BP&R January/February 2014

British Plastics

and Rubber

bp&r JAN/FEB 2014

“WE PURCHASED OUR FIRST ROTARY WHEEL DRYER

FROM SUMMIT

SYSTEMS

TO REDUCE OUR

ENERGY CONSUMPTION

WHEN DRYING POLYCARBONATE MATERIAL. THE RESULT WAS A SIGNIFICANT REDUCTION OF

%”

38

Chris Furniss Director, Cloverleaf Plastics Polymer Prices: Review and Outlook 2014

Eastern promise: a focus on Chinaplas

Recycled compound shows automotive ambition

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comment

bp&r BRITISH PLASTICS &RUBBER In memory of Ken: A final farewell to a familiar face in his latter weeks and days. Until It is with great sadness that we start recently, Ken still showed an 2014 with the announcement that Ken inextinguishable curiosity for Grace, the well-respected former Editor developments in the industry, vocalising and Owner of British Plastics and his thoughts through a Rubber, died on the 15th number of forums and January aged 65 after a “I have thoroughy social networking long period of ill health. enjoyed the time I arenas.

After a 35-year To this day, it is rare career involved with the have spent in an that a major plastic plastics industry, Ken industry where things sector press conference made the difficult were always goes by without decision to retire completely from the happening, technology somebody mentioning Ken’s name. Very often magazine in 2011. His was constantly the memories will come unfaltering dedication, passion and enthusiasm evolving, and which in from senior management or PR officers, recalling made his name one that many ways was a his natural ability to draw was synonymous with microcosm of out responses that drive the UK and international evolution in the to the heart of the plastics industries, a matter at hand. person whose informed civilised world Ken embraced and accurate reporting through new demands change and welcomed a on which was without from politiconew breed of journalists, question. publishers and sales Ken summarised this economic managers into the BP&R involvement when he development and in fold, giving his retired from the latter years the endorsement to the way magazine in 2011, saying: “I have thoroughy increasing pressure on in which a new generation steered the enjoyed the time I have the environment.” – magazine in accordance spent in an industry Ken Grace with the evolution of the where things were industry. always happening, It is therefore fitting to technology was pay tribute to Ken’s years of dedicated constantly evolving, and which in many ways was a microcosm of evolution in the service by ensuring that the magazine continues to be at its strongest possible civilised world through new demands standard in order to continue the legacy from politico-economic development and created by such a thorough and in latter years the increasing pressure on dedicated journalist and publisher. His is the environment.” certainly a tough act to follow, but serves According to his close family and as the highest possible benchmark for friends, Ken upheld this interest to the quality. last, fondly reminiscing about the days of BP&R and his time spent in the industry Leanne Taylor – Editor

www.britishplastics.co.uk EDITORIAL Editor: Leanne Taylor T: +44(0)1244 680222 E: leanne@rapidnews.com

SALES Group Advertising Manager: Lisa Montgomery T: +44(0)1244 680222 E: lisa@rapidnews.com

ART SAM HAMLYN T: +44(0)1244 680222 E: sam@rapidnews.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS T: +44(0)1244 680222 E: subscriptions@rapidnews.com

PUBLISHER Mark Blezard T: +44(0)1244 680222 E: mark@rapidnews.com British Plastics & Rubber is available on free subscription to readers qualifying under the publisher’s terms of control. Those outside the criteria may subscribe at the following annual rates: UK: £80 Europe and rest of the world: £115 British Plastics & Rubber is published monthly (10 times/year) by Rapid Plastics Media Ltd, Unit 2, Carlton House, Sandpiper Way, Chester Business Park, CH4 9QE T: +44(0)1244 680222 F: +44(01244 671074 © 2014 Rapid Plastics Media Ltd While every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained within this publication is accurate the publisher accepts no liability for information published in error, or for views expressed. All rights for British Plastics & Rubber are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

ISSN 0307-6164 Incorporating Polymer Age and Rubber and Plastics Age.

Associated organisations

THE BIG STORY Rotor Wheel Dryer: Not just a load of hot air Summit Systems says the Rotary Wheel Dryers address the issue of high levels of energy consumption by utilising a rotating wheel, which continuously puts dry desiccant into service while regenerating West Yorkshire-based saturated desiccant in the Cloverleaf Engineering same rotational cycle. The rotor is a solid monolith Plastics, a well mixture of silica gel and established specialist molecular sieves, which polycarbonate moulder, results in a constant and reliable dew point, a lower is one of a growing regeneration temperature number of plastics at 160 degrees and processors who have excellent regeneration performance. The constant recognised that the dew point is achieved high level of energy using patented four-stage consumption involved in circuit technology, preventing over-drying the traditional drying whilst offering longer of material can be a desiccant life.

The regeneration significant drain on circuit is controlled by two profitability. Here, temperature probes in the BP&R takes a look at wheel and processed by a how the company’s brushless blower. “These Dryers are proven to be far investment in four- more responsive than stage, patented Rotor traditional twin desiccant Wheel Dryers from dryers, continually adjusting every six Summit Systems has minutes to changing contributed to energy material circumstances savings, reduced scrap instead of parameters being fixed for the entire and lower costs. drying cycle,” explained Mike Jordan, Summit Systems’ Managing Director. “Nor do they use desiccant beads with a clay binder, which can contaminate the plastic granules, but a ‘wheel’ of 100 percent pure desiccant material woven into a substrate. Additionally, they do not require chilled water or compressed air.”

A particularly attractive feature, says Cloverleaf’s Managing Director, Chris Furniss, is the wider operating temperature range of these Rotor Wheel Dryers.

Microprocessor control provides highly accurate real-time temperature control and displays all operating parameters and any fault conditions. Furniss explained that by including the optional daily/weekly timer into its package, Cloverleaf enhanced its savings even more. By doing so, he is able to pre-determine the time that the Dryers switch off according to the end of the moulding day and, crucially, is able to ensure

4 bp&r

The Rotary Wheel Dryers are said to address the issue of high levels of energy consumption

The Dryers have resulted in significant energy reductions for Cloverleaf

that the dryers are working in time for early morning starts when the company can take advantage of discounted energy rates.

“We purchased our first Rotor Wheel Dryer from Summit Systems in an initiative to reduce our energy consumption when drying our Polycarbonate material,” Furniss explained.

“The result of this change was a significant 38 percent reduction in our energy consumption. Add to this the minimum five-year lifespan of the rotary desiccant wheel when compared to 18 months for our old style desiccant tower dryers, with no requirement for cooling water or compressed air, and the overall benefits become substantial. What did we do next? Well, we bought three more of course. With huge savings in energy, reduced scrap levels, lower maintenance costs and a comprehensive two year warranty on each Dryer it was a very easy choice.”

Summit Systems is offering processors the chance to experience the savings and efficiency of these Rotor Wheel Dryers by making selected models available on a free 30-day trial. Please contact them for further details quoting “BP&R” to receive the offer. further information: www.summitsystems.co.uk

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on the cover

14

6 bp&r

37

bp&r BRITISH PLASTICS &RUBBER

contents jan/feb 2014

on the cover Rotor Wheel Dryer: Not just a load of hot air West Yorkshire-based Cloverleaf Engineering Plastics, a wellestablished, specialist polycarbonate moulder, is one of a growing number of plastics processors who have recognised that the high level of energy consumption involved in the traditional drying of material can be a significant drain on profitability. See page 4

25-29 FEATURE automotives The UK proves it’s no lightweight in automotive materials market

30-31 FEATURE

REGULARS INDUSTRY NEWS

08

Reclamation and Recycling

33

Materials

45

machinery

48

FROM THE FRONTLINE

50

SOFTWARE

51

BUYERS’ GUIDE

52

chinaplas International show heralds Eastern Promise

3 EDITOR’S LETTER In memory of Ken: A final farewell to a familiar face

14-17 FEATURE

37-39 FEATURE polymer raw materials pricing A review of the 2013 market and outlook for 2014

pvc and vinyls Promoting positive progress

18-19 FEATURE

40-43 FEATURE

48

injection moulding Focus on setup, handling and changeover

interplas The boys are back in town

20-23 ]FEATURE automation and robotics Painting by numbers: Robot sales boost UK figures

7 bp&r

Industry News

news UK manufacturing orders growing at “fastest rate since 2011” The New Year has started on a positive footing for UK manufacturing, with growth in new orders at the strongest levels since April 2011, according to the latest CBI quarterly Industrial Trends Survey.

In the three months to January 2014, domestic orders rose, uncertainty about demand fell and investment intentions for the year ahead picked up.

The survey of 367 manufacturers found that growth in total order books and domestic orders was the most rapid since April 2011. Output growth remained solid, albeit slightly lower than that recorded in November and December.

The survey suggests manufacturers are optimistic about continued expansion in the next quarter, with expectations of growth in new orders at its strongest since April 2012.

It also predicts that manufacturing companies are increasingly confident in the recovery, which is feeding through to

HUSYCA expands its operation to service the UK industry

8 bp&r

Spanish manufacturer and repairer of extrusion and intrusion screws and barrels, HUSYCA, now has a UK representative to service the industry.

HUSYCA has been providing precision manufactured replacement, refurbished and repaired screws and barrels to companies in Spain, France, Portugal, Mexico and Brazil for over 30 years.

The company manufactures a complete range of chambers and screws for moulding a variety of plastics, thermoplastics and rubbers. HUSYCA says it is able to repair and refurbish parts to a standard whereby the material is left with the same characteristics and dimensions as an original part, across a range of processes including injection, extrusion, co-extrusion and blow moulding.

The bimetallic treatments used on the chambers are the result of an inventive technique of covering the interior that is said to reduce wear and tear when using materials with high loads, such as glass fibres, calcium carbonate, talcum powder etc.

started The New Year has for UK on a positive footing g rin tu manufac

investment plans. Optimism about business conditions rose strongly, while the number of firms feeling that demand uncertainty was constraining investment dropped back sharply. Firms’ plans for growth in capital expenditure on buildings in the year ahead were the highest in three years.

“The recovery in the manufacturing sector is continuing to build and confidence has improved,” commented Stephen Gifford, CBI Director of

The company says it is able to manufacture or repair most screws and barrels within 15 days upon receipt of components.

HUSYCA’s UK representative is based in Oxford. further information: www.huysca.com

Economics. “Growth in the volume of total new orders has reached its highest rate since April 2011, and this is encouraging.

“However, now is not the time to relax and take our foot off the gas. There are still risks ahead and our manufacturers need help to break into high-growth export markets.” further information: www.cbi.org.uk

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Industry News

10 bp&r

news Shadow Business Secretary backs campaign to support British Manufacturing UK businesses are starting 2014 with a call to Government to support British manufacturing, following the sector’s encouraging performance in the last half of 2013.

According to figures released early in January, 70 percent of UK businesess would support Government action to prioritise British suppliers and producers, while just eight percent stated the government would better off supporting other sectors.

The report, commissioned by polythene packaging manufacturer and supplier, Duo UK, involved more than 1,000 purchasing professionals working within SME and corporate organisations, across both the public and private sectors.

Commenting on the initiative, Shadow Business Secretary, Chuka Umunna MP, said: “Manufacturing is incredibly important to the health of the UK economy and in helping Britain to emerge from difficult times stronger than ever before with more better paid, high skilled jobs.

It’s great to see businesses like Duo, which I visited last year, taking the call to action to the Government and championing British manufacturing on behalf of the industry.”

With companies of all sizes in agreement that Government and big businesses have a “particular duty” to

Biesterfeld adds speciality chemicals to UK arm Biesterfeld Spezialchemie GmbH, part of the Biesterfeld group, has announced that as of 2014, it will team up with Biesterfeld Petroplas Ltd. in the UK and Ireland.

Biesterfeld Petroplas Ltd. distributes thermoplastic resins from several major suppliers to the polymer industry in the UK and Ireland. In 2006 Biesterfeld Petroplas Ltd. was integrated into the Biesterfeld Group as a joint venture of Petroplas Ltd. and Biesterfeld Plastic GmbH, which holds a majority stake.

“Biesterfeld Spezialchemie is looking forward to further expand its specialty chemical business in the UK and Ireland together with Biesterfeld Petroplas. The successful joint venture of Biesterfeld Petroplas is a guarantee for a prosperous

Chuka Umunna MP (left), visits Duo UK

‘Buy British’, larger corporate organisations were revealed to be the most behind the bid, with 40 percent claiming there is a ‘moral case’ for UK companies to support each other, while a further 36 percent described the initiative as ‘common sense’.

Shorter supply chains, better service and communication and ease of doing business are among the notable advantages of dealing with British manufacturers, according to the study, with the retail sector at the forefront of championing the campaign.

Duo UK’s Managing Director, David Brimelow, commented on the findings: “It is common sense for businesses to support each other by buying British where commercially viable, and through

development of our specialty chemical business. With this cooperation we will continue to pursue our focus on further growth into the Western European regions,” said Thomas Arnold, Managing Director, Biesterfeld Spezialchemie GmbH. Biesterfeld Spezialchemie is a European distributor of specialty chemicals in the fields of life science (pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, household cleaning products, organic synthesis), food ingredients, CASE (coatings, adhesives, sealants and elastomers) and performance products (silicone elastomers and products for automotive, composites, construction, electronics, power, and photovoltaics industries). further information: www.biesterfeld-plastic.com

our research it is clear this view is shared

by UK businesses across the board.”

The survey revealed nearly half (47 percent) of respondents are actively looking to increase the amount of goods they source from the UK for their business, with a desire to cut transport costs and the associated carbon footprint attached to contracting overseas companies pointing in favour of British made products. In addition, a quarter of SMEs and a third of corporates raised ethical concerns about some overseas suppliers such as the fair distribution of profits and labour conditions, in addition to being seen to support the local economy through the British tax system.

However, while it is commonly believed that overseas goods are less competitively priced than they used to be, in order to ratify UK manufacturers within approved supplier lists the report identified concerns attached to British manufacturing that need to be addressed - such as offering poor value (according to 29 percent of firms) followed closely by a common perception that goods simply aren’t available in the UK (26 percent).

“With the economy finally showing signs of recovery and a new year ahead of us, now is the perfect time for businesses to review their purchasing decisions,” Brimelow continued. “By supporting homegrown companies, businesses help to create stronger local economies and skilled employment opportunities, both of which will help the UK get back on track as quickly as possible.” further information: www.duo-uk.co.uk

Polymer banknotes to bring a ‘wealth’ of benefits to UK industry The Bank of England’s decision to adopt polymer bank notes will come as positive news for the UK plastics industry as it opens up opportunities for suppliers and paves the way for investment.

The contract for printing the Bank of England’s notes from April 2015 is currently being tendered, however, the Bank expects to enter a contract with Innovia Security, a division of the Innovia Group, to supply the polymer material for the new-style £5 and £10 notes.

Innovia plans to build a ‘state-of-theart’ opacification plant at its Wigton, UK, site, which will require an investment of over £20 million. Its Guardian polymer substrate is already well established, being used by over 20 other countries, including Canada.

The new opacification plant is expected to be fully operational in early 2016 and will ultimately produce the polymer substrate required for the new Winston Churchill £5 note, which will be launched in 2016. The Jane Austen £10 note will follow around a year later. This investment will also create 70 to 80 additional jobs.

“We are very proud to have been selected as the preferred supplier of the

polymer substrate for the new £5 and £10 bank notes,” commented David Beeby, CEO of the Innovia Group. This decision not only recognises the benefits that polymer notes have to offer but also Innovia’s expertise in this field.”

The decision to print on polymer follows a three-year research programme by the Bank looking at the materials on which banknotes are printed, which concluded that there were compelling reasons to move to printing on plastic.

Commenting, Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank of England, said: “The quality of polymer notes is higher, they are more secure from counterfeiting, and they can be produced at lower cost to the taxpayer and the environment.” further information: www.innoviasecurity.com lymer uardian po Innovia’sG tes is no for bank substrate hed s li b ta l es already wel

Shale gas extraction essential, says the BPF The BPF has backed the Government’s Committee on Climate Change in dismissing claims that fracking would cause significant damage to the environment.

Peter Davis, Director General of the BPF, said: “The Government needs to fast track planning permission from fracking sites in addition to the incentives it has already announced for exploration.”

Davis explained that the extraction of shale gas in the UK is “essential” for the plastics industry.

“The vast extent of the UK’s shale gas reserves is not just a new domestic source of energy but can provide the UK Plastics and chemicals industries with vital raw material feedstocks to remain globally competitive and generate new jobs,” said Davis.

The European Commission has been drawing up proposals for a Directive to regulate shale gas exploration. “The EU proposals lean too far in the direction of protest groups. Industry and our Government cannot allow EU meddling to stifle exploration,” Davis concluded. further information: www.bpf.co.uk

industry news

news RPC Group starts the New Year with packaging acquisitions RPC Group has started the New Year with a spate of acquisitions involving companies operating in the rigid plastic packaging markets.

The first acquisition is the UK-based Maynard & Harris Group Limited (M&H), a major supplier of rigid plastic packaging to the personal care, healthcare and selected food segments, across all blow moulding and injection moulding conversion processes, for £103.5 million.

M&H will operate as an independent business within RPC’s Bramlage cluster and RPC says it will enhance the Group’s personal care product offering in the UK, mainland Europe and the US. Pim Vervaat, Chief Executive of RPC, commented: “Following the announcement of ‘Vision 2020’ in November, the acquisition of M&H represents an important step in realising RPC’s strategy of selective consolidation in Europe and the creation of a

meaningful presence outside of Europe.

“M&H is a well-established and highly respected business, which has a good strategic fit with RPC. It operates in our core geographic and product markets and complements the Group’s existing market positions very well.”

RPC says M&H’s growing business in the US offers the Group a stronger platform from which to invest in profitable growth going forward, as well as extending the Group’s product ranges to include flexible tubes and a range of personal care packaging for short production runs and over-the-counter healthcare container designs.

The second acquisition is Bosnia and Herzegovina-based supplier of injection moulded rigid plastic packaging, Helioplast.

Generating circa £7million of annual sales, Helioplast manufactures a range of packaging for consumer food segments.

Having supplied customers in Bosnia and neighbouring Croatia for many years, RPC says Helioplast has also more recently

made in-roads into additional export markets in the Balkan region as well as the wider southeastern European region.

RPC has funded both acquisitions from existing debt facilities and expects them to be earnings enhancing for the Group in the next financial year ending 31 March 2015. further information: www.rpc-group.com new quired two RPC has ac s rigid it e c an h to en companies ess in s ckaging bu plastics pa

New year, new start for the PMMDA

F

or many people the start of a New Year brings an opportunity for change and this year the PMMDA is no different. After over three years as part of the PPMA Group of Associations, the PMMDA, in response to member’s wishes, will return to independence.

Historically, the PMMDA In his regular was founded to avoid the column, Nigel proliferation of exhibitions in the Flowers, PMMDA UK and Ireland and also to Chairman, writes this provide a mark of quality, with month on the membership demonstrating a company had substance. Times association’s return have changed since then, and an to independence, as it independent trade organisation enters a new chapter with the plastics industry at the heart of its operation will deliver after splitting from value-add membership benefits the PPMA. in a more cost effective manner.

The PMMDA wishes to build closer links with the polymer industry by focusing on networking between members, customers and suppliers. A regular dialogue is essential; by using the web and social media channels alongside traditional methods, our focus is to raise the profile of the PMMDA and its members, whilst supporting their concerns and addressing any issues. The PMMDA will continue to work with key trade shows such as Interplas and will encourage exhibitor attendance by securing member benefits. As well as continuing to provide industry statistics and market data, the PMMDA will concentrate on standards development — continuing bp&r to support BSI and the HSE to ensure safety practices are

Nigel Flowers

“The PMMDA wishes to build closer links with the polymers industry by focusing on networking between members, customers and suppliers,” nigel flowers adhered to. We hope to be at the forefront of the plastics industry helping to develop EU and ISO standards.

With membership now costing just £400 per year we are enthusiastic to recover membership levels to what they have been previously. For more information about the PMMDA membership visit the website below.

12

further information: www.pmmda.org.uk

PVC & VINYLS

news Plasticiser growth predicted to reach $19.5bn by 2020 The global market value of plasticisers is expected to increase to more than US$19.5 billion in 2020, with Asia-Pacific and Eastern Europe predicted to be major growth markets, according to the latest study by market research firm, Ceresana.

The use of plasticisers in plastics, PVC in particular, dominates demand, with Ceresana forecasting that the production of phthalate-free plasticisers will be a key driver for growth.

"In 2012, about 87 percent of global plasticisers consumption was processed in plastic products, the majority being films and cables,” commented Oliver Kutsch, CEO of Ceresana. Demand for plasticisers in the production of rubber products, paints and varnishes, as well as adhesives, is considerably lower.

The highest growth rates are expected for the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China), but Ceresana predicts the USA is also likely to increase demand for

Ceresana is forecasting growth for plasticisers

plasticisers during the next eight years. Demand in Western Europe is anticipated to hardly exceed stagnation; however, the study suggests an increasing demand for phthalate-free plasticisers will stimulate the market.

Health concerns of consumers and possible further bans on the use of phthalates have lead to an increased demand for phthalate-free and bio-based plasticisers. Ceresana expects phthalate plasticisers, especially DEHP, to lose even higher market shares at the favour of phthalate-free products than they did in the past.

Where new production capacities are created in Western Europe, these will be almost exclusively dedicated to the production of phthalate-free plasticisers;

The new jacketing compound is for the manufacture of plenum cable

14 bp&r

even China is exhibiting excess capacities for DEHP now, whereas thus far DEHP had accounted for about 60 percent of the Asian-Pacific market. further information: www.CERESANA.COM

PVC jacket compound goes green with bio-based plasticiser Teknor Apex has recently launched a new PVC jacket compound that is made flexible with a plasticiser based on renewable plantbased resources, which it says will help manufacturers of plenum cable to reduce their carbon footprint.

Fireguard FG 910B-01 plenum compound is recommended for Categories 5e and 6 LAN cable and fibre optic jackets. It uses phthalate-free Dow Ecolibrium bio-based plasticisers, which are manufactured using plant by-products.

Plasticiser typically accounts for a large fraction of a flexible PVC compound, noted Mike Patel, Industry Manager for the Vinyl Division of Teknor Apex. “By incorporating into Fireguard FG 910B01, a plasticiser that is based on a naturally occurring renewable resource rather than on petrochemicals, Teknor Apex has made a significant reduction of the carbon footprint in comparison with standard flexible PVC compounds,” Patel commented. “And since PVC resin itself is over 50 percent derived from seawater, this new compound has much lower greenhouse gas emission potential compared to non-PVC alternatives.”

Teknor Apex says the RoHS- and REACH-compliant product includes no bromine or antimony flame-retardants and has a low VOC content. In tests for acid gas generation, Fireguard FB 910B01 compound is said to exhibit an acid gas content of 18 percent, which is below the 24 to 25 percent range that is typical for standard PVC. further information: www.teknorapex.com

PVC recycler makes £1 million extrusion investment VEKA Recycling has revealed it has invested almost £1 million in its UK facility, a move it says will allow it to produce high-quality recyclate suitable for a wide range of new PVC-U extruded products.

A new compounding line installed at its Kent site will enable the company, an accredited Recovinyl recycler, to supply UK and European markets with PVC-U pellet derived from post-industrial or post-consumer window frame material. This is in addition to the existing supplies of both pellet and micronised PVC-U (pulver) from its German and French factories.

Tony Cattini, Managing Director of VEKA Recycling, said this investment in UK capacity will help to meet continuing demand for recycled content in new products with all the associated economic and environmental benefits for manufacturers and consumers. “It also underlines our commitment to progressive growth and development in this sector as well as continuing to offer a sustainable and reliable outlet for PVC window waste,” he said.

Observing ‘encouraging trends’ going into 2014, Tony added: “We have a new string to our bow now we can supply directly from our UK factory, offering a quality and consistent supply to manufacturers.

“More businesses are recognising the tangible economic and environmental benefits of recycling PVC and we have already had interest from a number of major players in the UK. With our new push into the extrusion market we can now offer a closed loop solution in our home market.”

Simon Scholes, VEKA Recycling’s Business Administration Manager, explained the approach fits in with Recovinyl’s ‘Pull Market Concept’, involving both the existing recycling network and convertors. This concept has been created to support the re-use of as much post-consumer and post-industrial PVC from the market as possible by stimulating the regular use of recycled material in production processes.

“Quality counts when it comes to recycling waste PVC and feedstock contamination levels impact on the value of goods that can subsequently be made from the recycled material. We want to see old frames going back into new windows and this is achievable provided the quality is right,” he noted.

Scholes also added that enquiry levels are rising from building companies seeking a partner to recycle their PVC window waste as the economic recovery in the construction sector gathers pace.

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PVC & VINYLS

news Eastman launches latest nonphthalate plasticiser in Europe At the Compamed trade show for medical technology in Düsseldorf, Germany, Eastman Chemical Company announced the availability of its new 168 SG nonphthalate plasticiser in Europe.

Eastman says 168 SG, which is an enhanced grade of its original 168 nonphthalate plasticiser, is specifically targeted for flexible PVC medical devices, as well as other highly sensitive applications including toys, childcare and food contact products.

In light of impending regulations in Europe, some OEMs are proactively making the switch to a non-phthalate plasticiser for their medical devices. For medical device OEMs, Eastman says the168 SG is a nonphthalate plasticiser that may be used as an alternative to DEHP and tris (2ethylhexyl) trimellitate (TOTM), and it is more efficient than using some of the other non-phthalate plasticisers available.

Eastman says the product has extensive toxicological and regulatory profiles while remaining cost efficient. The plasticiser is said to have good performance properties, low-temperature flexibility and excellent non-migration properties.

“We are excited to bring to the

Some medical device OEMs are turning to non-phthalate plasticisers

European medical market a new nonphthalate plasticiser alternative that OEMs can easily start using in their medical products even before regulations mandate the change,” said Martin Stimpson, Global Market Development and Key Account Manager, Adhesives and Plasticisers Business Unit, Eastman Chemical Company.

Eastman says 168 SG offers assurance of supply continuity and the most stringent quality assurance protocols, which are necessary for sensitive applications in the medical market. The plasticiser has high product purity, and customers also gain access to proprietary ISO 10993 and USP Class VI test data. In addition, the plasticiser is registered under REACH. further information: www.eastman.com

Plastics Recyclers Europe PVC recyclers’ stand at Pollutec 2013

PVC recycling promoted at Pollutec Fair Plastics Recyclers Europe’s (PRE) PVC recyclers recently exhibited at the Pollutec Fair in Paris from 3-6 December, as a part of the VinylPlus Communication Project to promote PVC plastics recycling and raise visibility for rPVC products and materials.

The stand, which featured eight PRE members, was located in the ‘Waste and Recycling’ sector at Pollutec, an event which was visited by around 30, 000 people.

The PVC working group members involved in the project presented videos, samples and products made of recycled PVC and say the fair was a successful event in raising awareness of PVC recycling in France.

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further information: www.plasticsrecyclers.eu

European Commission continues to evaluate proposed joint venture The European Commission is continuing with its evaluation of the 50/50 Joint Venture proposal in European chlorvinyls activities from Solvay and INEOS, following the original notification in September 2013.

During this Phase II review, Solvay and INEOS say they will continue to work with the Commission and remain confident that the proposed Joint Venture will receive clearance, which could be in the first half of 2014.

Both companies say this would create a “competitive and sustainable business that would continue to benefit customers in Europe's rapidly changing markets and highly challenging economic environment.” further information: www.ineos.com

The PVC industry has rec eived some great results on recycling targets Credit: Recovinyl

PVC: Promoting positive progress Last year saw 100 years since the first award of a patent for the polymerisation of PVC. Following the weathering of many an environmental storm, the reputation of the PVC industry is at an overall high point. This year will see the UK host PVC 2014, the international forum on vinyl, take place in Brighton from 1-3 April.

V

iki Taylor spoke to Stuart Patrick, Chair of the Organising Committee for the conference, to find out more about the way in which the industry can continue to reinforce positive messages in terms of PVC’s sustainability and efficiency, as well as the contribution of programs such as Vinyl 2010 and VinylPlus in achieving a circular economy.

Q: What do you consider to be the key issues in the PVC industry that need addressing?

Despite all the excellent work in developing and achieving some great results in the European voluntary agreement on meeting different sustainability targets e.g. recycling, chemicals information etc., there is still a need to convince some legislators, specifiers and the popular media that the industry has really transformed itself over the past 10 years.

Q: Are we doing enough to address sustainability?

material for a PVC is an efficient and effective . ions icat number of appl

You can always do more, but addressing sustainability on a voluntary and cost effective basis has been at the fore of the PVC industry for some years now, and is well ahead of other industries.

Q: Can we create a circular economy soon enough?

As I understand it a circular economy is an alternative to a linear economy (make, use, dispose) in which we keep resources in use for as long as possible, extract the maximum value from them whilst in use, then recover and regenerate products and materials at the end of each service life. On this basis in 2011, PVC in Europe established VinylPlus – a new voluntary commitment to enhance the sustainable production and use of PVC by 2020. Targets were derived from ‘The Natural Step’ system conditions for sustainability and these system conditions are primarily based on the circular economy criteria. PVC 2014 will report on the progress on this commitment and will also feature a keynote address from Jonathan Porritt CBE, who is a keen advocate of the circular economy approach.

further information and to register: www.pvc2014.org

Q: What do we expect to see from the PVC industry in 2014?

Continuing innovation as it meets and adapts to the many challenges facing the polymer industry generally and the PVC industry in particular, in carrying on business successfully in today’s economic and sustainability climates.

Q: Why is the PVC 2014 an important event in the PVC calendar?

It is probably the only conference that can bring together, on a global basis, a diverse and large group of experts of differing disciplines covering the many issues that will influence the direction that the PVC industry will take for the near future. The conference format will also give the delegates many opportunities to network with these experts and each other.

FAST FACTS

S

tuart Patrick is a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining and previously worked in the PVC industry for over 30 years. He has been involved in the organisation of the PVC Brighton Conference since the third conference in 1987 and is currently Chair of the Organising Committee.

“addressing sustainability on a voluntary and cost effective basis has been at the fore of the PVC industry for some years now, and is well ahead of other industries,” Stuart Patrick

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feature

Interplas: The boys are back in town expected to surpass to the 2014 show are

Visitors estament to this, over 75 percent of the show floor has s 2011 those seen at Interpla already been sold and allocated to exhibitors, with some of the biggest names in the industry signed up for what is predicted to 2014 is set to be an be a sell-out event. exciting year. Not only is it “I am delighted that ARBURG are returning the year of the horse, the to the Interplas show.

World Cup in Brazil and After some years, we Glasgow’s turn to host the felt it was the right time Commonwealth Games, to be included in the exhibition,” Colin Tirel, crucially, it is an Interplas Managing Director of year. What that means for ARBURG UK, the plastics industry is commented. “As a supplier of the opportunity to do big leading moulding technology it is business. Thanks to the important for us to recent resurgence in demonstrate innovative fortune of the UK’s and relevant technology to our market. The UK and Irish manufacturing industry, markets have been key some of the world’s markets for us for many biggest companies in years and so we believe we Those attending the sho plastics are choosing are supporting the market by w will have access to over 400 exhibitors, being there.” as well as entry to Interplas as the perfect ARBURG will be one of over co-located, complemen tary shows platform to target a 400 exhibitors taking their growing and lucrative place in the hall at the event, which will run from Fast facts: market. September 30th to October Date: September 30th – October 2nd 2014 2nd 2014 at the NEC in Birmingham. Exhibiting alongside them Location: The NEC, Birmingham, UK will be a whole host of companies in the machinery and equipment sector, including Engel, Sumitomo Demag, Summit Systems, Romi Sandretto, Ferromatik and Milacron Extrusion. relevant topics in the seminar sessions, meaning that the show Graeme Herlihy, Managing Director of Engel UK, reinforced will be a hive of both business activity on the stands as well as the message that the UK is an important market. “The UK proved knowledge sharing in the auditoriums. This platform will be to be very strong for Engel in 2013,” he commented. “The market complimented with a range of invaluable technology sessions for size for injection moulding machines last year was the biggest both newcomers and experienced attendees. since 1999, with the value coming close to £80 million. This As the headline magazine for the show, BP&R will once again figure is the best in years and shows how well the UK has be covering Interplas in its entirety over the coming months, from recovered. So well in fact, that it has become a key focus for pre-show build-up to last day stand breakdowns, capturing the Engel again. Exhibiting at Interplas provides us with a great buzz that surrounded the revitalised event in 2011. platform to reach this market and therefore we are planning “Integration with the UK’s largest plastics industry exhibition some interesting and exciting features to demonstrate on our means BP&R is seamlessly involved with the only event to cover stand at the show.” all of the manufacturing processes, technologies and services The materials sector will be equally well represented, with within the plastics industry,” commented Leanne Taylor, Editor of confirmed exhibitors including Gabriel-Chemie, Distrupol, Plastribution, Resin Trade, Ultrapolymers and Albis, amongst others. BP&R. “Stand sales so far indicate that Interplas 2014 is building on the heady success of the show in 2011, with repeat bookings The triennial show, which was revived to industry acclaim in and some impressive new sign-ups on board testament to both 2011 after being taken over by current organisers, Rapid News the strength of the show and the high esteem in which some of Communications Group, in 2009, is expecting a steady increase the industry’s major players hold the UK market.” in visitor numbers, with the total number attending likely to Interplas will co-locate in 2014 with a range of exceed 12,000 over the course of the three-day event. complementary design and manufacturing events including the “We are delighted by the progress we have made since taking TCT Show + Personalize, Sensing & Instrumentation, Micro Nano the event over,” commented Duncan Wood, Interplas COO and Mems and the PPMA Show. These shows make up an essential Event Director. “An extremely encouraging 2011 — which saw visit for anyone interested in the latest design and manufacturing Interplas back in growth across the key metrics of space technology, and every visitor will have access to all the shows on sold, number of exhibitors and of course visitors — is set to be one ticket, enabling them to move seamlessly between the exceeded spectacularly by the 2014 edition. The momentum and events. Added to this, visitors and exhibitors will benefit from free appetite for the show is palpable across the industry and we are Wi-Fi in the NEC show halls, as well as free car parking for those welcoming back major companies every day who can see we are who stay after 3pm. steering Interplas in the right direction for the industry and, accordingly, they wish to be part of the success.” bp&r further information: The 2014 outing will see some of the industry’s top figures www.interplasuk.com lined up to present on some of the most thought-provoking and

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AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS

news Plastek UK has product automation and handling packaged Packaging manufacturer, Plastek UK, has taken delivery of a new automation system for product handling, delivered by Berkshire-based UPM Conveyors.

Plastek, a specialist designer, manufacturer and decorator of packaging for a range of markets including personal care, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and food, uses a range of injection and blow moulding machines at its site in Mansfield, Nottingham.

The latest system is the third to be installed by UPM Conveyors since 2005 and manages operation using a HMI touchscreen, allowing finished parts to be transferred from the injection moulding machine directly to the fully automatic assembly and packaging lines with no manual involvement. This is achieved with the incorporation of multi-way diverters,

The new automated conveyor system at Plastek UK in Mansfield

which are based on UPM’s Queen’s Awardwinning conveyor design.

UPM says Under Press Reversing Reject Belt Conveyors operate via the machine control to ensure that only good product is kept. From here, the good parts are transported via Swan Neck Belt

Conveyors to high-level conveyors, minimising the floor area occupied. They are then passed through a firewall to assembly/filling lines.

Mick Shaw, General Manager of Plastek UK, praised UPM for completing the project on time and without any interruption to production. further information: www.upmconveyors.co.uk

A Fanuc paint robot sprays an automotive part

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Painting by numbers: Robot sales boost UK figures Fanuc has announced that 12 months on from launching two new paint robots, it has supplied 32 of its P-250i robots into three UK manufacturing sites, a figure it says exceeds the total of all paint robots installed, in the UK, over the last three years by 151 percent. (based on BARA annual robot statistics).

Driven by the technological demands of coatings such as 2K polycarbonates and the need for consistency and exceptional quality, Fanuc says it has incorporated many enhancements into the latest robots that increase production efficiency and reduce paint wastage. The Fanuc P-50iB and P-250iB are designed with advanced features, making them ideal for high quality automotive finishes and general industrial use.

The P-50iB has an ultra compact design yet is said to provide a large

working envelope, with 1.4m and 1.8m reach variants. It has a payload of up to 15kgs and has an open J3 arm onto which process control equipment can be mounted.

Fanuc says the larger P-250iB has a 2m reach and will accurately handle a 15kg payload at high speed, allowing rapid reorientation for both conventional or Bell applicators. The robots can be mounted in many configurations, floor, ceiling or even wall. They can also be mounted on rail units to increase the work envelope.

Both robots are controlled by the new, energy saving R-30iB controller, Fanuc’s latest generation of intelligent controller, which incorporates enhanced features and application-specific user software. further information: www.fanuc.eu

tique Sepro Robo 2013 to Sales 1992

Jean-Michel Renaudeau, CEO, Sepro Robotique

2013 sees best sales on record for Sepro Robotique Robotics supplier, Sepro Robotique, has stated that 2013 will enter the record books as the best sales year ever in its 40year history.

The group states that in the last 12 months it has sold 1650 robots and sprue pickers to customers around the world — a 26 percent increase on 2012. Jean-Michel Renaudeau, CEO of Sepro, acknowledged the overall strength of the global plastics market, but noted that several other factors played into the company’s success this year.

“Over the last five years,” Renaudeau said, “we have invested heavily in the development of new robot technology, expanding our presence in key global markets, and building strong partnerships with automation specialists and injection moulding machine manufacturers. Our product line is almost completely new in the last three years and now includes new 3-, 5- and 6-axis robots as well as specialty robots for in-mould labelling, twomaterial moulding and three-plate moulds.

“Our Touch and Visual control systems are also evolving so that customers can have the same easy-to-use platform whether they need the simplest 3-axis functionality or complex multi-axis capabilities inside and outside the moulding area. Finally, our close ties to injection-moulding OEMs mean processors can get all the benefits of Sepro technology in a complete and integrated moulding package.”

Another boost for the group was its participation at K 2013. Exhibiting with a bigger stand than in previous years, Sepro says it made contact with 65 percent more customers and prospects than at the previous show in 2010.

In 2008, Sepro Robotique was mainly a European supplier, today; North America has become Sepro’s largest market with more than 20 percent of global sales.

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AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS

news Swappage scheme encourages UK manufacturers to use latest robotic automation A swappage scheme currently being undertaken by ABB Robotics is seeking to promote greater use of the latest robotic automation technology amongst UK manufacturers.

Subject to the payload of the robot, the Robot Swappage Scheme enables operators to get up to £4,000 off the purchase cost of a new ABB robot when they trade in an existing robot, from any manufacturer, installed 12 or more years ago.

Open until 8th April 2014, the scheme is part of ABB’s drive to encourage the greater take-up of robotic automation in the UK manufacturing sector.

The scheme is aimed particularly at small and medium sized businesses that have a current working robot, which may be nearing the end of its useful economical working life.

“A large number of robots in use in the UK are now at the point where they are becoming increasingly more difficult and costly to maintain,” said Dean Phipps, ABB Robotics’ Service Sales Manager for the UK and Ireland.

“Difficulties in obtaining spares for obsolete models, the absence of any warranties and finding technicians qualified to work on older models are just some of the problems that can add to the

heartache, expense and inconvenience of using older robots when issues inevitably occur. In such cases, replacing the robot with a new model can present the most sensible option.

“New developments in robotic technology may also mean that companies using older models may be missing out on a raft of new productivity– enhancing features. The enhanced efficiency, flexibility and reliability delivered by the latest generation of robots could help these companies to dramatically transform their production operations,” he concluded. further information: www.abb.com

Manufacturers are being encouraged to invest in new automation technology

The handling system at the Irish dairy

Automation solution helps to keep milk packaging mooving at Irish dairy Derbyshire-based advanced automation specialist, Knight Warner, has helped to solve a handling problem for a large dairy in Pennybridge, Northern Ireland.

To overcome various challenges, such as ensuring an adequate supply of the right type of milk bottle available at the right time, in the correct orientation and undamaged, Knight Warner, alongside Nampak, a UK producer of plastic milk bottles, has developed a state-of-the-art handling system which delivers High Density Polyethylene bottles to the milk filling heads at speeds of up to 500 bottles per minute.

Colin Powell, Technical Director at Knight Warner, said: “Our engineers designed a solution which was manufactured and tested in Chesterfield, Derbyshire and then shipped and installed into the dairy in Pennybridge.

“The key was in the integration of our patented ‘stripping system’ in conjunction with the latest PLC technology and sophisticated safety systems which allowed us to provide a solution which met all the requirements of the dairy, along with the installation of the equipment into the minimum possible footprint.”

The installation comprised of de-baggers, conveyors, and management information system interfaces. Nampak Plastics’ Commercial Director, Jamie Tinsley said provision was made in the design of the system for the handling of lightweight plastic bottles. Commenting on the technology, he said: “The ability for remote access to the equipment allows continuous plant condition monitoring and produces efficiency performance data.

It can also highlight alarm trips and fault codes, and maintenance requirements.” further information: www.knightwarner.co.uk

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Driving material change

AUTOMOTIVES

The HB LED heat sinks made using Therma-Tech speciality polymer

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news Automotive lights shine bright thanks to thermally conductive polymers PolyOne is working with a global supplier of advanced lighting systems for the transportation industry that is using the company’s thermally conductive polymers to replace metal in the heat sink of LED lighting for construction vehicles, heavy trucks, and trailers.

Mars Otomotiv selected Polyone’s Therma-Tech polymers for replacing the metal parts in a move it says has significantly reduced total part cost, removed weight, and optimised its manufacturing and logistics.

“Mars Otomotiv is an industry leader, and to remain a leader we must continue innovating,” commented Abuzer Binici, a Director and Board Member of Mars’ parent company, Ayfar Otomotiv. “Working with PolyOne introduced us to the opportunity to replace metal with advanced polymer formulations that can

streamline our manufacturing processes and differentiate our products in the marketplace without compromising part performance.”

By manufacturing High Brightness Light Emitting Diode (HB LED) heat sinks with Therma-Tech solutions instead of aluminum, Mars Otomotiv reportedly reduced part weight by more than 30 percent. Daily production rates were increased by up to 50 percent and secondary operations, which were needed

for the aluminum parts, were eliminated, reducing cost by more than 20 percent per unit. Additionally, with technical support from PolyOne, the existing mould, which was used to cast aluminum parts, was able to be modified to mould the polymer heat sinks, eliminating the expense and delay of building tooling from scratch. further information: www.automotive.polyone.com

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Providing material choice

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news Coca-Cola’s PlantBottle Technology makes the leap demonstrate The vehicle aims to from bottles to cars sustainable design The Coca-Cola Company and Ford Motor Company are collaborating on an interior vehicle fabric made from the same renewable material used to produce Coca-Cola's PlantBottle Technology for its plastic packaging.

The two companies recently unveiled a Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid research vehicle which uses the first-ever fibre that can be woven into durable, automotive-grade PET fabric from PlantBottle material for interior fabric surfaces, covering seat cushions, seat backs, head restraints, Both companies use PET in a variety of door panel inserts and headliners. products including plastic bottles, fabrics The vehicle marks the first time and carpets. This, they say, provided a PlantBottle Technology has been applied natural opportunity to bring together both beyond packaging and is said to be part of recyclable and renewable technologies. a commitment by the two companies to "This collaboration with Ford develop innovative new products produced demonstrates that PlantBottle Technology from renewable materials. can be applied anywhere PET plastic is "By using PlantBottle Technology in a traditionally used, but with a lighter plug-in hybrid, Ford and Coca-Cola are footprint on the planet," said Scott Vitters, showing the broad potential to leverage renewable materials that help replace petroleum and other fossil fuels, reducing the overall environmental impact of future vehicles," said John Viera, Global Director of Sustainability and Vehicle Environmental Matters at Ford.

BMW’s PP foamed consoles win industry accolade A centre console from the BMW group that incorporates BASF’s Neopolen particle foam as a weight-saving measure has been recognised by the SPE’s European Automotive Division Awards.

BMW Group is reportedly the world’s first car manufacturer to use polypropylene foam as a visible contour material on a centre console. Neopolen P foam has contributed to a weight reduction of around 30 percent compared to the previous product used.

Moulding technology specially developed for the application has eliminated steps from the original process, with BASF claiming that production now consists of “a single

Neopolen P by BASF has been used by the BMW Group for use in its centre console for weight reduction.

Photo: BMW Group, 2013

step.” Use of Neopolen also allows additional functions to be integrated into the centre console, for example, the foam moulding process can allow for ventilation channels for the airconditioning system, serving the rear of the car’s interior.

The process begins by laying a thermoplastic substrate into the mould, filling its cavity with foam beads, and using steam pressure to weld these two elements into a moulded part.

Interior fabric made from the same renewable material used to produce Coke’s PlantBottle packaging is featured in this demo model of the Ford Fusion Energi

General Manager, PlantBottle Packaging Platform, The Coca-Cola Company. "We are pleased to share this technology with Ford, and look forward to continuing to expand the application of PlantBottle Technology." further information: www.coca-colacompany.com www.ford.co.uk

During the same step, movable bars place smooth sheeting on the moulded part and firmly bond it with the material.

At the same time, the bars’ grain structure and the heat from the steam lend the sheeting its textural characteristics. BMW Group will reportedly be using the lightweight structural element in its cars in the future. At first, the company will select specific models for the component to feature on in series production.

BASF says Neopolen P has very good noise insulation properties, low weight, and high thermal resistance. The particle foam combines high-energy absorption – even after multiple impact loads – with good resilience and isotropic deformation performance. Its property profile, which also includes low moisture absorption and good resistance to chemicals, lends itself to a range of applications in sectors from packaging and transportation to sport and leisure. further information: www.basf.com

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AUTOMOTIVES

Driving material change

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Fiat is incorporating the styrenic solution into the exterior parts of its new models Image: Fiat

news Fiat chooses styrenics to prepare its vehicles for a rainy day Italian car manufacturer, Fiat, has sourced a high performance styrenic solution to replace a commodity ABS polymer for all unpainted exterior applications across its car models worldwide.

Partnering with global styrenics supplier, Styrolution, Fiat selected speciality copolymer, Luran S, with a highperformance UV additive to ensure exterior automotive parts retain their premium appearance over time by offering resistance to weathering and ageing.

“Luran S is one of the best materials of choice, as it allows us to create external parts that retain the premium surface quality our customers expect while reducing total costs. This is the kind of material innovation that helps Fiat deliver true value to our customers,” commented Maurizio Servetti, Manager at Fiat Center Research – Group Materials Labs.

PA 6 oil sump reduces weight by 50 percent in new Mercedes S Class DSM has revealed the new Mercedes-Benz S Class is the latest vehicle to benefit from its lightweight polyamide 6 solutions for metal replacement in automotives.

The oil sump of the new S Class is injection moulded in DSM’s Akulon Ultraflow K-FHG7, a 35 percent glass reinforced, heat stabilised polyamide 6 with high resistance to engine oil and reportedly very good flow properties.

The use of Akulon Ultraflow is said to result in a weight reduction of approximately 50 percent when compared to the same component produced in metal, helping to lower fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions during the lifetime of the vehicle.

The sump, developed by German Tier One supplier, BBP, for Mercedes-Benz was

Luran S will be used in a number of exterior applications, ranging from rear view mirrors, emblems and front grills to b-pillars and roof rack bars.

Styrolution says Luran S is an ideal styrenic speciality for exterior automotive applications as the Luran S grades and their blends (ASA and ASA+PC) are impact-modified with acrylic ester rubber, making them suitable for components that are exposed to rain, wind and weather.

“Fiat is launching an increasing number of new models that are truly built on plastic design innovation,” said Pierre

flow DSM’s Akulon Ultra ight we the helps BBP cut new the r fo s mp su of oil ss Mercedes-Benz S Cla engine. ng Image: DSM Engineeri Plastics

Juan, Global Industry Lead, Automotive, at Styrolution. “We are very pleased we could work side-by-side with Fiat to co-create a customised styrenic solution that can now be found in literally every external application on every new Fiat model worldwide.” further information: www.styrolution.com

subjected to a series of demanding application tests, including vibration, stone impact and an engine drop test.

"With materials like Akulon Ultraflow from DSM, we can make important progress in demanding engine compartment applications to reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions,” commented Horst Hauke, Director of Automotive Sales at BBP. “The oil sump is an important breakthrough and it demonstrates that DSM is listening to its partners along the supply chain in its development of materials to address the performance and sustainability challenges that we all face." further information: www.dsm.com

Providing material choice

Bayer makes no bones about power of nature for lightweight car parts Bayer MaterialScience has taken inspiration from the science behind nature to develop its latest technology for lightweighting in the production of exterior automotive parts.

The company’s new technology is based on the development of components with a sandwich structure, taken from the way in which human bones are formulated and constructed.

At K 2013 Bayer showcased a prototype of a trunk lid that it said demonstrated the lightweight but ultra-stiff properties of its latest technology, designed to reduce the energy consumption of a vehicle whilst providing both the stability required as well as a smooth surface.

“With its smooth, dense outer skin and foamed core, this part has a lot in common with a bone,” explained Ulrich Grosser, Team Leader for Advanced Technologies at Bayer MaterialScience.

“To make the outer layer, continuous glass fibre mats are impregnated with a thermoplastic polymer formulated from polycarbonate,” Grosser continued. “All the fibres are wetted and fully coated by the plastic matrix. This is the key to the high stiffness of the edge layers in a sandwich structure.”

In a second step, the top and bottom of the trunk lid are joined and the resulting hollow space is filled with Bayer’s ‘Baysafe’ polyurethane foam. Bayer says it is the very low density of the foam that makes the component so lightweight. Since the foam is also very stiff and adheres to the entire outer surface, the component is said to be extremely resistant to minor damage.

“We passed a milestone in the efficient production of sandwich components with this material-based design,” says Dr. Olaf Zöllner, Head of Application Technology for Polycarbonate.

“The auto industry often leads the way in pioneering technical developments, but we are also looking forward to talks with customers and partners in other industries.” Zöllner said. further information: www.materialscience.bayer.com

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automotives feature

Driving material change

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UK proves it’s no lightweight in the automotive materials market

A

t the beginning of 2014, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) revealed 2.26m vehicles were registered in the UK last year, a healthy 10.8 percent rise on 2012 figures. So, this is good news for our domestic car With vehicle manufacturing industry, with the manufacturers SMMT also stating that constantly striving for one-in-seven, or of the cars innovation in terms of a 300,000, bought last year were material’s efficiency and built on our home soil. sustainability The UK’s figures sharply, credentials, Terry contrast however, with the rest Burton, a Technical of Europe, where new Manager for UK-based car sales have in fact compounder, Luxus, tumbled.

Despite recent writes for BP&R about success, volume car how its new recycled PP, manufacturing has struggling the last Hycolene, is helping to been few years, according to reduce weight and KPMG’s Global improve scratch Automotive Executive 2014, which resistance in car Survey suggests “most mass interiors. market manufacturers are suffering losses in their European business and are implementing loss minimisation strategies…with car manufacturers aiming to reduce their Tier One suppliers by a third.”

All this makes for a highly challenging market. Added to this, manufacturers also have to tackle the need to substantially reduce costs while still achieving environmental performance targets. The aim is to meet EU emissions legislation through lightweighting, whilst also increasing the recycled content of their parts through new innovations. With the development of Luxus’ latest lightweight polymer, Hycolene, we are aiming to do both.

Starting at the very beginning of Hycolene’s development, we asked why use plastics over other materials? Simply put, Polypropylene is one of the most cost efficient and ecofriendly thermoplastic resins available. It combines a low carbon footprint with great physical properties, low density and good recyclability, giving manufacturers a flexible and yet highly sustainable product.

In terms of partners, Luxus has been working alongside the auto industry for 30 years. We’ve been a Nissan supplier for most of that time, which means the car manufacturer made an ideal partner for the development of our new product.

A couple of years ago we attended an auto conference and met with additive manufacturer, Milliken, soon realising that one of its ‘Hyperform’ products could provide a ideal ‘fit’ for the creation of this new, highly innovative lightweight polymer we were working on for the global auto interior trim market, so they too came onboard with the project.

Milliken’s Hyperform is a high-performance reinforcing agent that creates finished parts with higher stiffness and impact resistance but lower weight than talc-filled parts. It

Hycolene has been used for interior automotive trims

can be used to partly or fully replace talc in compounds. It has the same effect on compounds at much lower dosage rates (typically between half and two-thirds lower). Its main benefits include a faster production time, reduced warpage and, therefore, reduced energy usage and improved productivity as a result.

So we began our development of the new compound, now known as Hycolene, using the Hyperform synthetic mineral reinforcing fibre developed by Milliken. This new product has been engineered to give a weight saving of 10-12 percent per part while also offering improved scratch resistance compared to the talc-filled alternatives on the market.

Hycolene was developed with the support of RenaultNissan’s engineering team based at the Nissan Technical Centre Europe in Cranfield, Bedfordshire. The interior trim mouldings used for the current Nissan Qashquai were chosen for the programme as Luxus already produced a 25 percent filled compound (16407) for this model.

This meant that we had a very tightly defined performance requirement against which to achieve a 12 percent weight reduction for each door trim and an increased recycled

Providing material choice

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Luxus worked alongside Renault-Nissan, manufacturers of the Nissan Qashquai.

Credit: Nissan

Hycolene has demonstrated improved scratch resistance

content from 40 to 49 percent for Hycolene.

The Hycolene grade did in fact match the required mechanical and impact performance of the current Luxus compound (16407). It was our intention to match our existing product, but instead we managed to increase the flexural modulus along with the HDT too.

The next stage in Hycolene’s development was to arrange moulding trials with a Tier One automotive supplier, which proved that our new compound was in fact a true ‘like for like’ product with our existing compound. We introduced the new material to the mould and it took to it straight away, without any issues. This was all despite the fact that we had taken the compound from a substantial 25 percent filled product right down to a far lower filled product.

Another key benefit was that by replacing much of the talc with the Hyperform additive, it meant that the scratch

resistance on the end part was far improved with less of the ‘white effect’ that’s usually found in car interiors.

So what about the future?

Hycolene is being trialled by a number of automotive manufacturers. We believe it’s of interest particularly to the luxury end of the market, since it places a much greater emphasis on the recycled content of the parts it adopts.

According to recent research published by KPMG*, “European luxury car manufacturers that export to emerging markets from local factories are enjoying record sales and profitability.” For instance in January, Jaguar Land Rover posted record car sales for 2013 with 450,000 cars sold worldwide, with Germany, US and India providing the key markets overseas.

To keep ahead of these market trends we have also begun a partnership with global Indian chemical and polymer sourcing company, KPL International, to accelerate our growth into their market.

The next phase is to ship intermediate product from our Louth-based recycling and compounding plant and then our partner will introduce additives to client specifications. The final aim is for KPL International to eventually source local materials for recycling themselves.

Finally, we’re also expanding the marketing of this product into other areas where lightweighting is important for aesthetic and environmental efficiency reasons – therefore the opportunities are considerable. *KPMG – Global Automotive Executive Survey 2014 further information: www.luxus.co.uk

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chinaplas feature

Spotlight on Chinaplas

C

hinaplas 2014 will be held from 23-26 April 2014 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, PR China. The organiser says that exhibition space is expected to exceed 220,000m2, with more than 2,900 exhibitors and 120,000 visitors coming from 130 countries and regions.

China is an important market for UK processors, with strong potential for selling, As one of the world’s trading, investing or largest plastic franchising. The British Plastics Federation, who markets, yet with so will be representing the much potential, China is UK at Chinaplas, said the certainly a rising star extraordinary development of plastics of the East. This year consumption in the sees the 28th edition of country and a population Chinaplas, Asia’s largest of approximately 1.4 billion offers “staggering trade fair for the potential”.

plastics and rubber industries. In the following article we take a look at the opportunities China offers to UK companies, large or small, as well as featuring some stories of success from businesses that are already enjoying the benefits working with Asian markets can bring.

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China as a marketplace It’s no secret that China is undergoing rapid industrialisation and urbanisation. The country’s five-year plan sets out a direction for the plastics and rubber industries, including lowering pollution and energy consumption, adding high-value and improving technology.

The good news is that the domestic market is showing increasing demand for cutting-edge plastic and rubber technologies, with a steady increase in demand for high-quality solutions expected in the country.

Eastern China is one of the leading regions of economic and industrial development, but it’s also experiencing growth as a base for raw chemicals supply. In 2012, around 25 million tonnes of plastic products were manufactured in the region, accounting for 44 percent of the country’s production capacity. With wellequipped infrastructure and a strong industrial cluster effect, Eastern China has become an appealing prospect for some of the world’s biggest multi-nationals.

The Chinese government is set to invest 400 billion yuen each year, in order to improve the country’s water infrastructure. This, coupled with rapid urbanisation, should bring with it growing demand for plastic piping and construction materials. Extrusion and injection moulding machinery sales are also set to rise as a consequence.

Like the rest of the world, China is also placing an emphasis on fuel efficiency in the automotive sector — a trend in which plastics will, of course, have a major part to play.

Moreover, showing continued environmental commitment, the five-year plan aims to explore renewable energy, while solar technology is also on the rise. China’s environmental policies have also accelerated the development of the rubber recycling industry.

Finally, the market is preparing itself for further developments in plastic for medical devices. The emphasis here is on basic equipment that is in the highest demand.

“As global economic focus shifts eastwards, more and more global buyers pay greater attention to China’s market,” said Ada Leung, Assistant General Manager of Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd, the organiser of the show. “Chinaplas, with over 30 years of history, has become a high quality sourcing platform of both domestic and overseas technology for plastics and rubber industries as well as the downstream sectors, such as automotive, building and constructing, E&E and packaging.”

Technological diversification The organiser of Chinaplas says that this year’s event is moving with the times. Sophisticated, high-tech and diverse solutions and applications will be a key focus at the show. Specific technologies have been identified for highly relevant purposes, including safety, lightweighting, aesthetic appeal, multi-purpose functionality, heat retention, and water resistance to name a few.

Roughly speaking, the exhibitors break down as follows: over 1,000 will display machinery and raw materials specifically for the automotive industry; more than 600 will target the building and construction industries; over 700 will focus on electricals, IT and telecommunications; and finally, over 1,100 exhibitors will cater for the packaging industry.

Stanley Chu, Chairman of Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd, said: “Since the global financial crisis in 2008, the rapid development of the plastics raw materials and machineries in China have accelerated the upgrading of industries. Many companies understand that using low-end technology to operate cannot sustain their development. Technological and management breakthrough, quality upgrade and following Government policies like energy saving, high efficiency and environmental protection are the best solutions.

Case Study 1: Essex pvc company ‘sails’ to success in China

Corporations are suggested to change their marketing strategies according to the market variation, to concentrate the resources on the high-growth industries and areas, for example, increasing needs on the automation equipment resulting from the recent problems of rising salaries and labour shortage,” Themes for an easy visit Some aspects of this year’s show have been divided up by process, making for a straightforward visit. These technical zones will include dedicated areas for extrusion and injection moulding machinery; chemicals and raw materials; auxiliary and testing equipment; mould and die; film technology; plastic packaging and blow moulding machinery; rubber machinery and equipment; Chinese export machinery and materials; bioplastics and semifinished products.

A global event Of the predicted 120,000 visitors to the show, the organisers suggest that 25 percent will come from overseas. Many will be looking to establish new trade partnerships, renew existing contracts or explore the technology on offer in China itself.

At the same time, the exhibitors themselves will come from all around the world. Many of the major European and American players are confirmed to exhibit. Providing a base for foreign trade will be the international pavilions, which will include Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Korea, Switzerland, Turkey, UK, USA, PR China and Taiwan.

Exhibitor turnout So who’s going? Chinaplas tends to attract some of the industry’s major names, with leading delegates from international companies attending to meet clients and prospective customers.

This year, the exhibitor profile represents a combination of western and eastern technology. So far, a few of the familiar processing equipment brands include Haitian, Chen Hsong, Husky, Engel, Demag, SHI, Jwell, Jinhu, Liansu, Fangli, Mold-Masters, Yudo, ACS and Conair.

In the field of chemicals and raw materials, expect to see brands like BASF, Exxonmobil, Teijin Kasei, DSM, Mitsubishi, Polyone, Du Pont, DOW, SABIC and Lanxess on site.

Press Coverage BP&R will be reporting live from the show in April. If you are exhibiting or visiting, do get in touch, we’d like to see you there. further information: www.chinaplasonline.com

Wilks Rubber Plastics has secured a new business contract worth thousands in China with help from UKTI. Established in 1973, Wilks Rubber Plastics is now one of the world’s leading companies in the manufacture and supply of fendering and PVC decking systems for the marine industry. A familyrun SME, the company produces a wide range of goods for the marine and shop-fitting sectors.

“The marine industry is naturally a global business,” commented MD, Chris Berry. “Although we have always exported, over the last five years we have made a concerted effort to expand our international activity.” The decision was, in part, a pragmatic response to shrinkage in the UK market caused by the economic downturn, but was mainly driven by the ease with which the company’s new PVC decking products could be sold via overseas distributors, without the need to deal directly with numerous individual boatyards – an important consideration for an SME with limited manpower.

The company particularly wanted to explore the potential for working with a distributor in China: “We had become aware that an increasing number of Chinese boat-builders were using European or US fittings, due to their high quality, and we wanted to find out if there was a viable market in China for our products,” said Berry.

Working alongside UKTI East, Berry and the team garnered support, help and advice surrounding conducting business in an international market and took up an invitation to join a Trade Mission to China.

“Our PVC decking product proved amazingly popular with boat owners, boat-builders and distributors. Since the visit we have established a new production line, which has created additional jobs at our plant in Essex; we have also taken on a UK sales manager to allow us to focus more closely on the export market. Although still in the early stages, we have been very encouraged by developments so far,” Berry concluded.

For more information oN the ukt&i and international trade visit: www.ukti.gov.uk/

Case Study 2: Detangling the Asian market with plastic Tangle Teezer, the Queen’s Award-winning, UK-manufactured plastic hairbrush, is generating an explosion of sales in China.

“Our Asian story first unfolded in 2010 when we unexpectedly started getting over 200 orders a day from customers in China and Chinese ex-pats around the world,” commented Shaun Pulfrey, inventor of the Tangle Teezer.

“We were intrigued how this could be as we hadn’t done any targeting of these markets. We soon discovered that a Chinese model had bought a Tangle Teezer in Boots in Oxford Street and, delighted with her new product, had raved about it on her hugely popular beauty blog read by Chinese all around the world.”

The company, which is based in Clapham, London, first worked with UKTI on its ‘Passport to Export’ programme for new exporters when first looking at export markets.

Now, thanks to exploring a number of different distribution and marketing channels, including home shopping platforms, the Tangle Teezer is currently sold in China, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and Hong Kong. In 2012, sales in Asia accounted for £20 million at retail sales value and increased export sales by over 35 percent.

“What we’ve also learnt from our business in Asia is that British fashion and beauty are highly regarded over there and that the kudos of a well designed, quality British product is huge,” Pulfrey concluded.

For more information on the ukt&i and international trade visit: www.ukti.gov.uk/

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reclamation & recycling

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news PRN offset idea gains backing from MP and industry PRN Offset will stimulate economic growth and provide a sustainable business model for the plastic recycling industry, according to the 2014 message the CEO of a leading UK recycling company is giving key influencers in the industry.

Chris Dow from Dagenham-based plastic recycler, Closed Loop Recycling, has welcomed the latest commitment by key industry organisations to look at reform of the outdated PRN system in favour of a PRN Offset. The British Plastics Federation has announced its own review of the PRN system and is currently looking into the viability of the proposed PRN Offset model.

Labour MP and Associate Parliamentary Sustainable Resource Group (APSRG) co-chair, Alan Whitehead, has welcomed this development and has also offered his support for a PRN Offset, which he sees as a natural extension of his original ‘Renewable Content Obligation’ proposal. This policy called for a requirement for some packaging, such as plastic bottles, to contain a minimal level of recycled material by law.

Commenting on the PRN Offset concept, Whitehead said: “Retailers and packaging manufacturers have a responsibility to the public and the environment to do all they can to sustain

Recycled plastics meet a watery end A series of extruded profiles made entirely from recycled plastic films and bottles has been used to construct a new walkway suspended across a lake at Watermead in Buckinghamshire, UK. The profiles are part of the Duraplas range from Liverpool-based manufacturer, Centriforce Products. They are intended to have the appearance of wood but Centriforce says they are expected to last for at least 40 years.

“The construction solution we developed demonstrated the integral strength of Duraplas profiles which comes from Centriforce’s extrusion manufacturing process, making it capable of withstanding stresses that other types of recycled plastic profiles could not withstand,” said Ronnie Doctor, Marketing

Chris Dow (left) and Alan Whitehead discuss the future of the PRN system

the life of the packaging they produce, thus preventing thousands of tonnes of this resource ending up in landfill or being exported overseas. Incentivising brand owners and packaging companies to use recycled content is nothing short of essential if we are to operate to a circular economy.

“However, current UK legislation does nothing to encourage the use of recycled content in packaging. It’s clear that this needs to change. I fully support the idea of a PRN Offset which rewards those retailers who use UK recyclate in their packaging. It makes sound sense both

environmentally and economically.”

Chris Dow added: “We’re delighted that Alan and others in the industry are backing a PRN Offset model and have chosen to support our call for a review of the PRN system in favour of incentivising UK brands and packaging companies to use recycled content. Alongside others in the industry, we are continuing to raise this important issue in order to guarantee the future of the UK recycling industry and solve a huge environmental issue.” further information: www.closedlooprecycling.co.uk

The recycled ay plastic walkw

Manager, Centriforce Products.

Hugh Roberts, Environmental Consultant at Environments for People, the specialist contractor chosen for the project, said: “The recycled plastic profiles are so versatile to use. They arrive in hundreds of pieces just like a giant Meccano set ready to be built. The profiles can be drilled, sawn and bolted just like

wood and also have a degree of flexibility to be shaped around curves in the structure. On this project we had the added advantage of being able to float the profiles on the lake to transport them to where we needed them.” further information: www.centriforce.com

Up to 10 percent compostable plastics do not affect mechanical properties of recyclates, says report Up to 10 percent compostable plastics mixing with conventional plastics in postconsumer recycling streams show no or negligible impact on the mechanical performance of the recyclates, according to the key finding of a meta-study published by European Bioplastics.

The study suggested that in the event that compostable plastics end up in recycling streams, the prevalent sorting technologies are able to sort them with little residual waste. “Studies and field trials have demonstrated that in the uneventful case a small fraction of compostable plastics ends up in the PE recycling stream, this does in no way negatively impact the quality of the recycling stream,â€? said François de Bie, Chairman of European Bioplastics. “Remaining amounts are easier to handle than other residual wastes in the polyethylene stream such as polystyrene, or polypropylene.â€?

This was proven up to a share of 10 percent compostable plastics in the recycling stream by independent studies of the Institute for Bioplastics and Biocomposites (University of Applied Arts and Sciences Hannover), the Italian National Packaging Consortium (CONAI) and the company BIOTEC. The full meta-study, ‘The behaviour of bioplastic films in mechanical recycling streams’, can be accessed from European Bioplastics’ website. further information: www.european-bioplastics.org

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reclamation & recycling

news Strength in numbers for plastic recycling associations Two plastics recycling associations have seen an increase in membership numbers in 2013 as the industry strives to improve the awareness and understanding of recycling and recyclability.

UK-based Recoup, has seen 12 new members join its ranks in 2013 which it says demonstrates the increasing focus on plastics and its role in working and motivating the supply chain to meet the challenges and targets which the industry faces.

The new members include SITA UK, RPC Group, Viridor, Machinex, Kent Resource Partnership, Centriforce Products, PlasRecycle, Ellen MacArthur Foundation, Ashortwalk Ltd, Brunel University London, Campden BRI and Milton Keynes Council.

2013 was also a positive year for EPRO, an association of national

The garden shed that’s full of rubbish A British inventor has designed a thiefproof garden shed made from plastic that would normally be landfilled.

Nigel Broderick came up with the idea for the ‘DaylightSecure’ garden shed after somebody broke into his wooden shed and stole his bicycle.

“Things should be just as safe outside your home as inside,” explained Broderick, “and I wanted to come up with a sustainable solution.”

The shed is made of ThermoPolymerised Rock (TPR), a new building material produced as a sustainable alternative to concrete. Made using a reported 68 percent non-toxic, traceable plastic diverted from landfill, TPR is manufactured in the UK using a cold

Recoup will continue to deliver projects to improve the plastics recycling opportunity in 2014

organisations charged with organising, managing, researching and promoting recycling and recovery of plastics throughout Europe.

Since 2012, three new members joined EPRO from the Netherlands, Canada and South Africa. EPRO now includes 19 members (including Recoup) from 16 countries and there is a global appetite for EPRO support and international co-operation.

“Membership growth in 2013 for two key plastic recycling associations demonstrates growing importance of

plastic recycling and continued commitment from leading stakeholders,” commented Stuart Foster, CEO at Recoup.

“In 2014, Recoup will continue to deliver a range of strategic, research and practical activities and projects across the plastics supply and recycling chain in partnership with its members and other stakeholders to improve the plastic recycling opportunity.” further information: www.recoup.org, www.epro-plasticsrecycling.org process supported by the Carbon Trust and is recyclable at the end of life.

Somerset-based manufacturer, Brodco, developed TPR over a period of four years in conjunction with Cardiff and Glamorgan Universities. The National Physical Laboratory and the Building Research Establishment (BRE) carried out extensive tests on the material and found it offers superior strength and flex to concrete, despite being 30 percent lighter.

It doesn’t leach or absorb moisture and is said to be an excellent insulator.

According to Brodco, the TPR material has proved its security credentials by being specified by local authorities, housing associations and even the ministry of defence for various outbuildings.

The shed is designed to withstand any potential break-in by thieves

further information: www.brodco.co.uk

From Left to Right – Nick Brown (CocaCola Enterprises), Jonathan Short (ECO Plastics) and Herman van der Meij (Viridor Resource Management).

Long-term contract closes the loop as well as the deal for UK recyclers Plastic bottle recycler, ECO Plastics, and waste management firm, Viridor, have announced a 12-month contract that they say will to help close the loop in soft drinks packaging.

The multi-million pound agreement will see Viridor supply 10,000 tonnes of plastic bottles throughout 2014 – almost eight percent of ECO Plastics’ total capacity.

The announcement is the latest in a trend which has seen a growing portion of the industry move away from spot trading and instead develop long-term collaborations. ECO Plastics says the additional surety provided by such agreements has allowed it and others to invest in the creation of new technology,

further developing the UK’s waste infrastructure.

Commenting on the announcement, Jonathan Short, Deputy Chairman of ECO Plastics, said: “Obviously a contract of this size is important for us, and we’re delighted to be partnering with one of the UK’s leading waste management companies in Viridor.

“But today’s announcement is also strategically significant for ECO Plastics, marking the latest phase in our plan to offer more strategic, long term partnerships to our key suppliers.

“Buying material on the spot market can at times deliver robust prices, but it provides very little certainty over future revenue levels. Crucially that makes it difficult to raise the finance necessary to invest in new technology, which in turn means that there are still valuable

resources which can’t currently be recycled domestically.

“As it becomes more and more difficult to export our waste material overseas, we’re left with a choice between building new infrastructure and going back to landfill. We see an industry-wide move to longer agreements as the fundamental to resolving that dilemma.”

Herman van der Meij, Director of Viridor Resource Management, said: “Viridor has led the way in UK recycling through the development and operation of advanced technology recovery facilities.

Practical partnerships and cross-sector collaborations are essential if we are to move towards a real circular economy.” further information: www.ecoplasticsltd.com

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Injection Moulding Rotational Moulding Extrusion Blow Moulding Thermoforming Vacuum Forming Film Extrusion Recycling Materials Design

30 September-2 October 2014

NEC, BIRMINGHAM, UK

www.interplasuk.com

POLYMER PRICING

Polymer raw material prices: 2013 review and As 2014 gets underway, Plastribution’s Mike Boswell 2014 outlook reflects on the activity and pricing 2013 Review Whilst 2013 appeared to be every bit as exciting as 2012 in the world of plastics, in reality it was actually a period of relative stability in terms of polymer pricing. This is clearly demonstrated in the following comparison of Polyolefins pricing during the last three years:

Exchange Rates Another key factor influencing polymer prices here in the UK is exchange rates. The GBP Euro exchange rate is highly influential on the more commodity polymers and the GBP/USD rate tends to affect the Engineering Polymers, where imports of these products from Asia tend to be dollar-derived. Again, the stability of the GBP vs. Euro is notable, with the whole period spent in the range 1.16 to 1.20. The depreciation of the USD vs.

GBP was a key influence on the price trend for Engineering Polymers in the second half of 2013.

POLYOLEFINS BASKET Min £1,143.19 £998.34 £1,178.07

2011 2012 2013

Max £1,384.79 £1,327.89 £1,312.98

Range £241.61 £329.55 £134.91

that influenced the UK polymer materials market in 2013 and gives an outlook as to what the industry can expect from the year ahead.

Volatilty 19% 26% 11%

Key Price Drivers The key drivers of the stable but high pricing were crude oil and feedstock costs.

EXCHANGE RATES BRENT CRUDE OIL PRICES PER TONNE

1.70

1,000.00 1.55

850.00 Euro USD

1.40

700.00

USD per tonne GPD per tonne

1.25

550.00

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Oil traded between £500 and £555 pounds per tonne (100 – 120 USD per barrel) throughout the year and was very much a stabilising influence on global polymer prices. Hence, on the back of oil prices, polymer feedstocks also demonstrated relative stability.

FEEDSTOCK COSTS GBP £1300.00

£1075.00

Naphtha Spot Ethylene (C2) Spot Ethylene (C2) Contract

£855.00

Propylene (C3) Contact Benzene Spot Benzene Contract

£625.00

Mar 2017 2013

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2013 as a turning point From a general economic perspective there is little doubt that 2013 will go down in history as a significant turning point in the global economic crisis. Whilst at the start of the year it rapidly became clear that the USA was on the road to recovery, helped in no small part by the Shale Gas bonanza that is now underway, leading to cheap energy (and before too long polymer) prices. Here in the UK we started the year with fear of a triple dip recession with worse yet to come. As it turned out it was only a single dip recession (just!) and the UK economy posted some pretty healthy growth in H2. For the plastics sector there is no doubt that UK automotive was the star of the show with both record production and record sales. However, even by the end of the year the much beleaguered private housing sector was showing strong signs of recovery, albeit with rapidly growing fears of a debt-fuelled recovery in prospect and a rapid return from boom to bust.

Styrene (SM) Contract

£400.00

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Apr 2017 2013 Apr

Jul 2017 2013 Jul

Oct 2017 2013

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POLYMER PRICING

It is not anticipated that US shale gas will have a significant impact on global polymer pricing in 2014, as it is not until 2016 and beyond that US production capacities will necessitate a significant level of imports. The possibility of creating a free trade agreement between the EU and the US is in marked contrast to the recent increase of import duties described earlier, and ultimately could have a far more significant impact on polymer production within Europe.

Summary In summary it appears that the market in 2014 is likely to look rather similar to the last 12 months. In the same way that the world has got used to high oil prices, the higher value of polymers has now been recognised and accepted.

In terms of polymer groups and individual polymers, more detailed commentary is provided below.

2014 Outlook The New Year has certainly started in favour of the polymer producers, with most targeting increases above feedstock in order to recover margin.

Polyolefins POLYOLEFINS £1400.00

POLYMER PRICES Brent Crude

£1137.50

Naphtha Spot Ethylene (C2) Spot Ethylene (C2) Contract

£875.00

Propylene (C3) Spot Propylene (C3) Contract

£612.50

Polyolefin Basket

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In the case of polyolefins and polystyrene, Q1 tends to be a period of strong demand in which converters both tend to replenish inventories that are typically depleted for the December holiday period, and the traditional lack of holidays in the January to March period tends to lead to high productivity.

Also, since the financial crisis in 2008, polymer producers have become highly focused on inventory not only matching output to demand, but also actively curbing output when margins are low in order to adjust the supply demand balance.

As previously mentioned when looking back at 2013, a key influence on polymer prices for the coming year will be the price of oil. Whilst some pundits are predicting a dramatic fall to around 80USD per barrel, others would argue that given the current costs of oil production the current levels are more likely to be sustained into the longer term.

Continuing recovery in the global economy will both support oil prices and also increase demand for plastics, which typically increases at a rate in excess of global GDP. In the case of Engineering Polymers, where price trends are more closely linked to economic conditions, it is likely that the overall downward price trend will be reversed as polymer producers look to recover margins; 2013 has already started with a number of price increase announcements. In the case of commodity polymers including polyolefins and polystyrene, it is expected that, both on the back of high oil prices and as a result of producers closely matching output to demand, prices are likely to remain at current levels with moderate volatility.

Exchange rates will continue to be an important influence on UK trade, and with the expectations of further recovery it is expected that the GBP will continue to strengthen against major currencies including the Euro and USD. Whilst this will hamper the efforts of exporters to win new business, a stronger pound will help to mitigate the high polymer prices.

The increase in import duty on polymers sourced from the Middle East and parts of South America into the EU will create some slight upward price pressure, with the improvement in profitability on any marginal operators within the EU. The increase in duty is contrary to the longer-term objective of removing duty barriers to world trade, and already pressure is mounting to further review this situation.

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2013 Review 2013 was a year of relative stability with less dramatic fluctuations than have been experienced in previous years. Two pricing cycles were completed during the year with pricing peaks in March and September. Polymer prices largely followed the trends set by monomer prices.

In overall terms there remained an imbalance between supply and demand, demand having not yet caught up with the capacity increases of recent years, particularly from Middle Eastern producers. Polymer producers complained of poor margins and operated at reduced production levels to match demand rather than allow stocks to build and prices collapse.

More closures of older, small capacity European plants were announced.

2014 Outlook Expectations for 2014 are similar for 2013 in terms of market conditions and pricing levels. It is anticipated that producers will continue to match production levels with demand and that further rationalisation of older, higher cost European plants will take place. What is not yet fully known is the effect that cheaper feedstocks from shale gas could have on the market, although this is unlikely to become clear until 2015.

Market summary December was a month of reduced demand as anticipated, with demand in line with previous years. Some producers attempted to recover more than the increase in feedstock costs to restore margins but this was met with much resistance and was probably more of a statement of intent for January.

The increase in monomer costs and subsequent polymer price announcements for January were lower than anticipated by many buyers and in comparison with previous years.

However, many producers are attempting to secure increases in excess of the feedstock increase to improve margins.

Styrenic Polymers STYRENICS

Engineering Polymers

£1437.50

ENGINEERING POLYMERS

Brent Crude Benzene Spot

£1075.00

£3000.00

Benzene Contract Styrene (SM) Spot Styrene (SM) Contract

£712.50

Styrene Basket

£350.00

£ per tonne

Brent Crude

£2250.00

Benzene Spot (EUR/t) Benzene Contract (EUR/t)

£1500.00

Naphtha Spot (EUR/t)

2013 ABS review ABS pricing in the main tracked the SM price trend throughout 2013. As the pound strengthened against both the Euro and the Dollar, Far Eastern imports were kept in check and pricing for both European and Far Eastern markets have generally remained fairly static throughout 2013.

2014 PS and ABS Outlook The biggest driver for PS pricing is the cost of benzene, or more accurately, the capacity to convert naptha to benzene.

There is increasingly less refining capacity to produce benzene from naptha as the old steam cracker technology is taken offline and not replaced. This will result in benzene pricing remaining firm in the near future.

PS production capacity is also balanced as outlined above.

This situation may tighten if there are any unplanned plant maintenance/production issues or if the economic recovery starts to impact on availability, but there is a little way to go before this becomes an issue.

In conclusion, the outlook for 2014 will most likely be more of the same.

ABS pricing along with SM is also dependent on acrylonitrile and butadiene, but probably the biggest factor is demand from China. If China imports are strong then we would expect prices to firm. With reduced lower priced ABS imports available then it would follow that European producers would take the opportunity to increase their margins where possible.

For a full summary of the outlook with regards to specific polymers, read the full article on the website

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2013 PS Review Polystyrene had another interesting year with fairly unpredictable price swings relating to currency and oil pricing, mostly driven, it would seem, by the unrest in the Middle East.

Price swings of over £100/T had been seen for both HIPS and Crystal with the December price eventually settling £100/T lower than the year started, mainly due to the strengthening pound. As the year ended, margin gains by the producers were not realised, with much lower than anticipated demand in December.

Coupled with the closure of Total’s Stalybridge 70,000T plant, the last remaining polystyrene production facility in the UK, demand throughout Europe and the UK appeared sluggish to flat.

The Stalybridge production was transferred to Total’s Carling plant, which is earmarked for a 165 million Euro investment.

With the closure of Stalybridge and the slow fight out of recession, supply and demand has been in the main balanced to oversupply with plants operating between 70 and 80 percent capacity.

There were no major issues affecting supply in 2013 due to maintenance or unplanned shut downs and therefore no pressure on pricing due to restriction of supply.

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2013 Review 2013 overall proved to be a year where most engineering plastics prices moved by only relatively small amounts and any movements were as a result of the global economic situation, or where there was a supply/demand imbalance.

The year started with some price increases, but these then tailed off due to new capacity coming onto the global market for some of the key volume materials. There was some price erosion towards the end of the year, but some of the key feedstocks showed upwards movement during the same period that has yet to be reflected in polymer costs.

Generally the market for engineering plastics was stable, with little in the way of growth, but the situation is one of gradual improvement, with most market segments showing definite signs of recovery.

2014 Outlook The situation for 2014 is likely to be one of general stability for most engineering plastics, with the UK economic situation continuing to improve and markets recovering. That said, the global supply and demand imbalance will not be changed quickly, so whilst there will be upwards pressure on feedstock costs and hence polymer prices, these will inevitably be offset by the aforementioned situation of over-supply.

A lot depends on the Chinese economy and its impact on the supply/demand equation.

Market summary December was as usual a quieter month, but busier than recent years, with some slight softening of PC, POM and certain nylon prices. As we move into 2014, Benzene continues to rise in price and this is putting further pressure on polymer prices, although this is offset by still sluggish demand and an excess of material in the market. PC costs however are already starting to move upwards.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

M

ike Boswell is the Managing Director of Plastribution, a leading UK distributor of plastics raw materials.

further information: www.PLASTRIBUTION.CO.UK

39 www.britishplastics.co.uk/materialsoutlookandreview2014

bp&r

Static Control solutions for Injection moulding

news

Meusburger change moulds - now measuring up to 296 x 346 mm. Credit: Meusburger

Meusburger launches new sizes in change mould, clamping and assembly ranges Meusburger, the Austria-based manufacturer of standard parts for moulding and tooling, has started the New Year by is extending its range of FW Change moulds, adding four new sizes.

The change moulds are now available in sizes up to 296 x 346 mm, which Meusburger says gives customers more options for the fast and cost-effective making of prototypes and small series.

Changing the inserts together with the ejector set, while the mould remains on the injection moulding machine, saves time, says the company and the closed mould frame design ensures precise positioning of the mould inserts with repeatable accuracy.

In addition, the company has also

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recently added a new size to its H 1000 clamping system for mould making. The system, which is designed to improve mould quality by precise clamping in the Âľ range for repeats, is now available in six different dimensions and allows the clamping of plates up to size 796 996. Meusberger says the new H 1000 clamping system makes machining easier and more efficient, with fitting times substantially reduced.

Lastly, during 2013 the company upgraded its air-cushioned assembly table for use in repair and assembly work on injection moulding, die casting and punching tools in order to provide efficiency and time savings in tool and injection mould making.

By using several air nozzles, the H 4062 assembly table creates an air cushion on the underside of the plate supports, enabling easy movement of mould halves and making them accessible without having to reposition or turn them.

The table can withstand strong impacts and loads of up to 3,000 kg and is designed to protect tools from damage.

The table has been upgraded and CE

The aircushioned e assembly tabl offers advantages for ld tool and mou it: ed Cr makers.

Meusburger

certified and is now available with a larger surface, providing twice as much space for moving the mould halves. further information: www.meusburger.com

injection moulding

and ILM applications

Roemheld’s systems are designed for increasing changeover times

Fully automated production line with quick mould change systems Roemheld has launched a new magnetic clamping system that it says can reduce set-up and changoever times to 2-3 seconds, using a single clamp to install dies of all sizes.

Roemheld says the new M-TECS magnetic clamping plates provide a wide range of benefits compared with traditional mechanical, hydraulic or electromechanical systems.

The system has no moving parts and is basically maintenancefree, says the company. The full metal clamping surface of the elements enables users to avoid expensive standardisation of die sizes and clamping edge heights. The components are said to be suitable for vertical and horizontal use in machines and can be easily and quickly retrofitted onto most presses and punches. The plate thickness ranges from 47mm to 85mm (with an integral heating system) and the sizes and geometry of shapes can designed to meet a customer’s specific requirements.

Roemheld says its magnetic clamping technology is based on the principle of a permanent electric magnet, meaning it is safe even in the event of a power outage and, with a penetration depth of 15 to 20mm, does not impact on production. Power is required for only 1-2 seconds to magnetise the system at the start. During operation, the system is independent of the power supply and power is only required to unclamp the die.

Effective, full-surface magnetic forces of between 2 and 12 kg/cm² and clamping forces of between 500 and 2,000 kN act on the plates. The square pole magnets of the plates ensure that even small dies are clamped without auxiliary devices. In addition, Roemheld says the full-surface clamping force ensures that the top and bottom die halves close reliably during the production process with no deformation, true to position and in parallel. This helps to reduce both wear and maintenance costs.

An additional control system permanently monitors the magnetic power, die position and temperature throughout the working process and the machine is brought to a standstill by even the slightest movement of one of the die halves.

Bill Neal, Joint Managing Director of Roemhel (UK) Limited, said: “In general terms, magnetic clamping systems are the best solution whenever frequent die changes are required, downtimes need to be reduced or it would be impossible or too expensive to standardise clamping edge heights and die sizes. This technology is also suitable for large die sizes and heavy weights, which require significant levels of power and a great deal of time to be clamped, for instance on large presses and punches in sheet metal forming.

In these applications, magnetic clamping technology helps to cut unproductive set-up times.“ further information: www.roemheld.co.uk

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Static Control solutions for Injection moulding

Case Study: All change for injection moulder as set-up times are reduced Faurecia S.A., which belongs to the French group, PSA Peugeot Citroen, has 94,000 employees at 320 locations and ranks sixth in the world’s largest automotive suppliers. In its German plant in Sinntal-Sterbfritz, plastic parts Increasing variety and for the vehicle exterior are smaller batch sizes manufactured. These include complete front-end modules, very much determine bumpers, sills and various production in the design elements for the automotive industry premium segment. For the high-quality plastic parts to be today. What this means finished, sprayed in the for suppliers can be vehicle colour and delivered seen by taking a look at just-in-time to the conveyor belts of the OEM, requires a the Faurecia plant for three-shift operation in its plastic parts. Here, 40- Rhön factory.

The production is tonne injection moulds characterised by small have to be changed batches. This means multiple several times per shift. tool changes per shift on the BP&R looks at how an four large injection molding machines in the Faurecia integrated solution plant – a difficult task when enabled such an each die can weigh up to 40 operation to be tonnes.

accomplished safely and economically.

Set up times down, productivity up “Valuable time was often lost during the transfer of the dies,” said Halil Havan, UAP Manager in the injection moulding department at Faurecia.

“That’s why the job for our system partners was to create a new solution, adapted to the current situation, in order to reduce downtime.”

Stӓubli provided a new mould change system that was implemented at the beginning of 2012. Since then, the integrated system solution has taken over the transfer of the dies on a rail trolley. In addition, the controls of the change system also manage the intelligent tool storage, resulting in fully automated workflows, the shortest routes and reduced machine downtime.

Fully automated production line with quick mould change systems

Tool trolley with 110 tonne capacity During the changeover process, the steel moulds are moved automatically from the 70m long tool storage facility into the injection moulding machine on a rail tool shuttle. In one journey, the trolley can deliver the tool, and at the same time, remove the previous tool. During the change, both dies are briefly on board together. Then the trolley, which has a load capacity of 110 tonnes, moves into the correct position, from which it pushes the tool into the injection moulding machine using a chain-driven push-pull mechanism.

The numerous quick and multi-couplings for media circuits and electrical energy are still coupled manually, with the technology reducing this part to just a few minutes. Further elements of the tool change, such as centering and clamping, occur automatically using the Stäubli clamping cylinder.

Stäubli Project Manager, Stefan Patsch, who supported the project from the planning phase through to implementation, said: “There are many advanced individual systems which dovetail closely within this system solution, and without which such integrated management of the complex processes would not be possible.” These include the optical scanning systems for millimetre-precise detection of the positions for tool and trolley, as well as the push-pull system, which makes the precise tool positioning safe, quick and simple.

Pole position for the next tool Stäubli says a further key element of the system is the integration of optimised warehouse logistics. “The control of the tool change system permanently corresponds to the production planning,” continued Havan. “Once it is decided which of the 37 stored tools is required next, the trolley puts the tool in the exact position in the storage which is the shortest distance from the injection moulding machine in question. Thus, the tool is waiting in “pole position” with the shortest route to the mould, ready to be used, which allows us to reduce the set-up times even further.”

Through the permanent optimisation of storage allocation, with the continuous goal of having the shortest transport distance, the Stäubli trolley is in operation almost around the clock – either for predictive optimisation runs within the storage facility or for tool change on the injection moulding machines.

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Hydraulic clamping system

Further Information: www.staubli.com

The PowerPoint Star has been designed for the effective lifting of heavy mould tools

and ILM applications

New equipment offers safe and efficient lifting and flipping of mould tools RUD Chains, a Kent-based supplier of lifting and lashing equipment for heavy loads, has launched a lifting point for use with large injection moulds that it says can minimise damage during movement as well as ensuring safety.

The PowerPoint Star is a robust lifting point which has the ability to pivot in any direction, allowing the lifting and turning of goods to run smoothly, as well as reducing costs to damaged tools. It offers a unique double ball bearing system that is said to provide a smooth and efficient swivel action when turning loads and is operational to temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees.

“The demand for loads to be turned, swiveled and twisted during the handling process of a project has increased over the years. Loads can easily be damaged and lifting systems can be considerably overloaded,” said the company. “Mould and die manufacturers are prime examples of this, when moulds or dies must be flipped the lifting points they use need to swivel and pivot at the same time.”

The forged safety latch on the PowerPoint Star is said to protect against lateral bending, as well as the thickened tip of the hook which prevents handling malpractices and resists bending, features that ensure safe handling when lifting and moving heavy goods. It also benefits from a ‘Clevis Fitting’, which allows three types of connections into the clevis; chain, hooks or, most commonly used, a master ring. further information: www.rud.co.uk

THE TRIENNIAL “BRIGHTON” CONFERENCE CONTINUES TO BE THE WORLD’S LARGEST AND MOST RESPECTED FORUM TO SUPPORT THE FUTURE OF PVC GLOBALLY VIA INFORMATION, EDUCATION, DEBATE AND DISCUSSION PROGRAMME NOW AVAILABLE AT WWW.PVC2014.ORG Day 1 highlights include: Keynote addresses from så Jonathon Porritt CBE and Founder and Director of Forum for the Future. så Sajjad Karim, MEP for North West England and the European Parliament’s representative on the VinylPlus Monitoring Committee.

1-3 April 2014 Hilton Brighton Metropole, UK Gold Sponsors

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Presentations from så Henry Warren, Senior Principal Analyst with IHS. så Dr Brigitte Dero, General Manager of the European Council of Vinyl Manufacturers and Deputy-General Manager of VinylPlus. så Burak Dincel of Dincel Construction Systems.

Market Overview Session – What’s Happening in My Market?

Leading experts will discuss the current market situation, issues being faced and strategies for the future in the European Suspension and Paste Resin businesses, the PVC industry in Japan, the North American and Asian position, with a particular focus on the Chinese Carbide PVC process supply position.

For full programme information and to register, go to www.pvc2014.org

FREE MEETING ROOM at the Hilton Brighton Metropole Hotel for group bookings (subject to availability/terms and conditions apply)

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Exhibition area exceeds 220,000 sqm Over 2,900 exhibitors from 39 countries & regions 14 country / region pavilions including Austria, Germany, Italy, USA, PR China & Taiwan 120,000+ trade visitors from 130 countries

2013-10-18

engineering materials

news

matched,” said the companies in a statement announcing the partnership.

Longfield adds Ferro to its growing list of supply partners, which include Unipetrol (PP/HDPE), Styrolution (PS), Epsan (nylon compounds), Formosa Plastics Taiwan (POM) and Lotte Chemical (PC), as well as its own brand of sub prime polymers sold under the brand name ‘LocaPolymers’ further information: www.longchem.co.uk

Evonik invests in FRX Polymers Speciality chemicals company, Evonik, has led a $12million series C financing round in FRX Polymers of the USA, with its corporate venture capital fund, Evonik Venture Capital, investing $2.5 FRX is the manufacturer and marketer million in the round. of a new family of inherently flame FRX is the manufacturer and marketer retardant plastics and oligomers of a new family of inherently flame retardant plastics and oligomers, trade come,” said Dr Bernhard Mohr, Managing named Nofia. The closing coincided with Director of Evonik Venture Capital. the opening of FRX’s first industrial scale Marc Lebel, President and CEO of FRX flame retardant polymer plant in Antwerp, Polymers, said: “With Evonik, we have Belgium. added an important strategic partner who Nofia products are a family of halogenshares the same vision as we do for the free, phosphorus-containing oligomers growth of the company to our shareholder and polymers that are inherently flame base.” retardant and have applications in Joining Evonik in this financing round consumer electronic, building and are FRX’s current shareholders, Capricorn construction and transportation markets.

Venture Partners, DB Masdar, SAM Private “We are delighted to have become an Equity, BASF Venture Capital, Israel investor in FRX. This is an exciting Cleantech Ventures, a Western Canadian company with a unique product offering Syndicate and many of the company’s that has come a very long way and is founders and employees. strategically well positioned to carve out an important market share in the years to further information: www.evonik.com

ers' products Ferro Engineered Polym ield in the UK ngf Lo by ted be distribu

will

Overmoulded poppies give packaging flower power DuPont’s ‘Surlyn’ polycarbonate range for cosmetic packaging applications has given a new designer perfume bottle flower power thanks to its “glass-like” transparency.

The packaging for French designer brand Kenzo’s ‘Flower in the Air’ perfume sees a perfect poppy corolla suspended in the bottle’s large cap, visible from both sides as a result of a special laying and overmoulding process developed by French packaging company, SAF. The new technology involves the overmoulding of a container with transparent Surlyn material. DuPont says this unique encapsulation process allows objects, images, design elements and textiles to appear suspended in the clear resin without any distortion or damage from the manufacturing process. further information: www.dupont.com DuPont’s PC resin is used for the high-end packaging market

UK materials distributor adds a flavour of Spain to portfolio Cheshire-based polymer distributor, Longfield, has announced a new partnership with Spain’s Ferro Engineered Polymer Products that will see it market and distribute the company’s range of products in the UK. Ferro Engineered Polymer Products’ operation in Castellón, Spain, is a major supplier of high quality masterbatches and concentrates. The company, which is part of Ferro Corporation, headquartered in Ohio, USA, produces a range of coloured, white, black and additive masterbatches and concentrates for injection and blow moulding, film, sheet and profile extrusion and compounding.

“Ferro and Longfield are confident that Ferro's innovative and rapidly growing product portfolio and Longfield's dynamic approach to polymer distribution are well

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engineering materials

TECHNICAL BLOG

news is expanding in Germany Müller Kunststoffe

Müller Kunststoffe to expand TPE capacity and technical capabilities Müller Kunststoffe, the German arm of the Hexpol TPE group, has announced plans to expand capacity with an additional TPE production line.

The new line is expected to come on stream in the first quarter of 2014 and will reportedly increase TPE production by around 4,800 tonnes per annum, bringing the capacity of the Hexpol TPE group, which also includes the Elasto businesses in Sweden, UK and China, to more than 65,000 tonnes.

The new line will increase capacity for the group’s Lifoflex and Dryflex TPE compounds, a portfolio which includes halogen-free flame retardants, conductive, adhesion grades for multi-component applications, food contact grades and compounds offering improved compression set performance.

In addition to the new production line, the investment also includes plans for the construction of a new 600 sq.m. building to expand the technical centre at Müller Kunststoffe’s main Lichtenfels site. The technical centre will be used for the development of customised thermoplastic elastomers including TPS, TPO, TPU and polymer blends. It will house the R&D, product safety, analytics and process technology departments for Müller Kunststoffe.

Construction of the new building is forecast to be completed by September 2014. The centre will include profile extruders, film extruders and various injection moulding machines together with advanced polymer testing and analytical equipment.

Georg Ender, Managing Director at Müller Kunststoffe said the new technical centre and its specialist equipment would increase the company’s capacity to perform diagnostic, processing and quality assurance testing. “The production expansion and investment in technical resources is a result of our growth over recent years and will ensure continued fast and responsive customer support, as well as the development of new polymer combinations and compounds,” he added.

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further information: www.hexpolTPE.com

How easy is it to see through the optical properties of thermoplastics?

Transparency in thermoplastics is a property that differentiates them from many other manufacturing materials… metals, ceramics and wood, and, in some cases, even surpasses glass. But not all thermoplastics offer good transparency.

In semi-crystalline thermoplastics, because of the different densities of the amorphous and crystalline regions, and hence different refractive indices, transmitted light gets diffracted and scattered as it passes from one region to the next, thereby reducing the amounted of light transmitted in the normal direction. In highly crystalline thermoplastics, (POM and PTFE) scattering is so high that the material looks almost opaque. Fillers and other additives will generally have different refractive indices and will vastly reduce transparency even in amorphous thermoplastics.

Material suppliers and processors can influence levels of transparency in a finished product. For semi-crystalline thermoplastics, the level of transmitted light goes up as the section thickness decreases, not just a factor of thickness but also because of more rapid cooling from the melt (quenching), which suppresses the amount of crystallisation.

Another trick that film processors can employ is to orientate the crystallites in one plane by stretching the film in two directions as it cools, making the material more optically homogeneous and reducing scattering, for example, biaxially oriented polypropylene film (BOPP). Controlled biaxial stretching during the blowing stage ensures high transparency bottles made from PET, a semicrystalline thermoplastic that normally cools to give poor transparency.

Impressive improvement in the transparency of polypropylene can be achieved by limiting the dimensions of the crystalline regions to below the wavelength of light, using small quantities of nucleating agents, which create more crystallites but smaller ones.

Occasionally chance plays a part. Polymethylpentene (TPX) is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic, in which the packing of the crystalline and amorphous regions result in the same density and refractive index. Hence TPX has high transparency.

This month, polymer expert and technical blog author, Dr Charlie Geddes, discusses the optical properties of different types of thermoplastics.

Got a view on the above?

Blog posts will also be published on the BP&R website at www.britishplastics.co.uk - feel free to leave your comments. offer a higher Some thermoplastics than others ncy degree of transpare

In association with Hardie Polymers www.hardiepolymers.com

New generation Victorinox knife is at the sharp end of material development A polymer compound that has high scratch and wear resistance has been chosen for the handle of a new knife from Victorinox, the brand behind the iconic Swiss Army Knife.

Polykemi has announced that its POLYfill PP Touch grade was been selected for the handle to ensure the knife was upto-date with current technologies.

Henrik Eriksson, Development Manager at Polykemi AB said the PP grade was originally developed with interior automotive parts in mind. “The idea was to combine mechanical properties with a surface that both visually and when touching it gives you the luxurious feeling associated with soft lacquered – or overmoulded materials,” he commented.

The new knife uses POLYfill PP Touch

Mattias Persson, Sales Manager of Polykemi AB, explained that the grade is well suited to its use for the knife handle, as it gives a comfortable grip and sturdy feel. “Our POLYfill PP Touch-material gives the sensation that the handle is both soft

POM to replace HDPE in small tanks for material benefits Celanese Corporation has launched Hostaform LPT POM, a low-permeation and toughened polymer specifically designed for demanding small off-road engine (SORE) applications, jerrycans and other containers.

The company celebrated 50 years of the Celcon/Hostaform acetal copolymer (POM) product line at K 2013, and launched the new line to coincide with the anniversary.

A low permeation toughened POM, the grades deliver a “balance of impact and durability performance”, claimed the group.

“Celanese specifically designed its Hostaform S 9364 LPI for injection moulding and S 9364 LPB for blow moulding to perform in fuel systems that use ‘advanced fuels’,” said George Zollos, Celanese Market Development Manager, POM. Traditionally, SORE fuel tanks have been moulded from HDPE, but new regulations in the US require manufacturers to find a costcompetitive alternative material.

Celanese used a proprietary hybrid POM technology to create the new grades, which feature barrier properties inherent to POM resin — i.e. they do not degrade, scratch or wear.

The group claims its new line can offer up to a 25 percent reduction in manufacturing time compared with other gas tank materials.

Crucially, for the target application, the material exhibits strength and impact properties suitable for tank durability at -40˚C, as well as long-term fuel resistance.

“In addition, the Hostaform LPT POM property profile can help customers increase their productivity via faster cycle times, which can save energy and lower their unit per tank costs,” Zollos said. further information: www.celanese.com

and hard at the same time. In addition the good grip remains – even when the handle being moist or even wet,” he explained. further information: www.polykemi.se

Hostaform LPT POM is being used for small off-road engine (SORE) applications, jerrycans and other containers.

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machinery

Engineering Passion

news New efficiency guidelines for blow moulding machinery EUROMAP, the European Association for plastics and rubber machinery manufacturers, has published EUROMAP 46 for blow moulding, the second recommendation dealing with the energy efficiency of plastics machinery.

Following the publication of EUROMAP 60 aimed at injection moulding machinery, the new reference document aims to provide blow moulders with a tool to compare energy consumption according to standard measurements.

The new document follows the basic concept of EUROMAP 60 in distinguishing between machine-related and product-related energy consumption. Part one contains a classification of machinery using a defined test cycle, while part two deals with the measuring methods used to determine the specific energy consumption of products according to customer demands.

EUROMAP is preparing further recommendations covering more types of machinery.

The new guidelines are for blow moulding machinery

further information: www.euromap.org

2000kg/hr Maguire model WSB 1840 4 component gravimetric blender with 2 additional side feeders, and conair hopper loaders 2002.

140mm Berstorff ZE130A 40D co-rotating twin screw compounding line,300rpm screws,500Kw motor W&P UG200 face cutter,centrifugal dryer & pumps.

Complete Davis Std sheet line Up Stream; 130mm Main 63mm coex, gearpumps, Cloeren Coex block & 1100 die, 2x Dehumid dryers, 3x Gravimetrics, ALL 2002.

SHEET LINES

250ltr Motan Luxor 80 Dryer With Twin Desiccant Beds Which Provide Consistently Low Dew-point Air To Process, While Reducing Energy Consumption.

THERMOFORMERS

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1700mm 1500mm 1450mm 1350mm 1300mm 1000mm 1000mm 890mm

Line for ABS and PMMA Bandera stack Kaufman sheet line Welex/Union sheet line Battenfeld sheet line Omv sheet line Esde 3 roll stack Welex 3 roll stack

DIES

Rapid 80/45 Granulator dual hopper, standard and nip roll feeder for sheet waste, 37Kw main motor, starter and blow back fan. 2002.

EXTRUDERS 50mm 60mm 63mm 90mm 90mm 130mm 140mm 150mm

Welex extruder Betol BC60 Davis standard extruder Egan extruder Kaufmann STMP single screw extruder Davis Standard extruder Berstorff 1120mm wide EDI close approach PET sheet die model Egan extruder

GRANULATORS

H100 with Flex lip and decals. Lip heater. Lip gap up to 2.5mm 1996.

PROFILE LINES

MIXERS

profile

www.kraussmaffei.com

A polished investment for UK manufacturer led to TEP increasing Investment in the machines has customer projects new its capacity for current and

Rochdale-based Taylor Engineering and Plastics Ltd (TEP), has recently purchased two new, large-scale Krauss Maffei MX moulding machines, which it says signifies the culmination of a three-year investment programme that has seen the addition of new equipment and facilities that will allow the company to With research suggesting strengthen its existing 2013 finished on a positive capacity and provide the opportunity to note for the UK’s enter new markets. manufacturing sector, it “We are very diverse in terms of would seem the New Year the processes we is bringing fresh optimism offer and the for the domestic market. industries we Here, BP&R takes a look at support,” said Scott Taylor, Manufacturing one UK company that has Director at TEP told made a considerable BP&R. “It is important investment in machinery that we continue to invest in the latest and equipment to put it at technology to offer the the forefront of high utmost choice and quality engineering for an capability for our existing and new increasing range of customers”. industries.

The company, which operates over five sites in Rochdale, is able to offer a full in-house manufacturing solution for its customers’ products from prototyping to production tool making and moulding to full cosmetic finishing and assembly, plus logistical support. Supporting a wide range of markets including construction, banking, medical and material handling, it offers a variety of different processes.

TEP says the two new machines, a KM 2700-55000 MX and a KM 1300-24500 MX, will allow it to increase its capacity for existing OEM customers, as well as to move into new market sectors. Maximum shot weights of 24 kg on the 2700T and 10kg on the 1300T allows the machines to offer a wide range of capability across a broad range of products. The MX series is characterised by a hydro-mechanical dual-platen clamping unit, which is said to ensure absolute platen parallelism, ensuring best part quality is delivered. Ancillary equipment from Piovan, along with a new 25T crane for tool handling means that this latest moulding cell is perfectly equipped to meet its current and new customer needs, says TEP.

In addition to the new moulding machines, the company has also invested in a fully automated ABB robotic paint plant that has the capacity to paint components up to 1.5m3. Further investment in an additional 3 sq.m. vertical press for its thermoset division, plus a high capacity dosing unit, has gone to ensure that all areas of the company have seen support in the move to progress product and process development.

The company says its ability to manufacture products in both thermoplastic and thermoset materials using a variety of techniques, coupled with the extensive knowledge and experience of its employees, is what sets it apart from its competition.

“Working with thermoplastic as well as thermoset materials allows us to offer the best solution for a particular product. This could mean an amalgamation of materials to garner the best finish, for reasons including cost, structural needs and weight demands,” commented John Newbold, TEP’s Managing Director. “As a team, we have a broad skill set, so we are able to offer advice from the initial component design stage through to full project completion, with a strong emphasis on process and quality control.”

“We want the UK manufacturing sector to be recognised as having the skills, capacity and inherent level of quality to be able to deliver products to our OEM customers both here and on a global level,” continued Newbold. “This recent investment programme shows our commitment to ensuring that the provision of highly technical moulded components can continue to be found at a local level.” further information: www.tep.co.uk

Rochdale-based Taylor Engineering and Plastics Ltd (TEP), has recently purchased two new, large-scale Krauss Maffei MX moulding machines

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FROM THE FRONT LINE This month, Philip Law, Public and Industrial Affairs Director at the British Plastics Federation, gives his outlook for the UK plastics industry in 2014, including the issues surrounding shale gas and The packaging recycling system packaging recycling, as well as looking at the opportunities currently operational in the UK engenders much controversy. The BPF has recently offered by growing overseas markets.

We start 2014 with optimistic assessments of a real recovery of the UK Economy.

These are likely to be confirmed in the BPF's January Business Conditions Survey, currently being undertaken. It is very important that the UK recovery is not based, as has happened previously, on booming house prices and on consumer demand fuelled by debt. We need to see recovery based on rising business investment, an increase in the export of products and on investment in infrastructure.

As with last year, energy remains of great concern. Shale gas deposits will certainly give the UK a tremendous boost in the 2020's, not just in national energy supplies, but also in raw material feedstock for the plastics industry. But on the negative side, we are likely to face next winter with UK energy supply not equalling demand. David Cameron has recently protested that keeping the lights on is his number one priority, but the question

needs to be asked, whose lights? I'm sure he had consumers in mind; therefore the risk of blackouts in industry remains a very real concern.

Overseas, pundits on the Indian market predict that by 2025 India will be the third largest consumer of plastics globally. The Indian plastics industry is growing at a rate of nearly 15 percent per annum and consumption in India will reach 15 million tonnes by 2015. However, it's not all plain sailing. The Indian automotive market saw a 9.6 percent decline in car sales in 2013, the first decrease in 11 years. We are encouraging companies to plan ahead and join us at the Plastindia 2015 fair, which will take place from 5th - 10th February 2014. A projected transfer of the fair to the state of Gujarat has been cancelled and the fair will remain at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, which will be a relief to UK exhibitors and visitors as a fair in Gujarat would have been less accessible and offer much less in terms of hospitality opportunities.

despatched a report to DEFRA, illustrating that the basic figures on which recycling targets are calculated and achievements reported are somewhat faulty, being overstated by 300 - 400 thousand tonnes per annum. The growth rates have also been shown as being heavy handed, with an assumption of 2.5 percent annualised growth. These facts were divined by Phil Conran of 360 Environmental Ltd, working on behalf of the BPF's Recycling Group, and were based on his researches in the National Packaging Waste Database. It all emphasises that we need legislation based on facts so that compliance costs are not exaggerated. We've been telling the Government for some time that the growth rates were exaggerated, that there had been a slow down in consumer expenditure on packed goods and, alongside this, that significant progress has been made in the lightweight of packaging. Now we have the facts to prove it.

Further Information: www.bpf.co.uk

RAPRA looks to fill skills gap in 2014 The continuing shortage of skilled and experienced candidates needed to fill technical This month, not-for- posts profit research and remains one development of the greatest organisation, RAPRA, obstacles outlines its objectives hindering for the coming year, RAPRA’s including the need to member address the skills companies. shortage, the importance In the of industry trade shows coming year, and looks back at its we will highlights from 2013. continue to support UK universities in the development of further and higher educational courses, work that was strengthened in 2013 through our partnerships with the Universities of Hertfordshire and Durham. bp&r The need to closely align the skills a

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company needs with the right course is crucial. However, there is an inevitable lag as students participate in and complete these courses. To bridge this gap, 2014 will see us continue to offer supported training programmes that allow existing employees to use continued professional development for the mutual benefit of a company and its employees.

Building on the tremendous success of both Mediplas and The Advanced Engineering Show in 2013, in the coming year we will support Interplas and the 2014 Advanced Engineering Shows by providing technical presentations demonstrating the latest technological and commercial applications in the polymer industry.

It is these innovative applications that saw almost 500 companies contact our online Polymer Helpdesk in 2013. By offering our support to assist with any polymer-related research and

development issue, we are able to call on an extended technical support network that is able to offer the highest level of expertise and advice. further information: www.rapra.org

events

BP&R takes a look ahead at some of the upcoming conferences, trade shows and industry events of 2014.

april

23

2014

Chinaplas 2014 23-26 April Shanghai, China Asia’s largest plastics and rubber show, Chinaplas returns for its 28th edition at the new International Expo Centre in Shanghai.

Exhibition space is expected to total 220,000m2, with more than 2,900 exhibitors and 120,000 visitors coming from 130 countries and regions. For a full report, see page 30. www.chinaplasonline.com Plastpol

may

27 sep

30

nov

18 dec

04

27-30 May Kielce, Poland One of the largest international plastic shows in Central and Eastern Europe, Plastpol 2013 attracted around 17,000 visitors and 700 exhibitors from 33 countries. The 18th edition in 2014 is set to be the biggest yet, providing an opportunity for UK plastics firms looking into doing business in Europe. www.targikielce.pl Interplas 30 September-02 October Birmingham, UK Interplas is the UK’s largest plastics industry exhibition and the only event to cover all of the manufacturing processes, technologies and services within the plastics industry. The 2014 outing will see over 400 exhibitors and expects to draw around 12,000 visitors. The show will co-locate with complimentary manufacturing shows, including TCT Show + Personalize www.interplasuk.com Plastimagen 18-21 November Mexico City, Mexico Plastimagen 2014 will be the 19th edition of the show, highlighted as an important business forum for the plastics industry in Mexico and Latin America. The event currently has 14 international pavilions spread over four halls and visitors from over 39 countries. www.plastimagen.com PlastEurasia 04-07 December Istanbul, Turkey Plast Eurasia is one of the largest plastics trade fairs in the world, with its last outing in 2013 hosting over 1000 exhibitors from 40 countries across nine halls. The fair, which has international presence with national pavilions from a number of countries, is expected to attract over 40,000 visitors over four days. www.plasteurasia.com

software directory manufacturing management directory ENTERPRISE RESOURCE PLANNING Epicor ERP Manufacturing Software (For Plastics’/Rubber Processors) Epicor Software (UK) Ltd T: +44 (0)1344 468 468 E: ukmarketing@epicor.com Epicor’s ERP (on-site, hosted & SAAS) manufacturing software for the polymer converting industry covers the full range of back office operations from on-line and off-line sales and quotations to production planning, inventory management and finance through to logistics, ware-housing and distribution.

It seamlessly integrates with Epicor Mattec’s Real-time MES to provide a single system that offers a complete quote-to-cash solution for the plastics’/rubber industries.

REAL TIME PRODUCTION MONITORING, SCHEDULING AND PROCESS MONITORING Epicor Mattec Real-time MES (Microsoft Windows™ PC Servers & “Web Based”) Epicor Software (UK) Ltd T: +44 (0)1344 468 468 E: ukmarketing@epicor.com Modules: Production Monitoring, Process Monitoring, “Drag and Drop” Scheduling/Planning, “Family Moulding”, Preventative Maintenance, Bar Coding/Parts’ Trace-ability, Operator Visual Aids, Process Parameter Profiling, E-mail/ Public Address System Alerts, Stand-alone “Drag and Drop” Scheduler, Stand-alone SPC “Machine Analyzer”, Machine Energy Monitoring, KPI Dashboards, Visual Manufacturing (Large LED Displays), Automatic Data Import/Export Functions (For Integration with Epicor ERP & Other Manufacturing Systems/Software Packages).

REAL TIME PRODUCTION MONITORING, SCHEDULING AND PROCESS MONITORING intouch T: 01604 646144 F: 05601 506253 E: enquiries@ intouchmonitoring.com Real-time production monitoring systems. Designed to be easy to use and providing affordable solutions to all sizes of businesses.

Production monitoring, scheduling, reporting, data import/export, databases for parts, tools and operators, integration with other software packages.

ProHelp EPM (for Microsoft Windows™ PC Servers) Mattec Ltd T: 01909 561544 F: 01909 560675 E: a.jewell@mattec.com Real-time Modules: Production Monitoring, ‘Drag and Drop’ Scheduling/Planning, Preventative Maintenance, Bar Coding/Parts Traceability, Operator Visual Aids, Process Parameter Profiling, Pager/Tannoy Alerts, Stand-alone ‘Drag and Drop’ Scheduler, Standalone SPC Machine Analyzer, Automatic Data Import/Export Functions (for integration to Manufacturing Systems and other software packages).

PlantMaster BMS Vision Ltd T: 01254 662244, E: sales.bla@visionbms.com Website: www.visionbms.com/ plastics.

Affordable and flexible MES system for the plastics/rubber industry.

Real-time production monitoring features wireless data units and OPC Ethernet machine connections.

“Drag & drop” job scheduling supports frame/insert level family tooling plus KAN BAN. ERP system integration, SPC/SQC, Touch Screen Data Units, Machine Maintenance, Operator Tracking, Traceability, DNC, Energy Monitoring, Bar Coding, Pager Alerts.

Easy to use systems from a €600m company with over 30 years experience.

SYSCON-PlantStar MTec Services Ltd T: 0114 2476267 F: 0114 2476267 E: mt@mtec-services.co.uk W: www.mtec-services.co.uk W: www.syscon-intl.com PlantStar systems provide customised, scalable applications that deliver real-time plant floor data from any machine, shift, and plant anywhere in your business.

Affordable systems available for all size of processor.

Browser-based software and hardware, and wireless ethernet technology make for highly versatile and configurable systems providing information wherever needed.

Standard systems include real-time alarms, downtime & reject analysis, capacity scheduling, ERP integration and more. With options including SPC/SQC, Labour tracking and Scheduling, Family Tooling, Material traceability, bar-coding.

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bp&r A listing in the Software Directory costs £140 per programme per year. Call Lisa on 01244 680222 for details.

buyers’ guide

materials

colour masterbatch

mould release

FOR SALE

Reheat Stretch Blow Moulding Machine (PET) Make: Sidel, France Type: SBO 24/24 Year: 1994 - Preform Tipper, Hopper / Elevator, Infeed Rail - Oven & Heating Wheel - Electrical Cabinet (Siemens S5) - Operating manuals

For further details: 01925 596170 – 07838138342 Email: douglastrading@gmail.com

equipment Units 3E + 3F, Hillam Road Industrial Estate, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD2 1QN T: 01274 731552 F: 01274 738118 E: sales@eclipsecolours.com W: www.eclipsecolours.com Polymer Specific and Universal Colour and Additive Masterbatches. Fastmatch colour matching service.

1 mm Easysperse MicroPellets to 4 mm MaxiPellets.

Standards second to none.

control systems and equipment quality monitoring control Kistler Instruments Ltd T: 01256 741550 F: 01256 741551 E: sales.uk@kistler.com W: www.kistler.com Pressure transducers and associated monitoring/control equipment for new and existing injection moulding applications.

material handlinG

CNC ASSEMBLY MACHINES thermocouples Cannon Shelley UK agents for Belotti 5 axis CNC machines T: 01480 453651 F: 01480 52113 E: sales@cannon-shelley.co.uk W: www.cannonforma.com W: www.belotti.com W: www.shelley.biz

Elmatic (Cardiff) Ltd Wentloog Road, Rumney, Cardiff CF3 1XH T: 029 20 778727 F: 029 20 792297 E: sales@elmatic.co.uk W: www.elmatic.co.uk

assembly hot plate welding Branson Ultrasonics 158 Edinburgh Avenue, Slough, Berkshire SL1 4UE T: 01753 756675 F: 01753 551270 E: bucuk.sales@emerson.com W: www.bransoneurope.eu Machine Techniques Ltd Units 3-5, Sutton Court, Bath Street, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 9EW T: 01858 434059 F: 01858 433638 E: davidchatterton@ymail.com W: www.mactec.co.uk

pulse staking H.T.E Engineering Ltd Unit 9, St Ives Enterprise Centre, St Ives, Huntingdon Cambridgeshire, UK, PE27 3NP T: +44 (0) 1480 467321 M: +44 (0) 7435 967632 E: john@hte.ie W: www.pulsestaker.com

ultrasonic welding

masterbatch

To advertise in this space contact lisa montgomery 01244 680222

Dosing equipment

polymer distributors ancillary InControl Ultrasonics Ltd (FFR Ultrasonics Ltd)

The Swan Centre, 8A Swan Street, Sileby, Leicestershire LE12 7NW T: 01509 816507 E: enquiries@ffr-ultrasonics. co.uk W: www.ffr-ultrasonics.co.uk Telsonic UK Ltd

12a - 15 Birch Copse, Technology Road, Poole, Dorset BH17 7FH T: 01202 697340 F: 01202 693674 E: sales@uk.telsonic.com W: www.telsonic.co.uk Blog:wwwtelsonicuk.wordpress.com

conductive plastics and coatings FLEXIBLE POLYMERS RIGID POLYMERS ADDITIVES PURGING SOLUTIONS

52 bp&r

C.J.P. Sales Ltd, 8 Heol West Plas, Litchard, Bridgend CF31 1PA

Tel: 01656 644907 Fax: 01656 662 397 Email: sales@cjpsales.co.uk Web: www.cjpsales.co.uk

TBA Electro Conductive Products Ltd Unit 3 Transpennine Trading Estate Gorrells Way, Rochdale, OL11 2PX T: 01706 647718 F: 01706 646170 E: info@tbaecp.co.uk W: www.tbaecp.co.uk

To advertise in this space contact lisa montgomery 01244 680222

vibration welding Branson Ultrasonics 158 Edinburgh Avenue, Slough, Berkshire SL1 4UE T: 01753 756675 F: 01753 551270 E: bucuk.sales@emerson.com W: www.bransoneurope.eu

chillers/temperature controllers Motan Colortronic Ltd

Matilda House, Carrwood Road, Chesterfield Trading Estate, Chesterfield S41 9QB T: 01246 260222 F: 01246 455420 E: sales@motan-colortronic.co.uk W: www.motan-colortronic.co.uk

Energy Saving Dryers

heating equipment

infra red systems

ROTOR WHEEL DRYERS The New Industry Standard Up to 70% Energy Saving Low regeneration No Chilled Water No Compressed Air Temp. range 55-180ËšC 5 Year Warranty E info@summitsystems.co.uk W www.summitsystems.co.uk T 01827 265 800

mixing, feeding, drying Motan Colortronic Ltd

extrusion systems Injection Moulding

Matilda House, Carrwood Road, Chesterfield Trading Estate, Chesterfield S41 9QB T: 01246 260222 F: 01246 455420 E: sales@motan-colortronic.co.uk W: www.motan-colortronic.co.uk

metal detection & separation equipment Motan Colortronic Ltd Matilda House, Carrwood Road, Chesterfield Trading Estate, Chesterfield S41 9QB T: 01246 260222 F: 01246 455420 E: sales@motan-colortronic.co.uk W: www.motan-colortronic.co.uk

induction heating for platens and tools extruders and downstream equipment Cooper Plastics Machinery Unit 12, Harmill Industrial Estate, Grovebury Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4FF T: 01525 850610 F: 01525 218008 E: cooperplastics@googlemail.com W: www.cooperplastics.co.uk Extruders, water baths, haul-offs, fly knife cutters, conveyors/tip tables, in-line punches, coilers etc. New and used. Repairs, servicing or rebuilds.

UK agent for Lyons Electronics.

MF Induction Heating Unit 5, Martindale, Hawks Green, Cannock, Staffs, WS11 7XN Replacement Coils New platens T: 01543 570642 F: 01543 574460 E: sales@mfinduction.com W: www.mfinduction.com BS EN ISO9001: 2000 registered.

BS EN ISO9001:2008

LABORATORY machines

nozzles & nozzle tips

Industrial Plastics Ltd Unit 13 Canterbury Industrial Park, 297 Ilderton Road, London, SE15 1NP T: 020 7252 9600 F: 020 7252 9601 E: sales@ipl-london.co.uk W: www.ipl-london.co.uk

materials handling and storage gravimetric/volumetric blending

secondhand and reconditioned

Motan Colortronic Ltd Matilda House, Carrwood Road, Chesterfield Trading Estate, Chesterfield S41 9QB T: 01246 260222 F: 01246 455420 E: sales@motan colortronic.co.uk W: www.motan-colortronic.co.uk

PLASTICOLOR B A Thorne (Machinery) Ltd 19A

granulators

screen changers

Imex Business Centre, Oxleasow Road, East Moons Moat, Redditch, Worcestershire B98 0RE T: 01527 584714 F: 01527 584784 E: bat@bathorne.co.uk W: www.bathorne .co.uk

ANGLO PLASTICS LTD

printing machines

Buy/Sell Used Plastics Machinery Rutland Road, Scunthorpe, DN16 1HX T: +44 (0) 1276 470910 T: +44 (0) 7740 632907 E: information@ angloplastics.com W: www.angloplastics.com

pad

Buy and Sell Cable and Plastics Machinery Presently Available:

Floatair tumble mixer 250kg capacity

hopper dryers

50mm x 24:1 Boston Matthews extruder

dryers/dehumidifiers

90mm x 24:1 Francis Shaw extruder

Motan Colortronic Ltd Matilda House, Carrwood Road, Chesterfield Trading Estate, Chesterfield S41 9QB T: 01246 260222 F: 01246 455420 E: sales@motan-colortronic.co.uk W: www.motan-colortronic.co.uk

Rapid Granulator type 4535/KV Please Contact:

T: +44 (0)1204 534414 E: sales@goodwinmachinery.co.uk W: www.goodwinmachinery.co.uk

hot runner systems Motan Colortronic Ltd Matilda House, Carrwood Road, Chesterfield Trading Estate, Chesterfield S41 9QB T: 01246 260222 F: 01246 455420 E: sales@motan-colortronic.co.uk W: www.motan-colortronic.co.uk

screws and barrels

hot runner controllers

DM Machinery Ltd Used Injection Moulding Machine Stockists 40 Thorne Lane, Wakefield West Yorkshire, WF1 5RR T: 01924 290206 E: sales@dmmachinery.co.uk W: www.dmmachinery.co.uk

DTL Machines

To advertise in this space contact lisa montgomery 01244 680222

hopper loaders Motan Colortronic Ltd Matilda House, Carrwood Road, Chesterfield Trading Estate, Chesterfield S41 9QB T: 01246 260222 F: 01246 455420 E: sales@motan-colortronic.co.uk W: www.motan-colortronic.co.uk

We Buy / Sell all Makes, Age and Sizes of Injection Moulding Machines & Ancillaries Tool room machines and also complete factories / plants Factory Clearance Services Dismantling / Removal of obsolete plant and machinery T: 01925 596170 M: 07838138342 E: douglastrading@gmail.com

53 bp&r

buyers’ guide secondhand and reconditioned Plasplant Ltd Unit 4, Oakhanger Farm, Oakhanger, Bordon, Hants GU35 9JA T: 01420 473013 F: 01420 475152 E: plasplant@aol.com W: www.plasplant.com

WANTED

TAMPO.SCREEN.FOIL Contour Marking Co Ltd Albert house, Gledrid Industrial Park, Chirk ,Wrexham, LL14 5DG T: 01691 770093 F: 01691 770023 Sub Contract Tampo, Screen & Foil Printing to the plastic moulding industry E: sales@contourmarking.com W: www.contourmarking.com

hardness - IRHD and shore MAPRA Technik Co — BAREISS For Bareiss of Germany IRHD & SHORE hardness testers, Abrasion & Rebound testers.

T: 020 8508 4207 F: 020 8502 5107 E: info@mapra.co.uk W: www.mapra.co.uk

TransXL International Ltd Thornhill, South Marston, Wiltshire SN3 4TA T: 01793 827666 F: 01793 823826 E: sales@transxl.co.uk W: www.transxl.co.uk

To advertise in this space

RIDAT COMPANY

SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE. COMPETITIVE PRICE.

contact lisa montgomery 01244 680222

Arrowquint Ltd Unit 5 Sanders Close, Finedon Road Industrial Estate, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire NN8 4HQ T: 08450 655455 F: 08450 655456 E: sales@arrowquint.co.uk W: www.arrowquint.co.uk Static control solutions, equipment sales and rental, repairs and on-site servicing. UK/Eire agent for Eltex – market leaders in static control systems.

testing equipment

UK manufacturer of Thermoforming & Pressure Forming Equipment, including Blister & Skin Packaging machines

World leader in Materials Testing Instrumentation Tensile|Fatigue| Impact Compression|Melt Flow

For more information or to order our sales brochure please contact us:

T: 0845 050 6525 or E: info@ridat.com

www.instron.com inspection & measurement MAPRA Technik Co – DOSS – MARCEL AUBERT – KAFER For DOSS visual solution of Italy – Inspection & sorting machines for O’rings, Seals, Gaskets.

T: 020 8508 4207 F: 020 8502 5107 E: info@mapra.co.uk W: www.mapra.co.uk

EXTRUSION Extrusion and Plastics Services Extrusion, Compounding, Wash Plant Installation, Maintenance, Removal New Factory Setups / Single Machine CAD work / Tooling Mods / Trials Product Development / Line Trials Downstream Equipment Repairs Chillers, Pumps, Pipework, Air etc Punching / Drilling / Foiling / Wrap Filtration / Settlement Systems Process Improvement / Training

www.ridat.com

07930 150120

services ACQUISITION

Coronation Road, High Wycombe, Bucks HP12 3SY, UK Tel: +44 1494 464646

printers printers of plastic mouldings

Kelsey Close, Attleborough Fields Industrial Estate, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV11 6RS T: 024 763 42002 F: 024 766 41670 E: Polytest@ray-ran.com W: www.ray-ran.com

Rawmec (EEC) Ltd Rawmec Industrial Park, Plumpton Road, Hoddesdon, Herts EN11 0EE T: 01992 471796 F: 01992 471797 E: rawmec@btconnect.com W: www.rawmec.com

static control

injection moulding

Ray Ran Test Equipment Ltd

extrusionandplastics@hotmail.co.uk

EXTRUSION FLOW ANAYLYSIS FLEMING

Injection Moulding Business Wanted T/O between £100,000 and £1.5million.

Contact in the strictest confidence, Joe Reeve, Data Plastics Ltd Email joe.reeve@dataplastics.co.uk Phone 01993 700777

Polymer Testing and Consultancy An independent ISO9001 accredited laboratory specialising in the flow simulation of: Extruder screws & spiral mandrel,flat spiral,profile, coathanger & coex dies Compuplast distributor Stop guessing start simulating Tel: +44 (0)1299 253300 www.flemingptc.co.uk

Total Print Ltd Specialist Pad Printers Station Road, Gedney Hill, Lincolnshire PE12 0NP T: 01406 330122 F: 01406 330123 E: info@totalprintltd.com W: www.totalprintltd.com Sub-Contract Pad Printers to the Plastics Industry

RECYCLING systems

EREMA Engineering Recycling Maschinen und Anlagen Ges.m.b.H. Unterfeldstraße 3 4052 Ansfelden / Austria Phone: +43 (0)732/31 90-0 Fax: +43 (0)732/31 90-71 sales@erema.at www.erema.at

CHOOSE THE NUMBER ONE.

testing/consultancy FLEMING

Contract cleaning Injection Moulding Extrusion

mouldflow analysis

• • • • • •

Hot Runners Nozzles Moulds Dies Filters Screws Cleaning service for processors Remove all polymers Tel:- +44 121 511 1203 Fax:- +44 121 511 1192 Email:- LesH@claytonholdings.com Web:- www.claytonholdings.com

parts & services

Polymer Testing and Consultancy An independent ISO9001 accredited laboratory specialising in: Capillary rheometry FTIR DSC/TGA MFR/MVR Extrusion Pilot-scale blown film Line Instrumented impact Flow simulation Tel: +44 (0)1299 253300 www.flemingptc.co.uk

Gammadot Rheology Testing & Consultancy Services Unit 5C, Leaton Industrial Estate, Bomere Heath, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 3AP T: 01939 291677 E: enquiries@gammadot.com W: www.gammadot.com Providing independant testing solutions to all your quality control, failure analysis & flow simulation data needs

To advertise in this space

54 bp&r

contact lisa montgomery 01244 680222

www.quick-mould-change.com www.quick-mould-change.com

... thanks to quick and easy mould handling and changing systems

Whether your mould transfer is vertical, horizontal, or rotating, Stäubli defines the most suitable system adapted to your mould and machine features: - fully automated, - rail mounted systems, - or small manual transfer tables.

Stäubli (UK) Ltd - UNITED KINGDOM - Mail: connectors.uk@staubli.com - Phone: +44 1952 671918

Whatever your technical requirements and your production environment are, Stäubli provides you the most suitable mould clamping system among its wide range of technologies: - manual mechanical, - automatic hydraulic, - innovative magnetic.

www.kraussmaffei.com

LRX Series: Universal. Fast. Reliable.

Basis for economical manufacturing Thanks to flexible control concepts, linear robots from KraussMaffei are suitable for both KraussMaffei machines as well as systems from other manufacturers. The reliable and costeffective LRX series covers a very wide variety of applications for injection molding machines with a clamping force range of 350 to 40,000 kN and a payload of 5 to 100 kg.

You benefit from: – very short demolding times – high repeatability (± 0.1 mm) – individual gripper concepts – easy operation and programming – CE-approved manufacturing cells

Engineering Passion