BP&R Nov/Dec 2018

British Plastics

and Rubber

bp&r nov/dec 2018

BUNTING MAGNETICS ASKS WHAT’S NEEDED TO MAKE A SUCCESS OF PROPOSED MEASURES — SEE PAGE 4 AUTUMN BUDGET The key points, takeaways and industry reactions

BLACK IS GREEN Dairy brand keeps both its black lids and its sustainability credentials

COOL YULE The benefits of free cooling for the plastics industry

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editor’s letter

‘Singled out’

www.britishplastics.co.uk head of content: Leanne Taylor

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

With many more developments in the pipeline, 2019 is set to be a year in which the plastics industry continues to push the limits of what is possible and I for one look forward to seeing what it brings.

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his year can be singled out as exceptional for the plastics industry. Not least, of course because of the unprecedented change triggered by the public ‘war on plastic’, but also because of the uncertainties surrounding Brexit, China’s National Sword initiative and the wider global economics that have seen the initiation of a trade war between the USA and China. Despite this, the industry has shown, once again, that through adversity there comes opportunity.

Over the past 12-months there has been a constant stream of manufacturers presenting new innovations in answer to the need for change in the way that we use, and reuse, plastics. In packaging manufacturing, South Wales-based Colourtone masterbatch has developed a new additive for black plastic that enables it to be detected and separated in the materials sorting process. For those difficult, mixed material combinations preventing many oral care products and their packaging from being recycled, Terracycle and Colgate have developed a new partnership to collect and reuse this material in new products, whilst helping local charities at the same time. Tesco has partnered with Scottish start-up, MacRebur, to use carrier bags in a unique asphalt mix to resurface the car parks at its stores. With many more developments in the pipeline,

2019 is set to be a year in which the plastics industry continues to push the limits of what is possible and I for one look forward to seeing what it brings.

Enjoy the issue.

Leanne Taylor, head of content

the big story

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THE AIRING OF THE BBC’S BLUE PLANET II DOCUMENTARY IN SEPTEMBER 2017 IS SEEN BY MANY AS THE CATALYST THAT STIMULATED SIGNIFICANT ACTION REGARDS THE WAY WE USE, REUSE AND DISPOSE OF PLASTICS. PAUL FEARS FROM BUNTING MAGNETICS LOOKS AT THE PROPOSED MEASURES AND ASKS WHAT CHANGE IS NEEDED TO MAKE THEM A SUCCESS.

Since that documentary aired in September 2017, there has been a swathe of political rhetoric culminating in the UK’s Autumn 2018 budget announcements recently, where Chancellor Philip Hammond outlined several new measures to tackle plastic waste. This included introducing a new tax from 1 April 2022 on produced or imported plastic packaging that does not include at least a 30 per cent recycled content.

Revenues raised from such a tax would be used for redevelopment of the UK’s waste management system.

A UNIFIED APPROACH However, the fundamental difficulties in collecting, separating and re-using plastic remain. Despite the Chancellor committing £20 million to tackle plastics and boost recycling, there is no unified country-wide strategy. This must change to ensure that the proposed changes are a success. In the UK, each council adopts its own recycling strategy. Households in different regions are told to separate and collect different materials. Swindon council has taken one step further and is considering burning plastic along with other rubbish rather than sending the material abroad for recycling.

Other councils, such as Basingstoke, have instructed residents to only recycle certain types of plastic.

COLLECTION SPECIFICATION The successful recycling of any material requires good planning and execution.

Ironically, this must start at the end of the process. Firstly, waste plastic must be clearly categorised into material than is recyclable and unrecyclable, possibly using the global definition proposed by Plastics Recycling Europe and The Association of Plastic Recyclers. This ensures that recovered

By having a clear country-wide recycling collection specification, contamination levels of the plastic waste will reduce. plastic waste can be re-used. Recovering, transporting and then discarding materials than are unrecyclable is costly in terms of effort, money and energy.

Secondly, strategically located plastic waste recycling plants are needed to keep transportation to a minimum. Each plant will receive the same mix of plastic waste, enabling continued development and improvement of the recycling process. This stops each plant having to develop unique processes to suit the plastic waste collected in one region.

By having a clear country-wide recycling collection specification, contamination levels of the plastic waste will reduce. Separation technology, such as magnetic separators and metal detectors, will still be required, but the purity levels of the end-product will increase.

A PRACTICAL PLAN? Some would argue that politicians have only introduced these new policies due to the unprecedented reaction from the public. However, setting targets without any definitive plan of how to achieve that result may be considered foolish. Equally, introducing new taxes, that may ultimately be paid by the consumer, is not addressing the key issues that prevent plastic waste from being recycled. It is time for the politicians to sit down with the industry and agree a proper plan. www.buntingeurope.com

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nov/dec 2018

On the Cover

THE CHANGING FACE OF PLASTICS RECYCLING The airing of the BBC’s Blue Planet II documentary in September 2017 is seen by many as the catalyst that stimulated significant action regards the way we use, reuse and dispose of plastics. Paul Fears from Bunting Magnetics looks at the Government’s proposed measures and asks what change is needed to make them a success.

SEE PAGE 4.

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Editor’s Letter ‘SINGLED OUT’

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Feature

BUDGET: TAX ON PLASTIC PACKAGING; £20M INVESTMENT IN RECYCLING; PRN REFORM Following the Chancellor Philip Hammond’s Autumn 2018 budget, BP&R looks at the new measures relating to reducing plastics waste and rounds up the reaction from the UK plastics industry.

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feature

MOTAN INNOVATION AWARD WINNERS DEMONSTRATE “IDEAS TOO GOOD TO BE FORGOTTEN” The three latest winners of motan’s innovation awards presented “ideas too good to be forgotten”, according to the company’s CEO.

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REGULARS

FIRST UK PLASTICS PACT SUMMIT SEES £1.4 MILLION FUNDING COMPETITION LAUNCHED At the first meeting of members of the UK Plastics Pact since its launch in April, BP&R reports from this special Summit on the key updates, announcements and progress made.

09 INDUSTRY NEWS 13 MATERIALS HANDLING 19 RECLAMATION AND RECYCLING 22 MASTERBATCH & ADDITIVES 27 TESTING & INSPECTION 31 TEMPERATURE CONTROL 35 MACHINERY 41 MATERIALS 43 BUYERS’ GUIDE 45 SOFTWARE 46 NEWS FROM THE FRONTLINE

Feature

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Feature

WHEN BLACK IS GREEN: YOGHURT MANUFACTURER TAKES ON SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGE Whilst many brand owners and retailers are choosing to phase out black plastic from their packaging portfolios, gourmet dairy brand, The Collective, decided to keep its brand’s iconic colour scheme by making the black plastic it uses fully recyclable. BP&R looks more closely at the technology that made it possible.

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review

FAKUMA 2018: THE MACHINERY HIGHLIGHTS In the years between Dusseldorf’s K Show, Fakuma in Friedrichshafen is becoming less of a regional meeting point and increasingly Germany’s leading platform for the plastics industry to introduce new machinery, technologies and updates – and this year was no exception. BP&R reports on the show’s highlights.

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INDUSTRY | NEWS Horners and Bottlemakers Awards showcase best of British design

Committee, said that the winning design showed that the plastics industry “is still, as it has always been, very much at the forefront of innovation.”

The Bottlemakers Award was awarded to a product that formerly won investment after being featured on the BBC’s Dragon’s Den programme. The ‘Boot Buddy’, a novel plastic innovation designed for cleaning mud from football boots and other shoes, scooped the prize for its technical manufacturing process.

Using just 300ml of water, the Boot Buddy features a brush for cleaning and provides an easy-grip suitable for all ages and hand sizes, controlling water flow via the bottle to the boot. The bottle is made using a novel technique – using two calibration pins to mould the special shape of the neck.

The two winners of this year’s 2018 Horners and Bottlemakers Awards have been praised for showcasing the best of British design and innovation.

A thermoplastic bulkhead for vehicles, designed by UK-based RLE International, was awarded the Horners Award for its weight saving of 34 per cent and a cost saving of 10 percent, compared to the existing metallic bulkhead typically found in vehicles.

The judges praised the lightweight – and therefore fuel saving – advantage, as well as its recyclability. David Williams, Chairman of the Worshipful Company of Horners’ Awards

European Parliament approves single-use plastics ban Members of the European Parliament have voted in favour of a ban on ‘single-use’ items that will come into effect from 2021. The ban includes plates, cutlery, straws, balloon sticks and cotton buds.

It will also include a ban on products made of oxo-degradable plastics, such as bags or packaging, and fast-food containers made of expanded polystyrene in the EU market.

The consumption of several other items, for which “no alternative exists”, must be reduced by member states by least 25 per cent by 2025, it was announced. This includes single-use burger boxes, sandwich boxes or food containers for fruits, vegetables, desserts or ice creams.

The Parliament says member states will draft national plans to encourage the use of products suitable for multiple use, as well as re-using and recycling. Other plastics, such as beverage bottles, must be collected separately and recycled at a rate of 90 per cent by 2025.

“This product demonstrates how plastic bottle design can be used to solve everyday problems – the Boot Buddy is an efficient way to clean mud off shoes; something all of us has needed at some point,” concluded Williams. www.horners.org.uk

t

The Boo Buddy

Frédérique Ries, rapporteur, said the adoption of the measures represented “the most ambitious legislation against single-use plastics.” He added that the vote “paves the way to a forthcoming and ambitious directive” he believes is essential to protect the marine environment and reduce the costs of environmental damage attributed to plastic pollution in Europe. www.europa.eu

LEGO builds first ever full size driveable supercar The team at LEGO Technic have achieved the successful build of a full size, fully drivable Bugatti Cheron supercar. The 1:1 copy uses over one million LEGO bricks and elements, assembled without the use of glue, and weighs 1.5 tonnes.

The European Parliament has voted to ban ‘singleuse’ plastics items

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

www.lego.com

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budget:

tax on plastic packaging; £20m investment in recycling; PRN reform

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The tax announced has the potential to ensure recycled content becomes the currency of production

We look to extended producer responsibility schemes to deliver on the ambition of a reuse and recycle economy.

Incentivising design of recyclable packaging makes economic and environmental sense

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

I

n a long-awaited statement for the industry, the Chancellor confirmed that a new tax will be introduced from 1 April 2022 on produced or imported plastic packaging that does not include at least 30 per cent recycled content.

The Government said the tax will “encourage businesses to ensure that far more packaging can be recycled and to use more recycled plastic in their packaging.”

F

FOLLOWING THE CHANCELLOR PHILIP HAMMOND’S AUTUMN 2018 BUDGET, BP&R LOOKS AT THE NEW MEASURES RELATING TO REDUCING PLASTICS WASTE AND ROUNDS UP THE REACTION FROM THE UK PLASTICS INDUSTRY.

David Wilson, Managing Director of Vanden Recycling, said the introduction of such a tax “makes sense”, adding “it’s the financial incentive needed to bring those that have dragged their heels into line.” Vanden also said the proposal for the tax sends “a positive message” to businesses that are looking to invest in UK plastic recycling capacity. “It puts high quality recycled plastic right up there as an essential manufacturing feedstock,” he said.

Richard Kirkman, Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, Veolia UK & Ireland, said the Chancellor “focused on delivering a level playing field for manufacturers and the recycling sector” helping to bolster the circular economy and protect the environment. “The tax announced has the potential to ensure recycled content becomes the currency of production,” he added.

Philip Law, Director General of the British Plastics Federation, although welcoming the Government’s ambition to encourage the use of more recycled material in products, sounded a note of caution when it comes to demanding a certain level of recycled content in plastic packaging. “We must ensure the UK has the recycling infrastructure to meet demand. It is important that revenue raised by the new tax is invested in developing the UK’s recycling infrastructure to help the UK to remain competitive and meet the growing demand for recycled content,” he explained.

PRN REFORM The planned plastic packaging tax will be implemented alongside confirmed plans to reform the Packaging Producer Responsibility System.

In a much-sought after move for the industry, the Government said plans will be set out “later in 2018” to reform the existing system to make businesses who make and use packaging, including plastic, more responsible for the cleanup and recycling cost of that packaging. It said the reform will also encourage the design and use of plastic packaging that is easier to recycle, and discourage use of plastics which are difficult to recycle.

The future revenues collected from these measures, Government confirmed, will enable investment in actions that will address the issues surrounding single-use plastics, waste and litter to help improve the waste system in the UK. David Palmer-Jones, CEO of SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK, said a reform of the Packaging Recovery Note (PRN) system is overdue. “We look to extended producer responsibility schemes to deliver on the ambition of a reuse and recycle

economy. Incentivising design of recyclable packaging makes economic and environmental sense,” he added.

Agreeing, Rupert Haworth, Sales and Marketing Director at Recycling Technologies, said the PRN reform should “stimulate new investment in plastic recycling innovation and capacity here in the UK and provide recycled plastic feedstock to the industry.” £20 MILLION RECYCLING INVESTMENT The Chancellor’s Budget also set out plans for a £20m investment to tackle plastics waste and boost recycling. £10million will be allocated for research and development to fund new packaging materials, new recycling processes, and smarter plastic and packaging waste management.

A further £10m funding will be used in 201920 to support wider initiatives to boost recycling and minimise litter, such as installing ‘smart bins’ on streets. Further details, Government says, will be confirmed in due course.

NO ‘LATTE TAX’ Many of those who responded to the Government’s call for evidence on tackling waste plastics earlier this year specifically highlighted disposable cups as a problematic item, highlighting the fact that they are difficult to recycle due to their plastic lining.

The Government says it “recognises this is a problem,” but has concluded that a levy on all cups would “not at this time be effective” in encouraging widespread reuse. It says where businesses are already taking steps to reduce the impact of disposable cups, it expects industry “to go further” and will “return to the issue if sufficient progress is not made.” In the meantime, the Government says will look in within its Resources and Waste Strategy at the best way to tackle the environmental impact of cups.

REDUCING INCINERATION AND LANDFILL Government says where incineration currently plays “a significant role” in waste management in the UK, it expects this to continue. However, it says in the long term the Government wants to maximise the amount of waste sent to recycling instead of incineration and landfill.

It says should wider policies not deliver the Government’s waste ambitions in the future, it will consider the introduction of a tax on the incineration of waste, operating in conjunction with landfill tax, taking account of the possible impacts on local authorities.

BANS AND RESTRICTIONS The Government said the changes announced in the Budget build on its other planned actions taking place to address single-use plastic waste, including plans to ban or restrict the use of plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds. The BPF’s Philip Law said that the potential impact of such a ban on the volume of waste arising “illustrates that the motivation is as much political as environmental.”

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

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MATERIALS HANDLING | NEWS Strong export markets signal positive year for Moretto Moretto says that strong export markets are leading to a busy year for the company, as it forges ahead with product and process innovation.

During the Fakuma trade fair, Moretto said that growth in North American markets, as well as in its home country of Italy, are contributing to a successful year.

The company is now working on an expansion at its headquarters to streamline its production processes.

“We are currently working on a new, 30,000 sq. m. production facility close to our headquarters, which we expect to be complete in 2019.

This will bring our total overall manufacturing capacity to

Maguire introduces new all-in-one ‘micro tower’ for smallvolume plastics processing Maguire Products has launched a new type of raw material handling device for small-volume plastics processing that combines loading, dosing, mixing, and dispensing functions in one compact system governed by a single controller.

The Maguire MMT Micro Tower mixes up to three materials— such as virgin resin, regrind, and masterbatch—in 4.5 kg batches for injection moulding or extrusion processes with throughputs up to 45 kg per hour. The compact tower mounts at the throat of the processing machine, with no floor space required for a vacuum pump.

To ensure accuracy, the loader and three material hoppers operate on a loss-in-weight basis under simultaneous direction by the controller.

“The MMT Micro Tower replaces elaborate and often over-sized combinations of separate pieces of equipment with a single, compact, relatively inexpensive system designed specifically for lowvolume production,” said Frank

75,000 sq.m.,” explained Laura Bocchia, Marketing Manager at Moretto.

“We are also working on new products for customers to be launched in 2019. These will focus on sustainable manufacturing and efficiency.”

During Fakuma, Moretto unveiled its ‘Factory of the Future’ concept, which it says “sets the benchmark” for a plant consisting of advanced machinery and solutions, connected and integrated with each other by a supervision system that guarantees total control of the process.

Within the 4.0 factory model, machines can be remotely managed, they are able to supply and exchange information, to selfprogram and to provide frequent reports on production. The data obtained is used to modify the process parameters to monitor the

performance of the machines, to prevent expensive downtime and therefore optimising the efficiency of the entire plant. www.moretto.com

Moretto at Fakuma

Kavanagh, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “It is simple to install, easy to access for material changes, and intuitively controlled by the operator.”

The blower in the MMT Micro Tower is driven by a lightweight brushless motor. Filters are cleaned

by Maguire’s patented dust-clearing blow-back system. www.maguire.com

T The MM r owe T o r ic M

The MMT Micro Tower replaces elaborate and often oversized combinations of separate pieces of equipment with a single, compact, relatively inexpensive system

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

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Barton completes four silo installation at Coster Group

part of the site’s expansion and the company’s development into manufacture of its own actuator components.

With a capacity of 55 tonnes each, the four silos supplied to Coster UK are 12 metres high and 3.5 metres in diameter. Two silos are currently being used for polypropylene feedstock for the new production line, with the additional silos prepared and ready for planned further expansion at the site.

David Fearn, Operational Manager at Coster UK, said: “We haven’t previously used injection moulders at Barlborough, so didn’t have experience of silo installation.

We were delighted with the comprehensive support provided by Barton: all necessary drawings and specifications were supplied for the silo bases, they were very flexible with their installation schedule and silo erection was completed faultlessly.”

Barton Fabrications, has completed a four-silo installation at Coster Group, a multinational supplier of spray packaging solutions and filling equipment.

The installation at Coster’s aerosol valve manufacturing site in Barlborough, Derbyshire, is Barton Fabrications’ four silo installation at Coster UK.

www.bartonfabs.co.uk

With a capacity of 55 tonnes each, the four silos supplied to Coster UK are 12 metres high and 3.5 metres in diameter

TSM Control Systems and Sumitomo (SHI) Demag cement Irish partnership Sumitomo (SHI) Demag has teamed up with global material handling and dosing specialist TSM Control Systems, appointing the team as its new Northern and Southern Ireland agent.

TSM’s Sales Director Declan Byrne believes the natural synergy between the two companies is an exciting development for the hub of plastics processors that manufacturer and export globally from Ireland.

The partnership will provide customers with the assurance of working with a single supplier rather

than numerous stakeholders and allow the company to benefit from TSM’s large installation base and expertise in plastics blending.

TSM’s Sales Manager, John Ross MacMahon, will oversee all future turnkey plastic moulding and system integrations, providing onthe-ground customer support.

Nigel Flowers, Managing Director of Sumitomo (SHI) Demag UK, said: “We are very excited to be working in partnership with the team at TSM and regard their appetite for innovation and insight of the plastics sector in Ireland as a way to add more value to the relationships we share with existing and prospective customers.”

Tim Peet, MD of Labotek GB (left), and Peter Jessen Jürgensen, CEO Labotek International.

Labotek GB joins international family in 75th anniversary year Labotek A/S, the Denmarkheadquartered manufacturer of plastics ancillary equipment, has officially welcomed its UK-subsidiary on occasion of its 75th anniversary.

Labotek GB, which was formerly UK Plastics Machinery Ltd, has joined the parent company as part of Labotek International, comprising daughter companies in the UK, as well as Sweden, Germany and India.

“We are very excited about this development, as it strengthens our position within the UK,” said Peter Jessen Jürgensen, CEO of Labotek International upon confirming the official merger with Labotek GB. From its new premises in Bromsgrove, UK, Labotek GB will hold a range of hopper loaders and dryers in stock for immediate delivery, as well as continuing to offer Ferlin gravimetric blenders and Getecha granulators to compliment the Labotek ranges. www.labotek.com/uk

We are very excited about this development, as it strengthens our position within the UK

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Motan innovation award winners demonstrate

“ideas too good to be forgotten”

T

he three latest winners of motan’s innovation awards (MIA) presented “ideas too good to be forgotten”, according to the company’s CEO. Commenting during the unveiling of the winners at a ceremony held during the Fakuma trade show, Sandra Füllsack praised the three winning projects as particularly convincing in terms of innovation level, relevance for the production in the plastics industry, as well as feasibility and market opportunities.

First prize in the competition went to Reinhard Herro for his gravimetric suction box, a new system for recording material throughputs with batch traceability for pneumatic conveying systems.

Second place was awarded to Philipp Mählmeyer for his app innovation, which displays status information of plant components on a mobile device while allowing intuitive control of the actuators.

Bernd Michael achieved third place with his METRO-Lay system, which increases the efficiency of laying material feedlines.

The mia jury, a panel of four experts from universities and institutes in the field of plastics research, had short-listed six ideas for the award in July after intensive evaluation.

The overall winners were presented with prize money totalling EUR 20,000, donated by motan holding gmbh. The company also supports the winners in patent applications and further development of their innovations through to market introduction.

“Innovation and capability are integral parts of our corporate culture. For us at motan the following applies: no good idea must be lost – neither to our company nor to the industry,” said Füllsack, whose idea it was to start the awards.

“Digitalisation and scarcity of resources are changing the world and changing us. We therefore experience that the plastic world, like all branches of industry, reinvents itself. With the mia Award, we have created an instrument with which we can channel creative ideas and further develop them – for the future viability of our company and the entire plastics world.”

THE WINNING INNOVATIONS: THE JURY’S OVERVIEW FIRST PLACE – GRAVIMETRIC SUCTION BOX

The first-place winning gravimetric suction box developed

by Reinhard Herro is a new system for throughput detection with batch traceability for pneumatic conveying systems. It measures all material throughputs directly at the material source and therefore replaces the usual measuring procedure at the consuming unit, typically a material loader. By means of a gravimetric dispenser integrated in the suction box, each batch of material is weighed individually before conveying and then automatically assigned to the designated machine. With only one measuring system it is now possible to measure and control the material throughputs of many consuming units.

SECOND PLACE – INNOVATIVE APP

To be able to optimally serve large complex industrial plants requires a quick and precise retrieval of current-status information. The new app by Philipp Mählmeyer starts with this: using clear, machine-readable codes (QR codes), which are attached to the aggregates, they visualise the required data on a mobile device. Therefore, each operator can not only query status information easily, but also control the associated processes.

THIRD PLACE: THE METRO-LAY SYSTEM

With Bernd Michael’s highly flexible ‘METRO-Lay’ system, material feedlines can be laid in a very uncomplicated and efficient way. The development consists of two essential components: the Layher Allround scaffold system, which serves as a supporting structure for material feedlines, and newly developed plug-in modules, which ensure faster and more secure installation of material and vacuum pipework.

The combination of these two components optimises the construction of feedlines significantly. www.motan-colortronic.co.uk/

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

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RECLAMATION AND RECYCLING | NEWS Colgate collaborates with TerraCycle to launch recycling solution for oral care Colgate has announced it is exclusively partnering with TerraCycle to launch the ‘Colgate Oral Care Recycling Programme’, a free nationwide recycling solution for oral care products and packaging in the UK. The new scheme will enable consumers to recycle any brand of toothbrush, toothpaste tubes, caps and electric toothbrush-heads for free, whilst raising funds for the school, charity or non-profit of the sender’s choice.

Designed to overcome the barriers to recycling oral care packaging through traditional council collections, such as mixed material composition including flexibles, once TerraCycle receives toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and caps they will be separated by composition, shredded and melted into hard plastic pellets that can be remoulded to make new recycled products, including benches and construction applications. www.terracycle.co.uk

Tesco launches in-store bottle return scheme Tesco has launched a plastic bottle return scheme in some of its stores in a bid to make it simpler for customers to recycle their packaging.

The in-store recycling machines will pay out 10p in store vouchers for every plastic bottle returned.

The implementation of the machines is part of Tesco’s latest initiatives to increase reuse and

Wales’ is to invest more than £50million in recycling in the next three years

Wales to invest more than £50million in recycling Wales’ is to invest more than £50million over the next three years in new infrastructure, campaigns and grants to further improve recycling rates.

Environment Minister, Hannah Blythyn, said she wants to build on Wales’ recycling success story with the new funding, which will be provided to support service changes and provide new infrastructure.

This includes a new £500,000 behaviour change and enforcement campaign to raise public awareness of what households should recycle, working in partnership with Local Authorities and WRAP. “Recycling is a Welsh success story and something we should be proud of. People in Wales have embraced the need to recycle recycle plastic packaging and is part of its commitment to move to a closed-loop system.

The supermarket chain is also now allowing customers to reuse their own multi-use plastic containers when they buy meat, cheese or fish from deli and fish counters in UK stores.

Earlier this year Tesco announced its intention to simplify the number of materials it used in packaging to help improve the ease and rate of recyclability. It also highlighted the challenges of having different

and the Welsh Government and our partners have supported this through innovative policies, financial support and education campaigns,” said Blythyn. “But we want to do more. Improving recycling rates again will require further support and more concerted and intensive interventions.”

The Minister confirmed that local authorities’ recycling grants will not be cut to fund other council services, while an extra £15.5m will be used to improve collections in the Vale of Glamorgan, Pembrokeshire and Denbighshire.

The Welsh Government also plans to consult on new statutory guidance for local authorities. It says new regulations are also planned to require businesses to separate their waste in the way households already do. www.gov.wales

collection schemes in different local authority areas making it costly and confusing for customers to recycle.

It has called on Government to introduce a consistent, nation-wide approach to recycling. Jason Tarry, UK and ROI CEO said: “We are already committed to eliminating single use plastic wherever we can and make recycling simpler for customers. Today is another step in that direction.” www.tescoplc.com

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WWW.ULTRAPOLYMERS.COM | YOUR PARTNER FROM DESIGN TO PRODUCTION

First UK Plastics Pact Summit sees £1.4 million funding competition launched

AT THE FIRST MEETING OF MEMBERS OF THE UK PLASTICS PACT SINCE ITS LAUNCH IN APRIL, BP&R REPORTS FROM THIS SPECIAL SUMMIT ON THE KEY UPDATES, ANNOUNCEMENTS AND PROGRESS MADE.

We are on our journey to totally transforming the plastic system in the UK and tackling the urgent problem of plastic pollution. This starts with innovation

W

hen the UK Plastics Pact was launched in April 2018, the founders and members vowed that it would stimulate world-leading change in the way that plastics waste is addressed. In the first meeting of members since, more than 150 delegates from across the supply chain gathered for a special Summit where updates were announced and progress was charted.

FLAGSHIP FUNDING Significantly, a new £1.4 million flagship projects competition was launched to support creative business ideas to stop plastic being thrown away. Managed by WRAP, it will work in partnership with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and forms part of the £20 million Plastic Research and Innovation fund (PRIF) which was announced by the Chancellor during the Autumn Statement in 2017.

During the launch, WRAP said it hopes the competition will engage Britain’s best scientists and innovators to help move the country towards more circular economic and sustainable approaches to plastics. Grants will be awarded under the UK Circular Plastics Flagship Projects Competition to applicants who demonstrate creative business ideas to reduce the environmental impacts of plastic, and which bring greater circularity in the use of plastic.

Grants will be awarded for between £100,000 and £500,000 subject to match-funding, to support the piloting and evaluation with a view to wider implementation.

Professor Duncan Wingham, Executive Chair, Natural Environment Research Council and PRIF lead for UKRI, explained: “The Plastics Research Innovation Fund brings the strength of UK Research and Innovation’s entire portfolio, from environment to technology to business to behaviour and regulation, to bear on the pressing and very widely recognised problem of plastic waste.

“We are partnering with WRAP as experts in this sector, to join up our approach and support for the UK plastics and packing sector. The UK Circular Plastics Flagship Projects Competition launching today complements our recent funding calls by working with businesses to implement new ideas to achieve the targets set out in the UK Plastics Pact.” The UK Circular Plastics Flagship Projects Competition is open to any UK business with fresh ideas to tackle the issue of plastic waste.

OTHER SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS During the Summit, new WRAP research and guidance was introduced, which addresses key issues around plastic packaging, including the collecting and processing of post-consumer plastics.

This included design tips for making rigid plastic packaging more recyclable; an update to national recycling guidelines; composition of plastics waste collected via kerbside; the launch of a plastics packaging dataflow report; and guidelines for the minimum thickness of plastic bottles for recycling.

WRAP Chief Executive, Marcus Gover, highlighted key activities WRAP has coordinated over the first six months of the UK Plastics Pact, with industry speakers from across the plastic chain sharing innovations made to address common issues in plastic use.

“I am delighted at the speed and level of commitment from The UK Plastics Pact in turning our ambition into action,” Gover said. “We are on our journey to totally transforming the plastic system in the UK and tackling the urgent problem of plastic pollution. This starts with innovation, and I am delighted that we were able to announce the crucial support from partners like UKRI in funding new research opportunities.”

The Summit was also a chance for delegates to focus on future work under The UK Plastics Pact, with a draft of the forthcoming UK Plastics Pact Roadmap shared ahead of publication. This sets out the key actions and intermediate milestones businesses, and other members, will need to achieve to deliver each target by 2025, as well as highlighting the challenges ahead. www.wrap.org.uk

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MASTERBATCH & ADDITIVES | NEWS

Ampacet’s new black masterbatch gives a new end-of-life option for black plastic

Ampacet develops carbon black-free masterbatch

Silvergate Plastics expands its compliance team

Ampacet has developed its own range of carbon-free black masterbatch as part of its corporate sustainable development programme.

Following in the footsteps of other masterbatch producers, the company has developed a black masterbatch that is near-infrared (NIR) transparent, meaning it is detectable by optical sorting sensors at materials recovery facilities and can enable successful recycling of black plastic packaging that would otherwise be sent to landfill.

Ampacet says its new solution, which allows recyclers to successfully sort and valorise black plastic packaging, is an important part of the transition to a circular economy.

Masterbatch manufacturer, Silvergate Plastics, has expanded its Compliance Team with the appointment of Siân Davies and Stuart Wood.

The team manages the company’s regulatory obligations and provides extensive support to customers requiring materials that comply with specific standards.

It also ensures the company’s quality standards are maintained by working closely with the Sales and Manufacturing teams.

Siân Davies joined the company as Compliance Manager and she leads the team’s activities. For over 18 years, Siân has worked in engineering roles in highly regulated sectors, specialising in quality assurance and the implementation of continuous improvement strategies.

Stuart Wood has spent 20 years as a manufacturing and production professional and is committed to promoting quality and best practices. As Customer Compliance Support, Stuart’s breadth of technical knowledge will provide invaluable support for customers.

Commenting on the expansion of the Compliance Team, Davies said: “Silvergate has committed to investing in its ability to

www.ampacet.com

PolyOne’s aversive masterbatch additives receive European biocidal product regulation authorisation PolyOne has announced that its ‘OnCap’-branded Aversive masterbatch additives have been authorised for use in Europe as per the Biocidal Product Regulation (BPR).

The additives are used by wire and cable OEMs to produce

jacketing that resists insect and animal attacks. EU Regulation No 528/2012 states that cable manufacturers in Europe can only use masterbatch additives that are authorised by BPR. No material supplier or cable manufacturer can compete in the European marketplace without this official authorisation.

In the past, toxic chemicals such as rodenticides were utilised in cable jacketing materials, but these caused concerns regarding human safety. PolyOne says OnCap

L-R: Domenika Parker, Compliance Executive; Siân Davies, Compliance Manager; and Stuart Wood, Customer Compliance Support work effectively and efficiently within a regulatory framework.

Everyone operating within the plastics industry understands the importance of regulatory compliance but interpreting legislations and regulations can be challenging. Through this investment, we can support our customers and guide them through regulatory requirements when ordering masterbatch formulations.

Essentially, we provide a service that is business friendly for both our wider teams and customers.” www.silvergate.co.uk

Aversive uses only low-concern biocidal chemicals officially authorised by the European Union, leaving cable manufacturers with no doubts about EU-compliance.

In Europe, rats and termites routinely inflict serious damage to wires and cables, causing service breakdowns. By adding the masterbatch to the external cable jacket provides protection to help avoid unplanned breakdowns and associated high replacement costs. www.polyone.com

The antimicrobiallyprotected California Trays

LDPE trays use antimicrobial masterbatch for extended food shelf life SteriTouch has provided its antimicrobial protection to a manufacturer of produce

merchandising display solutions for food retailers.

Traitech Industries Inc., is using an antimicrobial masterbatch in the extrusion process when manufacturing its ‘California Trays’.

The trays are manufactured from LDPE with a breathable weave pattern, to keep produce fresher

through effective ventilation and drainage. The design of the product allows for the dispersion of ethylene gas, increasing the shelf life of fresh fruit and vegetables and maintaining freshness.

The inclusion of a SteriTouch antimicrobial masterbatch serves to increase protection against odours and spoilage. The trays have been independently tested and proven to reduce the growth of foodborne bacteria such as E.Coli by 99.99 per cent.

SteriTouch says the use of its product with the California Trays design will extend the shelf life of open produce, whilst serving as an alternative to unnecessary packaging. It says supermarkets utilising a misting system for fresh fruit and salad will benefit from the extruded design of the trays, which encourages effective drainage and prevents the development of biofilm.

California Trays are currently being distributed throughout Europe by major food supplies distributors. www.steritouch.com

Gabriel-Chemie launches new Halal and Vegan-compliant masterbatch Producer of masterbatch, Gabriel-Chemie, has launched a new product range developed specifically to answer consumer demand for Halal and vegancompliant products.

Presented for the first time during the Fakuma trade show, GabrielChemie says increasingly ethical and health-conscious demands of consumers is driving new quality standards and consequently, the call for more sensitive handling of raw materials and ingredients is growing.

The new product range can be produced according to special requirements to ensure that products can be certified as 100 per cent free of raw materials that are of animal origin and/or include alcohol. To maintain quality and transparency of the new range,

GabrielChemie has launched a new range of masterbatch for vegan and halal lifestyles

Gabriel-Chemie is using certification from the Halal Quality Control (HCQ) body and the ‘V’ label, an internationally-recognised quality assurance mark for the labelling of vegetarian and vegan products.

“We are committed to fulfilling the demands of both consumers and our customers in terms of social

and environmental responsibility,” explained Sabine Nicolaus, Project Leader. “That’s why Gabriel-Chemie must act responsibly and strive for sustainable solutions that are also in line with our economic development as a company.” www.gabriel-chemie.com

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FPT-H1 Horizontal Dedicated Friction Peel Tear Tester Mecmesin’s FPT-H1 is a dedicated horizontal test system designed specifically for the packaging industry and for manufacturers, converters and users of sheet and film materials.

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When Black is Green:

Yoghurt manufacturer takes on sustainability challenge

W WHILST MANY BRAND OWNERS AND RETAILERS ARE CHOOSING TO PHASE OUT BLACK PLASTIC FROM THEIR PACKAGING PORTFOLIOS, GOURMET DAIRY BRAND, THE COLLECTIVE, DECIDED TO KEEP ITS BRAND’S ICONIC COLOUR SCHEME BY MAKING THE BLACK PLASTIC IT USES FULLY RECYCLABLE. BP&R LOOKS MORE CLOSELY AT THE TECHNOLOGY THAT MADE IT POSSIBLE.

The Collective, a producer of gourmet dairy products, will become the first fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) business to introduce a near-infrared colourant technology to its iconic black plastic lids so they can be recycled.

Like most black plastics, the original Collective lid featured carbon black and other pigments that absorb the infrared signal used to sort plastics packaging, which made it ‘invisible’ to the sensors used by recycling operations.

This meant The Collective’s black yogurt pot lids would end up as residual waste destined for landfill or incineration, while its clear polypropylene tubs are recycled. The brand responded to this challenge by tasking its sustainability team to find a more eco-conscious design solution for its distinctive packaging.

LEADING THE WAY The Collective contacted recycling experts at Nextek Ltd, as the consultancy had been commissioned by waste charity, WRAP, to lead the very first project to demonstrate the potential of novel NIR colourants for black plastics detection.

The Collective and Nextek chose to partner with South Wales-based additive and masterbatch specialist, Colour Tone, to develop a new black masterbatch, owing to the company’s experience in producing technically-proven NIR colourant technology together with excellent colour and performance capabilities.

Colour Tone was the only supplier able to satisfy all the subsequent trials to ensure the technology’s readiness for market. These WRAP-funded trials addressed the issues of masking strength of the NIR pigment itself; the development of end markets for recycled detectable black plastics; and an in-market trial to prove the recycling process for black ready meal tubs and trays.

Tony Gaukroger, Director of Colour Tone Masterbatch said the company was “delighted” be chosen to support The Collective with this market first for the FMCG industry.

“It [The Collective] has adopted a revolutionary colourant technology that enables the effective detection and sorting of black plastic waste for recycling into high quality materials. This helps support our growing circular economy and the brand’s sustainable business objectives,” Gaukroger explained.

“We therefore urge other FMCG businesses to put eco-design considerations first and follow The Collective’s lead to help reduce the 1.3 billion black single-use food pots, tubs and trays that are sent to landfill each year – around 30,000 tonnes.”

Gaukroger believes that the responsibility doesn’t end with brand owners either. “We are calling for assurance from the UK recycling industry itself, to provide sufficient investment in its infrastructure required for the automatic optical detection and sorting of the black plastics waste stream nationwide, as this technology becomes commonplace,” he added.

GREEN ON SHELVES From October 2018, the black lids on The Collective’s 450g and 900g yogurt tubs are now featuring the new NIR reflecting colourant to help ensure that consumer recycling efforts do not go to waste. The Collective says that it is “very proud to be leading the change” on the recyclability of black plastics and that it is the first food and drink brand to launch a special detectable black lid.

The Collectives new ‘green’ fully recyclable yoghurt pot lids

The brand says it has been busy over the last year working on multiple sustainability improvements across its business. Other initiatives it has implemented include no longer including a rigid plastic lid or spoon on small yoghurt tubs, reducing its plastic consumption by 35 tonnes a year. www.colourtone-masterbatch.co.uk

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TESTING & INSPECTION | NEWS Ametek introduces new force testers for plastics Ametek Sensor, Test and Calibration has launched a new series of force testers it says are an ideal choice for plastic testing when accuracy, repeatability and documentation of results are important.

Ametek says its new CS2 Series force testers make plastic testing easy and offer a low-cost alternative when advanced material testing functionality is not required.

The new series can perform most commonly used tests within the plastic industry, including basic static force testing through to multistage and cyclic testing.

CS2 Series force testers feature a large working area of up to 180 mm that allows the operator to not only test the plastic product, but its packaging as well.

Available in two load capacities, the CS2-225 is designed for testing up to 1 kN and the CS21100 for testing up to 5 kN. Ametek says both force testers provide operators with an intuitive, easyto-use touch screen console.

The user interface is designed to simplify performing tensile testing, compression testing, flexural testing or advanced multi-stage

Mecmesin Ltd acquired

by Battery Ventures UK-based force and torque testing equipment manufacturer, Mecmesin, has been acquired

by Battery Ventures, a global technology investment firm.

The acquisition is through USheadquartered Battery Ventures’ Physical Properties Testing (PPT) platform focusing on the materials testing markets.

Mecmesin, a 41-year-old British company, based in Horsham in West Sussex, will join James Heal Ltd as part of this Physical Properties Testing (PPT) group of companies.

In partnership with Battery, Mecmesin will continue to pursue growth by providing testing solutions for quality control in manufacturing and R&D through the development of its new Vector

Chatillon CS2 for Plastic Testing

The touch screen is mounted on a tablet that offers tabular and graphical results along with embedded statistical process control.

testing that conforms to ISO or ASTM standards.

The touch screen is mounted on a tablet that offers tabular and graphical results along with embedded statistical process control. Frequently used tests can be displayed on the start-up screen for immediate testing and data can be displayed on screen or easily exported. Test results are stored as CSV files and can automatically be exported to a USB device, a local

materials hardware and software technology platform.

Battery—which has raised more than USD $6.9 billion (approx. GBP £5.25 billion) since its inception— maintains an active practice investing in industrial-technology companies in the U.S. and Europe and has acquired more than 40 such companies and brands in the last decade.

Mecmesin, which supplies end markets including automotive, pharmaceutical, aerospace and construction and across raw materials, finished goods and components, says the additional resources offered by the acquisition will support increased investment in new product development and complementary acquisitions.

The vision of PPT is to create a multi-branded global platform that can provide testing solutions across all different types of standards,

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

or remote drive, via an Ethernet connection or Wi-Fi communication.

The results also can be exported via RS-232 ideal for production.

The CS2 Series is a self-contained, fully operational system that requires no propriety software or knowledge of programming language to operate. For improved security, the CS2 Series force testers feature two levels of user access, which can be password protected. www.ametektest.com

materials and applications.

“Battery is an experienced and knowledgeable investor in the test and measurement market,” said John Page, Mecmesin’ s Managing Director.

“Providing high quality and innovative force and torque solutions to customer measurement problems is in the Mecmesin DNA. Now, with the support of Battery, we look forward to providing our customers with a new range of products based on the cutting-edge Vector technology which will deliver growth in both new and existing markets.”

The existing board of directors will continue to lead the company under the new ownership.

As part of the acquisition, James Heal Chairman and Director, Don Templeman, will join Mecmesin with the same responsibilities. www.mecmesin.com

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ATM Automation Ltd designs inspection system for errorfree automotive production Leicester-based ATM Automation has developed a range of inspection machines designed for error-free production of automotive plastic parts.

The systems are ideal for identifying faulty or defect parts before they enter the end production phase, ensuring that only ‘good parts’ are delivered to OEMs. Working together, ATM’s assembly progression systems and end-of-line inspection machines pass through several phases. The first, Poka Yoke checks, ensure that parts are not removed until the process has been completed, preventing incorrect operation by the engineer.

The second stage is to inspect the component for any defects, for example, missing clips, the wrong colour stitching or scratches on the material ensuring no faults are sent forward. The third phase is relaying the results back to the engineer through ATM’s BuildAssist control system.

This system uses graphical and textual instructions throughout the process, until a label is printed to be placed on the component and scanned to prove the end product is fault-free.

Intertek UK opens new petrochemical inspection and testing facility Intertek, a Total Quality Assurance provider, has opened a new petrochemical inspection and testing facility in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire.

The new 8,000 sq ft site is a key facility within the Intertek Caleb Brett laboratory network and features specialised laboratories for fuel and chemical testing, inspection and tank calibration services. Intertek says equipped with state-of-the-art analytical and calibration equipment, underpinned by technical expertise of Intertek’s people, the new site provides a full suite of quality assurance services supporting clients across the oil, gas, petrochemicals, chemicals, power, construction, airlines, manufacturing and environmental industries.

The new Ellesmere Port laboratory was officially inaugurated

by Justin Madders, MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston and attended by Intertek Caleb Brett clients who had the opportunity to tour the new site and to see the

www.atmautomation.com

ATM’s inspection systems are designed for error-free components

R-Tech and Zwick Roell to host composites testing day in 2019 Following success in previous years, Zwick Roell and composite testing specialists, R-TECH Materials, have again teamed up to provide an introductory course on the testing of composite materials.

The one-day course at R-TECH’s labs in Port Talbot, to be held on 6th February 2019, is designed for engineers and technicians who may have limited experience in the methods employed for testing 28

The new Intertek facility in Ellesmere Port facility firsthand.

Rob van Dorp, Chief Executive, Intertek UK and Eire, said: “As a leading testing and inspection provider to the petrochemical industry, we are delighted to open this new facility in Ellesmere Port.

The combination of this strategic location, wide range of technology and our expertise coupled with strong local project management allows us to deliver excellent customer service to meet our customers’ testing and inspection needs. This site also allows for further expansion to extend our laboratory capabilities alongside potential job opportunities for careers at all levels.”

Justin Madders MP, commented: “Intertek’s investment in this new facility at Ellesmere Port helps to deliver a boost for the local economy. It also brings the future potential for job creation and development of STEM career paths within a leading global business which I hope will increase opportunities for local people.” www.intertek.com

composites.

The training course will provide a foundation of knowledge for participants whose job roles require an understanding of the principles and practices involved in testing these increasingly popular materials.

Presented by Geraint Havard, R-TECH Materials’ Composites Manager, the day will comprise a blend of teaching and presentations as well as live laboratory demonstrations. www.zwick.co.uk

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

Zwick and R-Tech are teaming up for another testing event

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WWW.QUICK-MOULD-CHANGE.COM | QUICK MOULD CHANGE SOLUTIONS

TEMPERATURE CONTROL | NEWS Packaging manufacturer sees clear benefits from chilled water system renewal A Blyth-based manufacturer of plastics jars and containers has invested in an energy-saving upgrade to its chilled water system, resulting in reduced operating costs.

Working with IsoCool Ltd, part of the wider Eurochiller Group, Moulded Packaging Solutions Ltd accessed grants from the Carbon Trust to assist it in these improvements, which included the installation of a Eurochiller Dry Air Cooler, heat exchanger and automatic energy saving control system.

The Dry Air Cooler is a modular dry cooler with cooling capacity from 63 to 920 kW. It works by providing the cooling source during the times of the year when the ambient is below the temperature required by the cooling system.

Fans in the air blast coolers draw in ambient air and use this to precool the water before it reaches the chiller. As the temperature drops, intelligent controls reduce the load on the compressors, switching them off altogether when the ambient reaches a certain temperature. Up to 100 per cent direct air-cooling can be achieved this way, with the result that the inherent high operating costs of the chiller are reduced and its life span greatly extended.

“Moulded Packaging Solutions manufacture a very high quality, food contact approved product.

UK trade moulder invests in new AEC mould heaters A midlands-based plastics trade moulder has invested in five new AEC ECU mould heaters.

Supplied by Renmar Plastics Machinery, four of the five units were supplied directly from UK stock, with the fifth, more

The new system in place at Moulded Packaging Solutions in Blyth

They use superior materials and it is important to them that the clarity and strength features of these jars and containers reflect this,” explained Nigel Hallett, Sales and Marketing Director at Isocool.

“Therefore, it is vital that their chilled water systems operating with their moulding operation are providing them with the results they demand. We were confident that the Eurochiller Dry Air Cooler, heat exchanger and automatic energy saving control system we supplied would do exactly that.”

According to Iain McLeod, Manufacturing Director at Moulded Packaging Solutions, the installation of the new system was seamless, despite the company choosing to undertake this itself.

They were assisted continually by the IsoCool engineering team with site visits and drawings to support installation and IsoCool commissioned the system once it

Initial estimates from Isocool indicated that we would be able to save £10k per annum, but I believe that recent rises in the cost of electricity will have increased this was installed.

Now up and running, McLeod is confident of the financial savings the company will be making because of this upgraded system.

“Initial estimates from Isocool indicated that we would be able to save £10k per annum, but I believe that recent rises in the cost of electricity will have increased this,” he explained. www.isocool.ltd.uk

specialised unit, being factory-built to suit requirements.

The moulder now has a total of 12 AEC mould heaters operating on its factory floor, as well as an 11m Virginio Nastri flatbed conveyor and several Renmar desiccant dryers and hoppers.

uld AEC mo r e t a he

www.renmar.co.uk

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

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WWW.QUICK-MOULD-CHANGE.COM | QUICK MOULD CHANGE SOLUTIONS Frigel Turbogel unit

Installation of TCUs provides 20 per cent cycle reduction Summit Chilled, the intelligent process temperature control division of Summit Systems, has been selected to supply 18 thermoregulators to a Tier One automotive customer.

The decision follows extensive trials on one of the customer’s large injection moulding machines, where Summit Chilled recommended the use of a Frigel Dual Zone Turbogel RBD 130/24 instead of the several existing 18kW tool heaters.

During the trial period, the replacement showed that one of the Frigel units was capable of enhancing the performance of four of the existing heaters.

Using the Dual Zone Turbogel unit, cycle times were reduced by 20 per cent, although this had to be regulated to 11 per cent owing to restrictions in downstream operations. In addition, costs were reduced and part quality improved because of the increase in flow rates.

“This installation shows the multiple benefits of using optimally

Piovan premieres new temperature control solutions at Fakuma Piovan used its participation at the Fakuma trade fair to demonstrate its newest temperature control product, ‘Easytherm.’

Easytherm, manufactured by Aquatech, part of the Piovan Group, is a new mould temperature control unit with easy-to-use models, suitable for any weather conditions, The new Easytherm unit

efficient temperature control equipment, including streamlining processes and increasing output and quality,” explained Mike Jordan, Managing Director of Summit Chilled.

“Gaining such advantages, when you are a Tier One automotive supplier, is absolutely crucial given the exacting standards and service required by the sector.” www.summitsystems.co.uk

both in injection and blow moulding and extrusion processes.

Piovan says a new interior and exterior layout and redesigned ergonomic control, coupled with high-end components, characterise a versatile machine that guarantees reliability, accuracy and intelligent management of consumption.

The new Easytherm unit, which operates at temperatures of up to 90°C, is ‘Industry 4.0’ ready, thanks to an integrated OPC-UA protocol, which includes a range of versatile units allowing smart energy use management.

Easytherm can also be used with Winfactory 4.0, the Piovan supervision software that allows communication between different machines within a single production installation.

In addition to Easytherm, Piovan also showcased Aquatech’s newlyintroduced ‘Flexcool’ system, which it says allows “utmost efficiency and flexibility of application”, and operates with a thermochiller known as ‘DigitempEvo’ at its core. www.piovan.com

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WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

T

THE PLASTICS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY IS WELL-KNOWN FOR ITS INCREDIBLY HIGH ENERGY DEMANDS, AND THE SUBSEQUENT INDUSTRIAL COOLING CHALLENGES IT POSES FOR END-USERS. HERE RICHARD METCALFE, DIRECTOR – UK & IRELAND SALES & SERVICE AT ICS COOL ENERGY, EXPLAINS THE FLEXIBILITY OF FREE COOLING AND HOW IT IS IDEALLY SUITED TO THE PLASTICS SECTOR. About the Author: Richard Metcalfe is Director of the UK and Ireland Sales and Service business division at ICS Cool Energy. With nearly 30 years’ experience in air conditioning and industrial cooling, he joined ICS Cool Energy in 1996, initially as Sales Engineer and then Sales Director for over 12 years before recently changing to his current role.

cool, calm and collected:

the benefits of free cooling for the plastics industry

I

n its purest form, free cooling works by the unit – usually either a free cooler working in series with a chiller, or a chiller with a built-in free cooling coil – detecting the ambient air temperature and process return temperature.

When the ambient air temperature drops below the process fluid return temperature, a three-way valve diverts the returning process fluid through the free cooling coil. Here, the cooler ambient air removes some of the process heat, and subsequently cools the returning fluid.

As the ambient air temperature continues to fall, the amount of heat taken out of the process fluid by the air increases, progressively reducing the load on the chiller until all the process heat is taken by the ambient air and the free cooling unit. The process fluid is therefore being cooled just by the power used for the fans, rather than by using the compressor, which is traditionally the most energy-intensive element of a chiller.

Ultimately, free cooling is fast, effective and economical; and can result in process cooling energy savings of up to 80 per cent. Given the high-energy demands of the plastics industry, the reduced utility consumption as a result of switching to a free cooling system can equate to tens of thousands of pounds saved a year, compared to a system which relies 100 per cent on electro-mechanical cooling.

Free cooling systems are typically available in two forms, either as a standalone unit where the chiller works in series with an independent free cooling unit, or by integrating a free cooling coil into an existing chiller installation. Both formats can easily be applied to common applications within the plastics manufacturing industry, depending on the site’s location and size.

LOWER LIFE-CYCLE COSTS While a free cooling system will still require some electro-mechanical power – and therefore cost – to operate the fans and pumps in a system to physically move the heat transfer fluid, the major energy savings are made when the ambient air temperature is low enough to bypass at least one of the chiller’s compressors.

Further costs can be saved due to the reduced load on the chiller – particularly the compressors and fans – as they are not worked as hard, or at all in some cases. As such, maintenance costs can be lower over the lifetime of the system.

During partial free cooling, the compressors are running for less time, so the overall operational life expectancy of the unit is improved.

From a health and safety point of view, unlike cooling towers – which are one of the most commonly-used methods of cooling in the plastics industry – free cooling systems pose no risk of legionella and therefore do not require additional water treatment costs beyond the norm to mitigate the risk of an outbreak.

A HELPING HAND For those plastics manufacturers where CapEx cost for new equipment may pose a threat, such as SME manufacturers who do not possess the same financial muscle in their facilities and maintenance budget as larger companies or multi-national organisations, free cooling can be accessed via a number of funding incentives.

An SME-specific scheme, which can improve access to energy-saving equipment such as free cooling systems, is the Carbon Trust’s Green Business Fund. Aimed at those SMEs with an annual energy spend in excess of £50,000, the fund allows relevant businesses to apply for up to £5,000 worth of grant funding to contribute towards the capital cost of the equipment.

FINAL THOUGHTS Ultimately, free cooling can deliver achievable, long-term energy savings which can translate into a significant reduction in monthly utility costs for industrial end-users in the UK plastics industry. For those end-users keen to explore the potential free cooling has to offer, I would urge you to get in touch with your temperature control provider today to find out more. www.icscoolenergy.com

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celebrating 180 years

MACHINERY | NEWS KraussMaffei Group UK Ltd becomes official representative of KraussMaffei Berstorff The KraussMaffei Group UK Ltd is now the official sales representative of KraussMaffei Berstorff compounding and recycling processes in the UK. Previously managed by an external distributor, the KraussMaffei Berstorff extrusion solutions manufactured in Hannover, Germany, will now be available through the KraussMaffei group’s official subsidiary in Warrington.

The core business covers the production of plants for the complete process chain of compounding, pipe, profile, foil and sheet extrusion, physical foaming, manufacturing of technical rubber articles and semi-finished tyre products.

“Leading the way as pioneers in compounding and recycling technology, KraussMaffei Berstorff aims to create a sustainable future with innovative extruders such as

Welwyn Tool Group launches new Leister extrusion welder Hertfordshire-based Welwyn Tool Group is stocking a new extrusion welder from Leister Technologies that is said to bring increased simplicity amongst a range of new features.

The new ‘Fusion 1’ welder includes a rod-shaped design for increased manoeuvrability in small, hard to work spaces. It also has a double-sided wire intake for increased flexibility in use, as well as integrated LED light.

For user comfort, the new welder has automatically-controlled air temperature, as well as longer use time through a suspension device.

There is additionally a detachable handle, that can be mounted to

Wheatley Plastics invests in machinery and capacity with recent move

KraussMaffei Group UK Ltd is now the official sales representative of KraussMaffei Berstorff compounding and recycling processes in the UK

the new EdelweissCompounding system for energy-efficient recycling and the CRS 1000 designed to return large-volume scrap rubber to the production process,” explained Mike Bate, Managing Director of KraussMaffei UK. “Offering unparalleled productivity and competitive advantages to companies which require customised rubber and plastic extrusion solutions, we look forward to bringing full KraussMaffei Berstorff Extrusion technology to the UK.” www.kraussmaffeigroup. com

enable one-handed welding, as well as well as an integrated air guide.

Welwyn says the new Fusion 1 has many uses, including small space work, with the new features said to be well-suited for laying plastic pipes, in-tank and container construction, as well as repairing plastic containers.

Wheatley Plastics has more than doubled its production area with a recent move to a new, modern factory, as well as making investments in new technology, people and procedures.

The Stockport-based moulder is installing additional production capacity in the new 20,000 sq. ft. facility, along with a new materials handling system, in which the company has invested close to £500,000 over the last 12 months.

The company has also added a new Borche 320 injection moulding machine, which, in addition to three other Borche models, brings the total number of machines onsite to 17.

Gary Knight, Wheatley’s Managing Director, said: “We have been delighted with the performance of our Borche machines and expect Borche to be very much part of our future journey to world-class contract manufacturing.”

Wheatley Plastics says it is also continuing to strengthen the management structure and its procedures, including the appointment of Nigel Buckland, Technical Manager. www.wheatleyplastics. co.uk Wheatley Plastics’ new factory in Stockport

www.welwyntoolgroup. com

Leister 1 Fusion

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www.kraussmaffei.com

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celebrating 180 years

Engel and Summit Systems, pictured here in 2017, will team up for a machinery display in 2020

Engel and Summit Systems commit to machine spectacular in Interplas’ newest hall

AirWash System

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Engel and Summit Systems have announced they will collaborate on a technology spectacular when they exhibit at Interplas in 2020.

The two companies have secured prime positions at the front of Hall 3 of the NEC in Birmingham, to maximise the opportunities offered by the show’s new, increased size.

Interplas in 2020 will, for the first time in 15 years, have two full halls of exhibition space, with two separate entrances. This expansion represents an increase in size of 25 per cent versus the last event in 2017.

Previously both Engel and Summit Systems have taken stands in Hall 4, however, both companies say that the opportunity to expand stand size enables them to have plenty of their machines operating mechanically, supplemented by visual displays.

Additionally, Summit Systems will supply an Engel injection moulding machine with a discrete loading system to showcase the firm’s very latest technology.

“There’s always a huge buzz surrounding Interplas, it’s great to see it growing more recently,” explained Meghan Jordan, Marketing and Events at Summit Systems. “Obviously it was five halls in the eighties then it went down to one, so it’s great to see it on the up again.”

She continued: “For the first time in 15 years there’ll be two halls, each with their own entrance, which just proves how popular and exciting the event has become.

As a business, we’ve continued to invest in Interplas, supported by the strong UK market, and we are looking forward to showing our new innovations to customers old and new in 2020.”

Interplas, which is the UK’s largest plastics industry exhibition, is expecting some 14,000 attendees and 500 exhibitors when it takes place from 29 September – 1 October 2020. www.interplasuk.com

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FAKUMA 2018:

the machinery highlights

IN THE YEARS BETWEEN DUSSELDORF’S K SHOW, FAKUMA IN FRIEDRICHSHAFEN IS BECOMING LESS OF A REGIONAL MEETING POINT AND INCREASINGLY GERMANY’S LEADING PLATFORM FOR THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY TO INTRODUCE NEW MACHINERY, TECHNOLOGIES AND UPDATES – AND THIS YEAR WAS NO EXCEPTION. BP&R REPORTS ON THE SHOW’S HIGHLIGHTS.

At this year’s sell-out Fakuma trade show, exhibitors demonstrated new machines, adapted tooling, integrated quality assurance, controllable hydraulics, and to an ever-greater extent, electric drives, all showcasing the industry’s desire to react to demands for ever-greater efficiency and precision in plastics processing. As the digital era continues to shape the future of manufacturing, exhibitors also showcased how networkable and communicative controllers and software can transform equipment and systems to accommodate the appetite for Industry 4.0.

During the show, Arburg said electric machines are contributing in “large measure” to its overall sales for 2018, as well as “growing in significance.” Reporting the company’s latest figures, Jürgen Boll, Managing Director of Finance, said demand has also been good for its hybrid machines.

“These remain an important cornerstone for many customer-specific, high-performance system solutions right around the world,” he added. Arburg’s Managing Director of Sales, Gerhard Böhm, said Arburg continues to place a large focus on digitalisation of its products.

Wittmann Battenfeld unveiled several new products across its group portfolio, including its new Vpower injection moulding machine. With this model, General Manager, Georg Tinschert, said the company is “taking the first step” in redesigning its vertical machines to fit with its ‘PowerSeries’ portfolio. It has been converting all its machines to the specifications of the PowerSeries since it acquired Battenfeld 10 years ago. The company said that fortunes for 2018 had so far been “mixed” with demand weakening for some of its larger machinery models.

One company championing all-electric machinery is Sumitomo Demag which unveiled the IntElect S at Fakuma, its latest machine for high speed parts, in what it said marked a “new era” in its portfolio. The high-speed, all-electric IntElect S injection moulding machines are available with clamping forces between 500 kN and 1,800 kN and with injection speeds between 350 and 500 mm/s. They are specially built for high-speed applications with cycle times between three and 10 seconds.

The KraussMaffei Group launched a new business strategy which will see its traditional technology development model align with a new, stronger digital offering. In addition to classic plastics machinery construction, this new strategy aims at intensifying and accelerating the development of digital services and products, as well as new business models.

The Group established a new Digital Service Solutions (DSS) business unit in July, and this is expected to make “a substantial contribution” to its sales in the future.

BOY expanded its product range at Fakuma, with the premiere of its new, large injection moulding machine. The new BOY 125 E is “significantly stronger, larger and more powerful” and has a clear width of 470 mm between the tie bars instead of the previous 430 mm. The maximum platen distance has been extended to 825 mm as standard and the model offers an overall clamping force increase of 25 per cent.

A further machinery launch was made

by FANUC, with the introduction of its Roboshot α-S450iA. The seventh and largest CNC-controlled injection moulding model produced by FANUC has been designed to increase production capacity for manufacturers in the medical and pharmaceutical device markets, whilst maintaining accuracy, repeatability and reliability.

To compete in the current injection machinery market, Engel said it is following a “simplicity-based strategy.” This, the company said at Fakuma, means that it will make its machines and systems as user-friendly as possible, whilst ensuring that the simple and safe control of ever more complex production processes and integrated operations. It believes this strategy will keep the company competitive and continue to drive success, following the growth it has enjoyed in 2018. www.arburg.com www.wittmann-group.com www.sumitomo-shi-demag.eu www.kraussmaffeigroup.com www.dr-boy.de/en www.fanuc.eu www.engelglobal.com

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INJECTION MOULDING & RELATED 2015 Engel Duo 23050/700 WPX 2007 Sandretto S9 NOVE 485/2650 2001 BM Biraghi Sintesi 150 1995 Sandretto MEGA T1000 INJECTION MOULDING & RELATED 19912015 Bettenfeld BN-T5000 Engel Duo 23050/700 WPX INJECTION MOULDING & RELATED INJECTION MOULDING RELATED 2007 Sandretto S9 NOVE 1989 Battenfeld BNT6500/3200 INJECTION &&485/2650 RELATED 2015 EngelMOULDING Duo 23050/700 WPX 2015 Engel Duo23050/700 23050/700 WPX 2001 BM Biraghi Sintesi 150 2015 Engel Duo WPX 2007 SandrettoBN-T105000-5000/128000 S9 NOVE 485/2650 19892007 Battenfeld Sandretto S9 NOVE 485/2650 1995 MEGA T1000 2007 Sandretto S9 NOVE 485/2650 2001 BM Biraghi Sintesi 150 1986 Battenfeld BN-T10500 2001 BMBiraghi Biraghi Sintesi150 150 1993 Battenfeld BH-TR10500/19900 2001 BM 1995 Sandretto Sintesi MEGA T1000 1995 Sandretto MEGA T1000 Bulk Bag Station 1991 Bettenfeld BN-T5000 1995 Sandretto MEGA T1000 Three 2015 Genesis 6500Kg 1993 Battenfeld BH-TR10500/19900 1993 BH-TR10500/19900 1990 Battenfeld BN-T10500 1993 Battenfeld 1991 BettenfeldBH-TR10500/19900 BN-T5000 Getecha RS6009 Plastic Granulator 1991 Bettenfeld BN-T5000 1989 BattenfeldBN-T5000 BNT6500/3200 1990 Battenfeld BN-T10500 1991 Bettenfeld 1990 BN-T10500 1989 Battenfeld BN-T105000-5000/128000 Gouch Vibracon GV 2.1 Vibratory Screen 1989 BattenfeldBN-T10500 BNT6500/3200 1990 Battenfeld 1989 Battenfeld BN-T10500 BNT6500/3200 1986 1989 BattenfeldBNT6500/3200 BN-T105000-5000/128000 1989 Battenfeld 1989 Battenfeld BN-T105000-5000/128000 Three 2015 Genesis 6500Kg Bulk Bag Station 1986 Battenfeld BN-T10500 1989 Battenfeld BN-T105000-5000/128000 1986 Battenfeld BN-T10500 Getecha RS6009 Plastic Granulator Three 2015 Genesis 6500Kg Bulk Bag Station 1986 Battenfeld BN-T10500 Three 2015 Genesis 6500Kg Bulk Screen Bag Station Gouch Vibracon GV 2.1 Vibratory Getecha RS6009 Plastic Granulator Three 2015RS6009 Genesis 6500Kg Bulk Bag Station Getecha Plastic Granulator Gouch Vibracon GV 2.1 Vibratory Screen Getecha RS6009 Plastic Gouch Vibracon GV 2.1 Granulator Vibratory Screen Gouch Vibracon GV 2.1 Vibratory Screen

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P POST-BUDGET, BUT PRE-BREXIT, OUR RESIDENT MATERIALS EXPERT, MIKE BOSWELL, LOOKS AT WHAT THE LATEST POLITICAL UPDATES HAVE IN STORE FOR POLYMER PRICING.

Who is ‘Polymerman’?

Mike Boswell is Managing Director of UK materials distributor, Plastribution, as well as the Chairman of the British Plastic Federation’s Polymer Compounders and Distributors Group and its ‘BREXIT Committee’.

‘Polymerman’ is the title used for announcements made via his Twitter account. This column is compiled using data from PIE (Plastics Information Europe) www.plastribution. co.uk | www.pieweb.com

are prices set to increase due to taxation?

W

hilst at the time of writing this article the Chancellor’s Autumn statement has been published, so far, no Brexit trade deal has been concluded, so there is a very real danger that UK plastic converters will face cost increases in the form of additional taxation.

Firstly, the UK Government has confirmed its commitment of some form of taxation on plastics in response to the public’s concern for waste plastic in the environment, with the announcement that manufactured or imported plastics packaging not containing at least 30 per cent recycled content will be subject to taxation from 2022, although the detail is not clear. It should, of course, be pointed out that such taxation already exists through UK packaging waste legislation, through which the extended producer responsibility effectively requires the packaging industry to purchase PRNs (Packaging Recovery Notes) either directly from recyclers or via compliance schemes. In fact, plastics constitutes 65 per cent of PRN revenue by material.

Whilst the PRN system merits some reform, it is an existing form of regulation that redistributes its revenue within the plastics industry; this may not be the case if the Government introduces a new form of taxation whereby the income may simply pass to HM Treasury for general distribution.

It could be argued that any such approach is disingenuous as it fails to fully address the issue that concerns the public. The possibility of taxing the packaging rather than the product is also a concern, given that disadvantaging one material type over another may lead to less sustainable solutions to protect products being chosen on economic grounds.

Secondly, the risk of a ‘hard’ Brexit brings along the prospect of WTO rules which would govern the UK’s trade with the rest of the world. In the case of plastic raw materials, the so called ‘bonded rate’ is 6.5 per cent and this would mean that plastic raw materials currently imported from the EU27, plus those countries with a Free Trade Agreement with the EU on plastic raw materials, would be subject to the same duty rate as for plastic raw materials originating from other parts of the world. It is notable that the UK’s capacity to produce plastic raw materials is less than 50 per cent of the requirements from UK plastic converters and that most of the shortfall in supply originates from those countries where there the import tariff is

Whilst taxation is necessary it is important that it is applied as fairly as possible and most especially does not penalise an essential industry sector.

zero per cent. It is vital to note that ‘bonded rates’ are the maximum rates that can be applied under WTO rules and that the UK could decide to reduce the rate of duty on a unilateral basis to as little as zero per cent. Whilst UK based polymer producers may prefer the protection afforded to their profitability resulting from a 6.5 per cent import duty, this probably would not be in the interests of the whole UK plastics industry, given the dependence on imports and, furthermore, WTO still provides protection against unfair competition via anti-dumping duties.

Whilst taxation is necessary it is important that it is applied as fairly as possible and most especially does not penalise an essential industry sector. Those who are concerned about the impact of these potential cost increases should be encouraged to engage with government both directly and through the various trade bodies that represent member interests.

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39

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E&E MATERIALS | NEWS Biesterfeld Plastic has launched a new portfolio of products designed to provide higher electrical voltages and flame retardance for e-mobility applications.

Biesterfeld Plastic launches electric and electronics portfolio for e-mobility Biesterfeld Plastic has launched a new portfolio of products designed to provide higher electrical voltages and flame retardance for e-mobility applications.

One of the products new to its range is Crastin type FR684NH1 OR162, which enables a colour-fast orange colouration of high-voltage applications, such as orange plug connections in hybrid and fully electric vehicles, even at increased application temperatures.

The product has a CTI of 600V and is listed as UL94 V0. Biesterfeld Plastic says it exhibits improved flow properties in comparison to halogenated, flame-retardant types, while offering rigidity, heat resistance and toughness coupled with excellent electrical insulating performance.

Secondly, the company has added a flame-retardant TPU to its portfolio, ideally suitable for sheathing charging cables and

elected lymers s ELIX Po new t for its

by Gigase m te m sys home alar

plugs. New Elastollan 1185 A 10 FHF fulfils the requirements of UL94 V0 fire classification, offering a high degree of flexibility and wear resistance as well as good weatherproofing and hydrolytic stability.

Finally, the Lupoy PC/ASA blends within Biesterfeld Plastic’s electric and electronics portfolio demonstrate high thermal stability and good impact strength at cold temperatures, as well as very good UV resistance for high-gloss and matte surfaces. As UL94 V0 certified material, they provide increased flame retardance for injection moulding applications.

Due to high chemical resistance, workability and electrical properties, the product can be utilised in charging station components, for instance housing parts for displays.

“The topic of e-mobility poses major challenges for the automotive industry. With our innovative products and solutions, we provide our customers with highperformance plastics and additives an integral approach to the successful implementation of their e-mobility concepts,” explained Niklas Bornhöft, Project Manager E-Mobility, Biesterfeld Plastic.

ELIX Polymers selected by Gigaset for its new home alarm system

properties,” explained Johannes Benning, Gigaset Engineer. “It also has very good antistatic properties, so that products do not attract dust.

It made sense for us to extend its use into our complementary range of products in home safety.”

ELIX says its M201AS is well suited for electrical and electronics applications around the home, where its physical and chemical properties lend themselves well to parts that are in continuous, longterm use, and for which high-quality surface appearance is especially important. The compound contains special additives, to give it extra UV stability, as well as enable parts to be marked by lasers for identification and decorative purposes.

Gigaset, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of cordless (DECT) phones has chosen an ABS from ELIX Polymers for the housings of various components in its new Smart Home Alarm system.

Three key properties called for by Gigaset for the housings were UV stability, chemical resistance and high gloss surface finish, without the need for any post-moulding treatments.

“ELIX M201AS has been our material of choice for many years for our DECT phones because it offers an excellent surface quality combined with chemical resistance and perfect processability, as well as very good mechanical

www.biesterfeld.com/en

www.elix-polymers.com

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

41

WWW.ULTRAPOLYMERS.COM | YOUR PARTNER FROM DESIGN TO PRODUCTION

Lanxess expands halogen-free flameretardant PBT compounds range Lanxess is expanding its range of halogen-free flame-retardant compounds based on polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) to include variants with outstanding fire resistance in glow wire tests.

The first in the product range is a compound reinforced with a glass fibre content of 25 percent. There are plans to introduce the trial product onto the market shortly.

“Due to their high glow wire resistance, such PBT materials have great potential in components used in unattended household appliances. In addition, we see very good opportunities for electrical and electronic components of electrified vehicles, for example in the area of battery charging,” explained Alexander Radeck, Application Developer in the High Performance Materials (HPM) business unit at Lanxess.

The new PBT material has already been certified with a GWIT value of 775 °C for wall thicknesses of 0.4 to 3.0mm (Glow Wire Ignition Temperature, IEC 60695-2-13). It also achieves excellent results in glow wire tests on finished parts according to IEC 60695-2-11.

“We therefore assume that it will also perform well in even

Lanxess is expanding its range of halogen-free flame-retardant compounds based on PBT

Polyplastics launches new low-dielectric LCP for communication devices Polyplastics has announced the launch of a new series of lowdielectric liquid crystal polymers (LCP) for next-generation communication devices.

stricter glow wire tests on the finished part for unattended household appliances according to IEC 60335-1 and can be used, for example, in components for washing machines, dishwashers, and tumble dryers,” continued Radeck. In such applications, the compound’s higher tracking resistance compared to flameretardant materials containing halogen also pays off.

The other properties of the new glow wire-resistant material are similar to those of other halogen-free flame-retardant PBT compounds already on the market from Lanxess. These include

product variants reinforced with a glass fibre content of 13 to 30 per cent and an unreinforced compound. They all achieve the best classification of V-0 in flammability testing pursuant to the United States’ UL 94 (Underwriter Laboratories Inc.) standard. They are also highly resistant to UV light and rarely corrode when in contact with live components. Another advantage is their high thermal stability. As such, their relative temperature indices pursuant to UL 746B measure at least 140 °C.

New Laperos E420P is the first in a series of low-dielectric grades which possesses inherent high heat resistance, mechanical properties, chemical resistance, high flow, and low warpage for films and connectors in cabling, antennas, and circuit boards.

Polyplastics says it developed the new LCP series amidst the increasing demand for low dielectric and low dielectric tangent materials to satisfy the needs of 5G telecommunications and V2X telecommunications for autonomous automobiles and materials applicable for high-speed and high-frequency transmission components.

Laperos E420P makes use of an optimum combination of filler and formulation technology to achieve a low dielectric constant of less than 3.0 measured perpendicular to the flow direction for the 1-20 GHz frequency band. Further, the dielectric loss tangent is stable over the entire frequency band.

The material also fulfills downsizing requirements and increasingly complex designs in connector applications and can be used in Surface Mount Technology (SMT) processes.

Polyplastics says it will expand its series of Low-Dielectric LCPs to meet broader performance requirements for connectors.

The company plans to extend its product portfolio to include grades with enhanced low warpage, higher heat resistance, and greater flow for compact, fine-pitched connectors.

Polyplastics has launched a new series of low-dielectric LCP for next-generation communication devices

42

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

www.lanxess.com

www.polyplastics.com/en/

BUYER’S GUIDE MATERIALS

pulse staking

MOULD RELEASE

induction heating for platens and tools MF Induction Heating

MASTERBATCH

Specialists in supplying Plastic Joining, Bonding and Assembly Solutions

Technologies:

-Pulse Staking -Pulse Fusion -Ultrasonic Welding and Metal Insertion -High Frequency Induction Heating -Hot Air Staking

BLACK & WHITE MASTERBATCH Compounding

Recycling

Moulding

Film

Pipe

Conduit

Whitelands Mill, Whitelands Road Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6UG, UK Tel: +44 (0)161 308 2550 Fax: +44 (0)161 343 2026 E-mail: aml@abbeymb.com Eclipse Guide_Layout Web: Buyers www.abbeymb.com

We buy/sell Prime, reprocessed, regranulated flexible PVC compositions, scrap PVC, PVC resins and associated raw materials.

We can offer prime and reprocessed flexible PVC compounding facilities to cover your specific requirements, bespoke compounds, breakdowns, holiday cover etc.

Unit 5, Martindale, Hawks Green, Cannock, Staffs, WS11 7XN Replacement Coils New platens T: 01543 570642 E: sales@mfinduction.com W: www.mfinduction.com

HOT RUNNER SYSTEMS hot runner controllers

Please send us your enquiries/offers Tel UK: +44 7467 959240 Tel IRL: +353 1 8013261 Email: info@hte.ie

www.hte.ie

ultrasonic welding

1 07

colour masterbatch

T: M: E: W:

01625 500912 07860 371294 vinyl_ltd@mail.com www.vinyl-ltd.com

TO ADVERTISE IN THis SPACE CONTACT shona newton 01244 952519

CONTROL SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT quality monitoring control 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

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.

Polymer Specific and Universal Colour and Additive Masterbatches. Fastmatch colour matching service.

1 mm Easysperse MicroPellets to 4 mm MaxiPellets.

Standards second to none.

DRYERS

Ultrasonic Plastic Welders Make the WRIGHT choice UK Manufacturers est. over 60 years

Shredders Plastic separation Conveyors | Bailers Full recycling systems

01943 875104 sales@wrightsltd.co.uk

www.wrightsltd.co.uk

cleaning materials

MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT ASSEMBLY hot plate welding Branson Ultrasonics

infrared welding HIGH TECH AND HIGH PASSION.

www.ChemTrend.com www.UltraPurge.com POLYMERS

   

Infrared Welding Ultrasonic Welding Hot Plate Welding Heat Staking

JOINING

Purging Compounds Release Agents Mould Maintenance

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

Find your perfect joining method.

www.frimo.com TO ADVERTISE IN THis SPACE CONTACT shona newton 01244 952519

New & Used

For Sale &

Wanted

Branson - Mecasonic - Telsonic

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

Sonotrodes (Horns) all Frequencies Fixtures, Repairs, Service, Parts Sub-Contract Welding, Hire & Consultancy

MATERIALS HANDLING AND STORAGE

Tel; 01258 459257 Tel; 07730 413197

als.ultrasonics@gmail.com www.als-ultrasonics.co.uk

gravimetric/ volumetric blending

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

InControl Ultrasonics Ltd (FFR Ultrasonics Ltd)

PO Box 10380, Sileby, LE12 7ZX T: 01509 621992 E: enquiries@ffr-ultrasonics. co.uk W: www.ffr-ultrasonics.co.uk W: www.incontrolultrasonics.co.uk

AM&LT PUGH KONGSKILDE MAIN DEALER

Telsonic UK Ltd

Unit 3 Vitrage Technical Park 27 Witney Road , Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole, Dorset BH17 0GL T: 01202 697340 F: 01202 693674 W: www.telsonic.com Blog: telsoniccuk.wordpress.com

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

DEHUMIDIFIERS 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

HEATING EQUIPMENT

Suction Blowers pipework cyclones New and Used recycling Equipment Kongskilde Spares, Parts and Pipework Suppliers industrial BLOWERS FLAKE/REGRIND Friendly Expert advice Les 01568 611338 Hereford W: WWW.GRAINBLOWERS.CO.UK

MATERIALS HANDLING AND STORAGE hopper loaders

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

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

43

BUYER’S GUIDE MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

ALUMINIUM MATERIAL STORAGE BINS

MIXING, FEEDING AND DOSING 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

METAL DETECTION AND 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

TO ADVERTISE IN THis SPACE CONTACT shona newton 01244 952519 Magnetics Separators Metal Detectors Eddy Current Separators

Bunting Magnetics Europe Ltd European Design & Manufacturing Facility

Northbridge Road Berkhamsted Hertfordshire HP4 1EH, UK Tel: +44 (0) 1442 875081 Email: sales@buntingeurope.com www.buntingeurope.com www.magneticseparation.co

/magnetic_separation_and_metal_detection/

Contact: Carlton Hicks

Off the shelf or made to order with very competitive pricing!

COMPOUNDS

QUALITY PVC PELLETS FOR EXTRUSION vekacompounds.com +44(0)1322 387 219

Standard sizes available: 80l, 200l, 420l, 830l.

Contact us today on 01827 265800 or visit www.summitsystems.co.uk Prices start from £428 10% reduction with offer code:

BPR18

BUSINESS FOR SALE

SCREWS & BARRELS

Selling the Business?

www.magog.co.uk

Magog Industries Ltd, 10 Crane Mead, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 9PY T: +44(0)1920 465201 E: enquiries@magog.co.uk

01933 272747

sales@stvmachinery.co.uk www.stvmachinery.co.uk

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

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

Contact us to find out how we can help you

Visit our workshop in Wellingborough, Northants.

Motan Colortronic Ltd

Industrial Plastics Ltd

• Screw design • New manufactured Screws, Barrels, Feed Sections & Liners • Proven wear resistant specifications for screws • Nitrided and Bimetallic barrels • Refurbishment and repairs • Condition monitoring and wear checks

We buy & sell all manner of plasscs equipment.

SECONDHAND AND RECONDITIONED ANGLO PLASTICS LTD

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

Cooper Plastics Machinery

Kingswood Business Sales are your industry experts with a proven track record of successfully selling companies like yours. Avoid the pitfalls - contact Paul Holohan in complete confidence on 07798 530684

kingswoodbusinesssales.com

FOR SALE

8 Lyall Court, Flitwick, Bedfordshire MK45 1UX T: 01525 719850 E: Cooperplastics@gmail.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.

POLYMERS MOULD CHANGE

• • • •

Injection Moulding Rubber Compression Ancillary Equipment Machine Servicing Your Complete Solution Provider Tel: +44 (0)1978 421761 www.panstone.eu

HOPPER LOADERS

SCREEN CHANGERS

Design, Manufacture, and Refurbishment of Screws & Barrels for the Plastics and Rubber Industries.

Refurbished machines with fault and leak free guarantee.

FOR SALE Manchester Plastics

PVC / CABLE REGRIND / WASHED, SCREENED & DRIED / SUPPLIED IN ONE TONNE BULK BAGS @ £80.00 per tonne + VAT ex.works Available now from sales@macnchesterplastics.com Or call us on 01260 224010

TESTING EQUIPMENT 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

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

THERMOCOUPLES

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

Tel: 01952 671918 Fax: 01952 608579 Email: connectors.uk@staubli.com

www.quick-mould-change.com

DTL Machinery UK

NOZZLES AND NOZZLE TIPS Engineers to the Plastics & Rubber industries, specialising in the following: Screw & Barrel Manufacture Screw & Barrel Refurbishment Tie Bar Repair & Manufacture Screw Tip Assemblies Feed Liners, Plain & Grooved 100 Tonne Screw & Barrel Press Bimetallic Barrel Blanks up to 50 mm In Stock Please e-mail or phone Karl for more info.

E. info@tws-mail.co.uk T. 01706 655402 W. www.tws-ltd.com Technical Welding Services (Rochdale) Ltd

44

- We buy / sell all makes / age / sizes of Plastic Injection Moulding Machinery & Ancillaries equipment.

- We also buy redundant, nonrunners & faulty machinery.

- Machinery repair and maintenance services available.

T: 01925 596170 M: 07838138342 E: info@dtlmachinery.co.uk E: douglastrading@gmail.com

TransXL International Ltd

Plastics Processing Machinery Bought & Sold, Thornhill, South Marston, Wiltshire SN3 4TA T: 01793 827666 F: 01793 823826 E: sales@transxl.co.uk W: www.transxl.co.uk

SECOND HAND AND RE-CONDITIONED TRAINING

‘USED INJECTION MOULDING MACHINERY DEALERS’

Single Machines to whole plants purchased Tel: David 07540 633552 info@plasticinvestments.co.uk www.plasticinvestments.co.uk

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

BUYER’S GUIDE 3D PRINTING

3D Printing

in Plastic & Rubber

TO ADVERTISE IN THis SPACE CONTACT shona newton 01244 952519

PRINTERS

printers of plastic mouldings Total Print Ltd

Tel: 01420 88645 www.cdg.uk.com

TESTING/ CONSULTANCY

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

COMPONENT PRINTERS 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

Gammadot Rheology Testing & Consultancy Services

SERVICES CONSULTANCY

CONSULTANCY

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

SOFTWARE

TROUBLESHOOTING MOLDFLOW ANALYSIS PRECISION PROTOTYPE PLASTIC PARTS TRAINING

Mould Tool Design CAD CAM software

INJECTION MOULDING 3D LASER SCANNING

01743 213 007 sales@plastic-it.co.uk

MOULDFLOW ANALYSIS

plastic-it.co.uk

Tel: 01420 88645 www.cdg.uk.com

SOFTWARE DIRECTORY A listing in the Software Directory costs £160 per programme per year.

Call Lisa on 01244 680222 for details.

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: info.uk@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, Standalone “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).

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. Realtime 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. intouch T: 01604 537100 E: enquiries@ intouchmonitoring.com Website: www.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’

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

Scheduling/Planning, Preventative Maintenance, Bar Coding/Parts Traceability, Operator Visual Aids, Process Parameter Profiling, Pager/ Tannoy Alerts, Stand-alone ‘Drag and Drop’ Scheduler, Stand-alone SPC Machine Analyzer, Automatic Data Import/Export Functions (for integration to Manufacturing Systems and other software packages).

ENTERPRISE RESOURCE PLANNING

Epicor ERP Manufacturing Software (For Plastics’/Rubber Processors) Epicor Software (UK) Ltd T: +44 (0)1344 468 468 E: info.uk@epicor.com Epicor ERP 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, warehousing and distribution. Available on-site, hosted & SaaS it seamlessly integrates with Epicor Mattec Real-time MES to provide a single system that offers a complete quote-to-cash solution for the plastics’/rubber industries.

PROCESS OPTIMISATION SOFTWARE RJG Technologies Ltd Moulding Technology T: +44 (0)1733 232211 E info@rjginc.co.uk

Zero Defect Moulding – What’s your target?

• Cycle time reduction • Reduced scrap rates • Improved process capability • Higher yield and OEE PRO-OP™ software provides a stepby-step procedure for optimising the injection moulding process to deliver optimum quality products at the most favourable cycle time.

PRO-OP™ is a server based application which, by setting an optimum moulding process, highlights weaknesses and problems in relation to part design, mould design, mould construction, moulding equipment efficiency, moulding equipment specification and material selection.

The moulding process is documented with explanations for each key process parameter setting demonstrating the processing conditions and equipment contributions to the final result.

PRO-OP™ is aimed at companies whose focus is quality and consistent part manufacture.

PRO-OP™ supports companies by providing a documented and structured validation protocol which is recognised in the in the pharmaceutical and medical sectors.

45

comment

NEWS FROM THE FRONTLINE

IN HIS EXCLUSIVE COLUMN, THIS MONTH, PHILIP LAW REVIEWS THE PROMISES, PROPOSALS AND PRACTICALITIES OF THE CHANCELLOR’S BUDGET STATEMENT IN RELATION TO PLASTICS AND RECYCLING, AS WELL AS HIGHLIGHTING UPCOMING EVENTS AND A ‘GOLDEN’ FORMER MEMBER OF THE BPF.

O

ctober 29th provided a significant landmark in the political discussion on ‘single-use’ plastics. On Budget Day, the Chancellor, towards the end of his speech announced that for the moment there is to be no ‘latte tax’.

But he did signal a tax on plastics packaging which would be applied if the recycled material content of a pack falls below 30 per cent. The date for introduction will be 2022. He promised that monies raised will be dedicated to the improvement of our waste management infrastructure. He also promised £10 million in additional R&D funding to help industry innovate its way towards the target. All this is to be subject to a Consultation, which will also run alongside one on PRN reform. BPF will be inputting substantially to these key Consultations.

We aim to play our part increasing the level of packaging recycling and minimising used products lost to the marine environment. But we do have major concerns about the practicality of the proposals. We have a major shortfall in recycling capacity and an upswing in demand for recyclate simply could not be supplied from the UK. It would have to be imported. Investment in recycling capacity needs to start now. Also, the implementation date of 2022 is at odds with the WRAP Plastics Pact target date, broadly for the same objective, of 2025. Government needs to engage in a much greater depth of consultation with industry to understand the likely business dynamics in this plastics packaging recycling world.

Additionally, BPF is currently feeding into a Consultation on a proposal to ban straws, stirrers etc. The potential impact of such a ban on the volume of waste arising illustrates that the motivation is as much political as environmental. This goes, of course, for Government actions at EU level as well as in the different Member States.

A very successful and upbeat meeting of the BPF’s Business Groups and Central Expert Committee Chairmen’s meeting, held 1st November, illustrated the resilience of this industry in these trying times and its determination to see through the ups and downs of ‘public opinion’ and carry on with the job of saving energy, minimising food waste, protecting health and making a serious contribution to environmental improvements.

Feeding on from this theme, our next recycling seminar will be held on 22nd November 2018, and will examine ‘How do we achieve the 2030 Targets?’.

Among topics to be covered are the role of the Plastics Pact, the future of Deposit Return Schemes and the respective positioning of ‘Upcycling and Downcycling’.

Finally, at our recent Annual Dinner we were delighted to Award a BPF Gold Medal for his contribution to Paul Jukes, a former President and Honorary Treasurer of the BPF. Paul had been a very diligent steward of the members’ money and was Treasurer for five years.

He was a member of the BPF’s Council for sixteen years. I haven’t checked in our archive, but I think it may well be a record in the 85 years’ history of the BPF.

bp&r

46

ASSOCIATED ORGANISATIONS

www.bpf.co.uk

WWW.BRITISHPLASTICS.CO.UK

www.kraussmaffei.com

E-Service

DataXplorer

APC plus

BlueboX Remote Support

Plastics 4.0 Experience our intelligent, connected solutions

Engineering Passion

DISCOVER AMPACET SUSTAINABLE MASTERBATCH SOLUTIONS HELPING TO REDUCE, RECYCLE AND REUSE! Odor Scavenger: a powerful wide-spectrum odor absorber Blue Edge 78: counteracts the “dirty” effect in PET post-consumer recycled plastics REC-O-BLACK 216: made from 95+% RECycled and RECOvered post-consumer feedstocks BIO RANGE: masterbatches for compostable bioplastics & biodegradable applications Carbon black free solutions: enable black packaging waste to be sorted and recycled For further information on our sustainable masterbatch solutions, please contact us at: marketing.europe@ampacet.com or visit our website www.ampacet.com