacture using this technology."

This recent capacity growth is reinforced by business expansion across Proto Labs’ European locations. Since 2015, the business has supported annual growth in excess of 20 per cent in manufacturing and engineering, sales and administrative functions.

www.huntsman.com www.clariant.com

www.protolabs.co.uk

Moretto opens 3 global sales offices

I

talian plastics processing champion Moretto has opened three new sales and servicing offices as global demand for its products grows.

The company now has teams based in Shanghai, China, Moscow, Russia, and India.

Moretto said the offices will have experienced staff able to offer qualified advice with a careful analysis of customers' requests and the proposal of timely and effective solutions. The on-site presence will ensure a prompt and immediate after-sales service through direct presence on the market. Each office engages business partners and technicians equipped with dedicated vehicles and equipment. www.moretto.com

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INDUSTRY

Davis-Standard acquires cable & pipe tech leader Maillefer Global champion of plastics and rubber extrusion technology Davis-Standard has announced it has signed a deal to acquire leading cable and pipe processing company Maillefer.

Customary regulatory approvals all permitting, the acquisition will be complete later this month or early September 2017.

QUALITY HIGHLIGHTS.

"Today is an important day for DavisStandard and Maillefer as we combine two strong brands into a market leading global extrusion systems and services provider to a world-class customer base," said Jim Murphy, Davis-Standard President and CEO. "Maillefer is a global leader that has built a strong brand based on operational excellence, technology, and providing superior customer solutions. We are excited to expand our organisation with Maillefer’s talented workforce and outstanding management team."

Lars Fagerholm, CEO of Maillefer, remarked that the businesses share common values that create a platform for cooperative growth focused on delivering best-in class systems and service to customers.

"Davis-Standard and Maillefer are an excellent fit," said Fagerholm. "Our organisations are proud to serve our valued customers with the most advanced technological solutions and the highest level of service. Maillefer will continue to operate and serve its customers as before, and we are excited about this unique chance for business growth and opportunity for all stakeholders."

"We are also pleased to have the continued support of ONCAP, the current majority owner of DavisStandard. This transaction is a major milestone in expanding our global leadership in plastic extrusion technology," concluded Murphy.

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This is not Davis-Standard's only significant acquisition of recent years.

In September 2015, the company expanded its blown film business by acquiring Gloucester Engineering. www.davis-standard.com

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COVER STORY

Unleashing the potential of 3D printing For more than 30 years, expectations for 3D printing technology have surged and waned with nearly tidal regularity. Upon the recent introduction of the HP Jet Fusion 3D Printing Solution, the promise of 3D printing for manufacturing – productivity, efficiency and quality – is now poised to come true in the HP Jet Fusion 3D 4200 and 3200 printers.

S

ince the infancy of 3D printing, manufacturers have envisioned a technology that would not only simplify the design and production of parts, but also rein in processing time and costs. Thus far, even the most strident advocates for 3D printing acknowledge that it’s a technology with tradeoffs – such as foregoing part quality and functionality in the interest of printing speed.

With our development of HP Multi Jet Fusion and the new HP Jet Fusion 3D Printing Solution, additive manufacturing has reached a long-awaited turning point. HP has made high productivity, cost efficiency and part quality all compatible, unlocking the potential of 3D printing and setting the stage for industry to make the leap from prototyping to production.

At the foundation of HP’s 3D printing breakthrough is our long-standing commitment to inkjet printing, jettable materials, precision low-cost mechanics, material science, and imaging. With learnings from each of these products and processes, HP cracked the code on a high-speed, synchronous architecture that represents the key innovation in HP Multi Jet Fusion technology. Simply explained, the HP system separates the processes of recoating and printing/fusing during the printing stage. Consequently, each process can be separately optimised for performance, reliability, and productivity.

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It’s really new and it’s very strategic, and we see it having a significant impact.

Our work with key partners has also given rise to a new generation of design and production software that removes existing 3D file format challenges and opens the door to achieving maximum 3D printing efficiency. HP Software solutions now make it easy to prepare and send your parts to print, to keep track of build status, and minimise disruption to your existing workflows. You get a complete, A fully digital easy-to-use software solution that can manufacturing deliver breakthrough productivity and environment redefine the economics of your 3D will allow us to printing business.

Quality at speed For manufacturers using of the HP Jet Fusion 3D Printing Solution, the payoff is technology that delivers high build quality at up to 10 times the speed of traditional 3D printers, and at the lowest cost relative to competitive 3D printing solutions. In fact, Jabil, amongst the first manufacturers to take delivery on HP Jet Fusion 3D printers, has already reported production speeds of '25 to 50 times faster' compared to its traditional SLS printing process.

"In terms of speed, cost, and large-volume manufacturing, the HP 3D printing technology possesses a truly unique advantage," said John Buffington, Lead Manufacturing Engineer for Jabil. "It’s really new and it’s very strategic, and we see it having a significant impact."

While high-speed, synchronous architecture sets the pace for HP 3D printing, it’s not alone among the notable advancements that HP has developed for its HP Jet Fusion 3D Printing Solution.

Let’s begin with the capacity to control print properties for individual voxels – the tiny building blocks of 3D-printed parts. With Multi Jet Fusion technology, product engineers and designers can exercise extreme detail and accuracy at the voxel level. By specifying the properties of each voxel, you can define a 3D-printed part – point by point – over the surface and within the volume of the part.

Even more, HP is developing the capability to control colour, texture, and density of voxels in the very near future. At Jabil, this additional potential for voxel control could mean fresh opportunities for a competitive edge. Company engineers, for example, are contemplating the ability to create wear bars by using colour bands inside 3D-printed parts like shoes or gears, and other high-friction parts.

Taken together, HP innovations are turning a long-held vision for 3D printing into reality for manufacturers such as Jabil.

move seamlessly from one product to the next at the speed of digital files.

"We think we are at the very beginning of the next renaissance in manufacturing," stated John Dulchinos, Vice-President of Digital Manufacturing at Jabil.

"Custom fixtures and custom tooling will be less and less important in the manufacturing process. And a fully digital manufacturing environment will allow us to move seamlessly from one product to the next at the speed of digital files."

Rewriting the rules of 3D printing With the introduction of HP Multi Jet Fusion technology and the HP Jet Fusion 3D Printing Solution, a new wave of benefits is taking shape for manufacturers: • High-volume, continuous printing • Streamlined workflow HP Software solutions • Flexibility to use varied materials • Fast cooling for same-day output • Lowest cost per part • Materials handling made cleaner and less labour-intensive • High reusability of materials. hp.com/go/3Dprint

New materials, new applications Bringing out the potential in 3D printing also means expanding the range of materials that can be used in 3D-printed parts, and making those materials less expensive and more widely available. To that end, HP initiated the HP Multi Jet Fusion Open Platform – a unique programme for collaborating with partners to create new materials and new applications. It’s also the impetus behind the world’s first 3D open materials and applications lab now operating in Corvallis, Oregon. We anticipate an open-materials market place will lead to more options for designers and manufacturers to innovate and deliver for their customers.

Another longstanding obstacle for manufacturers to find efficiency in 3D printing is the materials handling operation – traditionally untidy and labour-intensive. The HP Jet Fusion 3D Printing Solution brings order to the process with an enclosed unpacking and automated materials collection and preparation system. For instance, the HP Jet Fusion 3D Processing Station takes away the need for an extra room dedicated to parts removal. What’s more, HP 3D High Reusability PA 12 material for HP Jet Fusion 3D printers is not classified as hazardous; and its industry-leading rate of reusability means less waste to manage.

For full legal disclosure accompanying this article, we advise readers go to www.eppm.com/unleashing-the-potential-of-3D-printing

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9

RECYCLING MACHINERY SPONSORED BY

The fables we read in the mainstream media almost daily now talk about how black plastic cannot be seen by today’s optical sorting systems – a fallacy

Recycling black plastics: Real vs fake news At a time when awareness of difficult-to-recycle plolymers is rising in the public consciousness, Impact Solutions’ Steven Burns insists there are different perspectives where black plastic recycling is concerned.

WORDS | Steven Burns, Commercial Director, Impact Solutions

Another day, another mainstream news outlet talking about the devil that is black plastic.

It cannot be recycled they say, and it is dumped into the oceans as a result. The need is more investment (hence government funding) to create technologies that can magically turn black plastic into gold dust.

The problem with all the stories is they are wrong. Dare I say it – 'FAKE NEWS'.

Black plastic can, and is, widely recycled. Anyone who has got on their back and crawled under their brand new motor (so not many of us) will testify that they are lined with sheets of black polypropylene – almost always sourced from recycling streams to meet the sustainability goals and marketing needs being pursued by the major carmakers, and don’t forget those black drainage pipes criss-crossing the European country side, full of recycled (black) polyethylene.

Such is the demand, one European compounder has a demand of ~70,000 tonnes a year of black polypropylene alone.

These black recycled materials are extracted from waste streams using various technical techniques, but almost always involving a density separation whether in water or other solutions to produce valuable marketable black recycled plastic. It is a low cost and

10

simplistic method of extracting value and allows for a profitable business with many of the successful recyclers through Europe running similar models.

However it’s not all 'fake news' because the elephant in the room is black PET packaging trays. Thousands of these shiny black trays line the supermarket shelves, destined for one use, before ending up in the furnaces which generate electricity from waste across Northern Europe. The reason for this waste is less technical and more founded in the principles Adam Smith set forth in the ‘Wealth of Nations’ 250 years ago – free market economics.

The fables we read in the mainstream media almost daily now talk about how ‘black’ plastic cannot be seen by today’s optical sorting systems – a fallacy on its own as many companies at K 2016 were all too happy to show, albeit at reduced yields and throughput.

But it is not the colour, but the plastic used which is the problem.

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Ask yourself – what day-to-day object is made from black PET? None come immediately to mind except for black food trays. Even more challenging a question: what can it therefore be recycled into post-use?

I have long advocated that the solution to the recycling problem is to pass the responsibility that a product is recycled and actually made into something else onto the manufacturer in the way of tax or tax breaks.

Answer: nothing of significance.

We’ve already discussed how black r-PP is highly demanded by the car industry, so why are packaging manufacturers not making their trays out of PP? PP will increase their manufacturing cost, and their PRN liability (through increased weight) and hence they continue to use PET.

A WRAP study published in 2015 looked at developing end markets for PET, and although focused on clear PET, it did identify that black PET could be used in making plastic pallets - the demand for which would be a paltry 2,000 tonnes per annum. To put that number into perspective in the UK alone, there was 1,000,000 tonnes of non-recycled plastic packaging in 2016.

The simple reason for this is the cost involved in turning black PET waste back into food grade plastic – it’s not uneconomical. In fact it is simply cheaper to buy brand new PET than recycle the material leaving huge mountains of black PET languishing with no further use.

However, should you switch the PRN liability into how much plastic fails to make it back into a new product then one of two things will happen: production will switch to a plastic which has an

Magazin: eppm

Sprache: EN

end market (such as rPP), or the manufacturers will generate an end market for products made from black rPET. Either way, the only solution in this writer's mind to solve the problem of black plastic is by going back to the economic basics and providing a free market economy pull through radical reform of current government and European Commission policies.

Steven Burns is Commercial Director for Impact Solutions, the home of the Scottish Plastic Recycling Center of Excellence.

Format: 164x235+3mm

www.scottishplasticrecycling.org

Thema: F-Platten

AS: 10.08.2017

MOULD BASES

With no end market, there is no incentive for recyclers to invest in the technology, or divert their existing systems to recover the black plastic PET. While investing time and money into developing technology to deal with black plastic will bring other incremental benefits, and investing in new technologies such as the 'blue-black' plastic resins being developed by numerous parties are technically interesting, they will not solve the problem.

But why are packaging manufacturers using plastics they know (or ought to know) are not reused?

17.–21.10.2017

Hall A2, Stand 2313

The answer is once again economics.

The properties of PET allow a thinner walled tray to be produced. Thinner walls mean less weight. Less weight means a lower PRN (packaging recovery note) liability. Lower liability means lower costs and higher profits – there is no financial incentive on the manufacturers ensuring the packaging material is actually reused.

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RECYCLING MACHINERY SPONSORED BY

BIRMINGHAM GRANULATORS LTD

Contaminants and moisture under control EREMA recycling technology is capable of processing even extremely moist and contaminated agricultural plastic waste.

The leader in plastics processing technology shares how the EREMA 1514 TVE has tackled Ambigroup Reciclagem's difficult-to-process input successfully.

WORDS | Gerold Breuer, EREMA Group

Ana Margarid a

The EREMA 1514 TVE is equipped with Double Disc, Air Flush Module and Laserfilter

Ribeiro, Gene ral Manager at Ambigrou p Reciclagem .

A

mbigroup Reciclagem is a well-known and respected recycler of agricultural film, used agricultural irrigation tubing and other post-consumer waste in Portugal and part of the Ambigroup, a leading environmental management group of Iberian companies. The input materials the company receives are naturally very moist and contaminated – a challenge which the EREMA 1514 TVE masters in style.

Mastering moisture – with Double Disc and co

The machine, which was built in 2007, is a key quality element for the company in fulfilling the requirements of demanding customers in the film and tube industry. Double Disc, Air Flush Module and Laserfilter are useful features here so the tasks in hand can be handled in a particularly effective way.

"Thanks to the EREMA system we can achieve very good and stable pellet quality despite the high degree of moisture which, besides that, also fluctuates considerably," stated Ribeiro.

"Take a look at these stubborn contaminants, they are typical for our material," said Ana Margarida Ribeiro, General Manager at Ambigroup Reciclagem in Chamusca, indicating the LDPE films. These films come from farms throughout Portugal and are reprocessed by the recycling specialists to make valuable recyclate. A mixture of sand, soil, grass and straw sticks to the films.

This is made possible by the cutter/compactor, which prepares the material ideally for extrusion. In addition to the normal pre-drying function, which every EREMA machine handles as standard in the cutter/compactor, the 1514 TVE installed in 2007 was equipped with a Double Disc and Air Flush Module. These systems increase drying performance, capacity and plant service life, plus they reduce energy consumption as a whole.

"The SOREMA washing plant removes most of these contaminants from the plastic. Any remaining contaminants are then removed for us reliably by the EREMA Laserfilter in the extrusion process," Ribeiro explained.

"It is extremely important for us that the filter also removes aluminium contaminants very effectively."

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However, the input material the EREMA machine has to deal with is not only contaminated, it is also moist. When the film shreds are lying on the conveyor belt of the recycling machine after washing, residual moisture is still up to 12 per cent.

"Energy prices in Portugal have risen rapidly in recent years. It is good to know here that with the EREMA machine we have a very energy-efficient solution which means we can save considerable costs," said Ribeiro.

The EREMA Laserfilter in action .

ltural film DPE agricu .

Washed L e way to recycling th shreds on

Piles of p ost primarily -consumer film s, from the agricultu ral secto r.

ing.

Used irrigation tub

Resource efficiency counts The economic use of resources at Ambigroup Reciclagem, however, is not just confined to energy, it is a general credo at the company.

The water required by the company, for example, is also used in a closedcycle system to save resources.

"On the whole our recycling operations are organised in such a way that we can carry out the required process steps with relatively little space and labour," says Ribeiro.

Indeed, on a tour of the company, EREMA only come across a handful of people at the various stations – and the EREMA machine was working without any operators almost all the time.

Quality is trumps Besides the focus on films and used LDPE irrigation tubes, Ambigroup Reciclagem in Chamusca also uses the EREMA machine to process HDPE crates and containers.

Energy prices in Portugal have risen rapidly in recent years. It is good to know here that with the EREMA machine we have a very energy-efficient solution

"It is very easy to use and processes the washed shreds stored in the silo fully automatically. The system's high degree of automation helps us to keep some costs down," added Ribeiro.

"The properties of the recycled pellets are very good, we achieve constant values. This stability is important for our customers because they also need a consistently high quality for their products," concluded Ribeiro.

The strict quality philosophy of the recycler is also underlined by an in-house laboratory, which continuously analyses the recyclate produced to ensure it has the required properties. Customers are primarily producers who use the recycled pellets to make high-quality films or conduits for the electrical and construction industry. www.erema.com

All images supplied by and credited to: EREMA

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Get The Metal Out! Whether injecting, blow-molding or recycling, get the metal out of your plastics with Bunting® metal detectors and separation equipment. Our strong, high-energy magnets, quality manufacturing and innovative designs that work in any plastics conveying system will help drive your business forward.

quickTRON™ 03R Metal Detector

FF Drawer Filter Machine Mounted Separator

Visit Our Stand Hall 4, Stand H11

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Whether it is inhouse, postconsumer or bottle recycling: you can only close loops in a precise and profitable way if machines are perfectly tuned for the respective application.

Count on the number 1 technology from EREMA when doing so: over 5000 of our machines and systems produce around 14 million tonnes of high-quality pellets like this every year – in a highly efficient and energy-saving way.

That’s Careformance!

CAREFORMANCE We care about your performance.

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RECYCLING MACHINERY SPONSORED BY

BIRMINGHAM GRANULATORS LTD

Bunting’s combined force with Master Magnets focus for show season Bunting Magnetics will focus on its new capabilities after its acquisition of Master Magnets for shows in the UK over September 2017.

WORDS | John Carlon

B

unting is displaying its magnetic decontamination abilities at Interplas and RWM, both at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham in September 2017.

The combined experience of Bunting and Master Magnets means that we have a solution for most metal separation problems

The latest Magnetic Separation and Metal Detection technology will be on display on the Bunting Magnetics stand (Hall 4, Stand H11) at Interplas 2017.

Dave Hills, Bunting’s Head of Sales, said: "Interplas is the number one exhibition for the plastics sector in the UK and the show gives us a great opportunity to meet many existing and new customers."

Clearing out contaminants The Magnetic Separators and Metal Detectors on the Bunting stand at Interplas are designed to capture, identify and remove metal contamination.

The presence of rogue metal damages processing equipment and affects the end-product quality and reject rates.

Magnetic Separators with Neodymium Rare Earth Magnets remove even the smallest magneticallysusceptible particles - visitors will test the magnetic strength for themselves.

The FF Drawer Grate Magnet is specifically designed for removing magneticallysusceptible particles from plastic. The standard model has two banks of Neodymium Rare Earth Tube Magnets mounted inside a sealed housing. Other variations are available including a low-profile design for positioning underneath large hoppers and silos.

For a complete metal separation solution, the FF Drawer Grate Magnet is fitted above a quickTRON Metal Detector. The Metal Detector then identifies and rejects any non-ferrous metals.

Combined experience Hills said: "This combination [FF Drawer Grate Magnet and the quickTRON Metal Detector] offers the best method of removing metal from free-falling materials. The Magnetic Separator captures and holds any magnetically attracted metals such as steel screws, bolts, steel slithers from worn equipment, and even workhardened stainless steel. This always proves to be the bulk of the metal contamination. Any remaining metal will be identified as it passes through the Metal Detector and then ejected. The cleansed plastic can then proceed safety into the next stage of the process, whether than is to the extruder or granulator."

"The combined experience of Bunting and Master Magnets means that we have a solution for most metal separation problems. The Master Magnets Eddy Current Separator is an industry standard and is used to remove non-ferrous metals from plastics in recycling operations across the world," said Hills.

At RWM, Europe’s leading recycling exposition, Bunting will have a productionsized Eddy Current Separator and High Intensity Separation Conveyor (HISC), which has given Master Magnets has a record year for sales.

Hills said: "Our stand will be interactive and dynamic. We want visitors to witness metal separation first hand. Ideally, we want people to bring samples.

Recovering or removing metal is a vital stage in the recycling process. Our Metal Separators are used to recover metal for on-sale as with UBCs, and to remove problematic metal as found in materials such as reclaimed plastic.

Fortunately, our team has a great deal of knowledge and experience and we work closely with companies to maximise the separation or recovery of the metal." www.buntingeurope.com

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RECYCLING MACHINERY SPONSORED BY

BIRMINGHAM GRANULATORS LTD

Starlinger’s scent of success S

tarlinger has secured an odourless recycled polyolefin detergent bottle after using its odour reduction technology to regranulate 100 tonnes of bottles with no lingering smell.

Starlinger has engineered a project for the recycling of the input material of a renowned European recycler - the material came from detergent bottles from a post-consumer collection that had maintained a persistent odour of washing up liquid even after a shredding and washing process. The goal was to produce high-quality regranulate, and to aim for optimum removal of the strong smell. In addition, the regranulate should not entail qualitative losses compared to products made from virgin material.

Subsequent production of bottles from 100 per cent rHDPE fulfilled all expectations, which were tested in Germany with a smelling test and gas chromatography.

The knowledge obtained through this analysis led to Starlinger to optimising the recycling process – and the final product – one step at a time.

As a result, the material was fit to be reused in the production of laundry or dishwashing detergent bottles, opening a potential new process for bottle-tobottle recycling.

Boost your productivity!

Boost your your productivity! productivity!

Reducing downtime during mould change operations is a daily Reducing downtime during mould change operations is a daily challenge when trying to challenge when to remain reactive From the for Reducing downtime during mould change operations is acompetitive. daily to challenge when trying to remain reactive and trying competitive.

From the simplest and application complete solutions remain reactive and competitive.

From the simplest application to Mould complete solutions for simplest application to complete solutions for Quick Change, Quick Mould Change, Stäubli addresses these challenges with proven solutions for each Quick Mould Change, Stäubli thesewith challenges with proven solutions for each Stäubli addresses theseaddresses challenges proven solutions for each key key stage of the process. key stage the process.

Connecting energy, mould clamping, mould transfer and process automation, stage ofofthe process.

Connecting energy, mould clamping, mould transfer and discover all Stäubli offers formould plastics processing onmould our boothtransfer 1217 process Hall and A1 at automation, Fakuma.

Connecting energy, clamping, process discover all Stäubli offers for plastics processing on our booth 1217 Hall A1 at Fakuma. automation, discover all Stäubli offers for plastics processing on Reliability. Efficiency. Safety. Stäubli. our booth 1217 Hall A1 at Fakuma.

Reliability. Efficiency. Safety. Stäubli. www.quick-mould-change.com Reliability.

Efficiency. Safety. www.quick-mould-change.com

Stäubli.

www.quick-mould-change.com

17 - 21 October 2017 17 - 21 October 2017 FRIEDRICHSHAFEN 17 - 21 October 2017 FRIEDRICHSHAFEN EXHIBITION CENTRE FRIEDRICHSHAFEN EXHIBITION Booth 1217 CENTRE Hall A1 EXHIBITION CENTRE Booth 1217 Hall A1

Booth 1217 Hall A1

FAST MOVING TECHNOLOGY FAST MOVING TECHNOLOGY Stäubli Tec-Systems GmbH - Tel.: +49 921 883-0 - E-Mail: connectors.de@staubli.com Stäubli GmbH - Tel.: +49+49 921921 883-0 - E-Mail: connectors.de@staubli.com StäubliTec-Systems Tec-Systems GmbH - Tel.: 883-0 - E-Mail: connectors.de@staubli.com

Starlinger technology has secured permanently odourless regranulate.

While conventional processes merely bind odours using additives and therefore enclose them in the final pellets, Starlinger’s odour reduction process permanently removes the substances causing the unwanted smell. In part, this removal already occurs during material preparation in the SMART feeder of the recycling line recoSTAR dynamic as well as during degassing with the highly efficient C-VAC module. As a final step, the regranulate receives the ‘finishing touches’ in the Smell Extraction Unit – its configuration and process parameters may be adapted individually to the needs of the customer’s material, as some products which will not be in contact with customers can be allowed lower odour thresholds than products for the household. www.starlinger.com

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RECYCLING MACHINERY SPONSORED BY

BIRMINGHAM GRANULATORS LTD

KraussMaffei Berstorff and EREMA share insider recycling knowledge

Thin wall warning from Plastics Recyclers Europe

Some 60 visitors in attendance at the Recycling and Compounding TecDay organised by KraussMaffei Berstorff and EREMA received insider information about technology, innovative machinery and unparalleled services around plastics recycling. The focus of the TecDay was on the EdelweissCompounding concept composed of an EREMA recycling extruder and a KraussMaffei twin-screw extruder. Plastics recycling and compounding companies can use this line for re-compounding tests performed under real production conditions. The EdelweissCompounding line with the EREMA recycling extruder designed for reprocessing film, fibres and mats was the focal point of the TecDay. During the event, post-industrial polypropylene film scraps with different degrees of contamination were converted into a polypropylene compound with a 30 per cent talc share in a two-stage extrusion process. The line is rated for filler contents of up to 80 per cent and a throughput range of up to 1,000 kg/h. The recycling/compounding line comprises an EREMA recycling extruder (COEREMA 1108T), melt filter and melt pump, a KraussMaffei Berstorff ZE 60 R UTXi twin-screw extruder and a water-cooled die face pelletising system.

Plastics Recyclers Europe has reported that the average yield of PET recyclers has decreased from 73 per cent to 68 per cent since 2011. The quality of PET recyclate is diminishing, said Plastic Recyclers Europe, blaming lighter bottle material and a diversifying input stream. The five points decrease has led to substantial and additional cost for the European PET recyclers. Thinner bottles produce a higher moisture content in bales, and thinner flakes are more likely to be discarded during the recycling process. The market for PET products has also grown beyond bottles and this waste stream is becoming more complex. The market for non-bottle is estimated to cover 18 per cent and it is forecasted to grow over the next years. www.plasticsrecyclers.eu

www.kraussmaffeiberstorff.com

PlasticsEurope drives polystyrene recycling A 20-year anniversary is a major milestone and the European Association of Plastics Recycling and Recovery Organisations (EPRO) is reflecting on its two decades of work in bringing waste plastics back into the supply chain. The pan-European network started out in 1997 with seven founding organisations and has since grown to encompass 20 partners from 17 countries. “EPRO is not just another association,” stated Stuart Foster, Recoup CEO. “It is a practical group of like-minded and very knowledgeable people from across Europe who are passionate about moving plastic recycling and resource efficiency forwards. I have personally been involved with the group since 2006 and the work of EPRO today is more important than ever before.”

PlasticsEurope has launched an exciting new initiative aimed at driving rates of polystyrene recycling. In order to bring the plastics industry in line with the EU’s circular economy plans, the plastics industry body has made it its mission to engage the value chain in developing new routes for plastics at end of life. Focusing on chemical recycling, the PlasticsEurope initiative aims at converting collected post-consumer polystyrene waste into virgin polystyrene. New technologies will enable the incorporation of post-consumer waste into plastic manufacturers’ production processes.

The target is to generate high-quality polystyrene to meet the most demanding standards, ultimately for food contact applications. “These technologies, through an extensive collaboration along the value chain, will provide efficient and sustainable solutions to today’s environmental challenges,” said Norbert Niessner, Chairman of the Chemical Recycling Working Group.

www.epro-plasticsrecycling.org

www.plasticseurope.org

EPRO at 20

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RECYCLING MACHINERY SPONSORED BY

BIRMINGHAM GRANULATORS LTD

Vanden suggests false recycling weights are rife

D

utch recycling company Vanden has said it believes plastic weighbridge records in the UK are skewed to reduce payments to recyclate suppliers.

Founder and CEO Damien van Leuven opened a new plant at Whittlesey in Cambridgeshire in June. The facility takes waste from the vacuum forming, blow moulding, injection moulding, printing, retail and logistics sectors to reuse as manufacturing feedstock.

After some months up and running, he believes he has attracted more suppliers just by paying an honest price - after growing numbers said they have increased their revenues sending scrap to Vanden’s UK plant.

Van Leuven said: “We opened our first UK plastic processing facility in Whittlesey earlier this year - as you would expect, we've since taken on a number of new clients. What has surprised us is that on switching their plastic recycling to us, around 50 per cent [of clients] have instantly experienced an uplift in revenue from this material stream.”

He believes false weight reporting is widespread across the UK plastic recycling industry, which is abnormally increasing PRN prices.

option and doing so will instantly increase the material value over a mixed load.

“You should also receive certified weighbridge tickets and detailed packing lists for each trailer received by your recycling partner. That way you know the exact amount of waste you produce and can correlate this with the value. Half of Vanden’s customers has found that previous service providers were not accurately reporting weights resulting in lost revenue.”

Van Leuven said: “Our advice to those seeking a sustainable recycling route for their scrap plastic is firstly to sort your plastics into separate grades.

Stackable stillages make this a simple and compact

www.vandenrecycling.com

AMUT awarded double European tender AMUT Recycling Division has been awarded two tenders issued by European waste management companies.

Each supply includes a twin plant suitable for reclaiming and regenerating thermoplastic polyolefin scraps to be transformed into granules. AMUT's patented water-saving concept is reknowned for its recirculation units, which allow water to be re-used.

The first project involves the two lines parallel processing LDPE scraps with a total output of 2500 kg/h. The thermoplastic scraps mainly consist of baled blown films coming from postconsumer recycled packaging. In order to increase the flexibility of the plant, a group of conveyor belts enables the two shredders to feed alternately two buffers on the lines.

The decantation phase separates heavy objects and contaminants from the film while a pre-washing action removes

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other pollutants. The second high friction action is made during wet grinding.

Turbo Washer and Friction Washer machines perform an intensive and continuous washing action. The process washing water can be thermally adjusted and conditioned by chemicals/detergents to increase the cleaning efficacy.

objects and contaminants and then conveyed in two parallel turbines for the pre-washing phase. The second high friction action is made during wet grinding. An intensive washing action is made by the Friction Washer.

The flakes are separated from water and conveyed for drying. A hot-air drier reduces the humidity value of the flakes and makes the material suitable for the extrusion processes.

For the other project, AMUT will supply twin lines for washing and pelletising post-consumer plastic materials: the total output is 1,500 kg/h of LDPE film or 4000 kg/h of PP or HDPE containers.

The main advantage is the possibility of reclaiming both light and heavy polyolefins at one time.

In the first decantation trough, the material is separated from heavy

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The purification from residual heavy plastics and rinsing is completed by special centrifuge called decanter. The decanter performs a drying action. The supply includes an extrusion plant to complete the entire reclaiming process. www.amutgroup.com

NEC 2017 NEC BIRMINGHAM, BIRMINGHAM, UK UK || 26-28 26-28 SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2017

INJECTION MOULDING

INJECTION MOULDING EXTRUSION

EXTRUSION BLOW MOULDING

ROTATIONAL MOULDING

ROTATIONAL MOULDING

BLOW MOULDING RECYCLING

RECYCLING

THERMOFORMING THERMOFORMING M AT E R I A L S

MATERIALS

VAC UUM FO RM ING

DESIGN DESIGN VACUUM FORMING

FILM EXTRUSION

FILM EXTRUSION

REGISTER NOW NOW EXHIBIT www.interplasuk.com www.interplasuk.com

COVESTRO

The answer is blowin’ in the wind Covestro has developed polyurethane technology that not only improves the performance and longevity of a wind turbine blade, but could affect the entire economics of the wind energy industry. Patrick Thomas, CEO, revealed exactly what this materials science can do.

Words | Rose Brooke

C

ovestro has been directing its polyurethanes leadership to wind turbine technology, working hard with partners to create the hardestwearing, largest and easiestto-assemble blades available for this growing renewable energy market.

Imagine the speed the tip is going on these large windmill blades? You’re almost getting to supersonic - it’s extraordinary

The materials science giant has been working alongside SAERTEX, a leading manufacturer of woven fibreglass, and HÜBERS, which has developed a manufacturing technology enabling controlled mould filling, since 2015. Together, the three innovators have fabricated a 45 metre-long spar cap using Covestro polyurethane foam.

The spar cap of a wind turbine blade carries the bending loads and runs the full length of the blade. They are integrated into the structure of the blade and in the case of the Covestro polyurethane-reinforced blade, the spar cap made using polyurethane and glass fibres account for approximately one-third of the total weight of what is usually eight metric tonnes overall.

Untapped potential Global capacity for wind power is, according to Covestro, 70 times as great as it was two decades ago and the full potential of the renewable energy resource is still a

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long way from being fully capitalised upon which is why Covestro has explored new opportunities for wind farm operators to expand their exploitation of wind energy by bringing new solutions to market.

Speaking at a press round table in London earlier this year, Covestro CEO Patrick Thomas explained that Covestro materials are, in general, formulated and manufactured for a specific end use and the wind turbine industry is no exception.

Thomas said: "All windmill blades are made using four or five systems. Some are like kits, some make the blade as a complete blade, some glue two halves together, so there's no dominant technology for windmills yet.

We have to be able to use these materials in each production technology."

The traditional method of manufacturing wind turbine blades utilises balsa wood between the two skins - the outer and inner surfaces of the turbine blade. Balsa wood is an ideal material because it is both lightweight and strong and not susceptible to warping or bending.

However, even though the balsa is known to be a fastgrowing tree, due to the fact it only

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thrives in equatorial regions, resources are being vacuumed up due to growing demand in the wind turbine blade market and - to a lesser extent - the luxury yacht market.

Balsa is an attractive choice of material because the end grain of the wood is incompressible, providing a lightweight spacer that maintains strength in the structure. Covestro has addressed the mechanical requirements of a substitute material with its polyurethane foam, which mimics the strength, rigidity and light weight of balsa.

The cure Covestro's polyurethane infusion resin is different to conventional epoxy resins

due to its improved flow and curing ability, shortening production cycle times and lowering investment costs for system owners at the same time.

The traditional resins have very long curing times and for a mould of the scale required to manufacture a wind turbine blade, this means the mould is occupied for a very long period of time and productivity is therefore low.

Polyurethanes are fast-cure and low fatigue, and the lower investment costs for manufacturers could have a knock-on effect on the price of energy as a result of more efficient production and lower maintenance requirements.

However, Thomas noted that polyurethanes are so fast to cure, in this case the recipe has been altered to slow the curing to get it in-range to use in a glass fibre composite wind turbine to allow the resin to flow from one end of the mould to the other - so 20to-30 minutes' curing time. The resin needs low viscosity, easy flow, and a workable curing time.

"We found a way of slowing down - which is not what we normally do, everybody usually wants us to speed up - and we're now the only company in the world that has found a way of making wind turbine blades using polyurethane and we've already made the first blades in China," Thomas explained.

Wear, tear and repair The polyurethane blade is, according to Covestro, the fastest way of using the moulds, allowing manufacturers to get three times as many blades per day out of a mould than using traditional epoxy resins, reducing

tooling and production costs. Moreover, the blade lasts longer.

"We do accelerated ageing tests and a typical wind turbine blade needs repair damage on the leading edge every two years," explained Thomas. "This is one of the hidden truths about the wind industry.

Offshore you have to get up to the blade to repair the damage on the leading edge.

Imagine the speed the tip is going on these large windmill blades? You're almost getting to supersonic - it's extraordinary."

Rain in particular causes significant blade damage on the leading edge requiring maintenance every two years, Thomas explained. But Covestro's elastomer technology, which coats the leading edge can last beyond 10 years.

"That's a major breakthrough in the maintenance costs of the blades," he stated.

"Plus, the polyurethane resin in the blade itself is an elastomeric material, not a brittle material. The problem with epoxy resins is they are subject to micro-cracks which, ultimately, leads to the failure of the blade."

"It's not UFOs that have hit the blades, it's fatigue failure and those failures don’t happen with polyurethanes, so again you are extending the life of the blade."

for up to 20 years, it affects the economics of wind power on a greater scale. This is especially important as developers work on extending wind turbine blades from 100m to up to 150m.

Green hills, blue sky And it is China, according to Thomas, that is leading the world in terms of wind energy.

The roadmap for China evolves away from heavy, emission-belching industry, growing towards a more green-focused economy.

"There's a wonderful statement from the President who says he wants to look out the window and see green hills and blue sky, not platinum hills and a gold sky," said Thomas. "He's saying for China it's not about money but quality of life and the environment."

After COP21 in Paris, which took place at the end of 2015, the Chinese delegation returned home with a mission to close 20 coal-fired power stations.

We’re now the only company in the world that has found a way of making wind turbine blades using polyurethane and we’ve already made the first blades in China

Covestro tests the blades using a system called a helicopter test, which spins the blades at speed from every angle and calculates how long it lasts before it is damaged. According to Thomas, a traditional wind turbine blade lasts two and a half hours when submitted to such a test. Covestro's technology in the wind turbine blade has survived up to 24 hours in a helicopter test.

"Coal is the wrong answer, they said. Wind power is huge in China. The Chinese produce more turbine blades than anybody else and they are committed to that and to nuclear - they have a very low carbon energy mix coming online," said Thomas.

This longevity has far-reaching benefits, because if a wind turbine blade can last

www.covestro.com

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HEATING AND COOLING

Global Heat Transfer launches new Globaltherm products

Meusburger IsoTemp brings high temperature safety

Global Heat Transfer has launched four new Globaltherm products, which have been specifically designed for use in high temperature applications plastic processing and pharmaceuticals. The non-corrosive Globaltherm L, N, S and C fluids are custom-made for use in processes that require stable media that works at higher temperatures for prolonged periods without premature degradation. The products possess a range of qualities to function efficiently for different purposes within pharmaceutical and plastic manufacturing to best suit plant managers. To ensure optimal product yield Global Heat Transfer provides thermal fluid management from sampling and monitoring to engineering support, helping customers work safely and efficiently with thermal fluids. “The new Globaltherm range, for example, offers high performance thermal fluid for pharmaceutical and plastic processing plants that use both open and closed loop heat transfer systems,” explained Clive Jones, Marketing Director.

The new E 2187 IsoTemp high temperature hoses from Meusburger combine tried and trusted technology with an innovative silicone sheath offering protection against burns or damages to the metal sheath. The special construction provides for high durability and maximum flexibility.

The IsoTemp high temperature hose can be used at temperatures of up to 200°C with water, oil, air as well as vapour. All components that come in contact with the medium are made of stainless steel in order to prevent the formation of corrosion and the union nut can either be mounted with a coupler or screwed directly onto the mould. Thanks to the FDA-compliant silicone sheath, the hose is also very well suited for use in cleanrooms. The IsoTemp high temperature hose is available in graduated lengths of 300 mm to 2,500 mm from stock. Upon request the hoses are also available in special lengths. www.meusburger.com

www.globalheattransfer.co.uk

The Iceman cometh Earlier this year, New York-based Mokon announced an expansion of its Iceman SC Series line of portable chillers with an available fluid temperature range of -15°C to -1°C and air-cooled or water-cooled condensing. Mokon’s new ASL and WSL portable chillers have the same features of the Iceman SC but provide a lower temperature range. “The addition of the ASL and WSL line of portable chillers to our SC Series family offers our customers a greater selection for their process cooling requirements,” stated Rob Kennery, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing. “Mokon is always striving to meet the needs of our customers.” www.mokon.com

Eurochiller brings SC Autosoft Engineering into distributor family Eurochiller, a European champion of temperature control technology, has expanded its distribution family by welcoming SC Autosoft Engineering into its network. The company became an official distributor and service centre for Eurochiller on May 5th 2017 and is a well-established company that can offer its customers the best competence when choosing cooling systems, while coordinating systems maintenance and installation. This news was shortly followed by the introduction of a new Sales Manager to Eurochiller. Giancarlo Passoni joined the Eurochiller team in June 2017 and the temperature control expert will be supporting the company’s sales network worldwide. www.eurochiller.com

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Henkel reveals new developments for cooling lubricant

RECYCLING

REINVENTED Leading Technologies for polymer recycling.

Extrusion. Filtration. Measurement.

• Turn key concepts for polymer recycling (PET, PA, PS, PE i.a.)

H

enkel has developed a cooling and cleaning solution that prevents waste and decreases energy expenditure in metals milling.

Henkel’s new Bonderite duaLCys process used with the non-electric LDT Dosatron Proportional Dosing Pump improves energy efficiency in milling and machining work.

Henkel Bonderite duaLCys Process uses a cooling lubricant to dissipate heat and flush chips from milling surfaces, to improve milled surface quality.

• Industrial and post-consumer waste recycling • Direct processing to sheet, fiber and resin • Decontamination of polymers (incl. odour)

With its development of the innovative two-component process Bonderite duaLCys, Henkel has brought cooling lubricant and cleaner together to reduce costs, improve performance, save energy, reduce waste and improve working conditions.

The cleaning bath is fully recycled into the cooling lubricant. The process enables a type of pre-cleaning with low foaming at low cleaning temperatures in the tooling machine.

Visit our website for further information: www.gneuss.com

Martin Desinger, Business Development Manager for Cooling Lubricants at Henkel, said: "Recycling the cleaning solution instead of disposing of it and using the synergies between the cleaner and the water-soluble cooling lubricant results in high lubrication performance, superior purity of the parts and excellent corrosion protection."

Companies using Bonderite duaLCys reduced costs by up to 40 per cent due to more efficient use of coolant, water and energy consumption as well as reduced disposal volumes. To further increase the energy efficiency and sustainability of the tooling machine, Henkel recommends the use of the LDT Dosatron Proportional Pumps for dosing the cooling lubricants.

Desinger added: "Thanks to the excellent cooperation with LDT, we have succeeded in developing a tailor-made, ‘plug and play’ system, which meets all requirements of our customers and different packaging sizes. This is exactly the flexible, foolproof solution we were looking for - previous dosing systems have not been able to reliably and correctly produce the low levels of subsequent quantities of our DuaLCys process."

Stand A6-6501

Stand F30

www.henkel-adhesives.com

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HEATING AND COOLING

ICS Cool Energy demonstrates compact cooling

T

he modern factory floor is short on space, high on demanding applications, which is why ICS Cool Energy has brought its i-Chiller Compact range to market.

The five model range of air-cooled liquid industrial chillers brings the compact models in ICS Cool Energy’s acclaimed high performance Eurovent-certified i-Chiller range up to date. There are a variety of features and options including stainless steel panels for food and laboratory applications as well as versions that provide highly accurate close temperature control to 0.5°C. The i-Chiller Compact models have cooling capacities ranging from 1.4 to

4.8kW, making them suitable for use in a variety of industrial applications, with the whole i-Chiller range providing capacities up to 230kW. All models are equipped with a high efficiency finned coil evaporator installed within an atmospheric hydraulic storage tank and a non-ferrous hydraulic circuit.

This ensures reliable operation in particularly challenging applications and with liquids containing impurities.

The i-Chiller Compact’s storage tank also provides optimum temperature control precision, even if there are imbalances caused by sudden changes in load demand from the user. The operation of the compressor in highly stable conditions means the chiller can run with almost unvarying inlet

W&H presents new low-energy cooling process

temperature despite its surrounding conditions. Together with a constant water flow rate, this ensures the maximum lifetime of the compressor.

Users are also given optimum control with the addition of an XR60CX parametric microprocessor controller. This allows management of the i-Chiller Compact’s key functions such as outlet water temperature control, alarms and the user interface.

What’s more there is added flexibility for installations as it only requires a single-phase power supply.

"The i-Chiller Compact range extends the flexibility and performance of our i-Chiller range, making the advanced performance features and benefits

associated with larger chillers accessible to users requiring lower duties, or where space is at a premium," said Richard Metcalfe, Sales Director at ICS Cool Energy.

All models in the range share compact dimensions with a width of 486mm and length of 660mm. The ICO8C, ICO3C and the ICO5C models stand 623mm high and the more powerful ICO8C and ICO10C models are still under a meter high at 876mm. The units are available in standard version with power supply dual frequency 230V/1Ph/5060Hz (mod. IC02C - IC03C) and 230V/1Ph/50Hz (mod. IC05C - IC10C). www.icscoolenergy.com

S

triking the balance between economy and sustainability is a big challenge for cast film producers, as the energy consumption of a cast film extrusion line has a major impact on both factors. Windmöller & Hölscher (W&H) is launching a new automated cooling technology alongside its FILMEX II cast film extrusion line, which can reduce cooling energy costs by up to 70 per cent.

The new approach consists of a combination of a free cooler, a system using low external air temperatures, and a chiller. The system is controlled centrally via the PROCONTROL operator panel of the FILMEX II. An automatic mode always selects the optimum operation.

"Our new approach is to recognise the system as a whole. All of the parameters ranging from process temperatures to the outdoor temperature are centrally captured to create an intelligent control system," said Simon Haselmann from W&H Development.

A free cooler requires less than one-fifth of the energy of a chiller. The challenge lies in the fact that the free cooler can only be used when the outdoor temperature is lower than the required process temperature. The new technology from W&H resolves this problem through the use of a second cooling circuit. As a result the system can now handle different process temperatures.

"The chiller itself also operates more efficiently because networking the components means that the water is only cooled down to the extent necessary for the film extrusion process," said Haselmann.

The cooling equipment is controlled centrally via the system’s PROCONTROL operator panel. The machine operator can easily view and intuitively control all of the parameters. In automatic mode, the machine selects the most efficient operating state itself on the basis of the parameters, consistently safeguarding the highest efficiency. www.wuh-group.com

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Temperature control made simple Feeling the heat? Relax, we’ve got it covered. Flexible, reliable and ready-to-use, our Modular Process Control Platform makes process heating and cooling incredibly effortless. Based on your injection molding or extrusion requirements, we configure a solution that’s utterly reliable: temperature-resistant up to 200°C (392 °F), no moving parts, and a dynamic range of 1:200. Benefit from a complete control loop manufactured by fluid experts – it saves you valuable engineering and assembly time. Leave temperature control to us, and take it easy.

Want to know more? Contact us: +49 (0)79 40 10-0

www.burkert.com

Frigel brings advanced 3PR control tech for Aquagel GPV Process Pump set

F

rigel, the pioneer in intelligent process cooling, has announced advanced 3PR control technology and variable frequency drives (VFD) for its new Aquagel GPV Process Pump sets, which combine to ensure the pumps operate at peak efficiency with lowest possible energy consumption, while giving users the ability to gain precise control of the units for optimal performance.

The enhanced Aquagel GPV is part of Frigel’s family of pumping, reservoir and filtration systems designed for fast, economical expansion in use with its central cooling systems – Ecodry or Heavygel.

Frigel’s 3PR control console allows users to monitor all data in real time for the pump stations, and lets them access full operating schematics that monitor pump performance such as pressures, flow rates and VFD capacity and to make adjustments on the fly. Real-time data, combined with trouble-shooting capability, gives users the ability to gain precise control of the system.

3PR functionality includes alarm and fault indicators and dated history log to identify any potential system issues, all pump values including pressures, calculated flow rates and temperatures, real time data for pressures versus set points, and pump variables in real-time including speed, frequency, and electrical consumption.

The VFD pumping assembly on the Aquagel GPV pump sets automatically, and equalises pressure depending on process cooling demands, such as the number of machines, pressures and flow rates. As such, the units deliver the best possible performance with the least amount of energy consumption.

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www.frigel.com

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FILM AND SHEET

Aimplas and Skymark complete project to decontaminate film

Sticky tape business Alfatherm bought by Tekni-Plex

The Spanish research centre AIMPLAS is working with Skymark, a packaging extrusion firm from England, to complete a project to recycle printed films.

The project CLIPP+ is finding ways to re m ove odours and contaminants for the reuse of printed films. It is in the last months of development and has now reached implementation of a machine at industrial scale for the decontamination and deodorisation of film. The project had funding from the European Union through the research and development programme Horizon2020. This technology will allow the recycling of printed films for their use in higher added value applications, since up till now most of the printed packages were treated as nonrecyclable wastes with a use in application with low added value, such as rubbish bags and flowerpots, or to be landfilled.

Italian self-adhesive tape firm Alfatherm, based near Milan, has been acquired by Tekni-Plex’s Tekni-Films Gallazzi operation. Joseph Horn, Tekni-Films General Manager, said: “The acquisition will help support Tekni-Films’s growing tape substrate business. We will be able to better serve converters across Europe who produce self-adhesive tapes for a wide variety of packaging applications.” Marino Uberti, Alfatherm added, said: “The divestiture of the adhesive tape substrate business is part of a broader strategic review. We will focus our growth on Alfatherm’s core sectors such as surface decoration, capsules and sleeves and films for the graphic art segment.”

Alfatherm started trading in 1963 in Varese, Italy.

It makes rigid, semirigid and plasticised PVC foils, produced at three factories in the Lombardy region, making 40,000 tons of plastic foils annually.

www.aimplas.es

www.tekniplex.com

Nordson launches EDI Maxiflow 8 Die at low cost in cast film

EuPC members put comprehensive platform online

Nordson has produced the EDI Contour die for the cast film industry, with substantially less die body deflection than competing systems and shorter polymer residence times. These benefits are especially advantageous when processing thermally sensitive materials such as barrier resins or making frequent product changeovers. For polyethylene stretch film and other applications where these advantages may not be relevant, Nordson’s EDI Maxiflow 8 die provides a lower-cost alternative to leading competitive dies.

The Maxiflow 8 name refers to its constant cross section manifold, which is recommended for low- and medium-viscosity, thermally stable materials.

It has uniform distance from the main body bolts to the lip exit, resulting in uniform lip deflection (virtually eliminating ‘clamshell’ deflection). This dimensional stability allows for product changeover with minimal, if any, need to manually re-tune the die lip adjustments. The design includes a large manifold aspect ratio which helps to minimise coextrusion layer deformation, resulting in excellent coextrusion performance. A system called AOM Maxiflow 8 is available with the EDI Autoflex VI automatic gauge control.

Vinyl Films & Sheets Europe (VSFE) has launched a new website forming an intelligent resource for the European vinyl sheet and film industry. In 2016, the European Automotive Trim Suppliers, the European Decorative Foils Association and the European PVC Films Manufacturers Association founded VSFE to represent all three branches of the industry within the EuPC structure. VFSE’s mission is to represent and defend the interests of European suppliers of plastics sheets and foils by carrying out scientific and economic studies, initiating common action concerning environment and recycling issues and promoting international collaboration within the framework of the European Union. To ensure the best possible cooperation, a strong link with Vinyl Plus and Recovinyl on all PVC film recycling and communications activities has been established. Roberto Bozzi, VFSE President, said: “I am pleased to head VFSE to advance the interests of European plastics sheets and foils manufacturers. Deepening collaboration across borders, furthering the industry’s scientific advancement and ensuring long-term sustainability are at the heart of VFSE’s efforts.”

www.nordson.com

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www.vfse.org

FILM AND SHEET

Ampacet presents masterbatch film stars

A

mpacet has brought three new masterbatch technologies for film applications to the market: SURFPROTEC, AGROCLEAR 752 and FAUXFOIL 054.

Ampacet SURFPROTEC is a high quality range of colour masterbatches showing very low defect counts and excellent pigment dispersion (no pigment agglomerates) providing outstanding quality film for use in premium surface protective applications.

Ampacet SURFPROTEC range allows an excellent protection of the products’ surfaces against external shocks and scratches occurring during production, transport and handling. Ampacet SURFPROTEC masterbatches can be used in protective film applications for various industries such as household appliances,

automotive, electronics, construction, furniture and others.

Ampacet also broadens its AGROCLEAR range and introduces its new AGROCLEAR 752 for one-to-two seasons greenhouses, low tunnels and early harvest crop protection films. Ampacet AGROCLEAR 752 allows, at very low addition rates of - for example - six per cent, to provide outstanding and consistent antifog properties to protection films used in agriculture and horticulture fields. It maintains an excellent film transparency, avoids problems linked to fog formation (light transmission reduction and plant damages), optimises plant growth and supports crop yield.

technology, a sustainable alternative solution to conventional aluminum foil and to metallised films used in flexible structures. FauxFoil provides high reflective silver appearance with high gloss and shine that mimics the aesthetics of aluminum foil and metallised films. FauxFoil has similar light blockage as foil or metallised film and compatible with barrier polymers offering no loss of barrier properties as the film is free of pin holes. This innovative masterbatch eliminates the need to flood print, metallise or laminate with aluminum foil. FauxFoil has low carbon footprint and high and easy recyclability in comparison with conventional aluminum foil making it a good solution towards Circular Economy.

Last but not least, Ampacet launches an innovative FauxFoil Masterbatch

www.ampacet.com

ock

Photos: ist

Cutting-edge technology for PS, PP and PET thermoforming sheet production

s: Visit u S 2017 A L P R INTE D21 hall 4 ,

Multi-Touch roll stacks: • Lowest tolerances in the industry • Excellent sheet quality • XXL version: outputs up to 3,300 kg/h (PET) and 3,000 kg/h (PP) Multi-Touch roll stack (XXL version)

High-speed extruders: • 15-20% energy savings compared to traditional systems • Improved quality by reduction of residence time • Easy handling and less space requirements

Co-extrusion line with high-speed extruders and Multi-Touch roll stack

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FILM AND SHEET

Borealis and Borouge partner with ISOVOLTAIC Borealis and Borouge have fortified their expertise in photovoltaic backsheets by partnering with Austrian company ISOVOLTAIC. At Intersolar Europe (June 2018) ISOVOLTAIC launched the innovative ICOSOLAR CPO 3G, a co-extruded polypropylene solar backsheet, developed jointly within the framework of a new type of business model with Borealis and Borouge. The core and outer layers of the backsheet film are produced using the first generation of PP-based compounds in Borealis’ new umbrella brand for solar grades and products, Quentys.

The recent launch of the Quentys brand introduces step-change innovations that help exploit the full potential of solar by making applications more reliable, durable and affordable. Moreover, by entering into a new framework for partnership with solar technology leader ISOVOLTAIC, Borealis and Borouge are now moving further up the value chain. The grades Quentys SF700CL and Quentys SF900WL, which are used to produce the ICOSOLAR CPO 3G, will be sold directly to ISOVOLTAIC, which then produces the solar backsheet.

The ICOSOLAR CPO 3G backsheet is manufactured by ISOVOLTAIC using Quentys grades produced by Borealis in Schwechat, Austria. The Quentys grades form the core layer as well as the outer film layers.

“In the spirit of Keep Discovering we have extended our energy horizons to include solar,” said Maria Ciliberti, Borealis Vice President Marketing & New Business Development. “Partnering with ISOVOLTAIC has proven to be an especially constructive learning experience for all parties, particularly in the areas of solar application requirements and testing.”

The launch of the solar umbrella brand Quentys was officially announced at the beginning of May 2017. In addition to the solar backsheet, other innovative polyolefins solutions for the solar industry – including encapsulant films – will be launched in the near future. www.borealisgroup.com

Ultem provides professional-grade dielectric film capacitor solutions In electrical applications, capacitors are ubiquitous and to address the growing need for lightweight, compact, high-energy density capacitors with the ability to store large amounts of energy without loss of charge, SABIC is launching ULTEM film UTF120.

ULTEM film UTF120 is a high heat and high energy density dielectric polyetherimide film that meets the most stringent technical demands for use in professional-grade dielectric film capacitors.

ULTEM film UTF120 exhibits stable properties through a range of temperatures (-40°C to +150°C) and frequency, including stable capacitance, good insulation resistance, high dielectric constant (Dk) and low dissipation factor (Df). The wide operating temperature capability of ULTEM film UTF120 based capacitors increases reliability and reduces or even eliminates the need for active cooling for converter applications.

"Eliminating the need for active cooling will enable our customers to have a simpler and more flexible system design in electric vehicle application. This is also a stepping stone towards next-generation dielectric film products, and provides translation opportunities for ultra-thin film to other application areas."

ULTEM film UTF120 has excellent metal adhesion, enjoys high temperature dimensional and mechanical stability and is inherently flame retardant. Capacitors using ULTEM film UTF120 are capable of passing industry-standard 260°C reflow soldering processes.

"The successful commercialisation of ULTEM film UTF120 has enabled SABIC to enter the high temperature film capacitor market," said Dr Alan Tsai, Director, High Performance Forms, Specialties, SABIC.

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Developed to offer excellent handling through metallisation, capacitor winding and flattening, it is processable on existing equipment and has been validated with both film-foil and metalised electrodes including flat and tapered metalised electrode designs as well as patterned electrodes.

Potential applications include in automotive components such as DC/DC converters and high-intensity discharge lighting, in electronics such as LED lighting, and film capacitors for mass transportation and renewable energy. www.sabic.com

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CAPS AND CLOSURES

Sustainability identified as growth area for child-resistant packaging Sustainability and growth in emerging markets have been pinpointed as the biggest expansion drivers in the field of child-resistant packaging in a fresh report by Technavio.

A

growing global population and rising individual government standards is driving the current surge in demand for childresistant packaging, including caps, closures, zip-locks and other innovations.

In a fresh report by Technavio, the market is anticipated to grow year-on-year from 2016-2021 from $28.7 billion (€24.3 billion, £22 billion) to $35.61 billion.

The growth in the population along with the increase in the number of middleclass income population across the globe has led to the demand for safe and protective packaging for children

The growth of the pharmaceutical industry and the rise of take-at-home medicines for children and infants is a major driver for the child-resistant packaging market, within which consumers are making choices based on sustainability.

Technavio reports that the government, packaging manufacturers, and mums and dads have identified the need to protect children from accidental poisoning, and as a result, packaging manufacturers are constantly developing new innovations to ensure child safety.

biodegradable caps and closure plastics that can be decomposed by microorganisms, are more popular in the marketplace.

Morevoer, the report reveals that consumer product manufacturers prefer eco-friendly packaging solutions to conventional packaging.

While Europe and the US reach market maturity, growth can be found in Brazil, India, China, South Africa, Japan and Australia, while strategic acquisitions and mergers are further driving innovation and the number of exciting new products coming to market. The report cited Amcor’s acquisition of South Africa’s Nampak Flexible and Packaging India Private Limited, while Guala Closures in India is driving the child-resistant packaging market by spreading its reach in the pharmaceuticals and beverage packaging arenas.

“The growth in the population along with the increase in the number of middle-class income population across the globe has led to the demand for safe and protective packaging for children,” concluded Raj. “Stringent government regulations and policies from countries across the globe to include child-resistant packaging for several industries have fueled the growth of the global child-resistant packaging market.”

For years, the child safety cap on products such as medicine bottles and cleaning products was the main solution to prevent accidental contact with or ingestion of a product by a child, but as technology has advanced, there are new developments entering the market.

“Various innovative ideas or solutions used in childresistant packaging are blisters pack, child-resistant aerosol cans, and child-resistant zipper closures,” explained Sharan Raj, a Lead Analyst from Technavio, specialising in packaging sector research. “For instance, Ecobliss and Romaco have developed the world’s first child-resistant re-closable carton named Locked4Kids, which was designed for preventing young children from accessing hazardous and poisonous content.”

Within the child-resistant packaging market, sustainability is playing an increasingly important role. Technavio revealed that

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www.technavio.com

CAPS AND CLOSURES

United Caps opens automated warehouse in Luxembourg

U

nited Caps, a caps and closures maker, held a grand opening for its automated warehouse in Luxembourg, built to increase storage capacity by a third, from 3,000 palettes to 4,500.

Benoît Henckes, CEO of United Caps, said: "We opened our plant in Wiltz 25 years ago and have made significant investments in the operation each year.

"It is the largest United Caps plant and arguably one of the most productive and technologically advanced in Europe. The addition of this new fully automated warehouse facility is the latest masterpiece to complete the factory. It is designed to support our manufacture of more than nine billion highperformance closures and caps each year. Our special thanks go to the authorities of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg who have been unerring in their support for our efforts. This development, plus our plans to break ground in Malaysia in 2018, are signs of our healthy growth and our dedication to our ‘Close to You’ strategy designed to strengthen ties with our key customers around the globe."

Henckes added: "The new warehouse also enables faster loading of trucks - we can now load ten trucks per day. It also improves our environmental sustainability by eliminating the need to move product to an external warehouse and its energy management system results in very low power consumption. Open house attendees were able to see all of this first-hand."

Benoît Henckes, CEO of UNITED CAPS, Etienne Schneider, Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of the Economy, Minister of Internal Security, Minister of Defence and Remi Heimburger, Plant Manager of UNITED CAPS Wiltz

The warehouse has expanded storage by a third, broadened the ability to inspect the logistical process, set up automatic firstin-first-out management and set up symmetric product storage, to ensure accurate delivery even should a breakdown be experienced.

Wiltz, to the north of Luxembourg, has a history pivotal to both World Wars, and is a centre of light industry in the Ardennes.

Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister Etienne Schneider officially opened the plant.

www.unitedcaps.com

PRIVATE TREATY SALE Due to Investment in New Machinery

2x PRIMPLAST 78” & 1x NEXTROM 78” THREE LAYER STRETCH CAST FILM EXTRUSION LINES Sale Date: Location: Preview:

Available Immediately ul. Przemyslowa 4 Karczew, 05-480 Poland Strictly By Prior Appointment Only

• 2x Primplast three layer stretch cast film extrusion line 78” (2000 mm) useful width with a working speed of 1787.5’ (550 meters/550000 mm) per minute with a thickness of 8 to 40 microns and a pre-stretch up to 300%.

New 1999 & 2000 • Nextrom three layer stretch cast film extrusion line 78” (2000 mm) working width with a working speed of 1625’ (500 meters/500000 mm) per minute (Max speed 1787.5’ (550 meters/550000 mm) per minute) with a thickness of 8 to 40 microns and a pre stretch up to 300%. New 1999 Machines are currently in use and can be viewed under power

PROCESS CONTROL GmbH Maschinen für die Kunststoffindustrie

Primplast 78” (2000 mm) (2000)

Nextrom 78” (2000 mm) (1999)

Subject to Availability • 15% Buyers Premium • www.hilcoind.com/sale/maillis

25. Fakuma – Internationale Fachmesse für Kunststoffverarbeitung 17.-21. OKTOBER 2017 • FRIEDRICHSHAFEN

For further information contact: Phone: +44 (0) 8453 130 180 Jason Hall, jhall@hilcoglobal.eu Simon Halsey, shalsey@hilcoglobal.eu

Visit us on Fakuma 2017 Hall A6 Booth A6-6401

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CAPS AND CLOSURES

Bericap launches new sports drink closure

Plastic wine corks put to the test

Bericap, a global manufacturer of plastic closures for the food, drink, lubricants and pesticides markets, has launched a new sports drink closure into the marketplace for water and other beverages. The two-part closure has a PP shell and coloured HDPE pourer section with an anti-tamper tear strip that can be opened by pushing up the overcap. The reactive Double Galileo hinge allows an opening angle of 180°, so that the over-cap no longer comes into contact with the cheeks. The hinge is compliant with BSDA safety standards. The 28mm light PCO 1881 flat closure has been developed for the still water market and can be used for non-carbonated soft drinks. The company has revealed that industrial validation has already been completed at a mineral water bottler in Hungary.

Oxford University is conducting a research experiment to prove once and for all how screw caps, plastic corks and real corks affect the sensation of drinking wine. Plastic corks and screw caps have become more commonplace in wine bottling since the 1980s when a period of poor cork quality led to many traditionally-corked bottles being contaminated. Both traditional polymer corks and corks made from plant-based polymers will be tested alongside traditional corks and screw caps to define how wine lovers experience their tipple. Head of Experimental Psychology at Oxford University Professor Charles Spence said: “Our brains have a powerful hold over our taste buds, and it will be interesting to see the differing effects the multi-sensory aspects of wine drinking have on our perception of taste.” www.psy.ox.ac.uk

www.bericap.com

ALBIS expands healthcare portfolio ALBIS PLASTIC has expanded its healthcare product portfolio with several new materials especially for medical and pharmaceutical packaging and closures. Purell KT MR 07 by LyondellBasell is non-pthalate-based, offering good resistance to kinking, excellent weldability, transparency and flexibility and open up opportunities for numerous applications in medical device manufacturing including medical tubes, IV bags, seals, caps and closures. Purell RP 320 M for cast film and injection moulding - also by LyondellBasell - offers good mechanical properties, optical characteristics as well as excellent homogeneity and sealing properties. It can be used in a wide range of applications such as flexible packaging solutions for medical devices and drugs, caps and closures and for disposable labware. www.albis.com

Carolina Color G3 perfect for caps and closures Carolina Color’s G3 colour has set a new standard for colour concentrate, re-aligning manufacturers’ expectations for pellet colour as an effective, cost-efficient processing tool. G3 can be used on almost any resin system and achieves 20 per cent or more increased pigment loading levels in polyethylene and polypropylene - without penalties in terms of the processing rate or pigment dispersion. In addition, G3 technology is capable of 50 per cent or more pearlescent pigment, nearly doubling the former industry standard of 30 per cent. One packaging Process Engineer commented: “We have had several issues with liquid over the past few years with settling/separating. We are thinking we would be better off going back to a pellet option like G3 that is just as cost effective.” www.carolinacolor.com

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SACMI brings in changes to beverage and caps management

I

talian containers company SACMI

CAPS AND CLOSURES

quantec ® 85 G3-14 C

has appointed Alessandro Paini as General Manager of its Beverage

Division, after Vezio Bernardi moved to its Closures Division.

Paini is a Mechanical Engineer, previously a key figure in a leading international group that designs inPET liquid packaging solutions. He has extensive product management experience and his past duties range product portfolio management to the development and implementation of new sales strategies.

The Sacmi Beverage General Manager takes over from Vezio Bernardi, who led the Division for nearly five years. During

WWW.BUSSCORP.COM

from the coordination of R&D and global

that time, the Division strengthened its role as global partner to the industry (thanks to a far-sighted policy of horizontal and vertical integration among Sacmi Group providers of packaging-beverage solutions), while exploring new business avenues, as

Economical PVC compounding redefined BUSS Kneader series quantec ® G3

exemplified by the recent takeover of Defranceschi Italia, intended to ensure solid, all-round Group positioning in the wine-making sector.

With the arrival of Alessandro Paini, who officially took over as head of the Beverage Division on July 10th 2017, Bernardi now moves on to head Sacmi's other packaging 'pillar', the

The specialists in heat and shear sensitive compounding are setting new benchmarks for quality and productivity. quantec ® G3 – an ongoing success story in the third generation > More cost effective due to increased throughput > More flexible due to a larger process window > Improved plant availability due to minimal product changeover times

Closures and Containers Division which is focused on integrating the various stages of container production, from preform to bottle.

www.sacmi.it

Buss AG Switzerland www.busscorp.com

13394_262_Buss_EPPM_2015_E_164x235.indd 1

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30.06.15 16:12

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The world’s largest online plastics encyclopedia

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MACHINERY ROUNDUP

Flexible friend

You wear it well

Bandera’s SmartFlex Bio line has been purchased by a French converter for the production of biodegradable and compostable bags made from plant-origin polymers. The company invested in the line to meet new laws prohibiting the sale and distribution of nonbiodegradable polyethylenebased disposable bags with a thickness of lower than 50 microns. Besides biodegradable film, the SmartFlex line can also produce thermo-shrink, lamination and converting, and general packaging film.

KraussMaffei has found that more and more compounds are fibrereinforced, contain special additives, or come with high shares of fillers and reclaimed material. This impacts the processing machinery, so wear protection is an issue of ever increasing importance for compounders.

Andreas Madle, Process Engineer in Plastics Development, said: “We have addressed this problem and examined a large variety of metal materials available on the market. This is how we have found the perfect complement to our portfolio of materials.” The new 72HA material – an iron-based powder-metallurgical alloy with high shares of carbon and chrome – is manufactured using the HIP method. The chemical composition of this material ensures excellent wear protection against abrasion and corrosion and facilitates mechanical processing using the ZE BluePower twin-screw extruder series.

www.luigibandera.com

www.kraussmaffei.com

Apply some pressure

Jubilee Street

The Kunststoff-Institut Lüdenscheid has received support from polyurethane specialist Hennecke to develop a partnership with a new high pressure metering machine, ‘Streamline’, for a project focussing on ‘painting in the mould’. The Streamline was shown by researchers in live operation at the second industry meeting in Lüdenscheid to well over 1,000 visitors.

Hennecke is participating in what is now the 10th joint project together with 40 other companies and is providing a Streamline for the Clearment process, equipped with the HT30evo piston-metering device that can meter abrasive colour pigments. The high-pressure metering machine is fully integrated into an Engel IMM and the Clearrim technology Hennecke offers its customers a process to realise components with high-grade and functional surfaces.

Arburg marked 25 years in Belgium at its silver jubilee celebrations in June with subsidiary Holsbeek. During the exclusive evening event in the San Marco Village in Schelle, Managing Partner Renate Keinath presented the anniversary sculpture to subsidiary Manager, Simon Bemong and his team. Together with Managing Director Sales Gerhard Böhm, she thanked them and the Belgian customers for 25 successful years.

“The fact that we are able to celebrate this silver anniversary here today is thanks to our committed Arburg team and to our customers,” stated Keinath. “Without you, we wouldn’t be what we are today - a market leader and recognised number one in the area of customer service in Belgium.”

www.hennecke.com

www.arburg.com

Some like it hot

Learn to fly

Milacron has completed an 8,200 m sq expansion in Jiangsu, China to its hot runner and control systems manufacturing facility and a 2,500 m sq expansion in administration and support staff offices.

Stratasys will make 3D-printed polymer parts for Airbus’ A350 XWB aircraft.

The company will print non-structural parts such as brackets, and other parts used for system installation, on Stratasys FDM production 3D printers using ULTEM 9085. Joe Allison, CEO of Stratasys Direct Manufacturing, said: “We are proud to work with Airbus to continually advance 3D printing in aerospace applications. Our expertise in building parts ready for installation on the aircraft, along with our unique process controls and quality procedures, will allow Airbus to improve competitiveness, leveraging on the technical benefits of 3D printing.”

Stratasys and Airbus have worked together since 2013 on the implementation of 3D printing FDM technology for Airbus tools and flying parts applications.

Milacron’s Mold-Masters hot runners have strong growth in the East Asian plastics market. Tom Goeke, Milacron CEO, said: “Our hot runner operations in China have seen year-over-year growth, every year since its inception in 2005 … This significant increase in our hot runner manufacturing footprint will allow us to better serve our customers in Asia and the world by adding both m a n u fa c t u r i n g ca p a c i ty and engineering know-how to our operations.” www.milacron.com

www.stratasys.com

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MATERIALS ROUNDUP

Orange is the new plastic

Little help from my friends

AIMPLAS has turned to orange peel for a new biopolyesters process, MIPLASCOE. Spain is the world’s fifth largest grower of oranges and the largest in Europe. The orange industry is centred in Valencia, where three million tonnes of the fruit are produced each year, approximately 60 per cent of the national production. This important activity of the orange juice sector also generates 1.2 million tonnes per year of orange waste.

The MIPLASCOE project focuses on the recovery of waste by extracting different monomers by microbial fermentation and the synthesis of biopolyesters that, after a subsequent change, are expected to have the suitable properties for its use in profile extrusion and production of bottles by injection blow moulding.

ALBIS PLASTIC and BASF are celebrating half a century of partnership.

The foundation stone for this successful relationship was laid back in 1967, when ALBIS began distributing Ultramid. Today, ALBIS markets BASF products in nearly every country in Europe. “The decisive criteria for the close cooperation between BASF and ALBIS are reliability, trust and success,” stated Philip O Krahn, CEO of ALBIS PLASTIC. “These values have exemplified our partnership for 50 years.

We are very proud of that.”

The partnership deepened just a few months ago with the inclusion of BASF’s Ultramid Advanced N. This high-performance material is an important addition to BASF’s engineering plastics portfolio for the automotive and electronics industries.

www.aimplas.net

www.basf.com

Lab rats

Pumpin’ on your stereo

The ACEO team from WACKER, which is behind the system for 3D printing silicones, has opened its Open Print Lab in Burghause, where customers can experience a d d i t i v e manufacturing with silicone first-hand. Premiered at K 2016, the ACEO technology, which offers freedom of design with an elastic material, brings hardware and software especially for silicone 3D printing to the market. These silicones keep their outstanding properties such as temperature and radiation resistance, biocompatibility, a broad colour range or variation of hardness throughout the 3D printing process.

Recycled silicone and sustainable wood have been incorporated in Smile Jamaica Wireless Headphones by the House of Marley, a brand established by the family of reggae singer Bob Marley. The Bluetooth earphones bring top sound quality and earth-friendly design from House of Marley’s Smile Jamaica wired headphones, using recycled silicone, recycled aluminium alloy and FSC-certified woods. Josh Poulsen, Director of Product Development, said: “Our goal was to build on the popularity of our existing Smile Jamaica headphones in order to create an in-ear Bluetooth headphone option without the need for a bulky housing.” www.houseofmarley.com

www.wacker.com

Let the sunshine in

It could PU

Kraiburg turned its TPE expertise to keeping kids’ eyes safe this summer, with soft goggle sunglasses.

The BabyPyke sunglasses have a frame and headband made in an injection moulding process with soft and flexible Thermolast M. The material ensures maximum wearing comfort and a perfect fit to ensure thorough protection of sensitive children’s eyes against UV radiation. The concept is the same as swimming goggles, with a round bow, which extends around behind the head for better pressure distribution, fastened to the short headband by means of two adjustable clips.

Dow Polyurethanes is expanding its PU service centres in an easterly direction throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The company has opened a new Polyurethanes Service Center in Romania, expanding an already strong network of more than 20 sites for production, development and technical services across the region.

The new facility is equipped with technical and commercial capabilities to serve customers in Romania, Bulgaria and the wider Balkan region with highquality polyurethane materials.

Further network expansion plans are anticipated later this year with a similar centre due to open in Africa dedicated to support customer needs in the Middle East and Africa Region.

www.kraiburg-tpe.com

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www.dow.com

Frankfurt, Germany, 14 – 17 November 2017 formnext.com

Simply limitless.

Engineers think like children. There are no limits, only possibilities.

Join us and be inspired at formnext powered by TCT, the international exhibition and conference for Additive Manufacturing and the next generation of intelligent industrial production.

Where ideas take shape.

@ formnext_expo # formnext WWW.EPPM.COM

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MATERIALS

One way to get recycled plastics off the ground Envirotile, the brainchild of experienced roof tiler Trevor Wakefield, is a light, weather-resistant, labour-saving roof tile made from recycled plastics provided

by Luxus. The innovator spoke to EPPM about the story behind the Envirotile and how far it is yet to go.

Words | Rose Brooke

W

ho better to create an end market for recycled plastics as a clever, lightweight and durable roof tile than somebody with over 35 years' experience as a roof tiler?

Trevor Wakefield, Managing Director of the Green Sustainable Products Company, has made it his life's mission to make use of plastic waste by converting post-consumer polymer materials into Envirotile roof tiles, which are lighter than traditional slate or concrete tiles, are easier to fix to the roof and come with a weather-resistance guarantee. Wakefield has a product that is sustainable, labour-saving and produced in Europe, the main obstacle he faces is changing the minds of those in charge of purchasing.

"People love the idea of recycling [plastics] but buying a product that's made with recycled polymer is a different position from what you know, and I've been up against it for years," Wakefield stated. "We know we've got a better product than conventional roof tiles. A roof tile will cost ÂŁ1.20, yet the labour it requires is far greater than with our product, but it's hard to change the mind-set away from traditional thinking.

"While our tiles cost ÂŁ2.05 each (trade price), only half the amount per square metre are required (12 instead of 22) thanks to how they are fitted. This means the same cost, yet labour is reduced and there are no breakages (up to nine per cent of traditional roof tiles are lost to breakages)."

Envirotile is already off the ground, with a large European supermarket chain placing orders for new shops around the UK and potentially further afield, so what began as a moment's inspiration on a camping holiday is now a fully-fledged, patented, green construction concept utilising post-consumer plastics.

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At the time I believed that it was just a case of designing a product and then getting it patented and becoming a millionaire

Just put them on roofs Wakefield revealed that the seed for the Envirotile was planted while on a rainy evening in the caravan with his family many years ago, when a news item was broadcast lamenting the lack of uses for the plastics polluting the oceans.

"I thought, why not just put them on roofs?" said Wakefield. "At the time I believed that it was just a case of designing a product and then getting it patented and becoming a millionaire."

Nine years of hard work later, the Green Sustainable Products Company has sold over a million tiles to date, a figure the company hopes to double by the end of 2018.

"We won't need to use that, so that's why it's perfect," said Wakefield, who added that the new Envirotile would help address a lack of end applications for post-consumer thermoplastic polymers and that Luxus is at the cutting edge for developing suitable recycled materials.

Courage in a new idea Wakefield is working to meet customers' roofing requirements, with a recycled material that is ideal for the job. He is also working on solar technology that delivers 25 watts of power to launch in 2018 for which he is already receiving enquiries.

Wakefield knows the Envirotile is a good product, but it has taken some courage to hold onto it.

Staying power in a storm The Envirotile product is produced in partnership with Lincolnshire based technical compounder Luxus, which supplies 100 per cent of the recycled plastics material for the newest incarnation of the tile launched in summer 2017. The material has to be durable and easy to mould into the Envirotile's unique shape, allowing the tile to be fixed in eight places on the roof, ensuring a sturdy roof covering against the elements.

Envirotile has proved its mettle at the BRE Innovation Park in Watford, UK. The tile was tested at an unusually low pitch of 12.5 degrees and once the test roof was laid, Wakefield was warned by the BRE that he would need to wear a helmet as the tiles would be lifting off within seconds as per similar efforts from companies in North America.

After two hours of facing 65 mph wind loads, the testers were impressed at their staying power, which is why Envirotile comes with a 25-year guarantee and a storm proof guarantee up to 65 mph winds in the UK.

Lightweighting and labour-saving "I wanted to design a product that overcomes the weight-handling issue. Normal concrete roof tile weighs between 50 and 60 kg per square metre and that’s a big change when you're reducing that weight to 7 kg," Wakefield said.

"This is a true story," said Wakefield, "I had to borrow £20 to drive down to Wales to see the moulder and he got his cheque book out and offered me £120,000 for the patent rights. At the time, I had no money coming in, I spent every saving on the patent and I thought 'what do I do'? And I turned it down."

I had no money coming in, I spent every saving on the patent and I thought ‘what do I do’?

"I regretted it ever since - no not really," he joked.

Just this month, a UK customer began the first phase of 12 new modular built homes in Minsterley, Shropshire. Envirotiles will be constructed on roof partitions on the ground prior to being hoisted to the roof area by crane. This represents a very exciting new concept for roofing - completed by a modern ordering process, building measurements are supplied for the roof which is then factory-fixed and delivered to site saving precious time and logistics.

Wakefield's confidence in the Envirotile as a sustainable plastic product that brings value and quality to the building sector is clear.

He believes the product is uniquely designed thanks to his many seasons spent tiling in all weathers, while the greenness of the product cannot be questioned.

"I hope people take on board that they need to be a bit more flexible in relation to traditional thinking," he mused. "It's like going out today looking at an old Morris Minor thinking this cheaper option will match the performance of a new Aston Martin. But you don't know how much better it can be until you try the other one." www.greensustainableproductsco.com

"I did this because I wanted to do something good and I really believed in that. And I believe the building industries of the world will gain from using recycled polymer in their materials."

www.luxus.co.uk

The Green Sustainable Products Company is very much a small business run from the Wakefield family home. The moulding of the tiles is subcontracted but the company owns the tools. Luxus supplies the recycled plastic material in the requisite colour and the relationship between company and supplier is a happy one.

"We're very pleased with the colour and I'm hoping that Luxus are going to be supplying me with a brand new innovative recycled compound," said Wakefield.

Currently, the Envirotile is manufactured from polypropylene, but Wakefield believes the new compound will perform well in the international marketplace, as it offers better temperature resistance both for warmer and cooler climates and places that are affected by large changes in temperature throughout the year.

"This new material will address below freezing temperatures or very high heat and the magic bit is it is non-combustible in its own right," Wakefield explained.

Moreover, roof tiles manufactured with this material will do away with a secondary product Wakefield provides too, an underlay called Envirolay, which acts as a fire barrier.

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EVENTS

Fakuma at 25: Representing the core, recognising the new Fakuma’s silver anniversary outing will be looking to the future of plastics processing while recognising the core technologies that define manufacturing.

Words | Rose Brooke and John Carlon

F

akuma will open its doors for the 25th time in October 2017 and the key plastics processing event for the European industry and beyond is making a clear point that it will recognise new technologies, without abandoning ‘core’ production systems.

The show has been fully booked for months, offering 1,700 exhibitors from 35 countries extra floor space, with some 35 per cent of companies on the show floor coming from outside of Germany.

Fakuma organisers believe its popularity among exhibitors is due to large segments of the plastics processing industry using new materials, technologies and processes.

3D printing technologies, as well as solutions for efficient processing of hybrid, composite and sandwich materials are examples, with the car industry and its suppliers making use of opportunities offered by a broad-ranging portfolio of chemical solutions, due to multifaceted requirements for affordable lightweight structures.

supplement Fakuma’s portfolio with interesting solutions at the trade fair for plastics processing,” said Fakuma Project Manager Annemarie Schur.

“Returning exhibitors, as well as numerous new exhibitors, had already decided to participate at Fakuma at a very early stage, and we were able to reckon with strong bookings during the planning phase.”

An anticipated 45,721 expert visitors will be attending the ‘leading trade fair for plastics processing’ from 120 countries, who will take in the exhibitions ranging from tool and mould-making, prototyping and materials science at the beginning of the supply chain, to finished parts coming off the production line in live displays, hot from the machine.

But with so many exciting new technologies attracting the headlines and creating breakthroughs, event organisers are keen to maintain a loyalty to the core manufacturing systems that play a central and irreplaceable role in plastic product manufacturing.

Fakuma will focus in on ‘traditional’ technologies including injection moulding, extrusion and thermoforming, providing a complete platform for plastics processing, from product development to the mass production of marketable parts.

New technologies means new exhibiting companies, and Fakuma 2017 is expanding into the foyer floors in the East and West entrance areas to allow more organisations to showcase their innovations.

“The hype surrounding 3D printing technology is causing more and more new suppliers to appear on the scene, who appropriately

35%

1,700 exhibitors

280,000 m sq floorspace

40

overseas exhibitors

120

visitor nationalities WWW.EPPM.COM

45,700 visitors

25

YEARS

ONLINE AUCTION CLOSING FROM

Mantovani & Serazzi

27 SEP

Complete Wire and Cable Manufacturing Facility Closure

9AM CEST

Closing From: Wednesday, 27 September, 9AM CEST Sale Location: Via Niccolò Paganini, 12, 10040 Druento TO, Italy Inspection: Tuesday, 26 September, or by prior appointment

2003

OVER 600 LOTS OF WIRE & CABLE AND PLASTICS EXTRUSION EQUIPMENT

FEATURING: 2003 ROSENDAHL Fibre Optic Extrusion Line; (3) NOKIA MAILLEFER & (15) LUIGI BANDERA Extrusion Lines; 2000 LESMO 1000mm Single Twist Cabler; (19) LESMO & REDAELLI Bunchers; DEANGELI 3 Head Tape Line; (6) DEANGELI Respooler / Packaging Lines; Misc Wire, Cable & Plastics Machinery; Finished Product; Raw Materials; Forklifts and Factory Support Equipment *Auction conducted in Euros Perfection Industrial Sales tel: +1 847.545.6374 email: jen@perfectionindustrial.com

Cottrill & Co tel: +44 (0) 121 328 2424 email: info@cottandco.com Sale Conducted By:

www.perfectionindustrial.com

In Conjunction With:

#1 in Corona & Plasma Surface Treatment Technology

TPE WITH ADHESION TO EPDM

New Series for Automotive Exterior

Meet KRAIBURG TPE at Fakuma 2017 and discover your opportunities with materials and services of your

Surface adhesion is our business

sales@vetaphone.com www.vetaphone.com

TPE-Specialist in Hall B5, 5303.

KRAIBURG TPE GmbH & Co. KG Phone: +49 8638 9810-0 www.kraiburg-tpe.com

Tel: +45 76 300 333

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3M

Brabender Technologie

Together with its subsidiary Dyneon, the multi-technology company 3M will be presenting two trailblazing plastic technologies at this year’s industry meeting place, the Fakuma international trade fair for plastics processing in Friedrichshafen.

Visitors will learn how the additive manufacture with fluoropolymers by mouse-click works and will see exciting applications of 3M Glass Bubbles in plastics. Dyneon will be demonstrating the current state of research on the additive manufacture with PTFE at Fakuma. This new additive process will be used for the creation of prototypes and small series with complex geometries for the aerospace and chemical industries, in medical equipment manufacturing and in semiconductor factories.

Brabender Technologie is commissioning its new Technical Centre in Duisburg for efficient customer testing, ahead of FAKUMA. Brabender has added a new feeder filling level and a two-tonne overhead crane which can lift standard packaging like big bags, silos, drums and sacks. Overall there are four full test lines available but the Technical Centre also provides space for smaller tests that do not require use of the filling level. In addition, there is a separate area with the hygienic conditions required for food and pharmaceutical applications.

Hall B4, Booth 4406

Hall A6, Booth 6213

www.brabender-technologie.com

www.3m.com

AKRO-PLASTIC

Cold Jet

Lightweight design and look-and-feel quality are two factors playing an important role for AKRO-PLASTIC at Fakuma 2017.

The compounds specialist has also launched new, innovative compounds with halogen-free flame protection and PRECITE, the first PBT compound to be added to the polyester portfolio. Its profile makes PRECITE ICF ideal for use in precision parts in the lightweight construction and electric mobility industries.

Cold Jet – the world leader in developing innovative, environmentally responsible dry ice cleaning solutions and production equipment – is presenting its automated surface preparation and cleaning solutions at Fakuma.

Cold Jet’s systems are designed and manufactured to be ready for easy integration. They include, for example, a 24-pin plug from where all commands can be transmitted to the robot control system, from a signal light to the dehumidifying unit on wheels. The dehumidifier provides a continuous cleaning process which is mobile and flexible.

Hall B2, Booth 220

Hall B3, Booth 3223 www.coldjet.com www.akro-plastic.com

Arburg

ELMET

At Fakuma 2017, Arburg will present “smart” machines, processes and turnkey solutions for efficient plastics processing.

After Arburg heralded the future of injection moulding at K 2016 with the world premiere of the large hybrid Allrounder 1120 H, the next step follows: a hybrid Allrounder 920 H and Gestica control system. Further highlights are a practical Industry 4.0 application for flexible injection moulding in single-unit batches, the production of ready-to-use LSR/ LSR watches within the injection moulding cycle, newly qualified materials for industrial additive manufacturing as well as high-speed packaging application. Arburg will also have a recruiting stand in Friedrichshafen.

ELMET has further enhanced operating safety in silicone injection moulding.

A barcode system developed jointly with the WACKER chemical group for the reliable differentiation between components A and B, plus a corresponding reading device on the TOP 5000 P dosing system reliably prevent any chance of confusion when changing drums – eliminating the danger of immense follow-up costs. It is suitable for shot weights of less than 0.1 g to several kg, for 200 l and 20 l containers and material viscosities of 9,000 mPas to 3,000,000 mPas, even when there are significant viscosity differences between the A and B components.

Hall A3, Booth 3101

Hall A5, Booth 5306

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www.arburg.com

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www.elmet.com

ENGEL

FarragTech

ENGEL will show highly integrated manufacturing solutions at Fakuma, providing ways to achieve a higher degree of quality, efficiency and profitability.

ENGEL will have an all-electric e-mac injection moulding machine in a new clamping force class, the first Clearmelt exterior component, the new compact pipe distributor for the cleanroom, and an even higher degree of precision for LSR processing on show. E-mac machines are distinguished by their speed and precision, extremely energy efficient operation and a high degree of flexibility. With the production of 40-pole connector housings made of glass-fibre reinforced PBT, at Fakuma ENGEL will demonstrate how high demands on precision can be combined with economic efficiency.

At this year’s Fakuma, the new CARD R system will be debuted. With desiccant dryers, compressed air dryers working according to the dual-circuit principle are offering a large number of advantages: compared to a simple dehumidification unit, using this new system from FarragTech, with a capacity of the drying hopper of just 40 litres, 1 kW energy can be saved due to the lower compressed air consumption. The CARD R system is individually designed for each customer and depending on the individual requirement, a suitable concept is made according to the compressor size. The new system will be presented where staff will be on-hand to take enquiries.

Hall A5, Booth 5204

www.ENGELglobal.com

Hall A3, Booth 3205 www.farragtech.com

EREMA

Friul Filiere

EREMA has extended its portfolio to offer the proven melt filter as individual components for existing extrusion plants. Technical modifications were made to the filter systems when setting up Powerfil, and visitors to Fakuma will see them on Erema’s display.

At Fakuma, Friul Filiere will show an R63 twinscrew extruder, one of its main traditional machines, well-known and appreciated because of its high production capacity together with the low electric absorption. The company has recently enabled the system to achieve even high production speeds and tests on the plant have produced a 4x6 mm pipe at a speed of 102 m/min, which is more than double the current standard speed. Ideal for the compressed air, automotive and industrial installations in particular, the die head features the Tubeasy patented system that rapidly centres the material flow in the start-up phase by simply adjusting just two screws.

The unit Powerfil offers both the SW RTF partial surface backflush filter system and the Laserfilter as individual components. Users can upgrade their existing extrusion plant from alternative suppliers by adding EREMA melt filters.

Hall 6, Booth 6314 www.erema.com

Hall A6, Booth 6111

Ettlinger

HASCO

Ettlinger, a maker of high performance melt filters and injection moulding machines for high shot weights, will show a brandnew generation of melt filters at Fakuma 2017. The new Ettlinger filters work with a rotating, perforated drum – the principle already familiar from the ERF and ECO series: there is a continuous flow of melt through this drum from the outside to the inside. A scraper continuously removes the contaminants that are held back on the surface and feeds them to an exit screw or discharge shaft. This enables the filter to be used fully automatically and without any disruptions over a period of weeks and months.

HASCO is presenting a large number of attractive innovations for tool and mould making at Fakuma.

Hall A6, Booth 6209

Hall A2, Booth 2202

www.ettlinger.com

www.friulfiliere.it

In the field of Mould Base Technology, the new products being presented include optimised locating guide bushes with a circlip groove and new, individually configurable nameplates for the identification of moulds. Additions to the range in the area of temperature control permit customised, practically oriented solutions for tool and mould making. Non-rotating ejector pins, flat ejector pins with two and four corner radii, adjuster plates for optimum pressure distribution and round, mechanical cycle counters constitute a wellrounded range of new components, with constant further additions enabling flexible applications.

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www.hasco.com

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HRSflow

Kraiburg TPE

HRSflow will show its hot runners at Fakuma, with a focus on servodriven FLEXflow One hot runner technology. The FLEXflow One does not need additional control unit during the injection process, and the new range of full compact nozzles with a reduced constant external diameter over their length. Thanks to newly developed pressure blocks, the hot runner can be used to provide support in the mould, while the new Thread Safe Kit prevents damage during disassembly of screwed-in hot runner nozzles.

Kraiburg TPE will exhibit its customer-oriented core competences and innovative material developments, including a new TPE series with outstanding adhesion to EPDM, at Fakuma 2017. In addition to market-specific compounds, advanced development processes at Kraiburg TPE have produced new TPE technologies. As the latest innovation of this type, the company will present a new TPE material with outstanding adhesion to EPDM. The new compounds of the THERMOLAST K product group combine excellent adhesion to EPDM with high resistance to UV radiation and weather influences, in addition to good flow properties. The new material series is ideal for automotive exterior applications.

Hall A2, Booth 2217

Hall B5, Booth 5303

www.kraiburg-tpe.com

www.hrsflow.com

IKV Innovate

KraussMaffei

Injection moulding of optical components will be the focus of a joint display at Fakuma between the Institute of Plastics Processing (IKV) in Industry and the Skilled Crafts at RWTH Aachen University, together with the Fraunhofer Institutes for Production Technology (IPT) and for Laser Technology (ILT). The three partners will present the design of optical systems through the construction of tools and mould inserts, to optics replication.

The main topics will be injection-moulded and compression injection-moulded optics, continuously manufactured optical film and innovative optical materials and applications. At the heart of the exhibition will be the production of micro-structured lenses of liquid silicone rubber, which is particularly interesting for LEDs. The flexibility and elasticity of LSR also open innovative design concepts.

With its exhibits in the clamping force sizes from 500 to 2,000 kN at Fakuma, KraussMaffei is demonstrating how flexibly the all-electric PX series as well as the hydraulic CX series can adapt to respective requirements. The new linear LRX small robot will celebrate its premiere at Fakuma. All machines are equipped with the new enhanced APC plus function, which ensures maximum process reliability and with it a uniformly high component quality.

Through its new PX series, KraussMaffei sets new standards in all-electric injection molding machines.

The new PX series combines the advantages of an all-electric injection moulding machine with maximum modularity in an unprecedented way.

Hall B4, Booth 4404

Hall 7, Booth 7308 www.kraussmaffei.com

www.ikv-kunststoffe.de

KD Feddersen

Leistritz Extrusionstechnik

At Fakuma, K.D. Feddersen will be exhibiting a selection of its wideranging portfolio, themed ‘Surface appearance and lightweight design’.

For over 60 years, the international company headquartered in Hamburg has been a distributor of plastics from leading manufacturers. New additions this year include ABS and ABS blends from ELIX Polymers, which are sold in the Nordic countries and in France, in addition to Germany.

“We make our customers (even more) successful – with materials for appealing surface finishes and lightweight design,” stated Wolfgang Wieth, Director Business Development at K.D. Feddersen.

Leistritz Extrusionstechnik will be presenting the ZSE 35 iMAXX twin screw extruder at Fakuma. Leistritz Extrusionstechnik’ ZSE 35 iMAXX is aimed at masterbatch production, with updated temperature control and easy maintenance. Anton Fürst, Managing Director of Leistritz Extrusionstechnik, said: “Because here an efficient product change is crucial along with quality and throughput, our machine is very flexible and convinces with easy cleanability and minimum downtimes.” The ZSE 35 iMAXX has closed and easy-to-clean surfaces. A stainless-steel cover protects the entire processing unit and drive unit against accidental contact or contamination.

Hall B2, Booth 2209

Hall A6, Booth 6302

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www.kdfeddersen.com

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www.extruders.leistritz.com

ProTec

Teknor Apex

ProTec will show how its batch dosing units and resin dryers are ready for Industry 4.0 at Fakuma.

ProTec will display performance from its pultrusion lines, with a demonstration of innovative long fibre reinforced thermoplastic (LFT) pellets, which have superior temperature stability for suitability in making parts for vehicle engine compartments. The German firm will demonstrate efficient, Industry 4.0 materials handling with its SOMOS products: Batchmix dosing and mixing systems, the RDT-250 stationary resin dryer and RDM mobile dryers. These products have a new design which has led to ProTec receiving a healthy order book from Germany and other European countries. All SOMOS dryers and dosing units are fitted with network-compatible PLC controllers.

Teknor Apex has announced it is building a European ‘Hub of Innovation’ compounding and research and development facility to increase the manufacturing capacity of custom compounder Plastic-TechnologieService (PTS), which it acquired last year. The new site will be the company’s main focus at Fakuma 2017. The facility will produce TPEs and engineering thermoplastics, ranging from general-purpose compounds to highly specialised formulations. An extensive laboratory will be used for developing new compounds and providing customers with design support, application development, and product/process training.

Hall B3, Booth 3119

Hall B2, Booth 2114

www.sp-protec.com

www.teknorapex.com

Römheld Rivi

VELOX

Roemheld’s new subsidiary RömheldRivi will present for the first time at Fakuma, specialising in magnetic clamping technology.

Besides the introduction of the company, the focus of the fair presentation will be on magnetic quick-clamping systems for plastics and rubber processing that are also suitable for high temperature processes. The company will present the diversity of M-TECS magnetic clamping plates for working temperatures of up to 240°C. Magnetic clamping systems can clamp moulds of different sizes, weight and geometries. A standardisation of the moulds is not required. All magnetic materials are clamped on the full surface and with a high bending stiffness. The uniform distribution of the clamping force ensures a low mould wear.

VELOX will be presenting an innovative product range at FAKUMA, where it will introduce PrimeTec, the company’s own brand for highly specialised solutions for the plastics industry. PrimeTec provides individual new developments as well as modifications for a wide range of products. At FAKUMA, VELOX’ experts will answer all questions concerning PrimeTec. “We are delighted to present a wide range of innovative specialties together with our longstanding partners at this year’s 25th anniversary edition ... We look forward to the professional exchange and the many encounters with new and existing customers”, said François Minec, General Manager of VELOX.

Hall A1, Booth 1223

www.roemheld-gruppe.de

Hall B5, Booth 5001

www.velox.com

SIGMA

Wittmann Battenfeld

SIGMA Engineering will join the TecPart stand at Fakuma. SIGMA will introduce its new release SIGMASOFT v5.2, which includes a virtual, fully autonomous optimisation. Together with an also new virtual DoE functionality the Autonomous Optimisation is a consistent further development of the SIGMASOFT Virtual Moulding technology to meet the requirements of modern injection moulding. SIGMA Engineering developed a new technology in its SIGMASOFT Virtual Moulding software: Autonomous Optimisation, to ensure consistency and predictability in the moulding process. With this technology, the moulder can request a result in the same way they would from a production team. SIGMASOFT will automatically find the best production set-up to meet this demand.

Wittmann Battenfeld will give the EcoPower Xpress 400, an allelectric high-speed injection moulding machine, a platform at Fakuma. The EcoPower Xpress is developed to series production level and will be available on the market in the clamping force sizes of 400 and 500 tonnes. The machine is a high-speed, all-electric model primarily geared for packaging and thin wall. The dynamic drive axes for injection as well as closing and opening of the EcoPower Xpress are designed for fast movements and control accuracy. Moreover, extremely high energy efficiency is achieved by using servo drives.

Wittmann Battenfeld will demonstrate the functionality of its machine model on an EcoPower Xpress 400/3300+ manufacturing HDPE closing caps within a cycle time of 2.7 seconds in a 96-cavity mould supplied by Plastisud.

Hall A5, Booth 5105

Hall B1, Booth 1204

www.wittmann-group.com

www.sigmasoft.de

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EVENTS

Interplas 2017 'wide open for Europe' The European plastics community is welcomed to 'the Island', this September, with the British plastics industry throwing wide its arms to the international marketplace.

Words | Rose Brooke

T

he European plastics community is being welcomed in with open arms to Interplas 2017 - the leading British plastics industry event - where the focus will be on innovation, networking and international business.

A roll call of world-renowned leaders of plastics processing machinery, materials science and other associated technologies are already set to pitch up on the expanded show floor from September 26th-28th 2017. As such, this key event in the European plastics calendar will be, for many, the first major industry meeting of the autumn and winter period.

A top export According to statistics published in The Manufacturer, the UK manufacturing sector makes up 10 per cent of gross value added and 45 per cent of UK exports. Plastics are among the UK's top 10 exports, generating some ÂŁ7.5 billion (â‚Ź8.5 billion) in revenue annually, says the British Plastics Federation.

The Made in Britain stamp of approval is still an important factor for those looking to invest in and partner with plastics processing businesses, especially where quality is paramount in industries such as automotive, medical and luxury packaging.

The triennial Interplas is a particular draw for visitors interested in talking automotive, especially with so many plastics processing companies with existing strong ties with automotive OEMs exhibiting at the show. Automotive currently accounts for some seven per cent of the British plastics market thanks to strong British automotive names such as Jaguar Land Rover holding court on the European and worldwide stage; and Interplas will represent the very latest in automotive manufacturing in the UK for key industry accounts to demonstrate how the nation that originated the iconic MINI and the grand Rolls Royce is still an undisputed king of quality car-making.

Birmingham Granulators, which specialises in new and used plastics recycling and manufacturing equipment, will be attending the event both for its known potential for lead generation in the UK and abroad.

Managing Director Tim Aaronricks said: "Birmingham Granulators will be attending Interplas 2017 with a most positive attitude to both UK and international trade.

"After the success of the 2014 show, our international trade expanded, both in exporting machines and spares into Europe and the US, as well as continued increase in sales of new machinery from our partners in Turkey. Exhibitions such as Interplas are vital in bringing together international companies."

International attendance Interplas is held in Hall 4 of the Birmingham NEC, spreading across a 33 per cent expanded floor plan on 2014's outing. At time of writing, over 360 companies are set to exhibit, of which 14 per cent are

Packaging too will be represented. This section of the plastics market accounts for nearly 45 per cent of the British plastics industry, which is in no small way related to the British invention of polyethylene in 1933.

Medical - although accounting for only a very small percentage of the plastics industry, averaging two per cent on a European level - will also be represented, putting quality first in this highaccountability sector, with the Mediplas conference programme complementing the dedicated exhibitor space on the show floor.

Also on-site, visitors will see the highest quality examples of the plastics recycling industry, which is growing from strength to strength as demand for recycling equipment outpaces supply.

Currently, the industry is turning over â‚Ź2 billion annually and the Circular Economy campaign is expected to push this figure higher.

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mainland Europe and Ireland-registered, representing the whole of Europe in addition to a strong attendance of Chinese companies, and plastics processors from the rest of the world. Naturally, British plastics companies will be dominating the show floor, coming out to bring the very best plastics technology to their home event.

Interplas organiser data reveals that some 10 per cent of visitors are employed specifically within in the packaging sector, nine per cent in automotive and five per cent in medical. 20 per cent of visitors are registered as working within the plastics processing trade, while 15 per cent operate within the materials manufacturing, compounding and distribution sectors. Early registration data indicates there will be a distinctly international feel within the visitor body, with 15 per cent of all visitors coming from overseas, with the largest European contingents coming from the Netherlands, Ireland and France.

basis and there will be plenty of opportunity for talented individuals interested in working in the UK to discuss their post-Brexit options with recruiters, individual businesses and the industry bodies represented in the Knowledge Pavilion.

One group that is prepared to answer any Brexit questions at Interplas is the Polymer Machinery Manufacturers and Distributors Association (PMMDA), which will be on-hand to "help businesses remain competitive in a period of uncertainty as Brexit negotiations take place".

Interplas UK will be held from September 26th-28th 2017 at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, UK.

The 'B' word Interplas will provide the perfect opportunity to ask the British plastics industry questions about Brexit and how leaving the single market is expected to affect business with the UK. The British plastics industry sources some 80 per cent (£3.8 billion) of its raw materials from the EU, exporting £1.8 billion and these exchanges may be subject to levies in the future where previously they were tradable within the customs union.

As well as the trade of goods, the British plastics industry relies on the free movement of people within the EU to bring in talented plastics technology professionals on a permanent and temporary

ENGEL at Interplas 2017 Experience the smart factory – this is ENGEL's focus at Interplas 2017. At its booth, the Austriaheadquartered injection moulding machine builder and system expert, will demonstrate the opportunities created by digitalisation and networking, and how its inject 4.0 concept can help to take advantage of these.

Moreover, ENGEL's Interplas neighbour is dedicated to the very highest performance.

Campetella from Montecassiano in Italy is presenting a highly integrated production cell for the manufacturing of thin-walled containers, including in-mould labelling.

The cups will be injected in a 2-cavity mould on an all-electric ENGEL e-motion 440/160 T injection moulding machine. On the basis of this application, Campetella presents a sideentry automation of the MINI MODULA series. The entire system operates with a cycle time of 2.8 seconds and accordingly produces 2,571 cups per hour.

F70 www.engelglobal.com

Gneuss presents latest PET foam sheet At Interplas 2017, Germany’s Gneuss will present its latest development in PET sheet: the manufacture of PET foam sheet.

The sheet lines from Gneuss are characterised by their extremely flexible operation with regard to the input material and the sheet manufactured. These sheet extrusion lines can be quickly and flexibly switched to foam sheet. The MRS foam sheet module enables a weight / density reduction of over 50 per cent, and this from input materials of up to 100 per cent post consumer material, regrind, virgin or blends of these materials. With equivalent mechanical product properties, a wide range of PET foam products for food packaging can be manufactured cost efficiently.

Thanks to the excellent low shear mixing properties of the MRS extruder, both the nucleating and the blowing agent are completely dispersed and homogenously distributed in the polymer melt. After extrusion and filtration, the polymer melt is conditioned so

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that it has the optimum viscosity and ductility so that material foams with the required density as it emerges from the die.

F30 www.gneuss.de

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EVENTS

PLAST 2018 passes 1k exhibitor mark PLAST 2018 organisers celebrated passing the 1,000 exhibitor mark 10 months before the show takes place, with just 10 per cent of space at the Italian plastics show remaining.

P

LAST 2018 is celebrating passing the 1,000 exhibitor mark with 10 months to go before the Milan event opens.

The flagship Italian plastics industry event, which takes place from May 29th - June 1st 2018, has received an upsurge in interest for the next outing of the triennial show, with overseas exhibitors requesting a third (34 per cent) more space than last time.

"With just under a year to go, nearly 90 per cent of the available space has been reserved," stated President of event organiser Promaplast Alessandro Grassi.

"A significant increase in the space requested by foreign participants confirms the international stature of the fair. So we have high expectations for the final results of PLAST 2018."

In addition to foreign participants requesting more space on the show floor to showcase their offerings to the Italian market, the overall number of direct exhibitors coming from abroad has jumped by 15 per cent. Positive trends are apparent in all good categories, from machinery, to equipment, to moulds to the various different manufacturing processes, raw materials additives and more.

Event organisers have begun dividing the exhibition halls into different categories and encourage those interested in coming to the show to act quickly to guarantee a stand.

PLAST 2018 exhibitors will be offered a series of updated services, including the web portals Expopage and Smart Catalog of FieraMilano, free WiFi at the fairgrounds, one free parking space for each exhibitor and carpeting in the aisles. www.plastonline.org

55+

Countries represented on show floor 48

1,500+ exhibitors

110+

Nationalities represented among visitors

WWW.EPPM.COM

54,000+ M Sq of exhibition space

50,000+ Visitors

EPPM Classifieds

To advertise here please contact Neil Bamford: T: +44 (0)1244 680222 E: neil.bamford@rapidnews.com

WANTED

David +44 (0)7540 633552

‘All plastic moulding machines, ancillaries and associated plant’

info@plasticinvestments.co.uk

Telephone: or email:

Turn Surplus machinery into cash

To advertise here, or place display adverts in print or online

We buy, sell and value single machines and whole plants

www.plasticinvestments.co.uk

T: 01827 838840 E: info@granulators.org www.granulators.org

Contact: Neil Bamford Tel: + 44 (0) 1244 952 374 Email: neil.bamford@rapidnews.com

New and used granulators, shredders, pulverisers, pelletisers, wash plants

USED. TESTED. ALL RIGHT.

EPPM advertise here.indd 1

Dust extractors, metal detectors

06/04/2017 16:59

Conveyors MACHINERY TO THE PLASTICS MANUFACTURING AND RECYCLING INDUSTRY New blades and screens

In-house blade sharpening service Preventative maintenance to suit your requirements

Purchase and sale: Injection moulding machines accessories and spare parts

Refurbishment and repairs Ancillary items, fans, pipework, bag stands

Phone: +49 2173 8 950 790 www.mhborowski.de

UK & Ireland Agents for

BG Advert EPPM 2017.indd 1

23/01/2017 14:35

Tel: +44 (0)1793 827666 Email: sales@transxl.co.uk Web: www.transxl.co.uk

Used Plastic Processing Machinery

In line Welex coextrusion PS line with Illig RDM 50K cup forming machine. 1996

1050mm Diamat PET/PP sheet extrusion line.

2002

580mm wide Illig RDM 58/3 In line extrusion and lid forming

Davis Standard Automotive/Telecoms wire coating line, 2008

500 x 280mm Illig Model RDM 50K pressure forming machine

4 component Maguire WSB 440 blender with Moretto hopper loaders

SHEET LINES

THERMOFORMING

PIPE/PROFILE

PELLETISING

GRANULATORS

EXTRUDERS

OVER 300 VIDEOS TO VIEW TRANSXL INTERNATIONAL LIMITED

. THORNHILL . SOUTH MARSTON . SWINDON . SN3 4TA . ENGLAND WWW.EPPM.COM

1000mm wide Union sheet extrusion line.

1999

50mm APV twin screw compounding line 30D

1000mm wide Amut sheet extrusion line.

2002

120mm Boston Matthews Extruder 30D with 90kw dc motor

120mm Kaufman single screw extruder. 33D with 205kw DC motor

1000mm OMV co-extrusion line.

100mm extruder, 750mm die, coextruder

cial Be So MORE MACHINERY, MORE PHOTOS ON THE WEB WWW.TRANSXL.CO.UK

49

EUREKA SERIES

A cheap, sustainable plastics feedstock? Sweet!

A sugar- and carbon dioxide-based plastic that is biodegradable, biocompatible and cheap to produce? Scientists at the University of Bath’s Centre for Sustainable Chemical Technologies believe they have cracked it.

Words | Rose Brooke

S

ugar and carbon dioxide could replace crude oil feedstocks for some polycarbonates, according to new research.

Scientists from the Centre for Sustainable Chemical Technologies (CSCT) at the University of Bath have made alternative polycarbonates from sugars and carbon dioxide in a new, cheap-to-execute process that uses low pressures and ambient temperatures.

The sugar- and CO2-based material offers a more sustainable alternative to crude-oil based plastics, while the end product can be biodegraded back into carbon dioxide and sugar using soil bacteria enzymes.

“With an ever-growing population, there is an increasing demand for plastics,” stated Dr Antoine Buchard, Whorrod Research Fellow in the University’s Department of Chemistry. “This new plastic is a renewable alternative to fossil-fuel based polymers, potentially inexpensive, and, because it is biodegradable, will not contribute to growing ocean and landfill waste.”

50

The research group stated the plastic has similar properties to those derived from petrochemicals, as sugar- and carbon-

This new plastic is a renewable alternative to fossil-fuel based polymers, potentially inexpensive, and, because it is biodegradable, will not contribute to growing ocean and landfill waste.

dioxide-based material is both clear and scratch-resistant, as well as being bio-compatible, opening up a range of medical plastics applications, in addition to uses in packaging and electronics. The research paper also pressed the material’s

WWW.EPPM.COM

suitability for baby bottles as it is a BPAfree polycarbonate.

Buchard and his team at CSCT published their research in a number of editions of Polymer Chemistry and Macromolecules, exploring the use of thymidine - the sugar found in DNA - as a building block to make a polycarbonate with potential in numerous practical applications.

“Because [thymidine] is already present in the body, it means this plastic will be biocompatible and can be used safely for tissue engineering applications,” explained PhD student and first author of the articles Georgina Gregory. “The properties of this new plastic can be fine-tuned by tweaking the chemical structure - for example we can make the plastic positively charged so that cells can stick to it, making it useful as a scaffold for tissue engineering.”

Tissue engineering work has already started in collaboration with Dr Ram Sharma from Chemical Engineering, also part of the CSCT. www.bath.ac.uk/csct

Accelerating 3D Technologies CAD/CAE SOFTWARE 3D PRINTING ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING MOULDING & TOOLING MACHINE TOOLS METROLOGY INSPECTION

26 - 28 SEPT 2017 NEC, BIRMINGHAM, UK SHOW

REGISTER NOW

www.tctshow.com

The Expert in Colour Masterbatch Solutions is pleased to welcome you at Interplas: stand A2 - Hall 4 & Fakuma: stand B1 - 1309!

www.ampacet.com Ampacet is the leading global Masterbatch producer

This year our UK team will welcome you at its stand

that was founded in New York in 1937 and present in

A2-Hall 4 at Interplas and our German Sales Team at

Europe since 1986. Ampacet’s Masterbatches are

its stand B1-1309 at Fakuma. They will show you

used in almost every polymer, plastic process and

Ampacet latest innovations in Moulding and Film

application.

applications such as Antiscratch solution, ReptyleFX

From satins and pearlescents to metallic and pastels, Ampacet works with an extensive palette of pigments

technology, FauxFoil,

antimicrobial masterbatch

Germsclean and many others.

to provide the most aesthetically unique choice of

Visit us at our stands and get more information about

colours and special effects, which consequently

Ampacet Colour solutions and new cutting-edge

increases appeal and brand awareness. Ampacet’s

technologies. Book your trip with one of our Sales

Masterbatch range also includes from premium to

Representatives to Ampacet’s newly opened UK

cost-effective whites and blacks, as well as general

Design Centre or to Luxembourg Ideation Centre

purpose and technically advanced additive solutions.

where you will journey from an “Idea to a Realisation”!

For further information please contact us at: marketing.europe@ampacet.com