By Bruce Geiselman
Here are five things you need to know from Plastics Machinery & Manufacturing as we head into September.
No. 1. While the public grows increasingly concerned about pollution and environmental issues related to plastics production, sustainability is top of mind for blow molding machinery makers.
The equipment companies are concentrating on energy efficiency, boosting use of recycled and bio-based materials, improving process quality, and even the types of containers customers are seeking to make.
After years of pushing back against green efforts, the industry is now leaning in, reports PMM Managing Editor Lynne Sherwin.
Find out what she recently learned by reading her article: “Blow molding OEMs focus on sustainability.”
No. 2. What do you get when you combine a solid-state welder with a Universal Robots cobot? A new automated welding system that can repair molds.
The Alliance ID1-UR Robotic Fiber Laser system can also be programmed for quick injection mold prototyping and modifications. It also has the flexibility to perform other manual or automated welding tasks that a plastics processor might need.
The welding system’s six-axis robot arm can be controlled with a joystick, a UR pendant or via automated programming.
Details can be found by reading the article: “Alliance robotic laser welding system automates tool repair.”
No. 3. Novatec Inc., a manufacturer of auxiliary and conveying equipment, recently demonstrated a resin drying system employing artificial intelligence and a conveying system employing AI.
The company’s AI-powered DryerGenie System and its SmartConveying System took center stage at the company’s booth during NPE2024 in Orlando.
Novatec’s DryerGenie uses sensors and AI to calculate exactly how long to dry resins. The technology eliminates the risks of overdrying and underdrying and minimizes energy consumption according to the company.
Novatec’s SmartConveying system eschews variable-frequency drive (VFD) induction motor technology in favor of high-performance motor technology inspired by electric vehicles, according to the company. The conveying system delivers energy efficiency, material-specific precision, whisper-quiet operation, and “hyperspeed” for line blockages.
For more information, read the story “Novatec introduces drying, conveying systems employing AI.”
No. 4. LS Mtron’s fully electric LSG-E line of injection molding machines is being updated with a larger 1,500-ton model.
Previous models range from 35 tons to 950 tons of clamping force.
Benefits of the larger model are improved production of larger, high-precision parts, and a 13 percent to 27 percent increase in injection volume.
For details, read Associate Editor Dave Tillett’s story “LS Mtron goes big with 1,500-ton press.”
No. 5. Thermoforming manufacturers are stepping up to fill the void left by SencorpWhite.
Once a major player in the thermoforming industry, Sencorp surprised many when it announced it would cease building new thermoforming machines due to “challenges in the continuing business environment.”
Illig, Kiefel and BMG recently highlighted options for manufacturers looking to replace the existing Sencorp thermoforming machines or buy additional equipment while keeping Sencorp tooling.
Read my story “Thermoformer manufacturers woo former SencorpWhite customers” for more information.
Those are my Top 5 items you need to know for this month. We will have a new list on the first Thursday of every month.
Bruce Geiselman | Senior Staff Reporter
Senior Staff Reporter Bruce Geiselman covers extrusion, blow molding, additive manufacturing, automation and end markets including automotive and packaging. He also writes features, including In Other Words and Problem Solved, for Plastics Machinery & Manufacturing, Plastics Recycling and The Journal of Blow Molding. He has extensive experience in daily and magazine journalism.
