Modern Plastics & Polymers - May 2012

Page 1

Also available in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, China & Hong Kong







EDITORIAL

Infrastructure bonanza for PVC!

A

s the nation gears up to the planned investment outlay of a whopping $ 1 trillion on infrastructure during the 12th Five-Year Plan, it promises a plethora of opportunities for several sectors, including Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Widely referred to as ‘an infrastructure plastic’, PVC in recent times has been witnessing a surge in its scope of application beyond the traditional territory of construction industry to agricultural and other areas. A quick dipstick reveals that pipes in India account for the largest end-user of PVC followed by other sectors such as calendered products, wires & cables, films & sheets, profiles, footwear and healthcare. However, the application of PVC in large diameter pipes is yet to take off here in a big way as compared to the global scenario. Given this, the need of the hour is focussed technological diversification on the part of PVC players to harness the imminent opportunities from the large diameter pipes segment. From the domestic demand-supply perspective, while PVC demand is likely to soar at a healthy double-digit average annual rate during the 12th Plan, PVC capacity addition in the country is likely to go up albeit marginally during the same period. As a result, the demand-supply gap is projected to more than double from about 800 Kilo Tonne (KT) in 2011-12 to about 1,700 KT in 2016-17 (including paste grade), as per statistics presented in a recent conference. This further leads to the inference of more imports, which should be a wake up call for the policy makers as well as the producers to arrest the looming import dependence well in time.

Editorial Advisory Board A E Ladhabhoy Plastics Technologist

Dr Sushil K Verma

Before signing off, let me inform you about the introduction of a new ‘Product Enquiry and Sourcing’ service for our readers. Beginning with this edition, your search and sourcing of products featured in ‘Modern Plastics & Polymers’ become even more seamless! All you need to do is send an SMS to us at 51818 stating your requirement or write to us at b2b@infomedia18.in. Our state-of-the-art smart system will ensure that your query is not only processed faster, but also that you get a qualified response on priority. Looking forward to your prompt participation so that we can serve you better.

Former Director General, CIPET

Dr Swapan K Dhara Regional Technical Head, Basell Polyolefins India Pvt Ltd

Mohan K Jain MD, Indoplast & Past President, AIPMA

Manas R Bastia manas@infomedia18.in

P P Kharas Chairman, Ecoplast

Raman M Patel Chairman, Industrial Products Mfg Co

Vijay Merchant President, Polycraft

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

7



CONTENT S

37 Special Focus Rotomoulding

55

Rotomoulding .......................38

Specialised plastic pipes in construction .... 56

Rotomoulding process

Plastics in road construction .................. 58

conditions ..............................42

Interface: Piyush Pahuja ......................... 60

Insight & Outlook

Roundtable ............................................. 62

Plastics in Building & Construction

PVDF membranes ................................. 64

Production solutions..............46 Interface: Rajendra Shukla ....48

February 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

Mould loading systems .......................... 66

37

Automation Trends

68

Processing practices: Automated approach for seamless operations

Energy Management

70

Machinery design: Opitimising the energy quotient

72

Anti-dumping duty on Chinese plastics machinery: Deciphering the merits and demerits

Policies & Regulations

Strategy

74

Supply chain management: Ensuring efficient polymer transit

Tips & Tricks

76

Auxiliary equipment: Selecting the right combination for better productivity

In Conversation With

34

Indru Advani, President & CEO, Bright AutoPlast Ltd

Event Preview

84

Plastivision Arabia 2012: Opening avenues for profitable partnerships

Event Report

88 90

Vinyl India-2012: Capitalising on infrastructure growth Conference on Indian Medical Devices and Plastics Disposables Industry 2012: Leveraging on healthy prospects

h

7t ary vers l i n n A ia Spec

Highlights of Next Edition

7 Mega application areas for plastics to move the world REGU L AR SEC T ION S Editorial ................................. 7 News, Views & Analysis ...... 20 Technology & Innovation .... 26 Technology Transfer ............. 28

Projects ................................. 78 Event List............................. 80 Book Review ........................ 92 List of Products.................. 118 List of Advertisers .............. 122 Details on pg no. 92

Facility Visit

52

Motan-Colortronic Plastics Machinery India Pvt Ltd: Taking the quality route to success Cover photo courtesy: B-LINE Srl Note: ` stands for Indian rupee, $ stands for US dollar and ÂŁ stands for UK pound, unless mentioned otherwise

Looking For A Specific Product? Searching and sourcing products were never so easy. Just type MPP (space) Product Name and send it to 51818

eg. MPP Pump and send it to 51818

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

9



Business Insights •Technologies•Opportunities

FOUNDER & EDITOR, NETWORK 18 Raghav Bahl PRESIDENT & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, TV 18 Senthil Chengalvarayan SENIOR EDITOR Manas R Bastia EDITORIAL TEAM Annabel Dsouza, Swati Sharma, Lionel Alva, Michael Anthony, Abha Mishra, Paskaline Sebastian, Anwesh Koley (Delhi), Avani Jain (Ahmedabad) ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Varuna Naik DESIGN Sharad Bharekar CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER Mexy Xavier PHOTOGRAPHY Neha Mithbawkar, Joshua Navalkar BUSINESS CONTROLLERS Pukha Dhawan, Lovey Fernandes, Akshata Rane, Deepak Bhatia, Shwetha ME, Jayashree N, Sugandha Kulkarni, Shefali Mahant

PRINTING

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Ananth R Iyer ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER - PPC Shekhar Khot

PRODUCTION TEAM Dnyaneshwar Goythale, Surekha Karmarkar, Ravikumar Potdar, Ravi Salian, Sanjay Shelar

OVERSEAS CONTACT

CHINA 1001 Tower 3, Donghai Plaza, 1486 Nanjing Road, West, Shanghai 200040, China Tel: +86-21 6289 – 5533 Ext. 368, Fax: +86-21 6247 – 4855 (Craig Shibinsky) Email: craig@ringier.com.hk Ringier Trade Media Ltd HONG KONG 9/F, Cheong Sun Tower, 118 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Tel: +852 2369 – 8788 Ext. 21, Fax: +852 2869 – 5919 (Octavia Au-Yeung) Email: octavia@ringier.com.hk Ringier Trade Media Ltd TAIWAN Room 3, Fl. 12, No. 303, Chung Ming S. Rd., Taichung, Taiwan Tel: +886-4 2329 – 7318 Ext. 16, Fax: +886-4 2310 – 7167 (Sydney La) Email: sydneylai@ringier.com.hk Ringier Trade Media Ltd GERMANY, AUSTRIA, SWITZERLAND Tel: +41-44 734 0472, Fax: +41 44 734 0680 Email: info@islerannoncen.ch USA Tel: (513) 527-8800 Fax: (513) 527-8801 Email: dhight@gardnerweb.com USA Alfredo Domador, 6505 Blue Lagoon Drive, Suite 430 Miami, FL. 33126, USA Tel: (305) 448-6875, Fax: (305) 448-9942 Ringier Trade Media Ltd

GROUP CEO, NETWORK 18 B Sai Kumar CEO-PUBLISHING, INFOMEDIA 18 Sandeep Khosla EVP-HUMAN RESOURCES Sanjeev Kumar Singh ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT Sudhanva Jategaonkar ADVERTISING SALES Shashin Bhagat (Ahmedabad) shashin.bhagat@infomedia18.in Mahadev B (Bengaluru) mahadev.b@infomedia18.in Hari Hara Subramaniam (Chennai) hari.s@infomedia18.in Prakash N (Coimbatore) prakash.n@infomedia18.in Kalyan Chakravarthy (Hyderabad) kalyan.chakravarthy@infomedia18.in Ameya Gokhale (Indore) ameya.gokhale@infomedia18.in Aayush Bidawat (Jaipur) aayush.bidawat@infomedia18.in Inder Dhingra (Ludhiana) inder.dhingra@infomedia18.in Mukesh Yadav (New Delhi) mukesh.yadav@infomedia18.in Rohit Dass (Pune) rohit.dass@infomedia18.in Chirag Pathak (Vadodara) chirag.pathak@infomedia18.in MARKETING TEAM Ganesh Mahale, Prachi Mutha, Varsha Nawathe, Abhay Borkar

NEWSSTAND AND SUBSCRIPTIONS DISTRIBUTION HEAD Sunil Nair

DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER Manoj Palsay SENIOR MANAGER - SUBSCRIPTIONS Sheetal Kotawdekar CO-ORDINATORS Rahul Mankar, Anant Shirke, Sarita Quadros, Chaitali Parkar, Kamlesh Mathkar, Vaibhav Ghavale

SERVICES

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES For subscription queries, write to chaitali.parkar@infomedia18.in or call +91 22 30034631-34 or toll free 1800 200 1021 PERMISSIONS For subscription to copy or reuse material from Modern Plastics & Polymers, Write to spedit@infomedia18.in • Monthly Issue Price: ` 100 • Annual Subscription: ` 799

Views and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Infomedia 18 Ltd, its publisher and/or editors. We at Infomedia 18 Ltd do our best to verify the information published but do not take any responsibility for the absolute accuracy of the information. Infomedia 18 Ltd does not accept the responsibility for any investment or other decision taken by readers on the basis of information provided herein. Infomedia 18 Ltd does not take responsibility for returning unsolicited material sent without due postal stamps for return postage. No part of this magazine can be reproduced without the prior written permission of the publisher. Infomedia 18 Ltd reserves the right to use the information published herein in any manner whatsoever.

Infomedia 18 Ltd is the publishing arm of Network 18.

Printed by Mohan Gajria and published by Lakshmi Narasimhan on behalf of Infomedia 18 Ltd. Senior Editor: Manas R Bastia Printed at Infomedia 18 Ltd, Plot no.3, Sector 7, off Sion-Panvel Road, Nerul, Navi Mumbai 400 706, and published at Infomedia 18 Ltd, ‘A’ Wing, Ruby House, J K Sawant Marg, Dadar (W), Mumbai - 400 028. Modern Plastics & Polymers is registered with the Registrar of Newspapers of India under No. MAHENG / 2008 / 25265. Infomedia 18 Ltd does not take any responsibility for loss or damage incurred or suffered by any subscriber of this magazine as a result of his/her accepting any invitation/offer published in this edition.

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

11



MPP Tab 1 May 2012 Ad Name: Alok Pg No. 13


MPP Tab 1 May 2012 Ad Name: Reynold Pg No. 14







NEWS, VIEWS & ANALYSIS

41st Annual Seminar organised by GSPMA

Welcome address by Mahavir Khatang, President, GSPMA

Gujarat State Plastic Manufacturers Association (GSPMA) recently organised its 41st Annual Seminar in Ahmedabad. GSPMA is one of the leading plastics manufacturers associations in the country, represents the plastics industry at both the state and central level. It organises this annual seminar to discuss key issues of the industry. The theme this year was ‘Plastics – A Lifeline for Environment, Economy & Employment’. The seminar was inaugurated by Srikant Kumar Jena, Minister of State for Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, in the presence of other dignitaries. In his inaugural speech, Jena said, “It is the need of the hour to develop new manufacturing technologies for doubling the production of the industry. GSPMA should establish research & development centre for the plastics industry as well.” Mahavir Khatang, President, GSPMA, spoke about the establishment of proposed Polymers Excellence Centre at Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC), Kathwada, with help from the Gujarat Government. Members, delegates, industry captains, government officials, representatives from various associations participated in the seminar. Directory 2012 published by GSPMA was also officially released at the event.

PolyOne receives ‘Best Process Excellence Program’ award PolyOne Corporation, a premier provider of specialised polymer materials, services and solutions bagged the 2012 ‘Best Process Excellence Program’ award by the International Quality and Productivity Center (IQPC), for the company’s successful Lean Six Sigma programme, which has delivered significant financial and operational improvements since its launch in 2008.

20

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Cynar Plc funds for making plastics-to-fuel conversion plant Cynar Plc, a leading technology company in the waste-to-energy market, has awarded an $ 11-million contract to Rockwell Automation to design and build a new end-of-life, plastic-to-fuel conversion plant in Bristol, UK, for SITA UK Ltd, a Cynar customer and partner in the development. Cynar has developed a technology that converts end-of-life plastics into fuel. “Our technology represents a unique and profitable way to significantly decrease the

Phillips-Medisize opens design and development centre Medical contract manufacturer and injection moulder Phillips-Medisize Corporation has recently opened a new design & development centre in Mountain View, California. Matt Jennings, President and CEO, Phillips-Medisize, said, “The new design centre gives the company an expanded capacity to support our rapidly growing

amount of end-of-life plastics disposed off in landfills and incinerators,” said Michael Murray, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, Cynar Plc. He added, “Rockwell Automation strengthens our technology by providing complete design, engineering life-cycle maintenance and local support.” Hedwig Maes, President, Rockwell Automation Europe, Middle East and Africa region, added “The agreement with Cynar demonstrates Rockwell Automation’s ability to deliver scalable, complex solutions on a global level.” medical business in the western region of the US. This expansion is in keeping with our strategy to build facilities close to our customer and build partnerships based on helping customers with product development.” The capabilities in Mountain View will include design research, field research – including clinical evaluations and user studies, industrial design, mechanical design & materials selection.

BASF India Ltd will invest ` 10 billion ($ 194 million) to set up a new production site at the Dahej Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR), located in Gujarat. The new site will be an integrated hub for polyurethane manufacturing and in-house production facilities for Care chemicals and polymer dispersions for coatings and paper. With this, BASF aims to ensure local supply for growing markets and industries such as appliances, footwear, automotive, construction & adhesives.

“The Dahej site complements the existing manufacturing set-up of BASF in India and will support and contribute to the growth of the Indian chemical industry,” said Prasad Chandran, Managing Director, BASF India. The integrated polyurethane facility will produce Elastollan Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Cellasto Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) parts and polyurethane systems, supported by new production facilities for important precursors, including Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) splitter. The site will serve southern Asia and the ASEAN region.

PolyOne was selected as winner by a panel of industry experts. Competing companies were evaluated on their demonstration of world-class performance in categories such as direction setting and portfolio management, creating an environment for change, application of technology and delivering benefits & results. This award follows IQPC’s 2010 recognition of PolyOne as the ‘Best Start-Up - Business Process Excellence Program’, an

award for organisations having a structured programme in place for two years or less. “PolyOne is proud to have been recognised for the effectiveness of its business processes. The credit goes to our customers with whom we work collaboratively to best serve their needs, and our valued suppliers & associates, who constantly deliver innovative solutions for continual improvement,” said Tom Kedrowski, Senior Vice President, Supply Chain & Operations, PolyOne Corporation.

BASF to invest $ 194 million in production in India



NEWS, VIEWS & ANALYSIS

Light-weight mechatronics expertise by Brose for Indian market

International automotive supplier Brose has introduced its innovative portfolio to the Indian automotive market. The focus is on the high standards the company sets for its systems, demonstrating Brose’s expertise in perfectly integrating mechanics, electrics and electronics in its components & systems. Ashwani Aggarwal, President, Brose India, said, “Our mechatronics development efforts focus on light-weight design without compromising safety or comfort through strategic use of plastic components both for internal and external requirements. Some examples include lightweight seats and window regulators, door systems & intelligent holistic solutions for vehicle rear.” The company has in-depth expertise spanning its entire product range, enabling it to develop and manufacture its entire portfolio in-house, from individual components to complete systems. All products are available in all regions with tailor-made processes and technologies for the customers worldwide. “We have intensified our development activities in India over the last two years and set up a production plant. Also, we continue to invest in the advancement of our local suppliers to establish an efficient and quality-focussed supplier base,” added Aggarwal. Anwesh Koley

UNP Polyvalves’s new unit to be operational within three months In order to meet the growing demand for corrosion-free valves, pipes and pipe fittings manufactured in advanced engineering plastics, ie, fluoropolymers & thermoplastics, UNP Polyvalves has set up another manufacturing facility in Vadodara, Gujarat. Urmil Shah, Director, UNP Polyvalves (India) Pvt Ltd, said, “We have two plants in Makarpura Gujarat Industrial Development 22

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Dow Corning starts Business and Technology Center in Singapore Dow Corning, global leader in silicon-based technology and innovation, inaugurated its new Business and Technology Center (BTC) in Singapore. This is a significant step by the company to meet growing customer needs for silicone products and services. The BTC will be staffed by scientists, engineers, marketing and sales & business support professionals. Silicones and silicon-based materials and applications are used to enhance performance of products in almost all industries operating in ASEAN countries and Australia & New Zealand (ANZ), including automotive, construction, e l e c t ro n i c s , renewable energy, textiles and personal care. “Silicones excel in automotive applications, performing many different functions, be it air and fluid delivery; electrical insulation and protection; interior & exterior finishes; lubrication; plastic and rubber part fabrication; polish, cleaner & tire dressing formulations; sealing & bonding. Their unique properties help them thrive in harsh engine compartment, under-vehicle, weather and driving conditions,” said Scott Fuson, President, ASEAN/ANZ, Dow Corning Corporation. Lionel Alva Corporation (GIDC), and this is our third plant, which will be operational in the next three months. With this, we aim to increase our production capacity. Also, considering the space constraints, the manufacturing facility will be divided into three floors.” He added, “Where the chemical or petrochemical companies cannot employ the metallic valves or piping systems, they should opt for thermoplastic or fluoropolymer valves and piping systems.

World market for engineering plastics to reach 23.5 MMT by 2017

The market for engineering plastics will reach 23.5 Million Metric Tonne (MMT) by 2017, as per the new report by Global Industry Analysts Inc. The growth will be primarily driven by growing per capita consumption in developing countries and incremental technology developments geared towards enhancing performance of materials. In developing countries, per capita consumption is still low, offering robust potential for growth. Used in a wide gamut of industries, engineering plastics will continue to witness strong demand worldwide. Growth will also be supported by expansion of application areas beyond the conventional electronic industry and into new industries, such as automotive, construction and medical products. In particular, automotive engineering is expected to significantly drive the demand for polycarbonate resins. Canon Patel, Managing Director, Loxim Industries Ltd, cited, “Engineering plastics mainly help in weight reduction and offer excellent heat resistance and rigidity. In the automotive industry, these are used to make underthe-hood applications such as radiator, dashboard and security systems.” Avani Jain Such valves are mainly used in industries for corrosive applications.” The company has been providing solutions to almost every leading chemical and petrochemical giant in India and is also exporting to other countries. It has a wide product range in valves comprising ball, diaphragm, butterfly, ball check, foot, sight glass, sampling, strainers, lined valves, pipes and fittings, etc. Avani Jain



NEWS, VIEWS & ANALYSIS

Rajoo wins national award for innovation

Khushboo Doshi, Director, Rajoo Engineers Ltd, receiving the award from Dr Ajit Manke

Rajoo LABEX – Multifoil – Nano 3-Layer Co-extruded Blown Film has been selected as a Runner Up in the category, ‘Innovation of Polymer Processing Machinery and Equipment’. These National Awards for Technology Innovation in various fields of petrochemicals and downstream plastics processing industry are institutionalised by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Government of India. Adding to the above, on March 23, 2012, Institute of Packaging Machinery Manufacturers of India, Mumbai, identified Rajoo Engineers as an innovator in extrusion for its innovation in this machine. For addressing the challenges of a process development laboratory, raw material manufacturers and large film processors, this machine is equipped with three extruders – 20 mm/30D/1.5 kw, with maximum output of 30 kg/ hr. IBC and a touchscreen control panel were included for process parameter monitoring. It is the world’s smallest three-layer coextruded blown film line, helping simulate commercial scale blown film line process on a laboratory scale. “This new technology opens up new avenues for the company, as it is altogether a different product segment. This also encourages us to continue on our identified path of excellence in Extrusion,” said Sunil Jain, President, Rajoo Engineers Ltd. Avani Jain

24

Bayer acquires Arkema’s US polycarbonate sheet business Bayer MaterialScience LLC plans to expand its North American Polycarbonate (PC) sheet business by acquiring the name ‘Tuffak’ and PC sheet production assets in the US from Arkema Inc. For the next few months, Arkema will continue making the Tuffak PC sheet under a toll arrangement with Bayer. The Arkema assets will be relocated to one of the US plants. Other Bayer PC sheet plants not involved in the Tuffak relocation are in Santa Clara,

Mexico; Germany, Belgium, Italy, Australia, China, India and South Korea. “The addition of the well-known Tuffak business will further strengthen our quality leadership position in the growing North American PC sheet market. We plan to quickly integrate the Arkema Inc sheet business into our portfolio in order to provide our customers with an enhanced portfolio of the industry-leading PC sheet products,” said Thomas Karl Kastner, Global Head-Sheet Business, Bayer MaterialScience LLC.

Steer Engineering introduces SPL series The Bengaluru-based Steer Engineering Pvt Ltd had recently launched a compounding pelletising system – the Super Production Lines (SPL) 40 series, expanding beyond making extrusion lines into manufacturing complete systems. “SPL 40 is a co-rotating twin-screw extruder with a feeder, strand die head, water trough, air knife, pelletiser and classifier,” said Satish Padmanabhan, Global CEO, Steer Engineering Pvt Ltd. The new design targets small and mid-level companies, and has particular application in colour masterbatches, pre-coloured compounds for automotive and appliance industries as well as modified polypropylene & high-impact polystyrene. It will cater to requirements for small quantities and control over work-in-progress during grade change and power failures.

Tamil Nadu uses plastic waste for profit As part of its plastic waste management programmes, the Tamil Nadu Government announced allocation of ` 100 crore for relaying roads using plastic waste. B V Ramanaa, State Environment Minister, who submitted a policy note for 2012-13, stated that the Government had been initiating schemes through urban and rural local bodies to lay plastic roads from 2003-04, as part of plastic waste management. The rural development and Panchayat Raj department had taken up the initiative of laying bitumen tar road mixed with plastic

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Satish Padmanabhan

“We have been looking forward to having a presence in this segment for some time, as it has fast change-over time and less wastage. The industry is moving towards automation to overcome problems associated with human resources and skill. Use of human machine interface and integration of all upstream & downstream equipment are paving the way for improved productivity and reduced wastage. If the SPL series meets expectations, the company will significantly ramp up the number of extruders it makes,” Padmanabhan said. wastes and completed the work successfully over a length of 1,031 km at a cost of ` 47.30 crore. In recent years, the use of nonbiodegradable material, especially plastics, has been increasing rapidly in the state. In Tamil Nadu, nearly 10,400 tonne municipal solid waste is generated every day. As per estimates, 9 per cent of municipal solid waste by weight contains plastics. Tamil Nadu Pollution Board (TNPCB) has identified 1,941 industries manufacturing plastic products such as carry bags, sheets, ropes and polyvinyl chloride pipes. About 150 of these industries manufacture products from recycled plastics.



TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION

Three-layer film plant to produce lamination film at high output and better quality

Kabra Gloucester has introduced ‘KAGE’ three-layer film plant. The KAGE plants are specifically designed to produce lamination films at higher output with excellent quality levels that not just meet but also exceed the market requirements. These plants yield enhanced operational efficiency and higher flexibility for plastics manufacturers. The three-layer 2200-mm film line finds applications in the production of lamination films for food packaging, as well as other applications such as shrink and stretch wraps for bulk packaging, industrial packaging applications, etc. The line’s output is up to 600-650 kg/ hr and it has an installed capacity of 4000 tonne per annum. The machine features contracool extruders with light groove feed technology, 610-mm self-centering die utilising encapsulated feedport technology, IBC, Ultracool II dual lip air ring with film thickness control utilising Kundig capacitance gauge measurement, carbon composite rollers for collapsers and turret-type centre winders.

Clear Lam develops new film with plant-based plastics

26

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Eriez’s new PolyMag XRD X-ray visible plastic additives Eriez has introduced new PolyMag XRD plastic additives that impart a high level of X-ray contrast into plastic mouldings in order to safeguard consumers against plastic-contaminated food products. The PolyMag XRD additives help ensure food products contaminated with broken pieces of plastics or rubber do not reach consumers. These impart Xray contrast into food contact plastic articles such as tote bins, paddles, pails, pallets, scoops, scrapper blades, shovels, conveyor buckets and chains, belting, gaskets, grommets, O-rings, and others.

These Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-compliant additives are available in beige coloured pellets having high X-ray contrast properties. The pellet’s co-polymer carrier resin is compatible with a wide range of polymers including polyethylene, polypropylene, thermoplastic elastomer and thermoplastic polyurethane resins. Detectable plastics are most often pigmented blue, which can be accomplished when using PolyMag XRD or the conventional Gray PolyMag Metal Detectable Additives. Typically, the PolyMag XRD additive is included at loadings of 10-20 per cent by the moulder.

New backflush screen changer by KREYENBORG GmbH KREYENBORG GmbH has launched backflush screen changer type K-SWE4K-75-V/RS that boasts of power, performance and precision in one. In the newly redesigned backflush screen changer with proven power backflush technology, 75 per cent of the technology is applied; hence, only one of the four screens is taken out of the production during backflush or screen change. This results in a higher constant melt pressure during screen change and backflush. The new version of the V-Type has higher efficiency of backflush, longer screen life and process, pressure & volume flow constant during backflush, and screen retainers are optimised. This results in a more efficient backflush due to higher backflush pressure capability. The new V-Type shows low melt

volume due to rheologically optimised displacement pistons and flow channels, and hence shorter residence time of the melt. Prior to backflush action, the required backflush melt is stored by a reverse movement of the displacement piston, creating a reservoir. The backflush material is then compressed and discharged for flushing and cleaning the screen. During normal production, this reservoir is filled by the volume of displacement piston, eliminating any points of melt stagnation.

Clear Lam Packaging Inc has created a new film structure made partially from plant-based plastics, which is being used for packaging cheese sticks. The package, which holds individually sealed cheese sticks, is made from a lamination of a 50 per cent plant-based, renewable plastics and an outer layer made from conventional petroleum-based plastics. It is produced from plant-based bioplastics derived from Natureworks’ Ingeo Polylactic Acid (PLA) along with ingredients that enhance its

performance. The material is then laminated to a polyolefin. The material extrudes at lower temperatures than the conventional petroleum-based plastics. On the packaging lines, the new material seals and cuts at speeds that equal or exceed the conventional materials that it is replacing. The new material generates up to 35 per cent less greenhouse gases and uses up to 36 per cent less energy than the conventional petroleum-based material.



TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

Technology Offered As part of our endeavour to spread the technology culture, this section provides a means to promote and facilitate exchange of select technologies. We strive to bring together suppliers of such technologies with suitable users for negotiations and industrial collaboration. Conversion of batch-poly plant to C P plant

Plastics additives processing

Areas of application Plastics, textiles, etc

Areas of application

An Indian company offers pilot plants for laboratory or small-scale production purpose. The plant consists of a spinneret, metering pump, spinning beam, candle filter, extruder unit, godet unit, single-screw extruder machine and melt flow index tester machine.

Chemical fibre and plastics

Areas of application

Forms of transfer

Plastics, textiles, etc

Turnkey

Forms of transfer

A company from China is interested in providing consultancy for the modification of batch-poly plant to C P plant like polyester plant, polyester chip or direct spinning.

Forms of transfer Sub-contracting, turnkey, etc

Recycling PET wastes into polyester polyols

Areas of application

This technology is using a mix of synthetic urea, ammonium carbonate and ammonia. This chemical mix is used in the treatment of recycled plastics.

A Czech Republican company is offering the technology for recycling of PET wastes (plastic PET bottles, X-ray films, etc) to produce polyester polyols. The process consists of following steps: Collecting PET wastes, sorting out & s h re d d i n g collected PET wastes, simple chemical process of glycolysis & esterification, and production of polyester polyols.

Chemical fibre and plastics

Areas of application

Areas of application

Forms of transfer

Plastic compounding and recycling

Turnkey

Forms of transfer

Chemicals industr y : Polyester polyol is a base material for the chemistry of polyurethanes, especially the production of p o l y u re t h a n e foams, which are primarily transferred into energy saving and insulating materials

Sub-contracting, turnkey, etc

Pilot plants for small-scale production A Chinese company is interested in offering small capacity technology for a wide variety of plants like polyester plant, polyester chip or direct spinning.

Plastic recycling technology

Technology licensing

Plastic recycling technologies using organic and inorganic compounds

Polyester chip plant

An Iranian company offers plastics recycling technologies using organic and inorganic compounds. This idea is based on the principle of water electrolysis in which sodium chloride is kept in proximity of turpentine/pine oil and plastics.

A company from China offers polyester production plant, polycondensation plant, polymerisation line, hot melt adhesive plant (500-5,000 tpa), polyester chip plant (2,000-1,50,000 tpa) and film grade polyester plant (2,000-1,50,000 tpa).

Areas of application

Areas of application

Plastics recycling

Polymerisation and fibre lines

Forms of transfer

Forms of transfer

Others

Technology licensing and turnkey

Plastics recycling technologies

Processing machinery

An Iranian company is willing to provide plastic recycling technologies using urea and ammonium carbonate and synthetic ammonia.

An Indian plastics processing machinery manufacturer is offering screw and barrels for all plastic extruders. The company also repairs worn out screws. The products are highly energy efficient for washing and drying all types of recycled plastic components.

Areas of application Plastics recycling

Forms of transfer Technology licensing 28

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Forms of transfer Technology licensing, others

Rotational moulding of plastics A manufacturer of rotational moulding machines f rom India offers plant and machiner y for constructing water storage tanks and other hollow plastic parts. These are large capacity products with efficient use of energy and raw materials.

Areas of application Chemical storage tanks, water storage tanks, material handling trolleys, pallets, containers, etc

Forms of transfer Others



TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

Technology Requested Disposal & recycling of plastic waste

Polyacetal resins

A Polish firm seeks the technology for dry processing of all kinds of plastic waste or a magnetic processing method in the electrostatic field. The technology should allow sorting of all kinds of plastic materials, hay-silage foils, PET, HDPE, PVC, etc, by excluding dangerous waste.

A Gulf-based organisation wants to promote projects in the chemicals and petrochemicals sectors in GCC countries. It is looking for technology suppliers for the manufacture of polyacetal resins.

Areas of application

Feasibility study, know-how, equipment, turnkey plant, joint venture

company needs a complete package offer for this service.

Areas of application Plastics and polymers industry

Forms of transfer Others

Areas of application Chemicals/petrochemicals industry

Forms of transfer

Plastics industry, waste recycling, waste management

Forms of transfer

PP/PET strap processing

Others

An Indian company is seeking the technology for PP and PET strap processing as well as machinery made using high-quality raw materials and parts. It should ensure higher output and enhance productivity.

Lab-scale non-woven and monofilament plant An Indian company is looking for a lab-scale, non-woven and monofilament plant in a single station.

Road filling materials for road maintenance An Indian company requires the technology to make materials by transforming waste plastics that gels uniformly with road materials. This is for filling potholes in roads. It also needs the know-how regarding products that are made from waste plastics like jumble strips, speed breakers, etc.

Areas of application Road transport

Forms of transfer

Areas of application

Others

Utilisation of natural rubber in asphalt

Forms of transfer

Packaging industry, paper industry, ceramics, pharmaceutical, industrial components, etc

Others

Forms of transfer

Areas of application Plastics

Others

Plastics recycling technologies Recycled PET polyester polyols plant

A Sri Lankan company is seeking latest plastics recycling technologies for automatic sorting, washing, metal detection, granulation process system, washing plants, crushers, extruders, etc.

A Poland-based company specialising in recycled PET polyester polyols manufacturing is looking for an alternative proposal of design and engineering of bigger (approximately 25 ktpa) production plant. It plans to start with proper quality recycled PET flakes being delivered in big bags. So, the

Areas of application Plastics recycling

Forms of transfer Others

A Pakistan-based company needs know-how on utilisation of natural rubber in modified asphalt covering. It requires standards and specifications guiding use of natural rubber in modified asphalt; appropriate proportion of natural rubber in mixture & handling of the operation; additives needed; and details of improvement in the asphalt properties by using natural rubber.

Areas of application Rubber industry

Forms of transfer Others

Information courtesy: Information courtesy: Dr Krishnan S Raghavan, In-Charge, Technology Transfer Services Group, United Nations - Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTT), APCTT Building, C-2, Qutab Institutional Area, New Delhi 110 016, Tel: 011 - 2696 6509, Fax: 011 - 2685 6274, Email: krishnan@apctt.org, Website: www.apctt.org For more information on technology offers and requests, please log on to www.technology4sme.net and register with your contact details. This is a free of cost platform provided by APCTT for facilitating interaction between buyers and seekers of technologies across the globe. After submitting technology offer or request to this website, you are requested to wait for at least two weeks for receiving a response from a prospective buyer / seeker through this website, before contacting APCTT for further assistance.

Share and Solicit Technology The mission of Modern Plastics & Polymers is to spread the technology culture. Here is an opportunity to be a part of this endeavour by sending your technology on offer or technology requirements. If you belong to any of these two categories, you are invited to furnish the techno-commercial details for publication. The write-up needs to be as per the format of this section with information about the particular technology offered or requested, its areas of application and forms of transfer.

Contact: Modern Plastics and Polymers Infomedia 18 Ltd, ‘A’ Wing, Ruby House, J K Sawant Marg, Dadar (W), Mumbai 400 028. Tel: 022-3003 4671 • Fax: 022-3003 4499 • Email: spedit@infomedia18.in

30

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012


MPP May_2012 Ad Name: Prayag Tab-2, Pg No. 31


MPP May_2012 Ad Name: Radiant Tab-2, Pg No. 32



IN CONVERSATION WITH: Indru Advani

“India needs to optimise global engineering expertise for value engineering” …advises Indru Advani, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bright AutoPlast Ltd. With insights and experience gained over three decades in automotive plastics, he shares his visions for the surging Indian auto industry and the challenges to overcome, in an exclusive conversation with Annabel Dsouza. Photo: Priyanka Kumble

34

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012


Indru Advani

How has Bright AutoPlast gained foothold in the Indian automotive industry? For the last three years, the automotive industry in India has been growing at a steady pace of 12-14 per cent. Although this year has witnessed a rather flat growth curve, the industry is anticipating a growth of 10-15 per cent in the near future. Plastics has made inroads into the automobile and commercial vehicles sector owing to its advantages of weight and energy savings. The concept of light-weighting has revolutionised automotive engineering all over the world and helped enhance safety and fuel efficiency by virtue of design. Bright AutoPlast was carved out of Sintex’s acquisition of Bright Brothers’ automotive business in December 2007. During these four years, the company has grown substantially in terms of revenue, product portfolio as well as customer base. As the Indian automotive industry attracts global standards of technology and innovation, we are the preferred system solutions partner. We have been performing reasonably well and growing profitably through value-added products and services. Our aim has always been to maximise throughput of the industry. One of the core strengths of Bright AutoPlast is its capability of complete product development, from designing, testing and validation to manufacturing & sequence supply. Our integrated operations include not only central processes such as injection moulding, blow moulding and assembling, but also value-added services such as painting, thermoforming, vibration and ultrasonic welding. This significantly increases our entry barrier in the industry. More than a product supplier, Bright AutoPlast Ltd today is a complete system solutions provider for automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in India.

How does Bright AutoPlast meet quality standards of European OEMs in the cost-competitive Indian automotive industry? Although Bright AutoPlast has been in the industry since the last four years, our

collective experience in the automotive space spans over two decades as Bright Brothers. As we compete and collaborate with global OEMs and Tier I suppliers, we constantly work on enhancing our quality standards, product diversity and scale of manufacturing. Our technical competence combined with strategically located operations across India allows us to provide excellent cost options.

What is the role of international alliances in Bright AutoPlast’s business model? Global alliances have been intrinsic to Bright AutoPlast’s growth and expansion. With the evolving automotive industry, India needs to optimise global engineering expertise for technology transfer and value engineering. At present, we have collaborated with companies in Japan and South Korea for customer-specific product development. Through our long-term partnership with Nief Plastics (part of the Sintex Group), we are looking forward to improve our customer interface and manufacturing excellence.

With the evolving automotive industry, India needs to optimise global engineering expertise for technology transfer and value engineering. What are some of the key challenges confronting the industry today? The Indian automotive industry is expanding not only at the manufacturing front, but also the customers’ value perceptions and demands are constantly evolving. Today, international OEMs in India are looking for technology-intensive product development solutions. Bright AutoPlast is enabling futuristic product design at local costs. Also, the Indian

industry is striving to scale up operations and enhance cost-competitiveness.

What are your future plans for the company? Owing to significant advantages of engineering plastics, the Indian automotive industry will witness plastics usage in under-the-hood and exterior applications. As seen in the Mahindra XUV 500, plastic fenders reduce weight and enhance strength & safety functions of vehicles. I believe that the automotive plastics industry will grow twice as fast as automobiles in India. We are planning to increase our revenue share from the commercial vehicle segment owing to its strong growth prospects. This is in keeping with our efforts to boost the company’s top line while keeping bottom lines steady.

Share with us your journey in the Indian automotive industry. I entered this industry after completing my mechanical engineering f rom Vadodara and management from Mumbai University and have been associated with it for over three decades. I had also been part of the team involved in the transfer of the automotive business from Bright Brothers to Bright AutoPlast.

What is your vision for Bright AutoPlast and the automotive industry? The policy of the company has always been to offer value to our customers at each stage and become a preferred supplier for the automotive industry, with commitment to quality, cost & delivery. Our team is passionate about automobiles, and we use plastics as a medium to provide innovative solutions to the automotive industry. We want to attract and retain the best talent and become the employer of choice in the automotive components industry. With Sintex being a fairly diversified company, we want to focus and strengthen our core domain, which is transportation. Our aim is to forge equitable relationships for all stakeholders involved in the business. Email: annabel.dsouza@infomedia18.in

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

35



SPECIAL FOCUS

Rotomoulding Rotomoulding: Expanding beyond the conventional .......................................................................................38

Rotomoulding process conditions: Critical for ensuring impact behaviour ....................................................................................42

Production solutions: Overcoming operational deficiencies .......................................................................................46

Interface: Rajendra Shukla, Rajendra Shukla, Director, M Plast (India) Ltd ........................................48

February May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

37


SPECIAL FOCUS: Rotomoulding

Expanding beyond the conventional Courtesy: Promens

R

otational moulding, also known as rotomoulding, is a recent technology in plastics processing, which has received wide acceptance the world over. With advantages certain to attract manufacturers and users alike, rotomoulding has useful applications in conventional and imaginative product lines. The option to create onepiece, seamless and stress-free plastic products with superior surface finish has arrived. The resultant products can be large or small, in every conceivable shape and of utilitarian & even exotic nature. Rotomoulding offers a definite production and cost advantage over other widely used processes. Rotomoulding is a high-temperature, low-pressure manufacturing method that combines heat and biaxial rotation. Typical moulded parts can include parts such as containers, canoes, tanks, children’s toys, medical and industrial equipment and automobile parts. 38

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

A unique, globally recognised plastic moulding process, rotomoulding is used to create seamless, stress-free, hollow one-piece products, which can withstand high temperatures and display design versatility. Anwesh Koley takes a closer look at the rotomoulding process and the reasons for its increasing popularity worldwide. Proponents of the rotational moulding process indicate its low production cost and unlimited design possibilities. Offering designers the opportunity to manufacture stressfree parts with uniform wall thickness and complex shapes, rotational moulding is a competitive alternative to blow moulding, thermoforming and plastic injection moulding. Balbir Bhasin, Director, Simplast India Pvt Ltd, says, “The rotomoulding industry in India is a relatively new industry. In the non-water tank area, many companies have entered the road safety, toy and automotive parts segment, but the industry is still dominated by tank manufacturing.” Customers are widespread across the country and an increasing need is felt for rotomoulding in engineering applications in various industries. The quality demanded for water tanks is quite high, so it becomes difficult to shift to a different application. It

produces little waste since the required weight of plastics to produce the part is placed inside the mould. Yet, some critics point towards its longer cycle times, as it involves only one or two cycles per hour, and thus prefer faster manufacturing processes.

Mould preparation The process of mould preparation begins with filling a hollow mould with a pre-determined quantity of polymer powder or resin. This powder can be pre-compounded to the desired colour. More often than not, the powdered resin is Polyethylene (PE), although other compounds such as Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and nylons can also be used. The oven is pre-heated by convection, conduction or, in some cases, radiation to a temperature range of 260°C-370°C, depending on the polymer used. When the powder is loaded into the mould, it is closed, locked and loaded into the oven.



Rotomoulding

It is important that the cooling rate be carefully measured because rapid cooling causes the polymer to shrink too fast and warps the part. When it has cooled sufficiently to be handled and the polymer can retain its shape, the mould is opened and the part removed. Balbir Bhasin Director, Simplast India Pvt Ltd

Heating and fusion in the mould Inside the oven, the mould is biaxially rotated (ie, rotated around two axes) as the polymer melts and coats the inside of the mould. The rotation speed is slow, less than 20 rotations per minute; the process is not centrifugal. Timing is critical during this phase of the rotational moulding process. “If the mould is kept inside the oven for a long time, the polymer will degrade, and this will reduce its impact strength. If it is inside the oven for very less time, the polymer will not melt completely and not fully coalesce on the mould wall, thus creating large bubbles in the product.”

He elaborates, “We use cross-linking PE, which starts as a thermoplastic, but ends up as a thermosetting plastics during the rotational moulding process. In India, cost plays an important role as, customers are not primarily concerned with the aesthetics of rotomoulded products,” adds Bhasin.

Appropriate cooling of mould After the melting has been consolidated to the desired level and the timing is right, the mould is removed from the oven and cooled. Cooling of the mould is typically done using air, water or sometimes a combination of both. Cooling allows the polymer to solidify to the desired shape and shrink slightly so that it can then be handled by the operator and removed from the mould. The cooling time can typically be measured in tens of minutes. It is during this process that temperature control is required. By systematically regulating the temperature of the mould and the material, there is no need to wait for the preset time to collect the material. “It is important that the cooling rate be carefully measured because rapid cooling causes the polymer to shrink too fast and warps the part. When it has cooled sufficiently to be handled and the polymer can retain its shape, the mould is opened and the part removed,” explains Bhasin. The moulding process can then be repeated by adding the polymer powder to the mould.

Types of moulds Moulds used in the rotational moulding process are typically manufactured from

either stainless steel or aluminium. Although thicker than equivalent stainless steel moulds, aluminium’s thermal conductivity is many times greater than that of steel, and thus the rotational moulding cycle time is not significantly affected. “In India, the quality expectations from rotomoulded products have only recently gone up. Still, if we compare Indian rotomoulded products to similar products available in countries such as the UK and Italy, we lag far behind in terms of design, material grade and rigidity; hence, we have lowquality aluminium moulds available in India,” laments Bhasin. Aluminium moulds are the most common type of mould used in the rotational moulding industry. With cast aluminium moulds, manufacturers can produce complex shapes with intricate detailing in a wide range of sizes – from very small products such as ear bulb syringes to large industrial items like waste water holding tanks. According to manufacturers, a cast aluminium mould is preferred for its characteristics such as heat transfer, malleability, strength, design flexibility and faithful reproduction of the product’s appearance. Gradually, rotomoulders are realising the importance of offering better designs and light-weight products, which fulfill the needs of functionality as well as aesthetics. However, a vibrant capital market, with upcoming infrastructural opportunities and an ever-expanding customer base is expected to benefit the rotomoulding industry, which is fast exploring newer product segments. Email: anwesh.koley@infomedia18.in

Courtesy: Society of Asian Rotomoulders

40

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



SPECIAL FOCUS: Rotomoulding process conditions

Critical

for ensuring

impact behaviour

Courtesy: Society of Asian Rotomoulders

In comparison to other moulding processes such as injection or blow moulding, rotomoulding is exceptionally cost-efficient, as the moulds are not subjected to any form of pressure or stress throughout the process. Anwesh Koley delves into various requirements of the rotomoulding industry in terms of raw materials and designing.

R

otomoulding is often described as one of the most versatile techniques to produce various products. It is a unique process that requires an average polyethylene to perform a variety of tasks. It is important to look at the optimum process conditions for different polyethylene grades and the sensitivity of impact properties to the oven time and temperature. Yuvraj Singh Ahuja, Director, Frontier Polymers Pvt Ltd, says, “Today, people are opting for more modern machinery and the spending power has gone up. But, in India, rotomoulding is still regarded as a water tank manufacturing industry. Every manufacturer is trying to diversify into other verticals such as material handling and road safety. Some other players have found their niche markets in automobiles.” Process conditions become critical for maintaining impact properties, while running multiple types of moulds on one spider or varying from standard process conditions with like moulds. Not all grades of polyethylene with the same 42

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

melt index and density perform the same. Without proper antioxidant packages, impact strength can vary considerably with process conditions because of small process windows. This can become evident while running multiple moulds simultaneously where mould conductivity, part weight, thickness and arm positions vary, or where oven time and temperature vary between cycles. Rotomoulding is known to yield smooth and seamless moulded parts with precisely uniform wall thickness and fantastic shock absorbing capabilities. Complex outline with excellent surface definition is also possible with this process. The moulds are relatively strong and flexible, as no stress is subjected during the production process. Moreover, reinforced ribs can be designed into any part, in case additional strength is desired. Rotomoulding also offers the option of multi-wall moulding, which can either be left hollow or be foam filled to provide immense strength. Another advantage of the process of rotomoulding is the flexibility to make highly complicated

design, right from stiffening ribs and indentations to different textures.

Raw materials Today, polyethylene is the most commonly used polymer in rotomoulding and makes up for over 90 per cent of a £ 660-million per year strong market. Many designers make polyethylene their primary resin of choice on the basis of its availability, ease of processing and excellent properties. This helps in reducing the upfront cost and gaining a competitive edge in the market. All designers may not see the actual production of the parts, nor are aware of multiple variables involved in processing of polyethylene. “To lower the costs, one can reduce the quantity of materials used, which would mean a product with thinner layer. But, over the years, the improved quality of polymers has enabled us to reduce the overall weight of our products without compromising on the key features of a rotomoulded product. Today, various grades of Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) are available, which are more product-centric,” adds Ahuja.


Rotomoulding process conditions

Rotomoulded product markets As a manufacturer, it depends on the area of rotomoulded products where the company wants to venture. Today, many companies are opting to produce white water tanks instead of the conventional black ones for various reasons. “We faced few hurdles when we decided to manufacture white water tanks, which were aesthetically pleasing and within the budget of our customers. In a country like India where temperatures can go up to as high as 46°C, the water inside a white tank stays relatively cooler,â€? adds Ahuja. In this process, the mould with the raw material inside is rotated at the desired temperatures, and no pressure is applied during the process. Polyethylene is the primary raw material used in this process. We use different densities and material flow mechanisms to achieve the desired results. Rotomoulding is still a localised industry, as the cost of logistics involved in freighting these hollow products becomes quite expensive. We are relatively more economical than the West in terms of manufacturing costs. The Middle East is a key market, besides Australia and New Zealand for Indian rotomoulded products.

of the polyethylene chosen for manufacturing a part. By evaluating resins and the size of the process window, moulders can ensure designers that the nominal impact properties are maintained as designed. The moulder can determine the size and sensitivity of the process window by running different oven times at different oven temperatures and recording the impact strength. By monitoring the inside air temperature during the cycle, moulders can pinpoint the optimum process conditions for different moulds and combine only those having common process windows. This practice will help predict impact properties for parts that experience oven times and temperature outside their normal set points. This will allow the moulder to take additional steps to ensure that proper impact properties still exist. Most importantly, if the designers and moulders choose a rotomoulding resin with a wide process window, it dramatically increases the probability of good impact strength on their welldesigned part. Thus, moulders can reduce costs by allowing flexibility in moulds that can be run together.

Designing it right

Impact behaviour

Designers and processor alike should fully understand the process window

Impact strength is a critical component in rotomoulding where several differing

To lower the costs, one can reduce the quantity of materials used, which would mean a product with thinner layer. But, over the years, the improved quality of polymers has enabled us to reduce the overall weight of our products without compromising on the key features of a rotomoulded product. Yuvraj Singh Ahuja Director, Frontier Polymers Pvt Ltd

moulds are placed on an arm or spider and all are processed at the same oven time. With variations in mould conductivity, part weight and mould position, each mould can experience a different internal maximum air temperature within the same cycle. This can lead to some products having poor impact and others with acceptable impact, even though the parts are processed with the same material & oven conditions. Not all cycles on a rotomoulding machine are consistent because of stuck parts, operator error, variances in external conditions such as cooling water and ambient temperature, extended pauses in the cycle and variances in machine conditions. All these conditions can affect the maximum air temperature in the moulds. Thus, moulders that produce like parts on each cycle may still experience dramatic variances in impact properties if they are on the edge of the process window. Email: anwesh.koley@infomedia18.in

Courtesy: Society of Asian Rotomoulders

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

43




SPECIAL FOCUS: Production solutions

Overcoming operational deficiencies Courtesy: Bonarplastics

The operational versatility and cost-effectiveness of rotomoulding process make it a preferred technique with manufacturers. A number of factors influence the rotomoulding process, which must be dealt with effectively in order to make it the technique of choice for manufacturing a wide range of products. Ravi Mehra

R

otomoulding is an extremely versatile and economic process that relies on gravity and heat to produce parts with exceptional strength. The finished result is a stressfree, lightweight and seamless design that is very durable. Various plastic resins are available to use, depending on the product specifications, strength requirements and resistance to other substances required. Materials that may be selected include polyethylene, nylon, polycarbonate, polypropylene, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and custom-formulated compounds. These advantages notwithstanding, the Indian rotomoulding industry still has a lot of areas unexplored. Till recent times, rotomoulding has been looked at as a technology associated primarily with making water tanks. Processors had been wary of venturing into other areas of application, which undermined the process. Even for water tanks, most of the market in India is for tanks smaller than 2,000 litre. This highlights the lack of exploitation of this resourceful process by Indian companies. The process of rotomoulding employs the concept of three Ms and a P – moulds, machinery, materials and product design. Using these, rotomoulding opens a wide range of applications. However, Indian 46

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

rotomoulders have not been able to achieve higher production with lower costs because they are not aware of its uniqueness. Price is the key driving factor here. Over the past one year, many rotomoulders have shifted to blow moulding as a process to manufacture products similar to those produced by rotomoulding. The design and quality of many rotomoulded products clearly highlight areas that leave a lot to be desired.

Factors affecting fuel efficiency A number of factors affect fuel consumption efficiency in the rotomoulding process: Poor quality and design of the oven’s hot air circulation yields uneven temperature inside the oven. In some ovens, a temperature difference of 100°C inside is not unusual. The oven has hot and cold pockets, which is not a conducive arrangement and adds to fuel consumption. Poor design prevents proper mixing of hot air from the burner and recirculating hot air. Often, the furnace and the oven are not separated and the burner flame hits the mould directly. Lower-capacity burner prolongs the initial heating and processing time. Measuring of temperatures at the wrong places also increases fuel consumption. Processors tend to

measure the temperature of the furnace and not in the oven. The temperature in the oven should be sensed where the hot and cold air are thoroughly mixed and a homogeneous temperature prevails. Otherwise the data measured for controls becomes misleading. Working at lower temperatures reduces fuel efficiency. This is mainly because the oven cannot withstand higher temperatures. Many ovens in India lack the provision for thermal expansion. So, working at elevated temperatures such as 250°C either jams the door or distorts the oven structure, or may lead to cracking of the welded joints. Another key problem area is the quality of circulating air. The number of air change in the oven is less and it can be as high as 18–20 times per minute. Poor understanding of the blowers also causes pressure problems. In some places, circulation is less and pressure is more. The pressure of the air must be designed as per the size and depth of the oven. Poor circulation of hot air may occur in the oven. The air coming out and getting directly sucked at the inlet without reaching every corner of the oven leads to high oven resistance time for moulding.


Production solutions

Poor-quality burners yields 80 per cent low fuel burning efficiency. Thus, almost 20 per cent of fuel energy is lost without being used. Fuel quality makes a difference in fuel consumption. Impure diesel gives lower efficiency. LPG also has a difference in calorific values depending on the source of supply.

Rotomoulders have not looked into the market in terms of applications. If blow moulding has replaced rotomoulding in many key product ranges, it is because they are not keen to offer new products to the market. Hence, to effectively compete, companies must utilise the capabilities and technologies of the rotomoulding process to its full strength.

Roadblocks encountered

The way ahead

The compulsion to offer products that are built-to-a-price has resulted in the industry opting for low levels of manufacturing. This automatically invited other processing techniques such as blow moulding to enter the product areas, which were earlier the forte of rotomoulding. Worldwide, especially in countries like Australia, this process is successfully used to manufacture water tanks in single layers, which offer higher levels of sturdiness while being more attractive and colourful. It is mandatory in many countries to have Ultraviolet (UV) resistance, which is not the case in India.

Moulders must design attractive tanks by using better quality moulds, right material grades and powders, machines with process control capabilities and also invest in learning & training the staff. This will enable production of high-quality, highvalue tanks and other products. Utilising the technology principles listed here, one can reduce material weight, cycle times and produce cost-competitive designs & quality parts. Globally, rotomoulders are successfully producing water tanks with high-quality, single layers, which offer higher levels of sturdiness while being more attractive &

colourful. Large tanks (3,000 litre and above) in attractive, UV-stabilised colours are prevalent. Tanks of size 300–2,500 litre are also available in attractive colours, shapes & designs, eg, slimline tanks. Many such examples are available, which prove rotomoulded products to be unique and competitive to other processes. Indian rotomoulders have had to contend with a series of challenges in recent times, from high inflation, pressures of a turbulent economy to increase in fuel prices. The weakening of the Indian rupee also means that the import of raw materials becomes costly and mostly small- and medium-scale entrepreneurs have been affected. With such external factors not being within the control of domestic manufacturers, one needs to look towards improving viability by adopting ways for the business to adapt to such changes. Ravi Mehra is Founding Chairman of StAR and Managing Director of Norstar International, USA. Email: maramehra@aol.com

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

47


SPECIAL FOCUS: Inter face - Rajendra Shukla

“In India, there is a huge scope for rotomoulding in the automobile sector” …believes Rajendra Shukla, Director, M Plast (India) Ltd. In an exclusive interaction with Anwesh Koley, he explains the various advantages enjoyed by the rotomoulding industry as well as its limitations, which the industry must wake up to. do not feel the threat of blow moulding. We have also been guiding our customers in designing special water tanks, which cannot be made through blow moulding. More than 60 per cent of water tanks are made with the Rock-n-Roll method. The raw material grade available for making water tanks with blow moulding is of higher quality than the conventional raw materials used in rotomoulding. The same strength with lower thickness can be achieved through blow moulding, and this is a cause of concern for rotomoulders.

What is the growth scenario of the rotomoulding industry in India? The Indian rotomoulding industry has been growing at a fast pace for the last five years. Initially, it was dominated by water tank manufacturers, but gradually, rotomoulding companies have entered the automotive, road safety and agricultural applications. Hence, the growth in the non-water tank business is greater than the water tank business. However, recently, we have been witnessing competition from blow moulding, as many rotomoulders are shifting to this process for making water tanks. This has resulted in manufacturers having to look for alternative product ranges where rotomoulding is the only possible manufacturing technique. Large-sized companies are fast moving towards blow moulding to manufacture water tanks, but medium-sized companies are looking for alternatives. Many of them are developing techniques to manufacture water tanks, which cannot be made through blow moulding. At M Plast, we are working on the direct line of rotomoulding so that our customers 48

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

What are the innovations witnessed by the rotomoulding industry? Innovations have primarily come in terms of temperature measurement. Initially, we used to measure the temperature of the hot air inside the oven when the mould was heated. But, now we can directly measure the mould temperature. Through this process, the quality becomes consistent because we are measuring only the temperature of the mould and the material. This also increases the productivity, as we can measure the exact temperature at which the material melts and is collected from the oven, so that we do not have to wait for the preset time to take the product out. This will also not be influenced by atmospheric pressure differences and seasonal variations.

What is the current technology used in rotomoulding? We are currently using burners that emit less smoke and are energy efficient as well. Many machines run on oil, and manufacturers use Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to run their machines, which are 100 per cent eco-friendly.

Since every manufacturer is concerned about increasing productivity, temperature control helps in assessing the exact mould time, which increases the output through precise monitoring of the material. Initially, machines would operate at about 250°C, but this figure has gone up to 300-320°C, after temperature monitoring became easier. This helps us to ensure almost 20-25 per cent higher production.

What are other application areas of rotomoulding? Rotomoulding has already entered the automotive sector where manufacturers are providing fuel tanks, air-ducts and mud guards to automotive companies. We manufacture spoilers through rotomoulding, and it has substantial demand. In India, there is a huge scope for rotomoulding in the automobile sector, particularly for heavy vehicles. In terms of innovative techniques, we lag behind European companies, but the technology is fast entering the country and manufacturers have started adapting to the same. With regard to moulds, complicated and high-quality moulds are still not available in India. There are sheetmetalfabricated moulds for products such as water tanks and also cast aluminium & CNC-machined aluminium moulds. At present, no companies in India are producing good-quality cast aluminium moulds. Several manufacturers have entered this field, but quality is still a matter of concern. However, with the number of applications increasing every day, we can expect the levels of quality to go up. Email: anwesh.koley@infomedia18.in


MPP MAY _2012_TAB 3_EVEREST PG_49


MPP MAY _2012_TAB 3_DISA PG_50



FACILIT Y VISIT: Motan-Color tronic Plastics Machiner y India Pvt Ltd

Taking the

Photo: Sharp Image

quality route to success

Since its foray into India, Motan-Colortronic Plastics Machinery India Pvt Ltd has been integrating global technology in auxiliary equipment for Indian plastics processing and compounding business. Over the years, the company has emerged as a complete ancillary solutions provider for the surging domestic plastics industry. Annabel Dsouza identifies how Motan has redefined the plastics industry’s concepts of quality, sustainability and efficiency.

T

he phenomenal growth of the plastics industry across the world has led to enhanced demand for advanced ancillary equipment and technology that meet stringent quality parameters and environmental efficiency. The Motan Group, headquartered in Constance, Germany, was the result of excellent growth opportunities within Europe’s plastics processing industry in the early 1970s. Motan began manufacturing equipment for drying, conveying and blending plastic granulate. In 2006, Motan acquired the Colortronic Group, extending its expertise across the entire material handling process. Today, Motan is among the leading providers of modular systems for sustainable material handling in the plastics processing industries and chemicals sector. Through a decentralised, marketspecific and service-driven approach, the Motan Group expanded its manufacturing, sales & service network across the globe. 52

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

The company’s tryst with India began in 1993, through a technology collaboration agreement with Indian manufacturing conglomerate Larsen & Toubro. Rapid industrial expansion in India resulted in the company establishing its liaison services in 1998 to understand and identify the domestic market’s requirements from machinery manufacturers. In 2009, Motan-Colortronic Plastics Machinery India Pvt Ltd was established, and the company has been developing and delivering next-generation ancillary solutions to the Indian industry ever since. Driven by an entrepreneurial approach, Motan-Colortronic has emerged as the ideal partner for the quality conscious plastics processor.

Infrastructure edge Motan designs and develops applicationdriven solutions for storage, drying, crystallising, conveying, dosing, mixing and controlling plastics compounding and processing. The company specialises in

applications for injection moulding, blow moulding, extrusion, compounding and in-line systems. Srikanth Padmanabhan, Managing Director, Motan Colortronic Plastics Machinery India Pvt Ltd, says, “After setting-up the independent Indian subsidiary, we had to establish our business network very fast. We chose Chennai due to our knowledge of the suppliers and vendor base. We already had a sizable customer base in the engineering plastics market in South India. The quickest approval for factory space came from the local Panchayat and the maximum space allocation was 3,000 sq ft. Hence, although we have a large area for future expansion, we are currently operating from this flagship assembly unit.” In an energy-intensive industry such as plastics processing, Motan strives for green technologies that provide a lower cost of ownership throughout the lifecycle of the equipment. For instance, polymer drying consumes only 46 per cent of the input energy, and Motan’s patented drying


Motan-Color tronic Plastics Machiner y India Pvt Ltd

technology with efficient air-flow controls and energy capture systems, which recover waste energy. The company also ensures cost reduction for versatile processing lines that require high-quality mixing and blending with fast change-over times. By using similar Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems in all its equipment, the company is driving the cause for interconnectivity at the shopfloor for operations and maintenance efficiency. By using a graphic user interface and touchscreen panels, the company has taken an integrated approach towards developing operator-friendly machinery solutions that have common control surfaces and scalability options.

Balanced vision with Indian operations and German expertise He continues, “Throughout our journey in India, we have emphasised on the same quality benchmarks as are employed in Germany and other developed markets. Our products are designed in Germany and customised for Indian specifications. For example, we have modified our equipment to suit the typical Indian shop-floor that may have temperature and humidity variations and power fluctuations. The entire Motan product range is made available to Indian customers without compromising on quality or application and service support.”

Knowledge sharing The India vision With its local headquarters in Chennai, Motan has an effective sales and service network in cities such as Pune, Delhi and Kolkata. The company is also considering expansion into Ahmedabad and Bengaluru. Padmanabhan asserts, “We recognise that India is a nascent and price-sensitive market and requires a long-term commitment & patience. Since Motan operates in the premium segment, we perceive product and service differentiation as key factors to success in this market. Our current turnover for 2011-12 has been ` 15 crore and, we hope to achieve ` 50 crore by 2015.” Some of the fundamental driving principles of the company are: Customer-centric technology that is profitable to the processor Engineering reliable products that meet global safety standards Striving for better applications, service and parts support network

Through stringent performance and quality audits, Motan has carved a niche for itself in the plastics ancillaries market. The company boasts of an illustrious clientele including well-known MNC and Indian companies. Among the most interesting projects undertaken by the worldwide Motan Group is Danish toy manufacturer Lego, which has commissioned extensive orders for its plant in Mexico. This has been the company’s largest single order in the history of injection moulding ancillaries. As part of a large initial order, Motan-Colortronic provided the Mexican site with its fully automated and centrally monitored raw material handling system, including 24 silos with a total of 1,320 m3 of storage space, as well as material feeding zones for the site’s 700 injection moulding machines with clamping forces in the range of 400-1,500 kN. Besides technology and innovation, another competing frontier for the

Our products are designed in Germany and customised for Indian specifications. For example, we have modified our equipment to suit the typical Indian shop-floor that may have temperature and humidity variations and power fluctuations. Srikanth Padmanabhan Managing Director

Motan Group in India is its policy for transparent knowledge-sharing initiatives. The company’s philosophy for training and skill-building extends beyond its employees to its customers and the entire industry. Padmanabhan concludes, “Everyone in Motan begins their career in production. Even the sales staff is expected to have adequate exposure to production and installation. This stems from the German culture of steady and continuous learning process within the company as well as for all its stakeholders. We also conduct regular classroom training and practical sessions for our customers.” Email: annabel.dsouza@infomedia18.in

Photo: Sharp Image

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

53



INSIGHT & OUTLOOK

Plastics in Building & Construction Specialised plastic pipes in construction: Building new avenues for growth......................................................................... 56

Plastics in road construction: Recycling waste for profitability .......................................................................... 58

Interface: Piyush Pahuja, Director, Anupam Plastics Industries........................................ 60

Roundtable: Is Indian plastics industry on par with global standards in construction applications? .......................................................................................................... 62

PVDF membranes: Purity, permeability, productivity Viral Vora, Executive Marketing, Fluoropolymers Business, Arkema India .............. 64

Mould loading systems: Precise movements for faster changeover Y R Anand, Partner, Unimark ............................................................................... 66

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

55


INSIGHT & OUTLOOK: Specialised plastic pipes in construction

Buildin new avenues for

g

rowth

Plastics is increasingly being brought at the forefront as the leading material for use in the buildings and construction industry. Lionel Alva assesses how plastics is driving the niche market for specialised pipes and profiles extrusion and observing a sea change in construction dynamics and perspectives.

O

wing to its versatile nature, plastics is finding use in several construction applications such as walls, roofs, plenums, doors, attics, crawlspaces, coolers/freezers and so on. The applications can be varied in nature. High-value thermoplastic pipes such as Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC-U) and polyethylene have been used in construction applications for almost 60 years; hence, their properties and design criteria are well understood. Interestingly, it is only in recent years that significant steps have been taken to improve the competitive position of PVC pipes via material savings. The impetus has mainly been in developing countries, given the critical requirement for potable water and the incentive for water authorities and engineers to accept 56

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

new pipe technologies. The acceptance of more cost-effective pipe systems is motivated by the fact that no single measure can do more to reduce poverty and disease and to save lives, than the provision of safe water & adequate sanitation. The move to higher design stress and thinner wall pipes would probably have slowed were it not for the advances made in perfecting the in-line production process for Oriented PVC (PVC-O) pipes. The PVC-O pipes made from this process have an exceptional combination of strength and toughness properties, enabling much higher design stresses & material savings.

Design considerations Toughness is an essential requirement if PVC applications have to penetrate the

market, which is currently held almost 100 per cent by steel. Development work involves the following: Properties and consistency of the PVC polymer, particularly, K-value, apparent density, Cold Plasticiser Absorption (CPA) or porosity and thermal stability Var ious impact modifiers, considering pipe storage and outdoor weathering Level of addition of these modifiers Extrusion conditions to optimise processing and pipe toughness Development of a suitable pipe joint Testing procedures to verify quality in terms of pipe strength, toughness and consistency A pipe standard for mining, which had to be devised and accepted by the industry


Specialised plastic pipes in construction

Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE) impact modifiers were selected as providing the best balance of properties and ease of processing. The first PVC pressure pipes supplied for chilled water contained 12 Parts per Hundred parts of Resin (phr) of modifier, which was subsequently reduced to 10 phr in order to increase long-term strength and was later reduced still further, while maintaining acceptable toughness and a 50-year failure stress of 25 MPa. A special pipe-grade polymer was also developed and close tolerances set for pertinent polymer properties. Higher extrusion temperatures and shear are necessary to achieve correct levels of gelation and develop optimum toughness properties; this leads to improvements in the heat stability of the polymer. Polymer developments undertaken at that time, and which have continued over the years, resulted pipes made of a material – PVC-M – whose critical properties were essential to the later development of higher design stress. “Plastics, especially PVC, has given a new lease of life to the construction industry. The light weight and maintenance-free features of PVC have made it easier to engineer it into buildings and constructions, especially with profile extrusion since it offers flexibility for building and construction in the urban scenario, which was not possible earlier. The longevity of PVC applications in pipes and profiles extrusion is another major advantage since the material is more durable than wood or metal, corrosion free and does not have the problem of termite infestations. It has also helped with the concept of green buildings in the country,” avers Rakesh Dubal, Chief Executive Officer, Aditya Plastics.

Market drivers When it comes to profile extrusion, the development of new structural materials is the focus of several organisations the world over. The objective here is to create new nanocomposites and a system to develop lighter materials for structural applications. The research is largely focussed on creating sections of curtain

walls, which are commonly used for façades of buildings, to replace aluminium and steel. The nanocomposites are expected to provide better design flexibility, weight reduction, ease of maintenance, corrosion resistance, high mechanical performance and good fire behaviour. A Lucintel report has stated that the pent-up demand for composites in construction applications in China has resulted in double-digit growth there, while in North America, construction applications are expected to expand at a rate of 5 per cent per year through 2013. In Europe, growth is likely to average over 6 per cent in the same period. Commercial and industrial construction applications are keeping the overall demand for composites from slumping in Europe and the US. Fibre-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) composites are used in a wide range of applications in construction because of the benefits they provide over conventional building materials. Primary benefits include reduced weight, requiring less supporting structure and excellent resistance to corrosion & rotting, which can significantly reduce the durability of structures built with wood & steel. Less maintenance and repairs mean reduced lifecycle costs. Lighter materials facilitate handling during assembly, reducing installation costs as well as

While there are several concerns when it comes to plastics, it is also important that a key sector that affects lives, such as the construction industry, is also well regulated, and there is a need to establish acceptable standards.

The light weight and maintenance-free features of PVC have made it easier to engineer it into buildings and constructions, especially with profile extrusion since it offers flexibility for building and construction in the urban scenario, which was not possible earlier. Rakesh Dubal Chief Executive Officer, Aditya Plastics

transportation costs. Composites also offer greater design freedom, thus enabling creation of complex shapes.

Building a robust future Construction is one of the largest markets for composites globally. While growth has slowed in regions hit by a decline in residential housing construction, including Europe and North America, China and other regions of Asia are experiencing strong growth in this market. Advances in software and technological innovation will open up new avenues for plastics in the construction industry. Significant challenges have been overcome with structurally strong engineering plastics that can meet or exceed the expectations of their conventional counterparts. While there are several concerns when it comes to plastics, it is important that a key sector that affects lives, such as the construction industry, is also well regulated, and there is a need to establish acceptable standards. Email: lionel.alva@infomedia18.in

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

57


INSIGHT & OUTLOOK: Plastics in road construction

RECYCLING waste for profitability With a booming Asian economy, the road construction industry is looking for new avenues to continue the remarkable cadence of infrastructural development in India. Lionel Alva explores how recycled plastics has revolutionised the road construction industry.

I

ndustrialisation was the precursor that led to the dawn of a new age of globalisation. In other words, it brought about a remarkable renaissance through the mass production of goods and services. However, despite greatly improving the quality of human lives, it also led to the unprecedented problem of consumer waste that was amassed in large amounts. While the problem of waste can be remedied to a certain degree through conventional methods of filling landfill, incineration and composting, but these methods may not be entirely adequate and could bear long-term consequences for the environment. As the world’s population grows, so is the amount and type of waste being generated. And yet the waste produced today shall remain in the environment for hundreds, or perhaps, thousands of years, creating a grave situation for future generations. It is the creation of nondecaying waste materials, combined with a growing population that has fed the waste disposal crisis. One of the key methods that will help ameliorate the situation is looking for avenues where waste can be recycled into useful products. 58

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Building sustainable solutions Research in new and innovative uses of waste materials is continually advancing. Many highway agencies, private organisations and individuals have completed or are in the process of completing various studies and research projects concerning the feasibility, environmental suitability and performance of using recycled products in highway construction. These studies attempt to match the society’s need for safe and economic disposal of waste materials, with the highway industry’s need for better and more cost-effective construction materials. With India’s growing infrastructure woes, plastic waste could be the rare panacea to lend itself as a viable alternative and a long-term solution to the carelessly constructed roads in the country today. Plastics use in road construction goes back a long way. Conventionally, plastics has been used as Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) or High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipe mat crossings, built by cabling together PVC or HDPE pipes to form plastic mats. Roads constructed with plastics include transition mats that ensure smooth flow of traffic. Besides, it

improves the durability and lifespan of Indian roads that are subjected to large volumes of heavy vehicles and irregular maintenance procedures.

Potential of plastic waste The current research to examine the use of recycled plastics in highway construction is wide and varied. Also the use of polyethylene as an additive to asphaltic concrete is not new. However, two new processes also use recycled plastics as an asphalt cement additive – Novophalt and Polyphalt. Here, the recycled plastics is melted into the form of pellets and added to the asphalt cement at a rate of 4-7 per cent by weight of binder (0.250.50 per cent by weight of total mix). Rasool Khan, Director, K K Plastic Waste Management Pvt Ltd, avers, “When mixed with bitumen, the waste plastics increases the melting point of bitumen and enables the road to retain its flexibility during high friction with traffic volume. This enhances the ability of bitumen to withstand high temperature. Shredded plastic waste acts as a strong binding agent for tar, augmenting the longevity of asphalt. The plastic waste is melted and mixed with


Plastics in road construction

bitumen in a specific ratio. Blending generally takes place at 45.5°C, but after mixing the mixture remains stable even at 55°C. Rigorous laboratory tests have proved that the bituminous concrete mix prepared using the treated bitumen binder meets all specified safety and regulatory criteria.” He continues, “Further, the bituminous mix prepared using the treated binder can withstand adverse soaking conditions under water for a longer duration. The durability of the roads laid out with shredded plastic waste is higher than roads with asphalt with the ordinary mix. The binding property of plastics makes the road last longer and imparts additional strength to withstand greater loads.”

Road to success With increasing emphasis on environmental safety, efficient waste disposal methods are being increasingly sought after where avenues for safe and effective waste disposal are becoming scarce. While currently landfills are

starting to fill up and public health safety concerns are becoming a major source of worry, the cost of waste disposal is becoming an increasingly expensive proposition, and the type of wastes accepted in solid waste landfills is becoming greatly restricted. This is one of the reasons for companies looking at new avenues to find and develop beneficial use of waste. Here, the highway construction industry can effectively use large quantities of diverse materials. The use of waste byproducts in lieu of virgin materials, for instance, can relieve some of the burden associated with disposal and provide an inexpensive and advantageous construction product. Also, the deplorable condition of roads in the country could receive a major facelift through the use of plastics and the several beneficial properties that they possess, thus allowing India to build a strong transport infrastructure that will greatly impact its economy. Email: lionel.alva@infomedia18.in

When mixed with bitumen, the waste plastics increases the melting point of bitumen and enables the road to retain its flexibility during high friction with traffic volume. The binding property of plastics makes the road last longer and imparts additional strength to withstand greater loads. Rasool Khan Director, K K Plastic Waste Management Pvt Ltd

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

59


INSIGHT & OUTLOOK: Inter face - Piyush Pahuja

“The SPF roofing system can provide significant energy savings” …asserts Piyush Pahuja, Director, Anupam Plastics Industries. As a young entrepreneur providing plastics solutions for the construction industry, he believes that besides energy efficiency, plastics enhances the durability of a structure. In a conversation with Anwesh Koley, he explains the reasons for the growing use of plastics in the construction industry. Elaborate on the use of plastics in the construction industry. The use of plastic composites is fast increasing in the construction industry due to numerous reasons. From the construction of new houses to retrofitting and renovation of commercial buildings, and from hospitals to schools, architects and designers rely on plastics to help maximise energy efficiency, sturdiness and performance. Easy availability of plastics, coupled with various grades that can be obtained for a wide range of applications, has made it the preferred choice for the industry. Besides potentially lightweighting a structure’s environmental footprint, properly installed plastic building products can help reduce energy and maintenance costs, as well as improve aesthetics & safety in the long run.

What are the primary materials used for construction and where do you source these from? We source materials from Malaysia, China and Taiwan. We have Polystyrene (PS), acrylic and polycarbonate sheets. PS is sourced from China and Taiwan, and acrylic from Indonesia. The PS sheets are used in the construction of windows and other partitions where the requirement is for straight applications. It is a solid breakable material that can be used as a substitute for glass and is more brittle than PS. Acrylic cast sheet is primarily used for making novelty items such as boxes. This material is softer, can be bent and is heat resistant. Subsequently, we have polycarbonate sheets, which are 60

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

The current industry trend of using Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roofing systems ensure a long life, renewable and energy-saving characteristics, as well as their ability to control moisture in buildings. SPF roofing systems are resistant to leaks caused by hail, wind-driven debris and high wind blow-off. Furthermore, the SPF roofing system can provide significant energy savings. SPF eliminates thermal bridging by providing a continuous layer of insulation over existing thermal bridges in the roof deck. Also, SPF roofing systems are coated with light coloured, reflective coating, which reduces the amount of heat transported inside the building through thermal bridges.

unbreakable. These are multi-wall sheets used for making overhead shed. These are hollow, Ultraviolet (UV )-coated sheets with ridges inside the two layers, which blocks sun rays and heat. PS is used as a replacement for glass in many constructions, as it is more rigid than glass. Office buildings, schools and other institutes are fast replacing glass with PS sheets. Factory sites require sheds over vast areas to prevent heat from entering the units; hence, polycarbonate sheets are predominantly used in such cases.

Why is plastics indispensible for the construction industry? If we consider a house, we cannot think of one without a roof. A roof is a symbol of safety, stability, durability and protection from external factors.

How have plastics applications for wall coverings evolved over the years? Used on nearly every type of surface, plastic wall covering has grown in popularity, increasingly serving as a design tool of choice for homeowners. Durable and easy to clean, vinyl products offer the added benefit of longevity. The longevity of vinyl is the reason why it comprises a small fraction of the materials that are disposed in landfills each year. Furthermore, the energy required to manufacture vinyl wall coverings is only half as much as is needed to produce the same amount of an alternative wall covering. Also, the property of polycarbonates to prevent heat from entering as well as its rigidity ensures that it is the material of choice for designers & builders alike. Email: anwesh.koley@infomedia18.in



INSIGHT & OUTLOOK: Roundtable

Is

Indian plastics industry on par with global standards in

construction applications? Recent years have seen an increasing trend of plastics being utilised in construction applications. Lionel Alva examines how quality standards in India are impacting the use of plastics in construction applications, wherein lies tremendous potential opportunities.

Ashim Chugh Director, LGF SYSMAC (India) Pvt Ltd

Niteen Medhe

When it comes to plastics usage in the construction industry, India is lagging far behind in cost benefits. This is because we depend heavily on oil, and with the rising oil prices, it currently does not make for an economical proposition. Countries like the US, which utilise natural gas for plastics, have a major advantage in the cost. The cost of producing Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) being higher in India than that in the US puts it at a major disadvantage in terms of core competency. Also, total production capacity of PVC, which is a major construction application, is quite low in the country. There is absolute lack of standardisation for PVC-constructed windows and doors, with little focus on quality. Also, currently, only 7 per cent of PVC is being utilised for construction. This can be much higher. Therefore, a pertinent need is to have associations for enhancing the quality of plastics applications in the construction industry.

Manager–Polyolefin (Basic Chemicals Division), Mitsui Co India Pvt Ltd

Director, Sindhu Group

The infrastructure, mass housing developments, household items such as cables, wires and rotomoulding tanks are driving the growth of the plastics industry. Plastics is increasingly being looked at as a suitable avenue, but this change is taking place quite slowly. The specialty polymers have reinvigorated the plastics industry in the construction segment, and is a great feature to be looked at with myriad possibilities in the time to come. However, there is a major demand-supply discrepancy where domestic supply is limited to 1.2 million units, while the demand is for 9 million units; thus, the government must make efforts to give an impetus to this and relook at the antidumping policy to see a sustainable growth in this sector. Only when the government takes a step in this direction, will better regulations, and hence standardisation of construction applications, be possible. Only after this happens, can manufacturers undertake sustainability initiatives.

In the Indian construction industry, plastics has acquired a somewhat reluctant acceptance, but much needs to be done to change the perspective that plastics is not a very durable material. This change does not seem to be happening soon since the industry has to put in enormous efforts to change the perspective, and thus truly harness the potential of the construction industry. While quality of PVC is improving and people are beginning to accept it as a replacement for metals, especially in drainage systems, where conventionally aluminium pipes were used extensively, this has changed to the point where PVC has become rather ubiquitous due to the unparalleled advantages it offers. PVC has a long lifespan, is corrosion resistant and economical, which is a key factor for the market in India. But, while quality is considerably good, we cannot yet claim to be on par with global standards. And for that to happen, concerted efforts are required from both the industry and the government.

Sumeet Sindhu

Editorial take: Email: lionel.alva@infomedia18.in While the booming construction sector in India offers tremendous opportunities, there is a need for well-defined regulations to enhance what is being perceived as a lack of quality and consistency in plastic products for construction applications.

62

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



INSIGHT & OUTLOOK: PVDF membranes

P

urity, ermeability, roductivity

PVDF resin is the material of choice for Micro-Filtration (MF) and Ultra-Filtration (UF) membranes. PVDF membranes are used in potable and wastewater treatment, blood & protein filtration, medical diagnostics and chemical process filtrations where outstanding chemical resistance is needed. Here are some fundamental steps of manufacturing and applications of these membranes. chemical resistance to chlorine and chlorinated solvents, bromine, hot acids and combinations of chemicals for waste handling. Conventional applications are extruded pipes and injection-moulded valves, fittings & pump parts. In a recent application, the powder or pellet form of PVDF was solution cast in microporous membranes used in filtration and purification for the water industry.

Viral Vora

S

ince the construction of the first commercial plant for production of Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) in 1965, in the US, PVDF has been used in various chemical industries. PVDF is a polymer that combines unique qualities of mechanical strength at ambient and elevated temperatures, abrasion resistance, chemical stability, flame retardancy, purity in natural form and resistance to outdoor weathering conditions. These outstanding features have led PVDF and its copolymers to become one of the most preferred fluoropolymers in many chemical industry applications. The first applications for PVDF were centred on the excellent ses & k ba 3 4 Wea 2

salts

1

5

1

Salient features of PVDF The key properties that make PVDF an ideal choice for membrane application are as follows: It has a 40-year track record in successful membrane applications Quick dissolution of PVDF resin facilitates better productivity during membrane fabrication

Stro ng a cids 2 3 4

5

Unacceptable

Alip hati 1 c so 2 lven 3 ts 4 5

5

Fair

ns ge alo 4 H2 3

1

Poor

Good 1 2

3

Strong oxidants

Excellent

4

Inert

5

3

Ar 1 2 om atic 3 4 sol 5 ven ts

2

1 rs & Este

Slight attack 5

4 nes keto

Chlo1 2 3 rinat 4 ed so 5 lven ts

Mild attack Attacked softened swollen Severe attack deteriorated

1 KYNAR Polyvinylidene fluoride - Type I 2 Polypropylene 3 Polyvinylidene chloride 4 Polyviny chloride* - Type I

1

4

5

ases 2 ng b Stro 3

5 Polyester (glass fibre reinforced) *Above recommended operating temperature of plastics

Chemical Resistance chart of PVDF versus other well-known plastics Courtesy: Arkema Inc

64

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Available in a range of solution viscosities, providing more options to membrane fabricators Resistance to ozone, chlorine and cleaning agents make it ideal for water treatment plants High purity standards of Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and National Science Foundation (NSF) allow for direct contact with water, food & beverages Handle temperature up to 150°C as per chemical service and product design Resistance to ionising radiation for nuclear and biopharma applications

PVDF and Kynarflex® PVDF resins are chemically resistant to a wide range of chemicals. These show good resistance against most acids and acid mixtures, weak bases, halogens, halogenated solvents, hydrocarbons & alcohols. PVDF homopolymers are generally resistant to chemicals up to pH 12, while Kynarflex® PVDF copolymers are resistant to chemicals up to pH 13.5. Many factors affect the chemical resistance of a material, such as exposure time, chemical concentration, extreme temperature and pressure, frequency of temperature & pressure cycling, attrition due to abrasive particles as well as type of mechanical stress imposed. One must consult resin manufacturers and chemical resistance data for PVDF resin before using the recommended grade for an application.


PVDF membranes

Table 1: General properties of PVDF

Property

Test Method

Typical Result

Specific gravity

ASTM D792

1.78

Melt point

ASTM D3418

165C

Tensile break strength

ASTM D638

32 Mpa

Tensile yield strength

ASTM D638

33 Mpa

Flexural modulus

ASTM D790

1000 Mpa

Izod impact

ASTM D256

600 J/m

Membrane manufacturing PVDF resins are soluble in various solvents, and these solutions can be used to produce membranes by a Nonsolvent–Induced Phase Separation (NIPS) process. In this process, PVDF solution is added to a non-solvent to form a sheet or hollow fibre that may be supported on a non-woven sheet or braid, respectively, for additional mechanical support. NIPS process typically uses high-molecular-weight PVDF grades (eg, PVDF 761, 761A, HSV-900, 460) to achieve high solution viscosities in the membrane-forming process. In contrast to NIPS process, a recent development is the Thermally Induced Phase Separation (TIPS) process. This process uses thermal energy to melt PVDF, and the lowering of temperature allows solidification. The TIPS process is more frequently used in production of hollow fibres than flat sheet membrane. TIPS processes typically use lowmolecular-weight PVDF grades (eg, 710, 720, 740) for efficient melt extrusion in the membrane-forming process.

Factors affecting membrane manufacturing A common factor in both NIPS and TIPS is the phase separation process

to yield a solid, porous membrane. In NIPS, this means utilising a water bath to coagulate the membrane, while in TIPS, a water bath is typically used to quickly cool the molten PVDF as it is extruded. Specific formulations in both NIPS and TIPS include water-soluble pore-forming additives in specific concentrations that will dissolve in the water bath in either NIPS or TIPS to leave a narrow, well-defined distribution of pores in the membrane structure. This pore structure will define the category of membrane separation [Micro-Filtration (MF) versus Ultra-Filtration (UF)] and the degree of water flux in the separation process.

Applications of PVDF Some major applications of PVDF-based membrane systems are in the four areas of water purification, general industrial purification, food and beverage applications and pharmaceutical industry. In the realm of water purification, PVDF membranes are used as MF and UF pre-filtration for reverse osmosis in seawater desalination and purification of brackish groundwater. PVDF membranes are recognised for their importance in

Table 2: PVDF grades for membrane casting

Melt Viscosity (Kps@ 100 s-1, ASTM D3835/ 232°C)

Material Form

760/761

23-29

Pellets/powder

761A

30-40

Powder

HSV-900

32-54

Powder

460/461

23-30

Pellets/powder

PVDF Grade

industrial water recovery and recycling and production of potable water for consumption in municipal & ‘pointof-use’ systems. General industrial applications are seen in the papermaking industry, in the concentration and de-watering of minerals & pigments and various de-salting processes. Applications in the food and beverage industries include pre-concentration of juices, clarification of wine & beer, soy protein concentration/isolation, pulp & solids removal and general reduction of effluent loading in processed food production. In the pharma industry, PVDF is used in cell harvesting, industrial enzyme manufacturing and cost-effective purification of enzymes, antibiotics & amino acids.

In a nut shell Membrane manufacturers are commercialising PVDF-based membranes primarily due to its excellent chemical resistance and long in-use service times. The low level of fouling with PVDF membranes allows less frequent and less aggressive cleaning while providing high flux, high mechanical strength and high removal efficiency of bacteria & virus in water purification applications. PVDF-based membranes, noted for their high chemical resistance and mechanical strength, are also widely used in general industrial, food & beverage and pharmaceutical filtration applications. Viral Vora has done B Tech in Plastics and Polymers from MIT, Aurangabad, and Masters in Polymers from Aalen University, Germany. He is working as Executive Marketing, Fluoropolymers Business, with Arkema India. Email: viral.vora@arkema.com

Arkema is a French speciality chemical company involved in vinyl product, industrial chemicals and performance products. Kynar® and Kynarflex® are Arkema’s trade names for PVDF & PVDF copolymer, respectively.

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

65


INSIGHT & OUTLOOK: Mould loading systems

Precise movements for faster changeover A common headache for most medium-to-large moulding shops is managing mould changes quickly and efficiently. While this topic was discussed in the previous edition as an overview, it would be worth looking at from the perspective of mould loading and clamping, more so since this aspect involves the heaviest investments. Y R Anand

T

he simplest way to move moulds around the factory from the storage area to the machine and back would be by using a pallet truck or an overhead crane depending on the weight and size of the mould. While this is acceptable for smaller mould shops, it becomes a tedious affair for a moulding shop having over 20 moulding machines, 100-150 moulds and frequent short production runs, a scenario typical of automotive and engineering components moulding.

Mould loading and movements For very small moulds of weight up to 500 kg, simple tools are available for supporting the mould via tie bars. For smaller moulds, forklifts are also available with an inbuilt mould change system. But these are generally restricted to moulds of weight less than 2-3 tonne. One such system is based on an electric forklift, which is capable of precise manoeuvring and positioning due to its electric steering.

Its lifting unit also makes mould changing possible on machines of different sizes. Also, the moulds can be put into storage on vertically arranged shelves. For this, electronics provide for smooth and precise lifting and lowering movements. A number of mould loading systems are available in the market today, which make mould movements easier for all sizes. These could be completely independent, electric motor-driven, with adjustable height platforms, which will move anywhere in the factory for moving and loading moulds on the machine. Various systems are available, which move on guide rails and are motorised for easy mould movements. Also available are small to very large moulds weighing 3040 tonne. Such systems demand that the moulding shop layout be planned well in advance to allow guided rail systems to bring the mould to the machines. Most such mould loading tables are equipped with their own controllers and interfaces to ensure that the mould loading is achieved in the fastest way. Further, mould safety interlocks are given due respect while

No feedback

A mould change table for two moulds (mould change to one side) Courtesy: Stäubli Tec Systems GmbH, Germany

66

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

allowing mould opening and closing to allow these moulds. This can be quite critical with larger moulds.

Mould clamping With regard to mould clamping, it is worth planning ahead to ensure easy changes and clamping. This is a challenge for custom moulders, as the end users often decide the mould sizes & types without planning for the custom moulders. However, there are also numerous captive moulding shops where this aspect is not focussed on. The first step is to standardise the thickness of the backplate. This will allow mechanical clamps to be put in place with a quick-lock mechanism, saving much of mould clamping time. The next step is to make the height or width as standard depending on horizontal or vertical loading, which is the preferred method of loading. This standard dimension should include any insulation plate that is used in many cases. A thoughtful preparation (as the previous job is still running) is crucial for a fast changeover. It is wise to prepare checklists to ensure that nothing (eg, the appropriate hoses & couplings) is missed. A well-organised cart with all required tools and bolts should be available prior to every setup. This means that everything is in place as soon as the machine stops. Nothing needs to be searched for or fetched. This saves a lot of time. There are several ways to quickly clamp the mould to the machine platens. The simplest one is the use of quick clamping elements left permanently on the machine platens in fixed positions. Three other basic types of rapid clamping systems are available – mechanical, hydraulic and magnetic.


Mould loading systems

All quick clamping systems generally have the advantage of centering the moulds with respect to the machine. In most cases, this will eliminate the need for mould centering rings. This is not only a cost-saving step, but also a matter of convenience. Mechanical systems have limitations of size, but are economical. Hydraulic systems are the time tested and proven systems. But these also require a lot of planning since the backplates and ejector hole patterns have to be well controlled to suit the clamping system dimensions. Magnet plates are quite popular today. Despite being the most expensive solution, these allow considerable flexibility. However, some apprehensions are still popular about the safety of this system, but these are incorrect. This is a totally fail-safe system. Even in case of power failure, the moulds will not fall. The magentism is permanent in nature and, to open the clamp, the poles have to be reversed by using power. If the mould falls down, this can only be attributed to poor

safety features of the manufacturer and not the technology. Most types of mould can be used in these systems, without any modification. If insulation plates are used, one should ensure that the backplate is made of steel. Currently, magentic systems are supplied for even large clamping force machines up to 4,000 T. The larger the machines, the larger will be the number of poles. The magnet plates are fixed to the machine platens. This will result in loss of daylight. But, in general, loss of daylight will remain at the same distance irrespective of mould or clamping size, as good systems will achieve higher retaining force by a larger number of magnet poles retaining the same thickness of magnet plates. The nozzle tip and ejectors must be extended to pass through the magnet plates. Multiple ejectors can be accomodated through, but positions of the ejector cannot be changed subsequently.

Design matters Modern well-designed magnet clamping systems also come with many

advanced features such as display of the magnet clamping force, temperature and other useful information. Some of these can be programmed (by the control pendant) to store the retaining force information for several moulds; hence, programming is not needed for every mould when reused. The most advanced controllers can even predict loss in retaining force due to any reason and give warning to the moulder to check this aspect. Y R Anand has a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from University of Mysore and a master’s degree in Production Engineering from IIT Kharagpur. He has worked for over nine years in manufacturing industries in Mumbai. Since 1980, he has been a partner in UNIMARK, which provides sales and service of machines for plastics processing, tool making, micro-electronics and wire mesh welding. Email: anand@unimark.in

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

67


AUTOMATION TRENDS: Processing practices

Automated approach for

seamless operations Rotomoulding has opened up new vistas for the plastics industry, allowing for designs that would not have been possible with conventional manufacturing methods. Lionel Alva assesses how automation and technology innovation have made this one of the most popular plastic product manufacturing processes.

T

he rotomoulding process is a high-temperature, low-pressure plastics formation process, which uses heat and biaxial rotation to produce hollow, one-piece parts. The inception of the rotomoulding process starts with filling a hollow mould with a specified quantity of powdered resin. Generally, the powdered resin is polyethylene, although other compounds such as polypropylene, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and nylon may also be used. The key aspect is that the nature of materials used in the production process is environment-friendly and fully recyclable. Plastic resin, a roto-machine and advanced tooling are all key components of this process. Significant improvements in equipment and technology, coupled with development of polyethylene and other polymeric powders, have led to numerous applications of rotomoulding in the automotive industry. Automation would enable mitigating various problems such as long manufacturing cycles and high failure rates, making it a formidable process for the manufacturer with unlimited application possibilities. 68

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Practical challenges It is imperative to find practical solutions to cycle time reduction within the framework of a forced convection machine. Many attempts have been made previously. The rotomoulding apparatus comprises a heat insulating housing with a bottom half and a top half, which may be disassociated for access to the interior of the housing. The interior of the housing contains a first frame, which may be rocked about a first axis and a second mould-carrying frame, which is attached to the first frame and rotates about a second axis normal to the first axis. The original material used for rotomoulding was PVC, which is probably the second most common material. It can be either liquid or powder and comes in a wide variety of durometers. The free surface flow was modeled by the fluid flow inside a horizontal rotating cylinder. The meshless and Lagrangian Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method was applied to simulate the flow by using an adapted viscosity expression. The cost of production is the lowest for the entire range of production. A rotomoulding oven is used for forming an object from a mould. The oven includes a

cavity for retaining the mould, a burner for heating the cavity & melting the resin and a device for rocking the mould between -45°C and 45°C from a horizontal plane.

Key design considerations “The impact of automation has been significant on the rotomoulding process. Using a fully PLC-controlled rotomachine, we can achieve 24 cycles in a single day. The time taken to manufacture a single product is not more than 12 minute. The key considerations for moulds are that they should be of thickness less than 2.5 mm, maintain temperature at 260°C, have a good set of burners and variable speed blowers with a good outflow. Temperature control is another key aspect here. Thus far, we have not been able to have complete automation in all our processes, but we are getting there,” avers Nitesh Kapadia, Manager, DKNV Engineering Pvt Ltd. Innovative rotomoulding development to improve cycle times and process efficiency while facilitating greater flexibility in product design & integrity for the SME sector requires the following:


Processing practices

Development of an automated feed system for polymer, additives and coolants direct to the rotating mould at any point in the cycle. This will allow production of multilayer parts for enhanced product performance, fibre-reinforced composites and facilitate automatic & controlled internal mould cooling. Decreasing the processing cycle time by about 30 per cent through automated feeding in the loading, heating, cooling and demoulding cycle. Reduced thermal stress to the polymer will allow use of engineering plastics for value-added applications and improved dimensional stability. Integration of rotational moulding simulation software (RotoSim) with new finite element models, validated experimentally, to quantify variables and control shrinkage, residual stress & warpage, leading to higher quality roto-products. Knowledge-based rotational mould and machine design criteria/guidelines

to accommodate the new universal feed system & optimise processing performance. Apply the new automatic feed system, mould & machine design and knowledge-based processing to enable the use of engineering materials & development of new multilayer, fibre-reinforced & Wood-Polymer Composite (WPC) products, achieving target end-user specifications for value-added applications.

Moulding a better future Automation has allowed for a dramatic reduction in labour costs, energy consumption and ability to mould engineered materials. Automation has enabled the integration of an otherwise anachronistic process into complex manufacturing lines as a highly efficient manufacturing system. Moreover, it is through rotomoulding that manufacturers have adopted to cater to the assorted needs of the market. Email: lionel.alva@infomedia18.in

The impact of automation has been signiďŹ cant on the rotomoulding process. Using a fully PLC-controlled rotomachine, we can achieve 24 cycles in a single day. Temperature control is another key aspect here. Thus far, we have not been able to have complete automation in all our processes, but we are getting there. Nitesh Kapadia Manager, DKNV Engineering Pvt Ltd

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

69


ENERGY MANAGEMENT: Machiner y design

Optimising the energy quotient With rising energy costs and the influence of climate change, the need to monitor & reduce energy consumption has become more important than ever. This holds true for all industries, including the rotomoulding industry, which is gaining momentum in the country. Avani Jain notes the strategies adopted by manufacturers for ensuring energy efficiency.

T

he rise in the price of energy and materials is a crucial issue with today’s plastics industry. In order to remain competitive, a business must have an effective energy management process for staying ahead of the competition. All plastics processing industry segments are consciously taking steps for reducing their energy consumption and the gradually evolving rotomoulding industry is not aloof from this. Anand Panchal, Marketing Director, N A Corporation (NAROTO), says, “Initially, the Indian rotomoulding industry was limited to manufacturing water and chemical storage tanks. However, with the advent of new technologies and increasing competition, new applications such as material handing products, waste management & fuel storage were found and the rotomoulding industry developed.” With the growth in the rotomoulding industry segment, concerns about achieving energy efficiency and reducing costs also grew. This led to the development of new machines and technologies.

Defining the concept Rotomoulding is a simple process for manufacturing stress-free, hollow plastic 70

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

products. It involves slow tumbling, heating and melting of a thermoplastic powder in a biaxially rotating mould to produce seamless, hollow plastic parts. The process is typically used to mould hollow parts, especially those with complex and varied shapes not easily obtained by other processes and is highly energy intensive.

ovens and machinery, along with overall handling of the production process is also paving the way towards achieving energy efficiency and waste reduction. Panchal says, “Rotomoulding involves rotation of a mould filled with polymer in an external oven. The process is highly energy intensive. Thus, good design of the heating chamber can save up to 50 per cent of the energy costs.”

Strategies adopted High rates of power and fuel have forced the industry to become conscious of energy efficiency. The processors adopt various strategies for reducing energy consumption during the rotomoulding process. First, as the quality and properties of a rotationally moulded part are highly affected by the processing temperature, it is important that mould temperature is considered while optimising the process. Second, oil heating and cooling of the mould offers reduced cycle times and a higher thermal efficiency. An important area for design and development concerns heating of oil, which flows around the mould. This design allows close control of heating rates and oil temperature to different areas of the mould, thereby significantly reducing the amount of thermal energy used and the process cycle time. Third, use of good burners,

Design of machines Initially, the trend was to employ old or second hand machines, but now processors have realised the inefficiency costs incurred as a result of this trend. The machinery suppliers are now advocating the use of better technology with increased production lines over controlled consumption. Panchal avers, “To reduce the energy cost, the rotomoulders are adopting energy-efficient machines that ensure reduced heating time, better cooling media, use of better quality raw materials, etc.” He further adds, “Heating chamber (oven) is the heart of the rotomoulding process, so every effort must be made to reduce the cooking time of products. We ensure this by implementing efficiently designed burners and blowers, using better quality insulating media/increased


Machiner y design

size for reducing the resin sintering time and fuel cost per resin weight. Further, Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) system is used for monitoring and controlling the process and maintaining error-free working of the machines consistently. Through these steps, the company has reduced the cooking time from about 5 minute/mm of plastics to 3.5 minute/mm and would further reduce it to 2.5 minute/mm in the future. Our machines are designed especially to minimise cooking time, resulting in reduced energy (fuel/power) consumption.”

As rotomoulders strive to achieve economies of scale while eluding escalating operating costs, efficient technology and green innovations will go a long way in deciding the industry’s future. Panchal avers, “The future trend will focus on minimising the cost of production in terms of energy consumed by improving the oven thermal insulation to reduce heat loss, improve air circulation to reduce resin sintering time, reduce mould cooling time to increase production, use of clamping devices for quicker de-moulding rather than conventional nuts & bolts.”

Future trends

Growth prospects

Energy loss in any industrial process or plant is inevitable, but the economic and environmental impacts must not be taken lightly. Overall energy losses in any process, including rotomoulding, can result from designs that do not incorporate energy-efficient specifications such as heat recovery, operations that run on inefficient methods and a poor maintenance programme.

The Indian rotomoulding industry is currently at an exciting crossroads, with growth and expansion in every direction. Amid this bright growth prospects, energy efficiency measure can provide a further boost to the industry. Already companies are making conscious efforts for conserving energy, and it seems that these initiatives will intensify in the future. Email: avani.jain@infomedia18.in

Heating chamber (oven) is the heart of the rotomoulding process, so every effort must be made to reduce the cooking time of products. Our machines are designed especially to minimise cooking time, resulting in reduced energy (fuel/ power) consumption. Anand Panchal Marketing Director, N A Corporation (NAROTO)

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

71


POLICIES & REGULATIONS: Anti-dumping duty on Chinese plastics machiner y

Deciphering the

merits and

demerits

The opinion on the anti-dumping duty imposed by the Indian government on Chinese plastics machinery still remains divided. However, what cannot be denied is the implication of trade ties between the two countries will attract the attention of the international fraternity. Anwesh Koley explores the various propositions spurred by this decision.

T

he major concern for plastics machinery manufacturers in India is the advent of Chinese machinery at substantially lower prices. The industry had been urging the government to take steps to prevent Chinese machinery suppliers from exporting their machines to India. Finally, in 2009, the Indian Government levied an anti-dumping duty of 223 per cent on imports of Chinese injection moulding machines, justifying that these products flooding the Indian market are affecting the country’s manufacturers’ profitability and causing damage to marketshare.

Implications of the ban The Finance Ministry had imposed definitive anti-dumping duty on imports of certain plastics processing or injection moulding machines from China. The levy was to be in force for five years from May 12, 2009, the date on which the provisional anti-dumping duty was imposed. The specified percentage is in the range of 60-174 per cent, depending on 72

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

the producer. Based on a petition filed by a Chennai-based machinery manufacturer, the designated authority in the Commerce Ministry had, in 2008, initiated antidumping investigations on imports of plastics processing machines from China. The Revenue Department had specified that the anti-dumping duty would be a percentage of the Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) value of imports. However, some machines were excluded from the levy – blow moulding, vertical injection moulding, all-electric injection moulding, multicolour/multimould & rotary injection moulding machine for making footwear. While machinery manufacturers have since then seen favourable times, plastics processors fear that their margins will be hit by 20-25 per cent due to the antidumping duty on imports of certain plastics processing or injection moulding machines from China. Indian machines cost at least 25 per cent more than Chinese machines. While the price of machinery varies with size, quality and degree of automation, on an average, Chinese machines cost between

` 5 lakh and ` 10 crore. Machinery and moulds account for nearly 70 per cent of the cost of setting up a plastics processing business. Indian customs levies on Chinese imports of tariff margin amount will be based on final determination of the dumping case, to make adjustments.

Pros and cons There are more than 5,000 injection moulding units across the country, of which over 50 per cent are in the smalland medium-sized category. India’s net polymer capacity is about 6 Million Tonne Per Annum (MTPA), with Gujarat accounting for nearly 60 per cent of the net production. The net size of the sector is ` 70,000-100,000 crore. Praveen Sharma, Proprietor, Hinds Machineries, says, “The demand for Indian made machinery has gone up after the anti-dumping duty was levied, and many small & mid-sized companies have gone ahead with their expansion plans.” If anti-dumping duty remains in vogue for long, there is a concern that Indian


Anti-dumping duty on Chinese plastics machiner y

machine manufacturers will try to get much higher prices than the current prices, as there is no global competitor. There is also a concern that Indian machine manufacturers can never meet the dispatch target because of their way of working and infrastructure; this is a major reason that the clients in India opt for Chinese machines. But, this issue can be addressed. Domestic machinery manufacturers are in favour of the anti-dumping duty. “We have to compete with Chinese products on the basis of price, which becomes a setback in the initial stages. The financial and fiscal support provided by the Chinese government to its manufacturers cannot be compared to our duty structure,� says Sharma. While cost is an area where Chinese companies score over Indian machinery, quality is the stronghold of Indian manufacturers in the global market.

matters such as imports might be a cause of concern in the future, as both countries boast of a booming plastics industry. The All India Plastics Manufacturers Association statistics show that by 2012, India is expected to become the third

largest plastics market in the world after the US and China. Hence, an economic deadlock between the two markets may not be in the best interests of the global market. Email: anwesh.koley@infomedia18.in

The way ahead The world’s two largest developing economies engaged in imposing barriers in key

The demand for Indian made machinery has gone up after the anti-dumping duty was levied, and many small & mid-sized companies have gone ahead with their expansion plans. Praveen Sharma Proprietor, Hinds Machineries

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

73


STRATEGY: Supply chain management

Ensuring efficient polymer transit With a rich supply of petroleum derivatives and other raw materials, India has become home to leading brands in the global polymers business. Thus, it is important to understand the issues vexing the polymer supply chain in the country. Avani Jain takes a closer look at the special requirements of the polymer supply chain across India.

T

he primary growth driver for the polymer industry in India is surplus domestic demand, given that India’s current per capita consumption of plastics is only 6 kg as against the global average of 50 kg. Further, the easy availability of polymers has played a pivotal role in boosting the plastics processing industry in India. The production capacity of major suppliers of polymers in India is 4.8 Million Metric Tonne (MMT). Among other reasons for the flourishing polymers sector is the steady growth in industries such as organised retail, agriculture, infrastructure, automotives and pharmaceuticals. Having said that, India is slowly becoming the polymer hub and is responsible for the good growth of the plastics industry in the country. It is thus important to ascertain the requirements of the polymer supply chain across the country in order to ensure effective supply chain management. This fact along with various others can further define the growth of the plastics industry in the country. M M Biswal, Business Head-Polymers, Loxim Industries Ltd, says, “There are a large number of resin and polymer compound manufacturers in the country. The need of the hour is effective polymer supply chain management to ensure that 74

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

the raw materials and finished goods reach the customers in good shape and on time. Much has been done for this, but certain issues need to be dealt with to make the process more effective.”

The concept A typical polymer supply chain network includes multiple plants, large number of storage terminals, customers and consignment locations as well as complex distribution requirements. In simple terms, it means ensuring that the raw materials, ie, polymer compounds or resins from the manufacturers reach the customers – the plastics processors – safely and on proper time.

Challenges to overcome No doubt good infrastructure facilities including good roads are important for driving effective polymer supply chain management in the country, yet there are other issues that need to be focussed on in order to further give a boost to the Indian polymer industry. Biswal details, “One of the major problems faced in the polymer supply chain across the country is the way materials are handled during transportation. The problem starts right when the polymers or resins are loaded onto the truck. The polymers are generally packed in 25-kg bags, as they are easy to handle. These bags are manually loaded

and unloaded in the truck, which means that they can easily get damaged during the process due to unskilled labour performing the task. Thus, due to rough handling of polymers, the bags get torn while loading and unloading, the seal breaks and the material is left open in the trucks.” He adds, “Polymers are spoiled easily due to moisture and water. Therefore, extra care is needed during their transportation, but the trucks are such that in rainy season, water percolates into the vehicle and the polymers are spoiled. Further, there are high chances of material getting lost during the shipment.” Commenting on other problems related to different taxes, Biswal says, “The different types of taxes such as Octroi levied by the different states, the availability of polymer compounds during that time, etc, also affect the polymer supply chain. Some states charge Octroi on goods and that adds to the cost of the customer. Thankfully, the state in which we are operating, ie, Gujarat, the government does not charge Octroi. Thus, the polymers are not costly in Gujarat. Further, Gujarat is well connected through good roads and ports, and hence no major difficulty is faced during transportation.”

Need of the hour Since

safety

of

polymers

during


Supply chain management

The need of the hour is effective polymer supply chain management to ensure that the raw materials and finished goods reach the customers in good shape & on time. Much has been done for this, but certain issues need to be dealt with to make the process more effective. M M Biswal Business Head-Polymers, Loxim Industries Ltd transportation is a key issue and demands improvement. One should ensure that the material is safe and in good condition, till it reaches the plastics processors. Biswal notes, “For that, the suppliers or distributors (in major cases) need to take various steps. First, the labour force needs to be educated and trained so that the manual handling process can be refined. The latest material handling techniques must be employed to ensure minimum manual handling. The suppliers or distributors should store the polymers bags appropriately in their godowns or warehouses; the bags filled with polymer compounds should be stored on wooden pallets and not stacked against walls. Further, the bags should not be stacked one over the other, as this also spoils the materials inside. Before transportation, the supplier must ascertain that the bags are not torn while loading in the trucks, as this may also spoil the product during transportation.” These are some of the measures that can help in effective management of polymer supply chain in the country. These steps should be undertaken by the suppliers and distributors to ensure product safety during transportation of the polymers.

Future prospects As India’s growth story continues in every sphere of the economy, the phenomenal strides taken by the petrochemicals industry seem to be signaling brighter prospects for the specialty polymers and high-performance plastics business. The plastics processing sector in India is worth ` 1.5 lakh crore and is bound to grow further. Due to the good availability of polymers in the country, today, it has become a trend for multinational companies in the plastics business segment to establish manufacturing bases in India. If the aforesaid problems attached with the polymer supply chain are overcome, then there will be no looking back for the Indian plastics industry. Email: avani.jain@infomedia18.in May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

75


TIPS & TRICKS: Auxiliar y equipment

Selecting the right combination for better productivity Auxiliary equipment for the plastics industry include granulators, gravimetric and volumetric blenders, vacuum & pressure loaders, railcar unloaders, metal separators, dryers, chillers, recycling systems and so on. Anwesh Koley enlists various pointers to consider while selecting the right combination of auxiliary equipment for the plastics machinery. Anwesh Koley

M

anufacturers of auxiliary equipment are responding to plastics processors’ demands for upstream and downstream machinery that can help

them reduce costs and stay competitive in the global market. Loaders and blenders provide more accuracy and efficiency for reduced waste and improved quality of parts. Higher performance ancillary equipment use less energy and provide cost savings.

Increased efficiencies are being witnessed across the entire range of auxiliaries, contributing to profitability in plastics processing. Energy savers for granulators are the latest developments witnessed by the industry. Email: anwesh.koley@infomedia18.in

Following are some of the pointers for selecting the right combination of auxiliary equipment for plastics machinery:

76

Moisture content in plastics adversely affects the quality of moulding. Excessive moisture in resins leads to products with unacceptable sturdiness, silver streaks and holes. Drying primarily serves to remove moisture from resins to prevent decline in the quality of moulded plastics. Temperature increase is also used to enhance the plasticity during moulding.

Vacuum thermal conduction is another important feature, as it shortens drying time by creating a vacuum condition. Conduction fins increase the surface area and ensure that all materials in the hopper can be heated simultaneously. Because it does not use hot air, exhaust hot air is not emitted. Initial functionality is maintained even without replacement of absorbent materials.

A low-speed granulator, which can be cleaned safely and thoroughly in a single step, enhances access for cleaning. Enhanced reliability within the granulator can be achieved through reducing shaft stress and eliminating difficult adjustment through double bearing. This extends the lifespan of bearing and makes the exchange of blades & bearing easier.

Air circulation in the rotor affects the absorption in the dryer. The rotor is made of three zones – dehumidifying (absorbs air moisture charged into the hopper dryer), regeneration (heats moisture absorbed to evaporate it, regenerating honeycomb rotor) and cooling (cools the honeycomb rotor to an optimal temperature). These zones enable the honeycomb rotor to provide a stable low dew point of -40°C.

Mould temperature controller provides stable temperature and better safety. It provides a high-precision display temperature, which is accurate up to 0.1°C. An additional memory function can save two different temperatures for easy alteration. A reliable heater control circuit uses SSR (non-contact relay) that enables the shunt-coil breaker to automatically shut down power upon excessive heating.

A water-cooled mould cooling and heating unit that combines mould chiller & mould temperature controller into a single unit can support a wide range of temperature of 10°C-90°C. A large tank enhances the precision at medium temperature and increases performance through a larger flow rate and high-pressure pump, which ensures stable cooling of complicated mould structures as well.

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



PROJECT S

New projects and expansion activities are the barometers of industrial growth. These also present business opportunities to service providers like consultants, contractors, plant & equipment suppliers and others down the value chain. This feature will keep you updated with vital information regarding new projects and capacity expansions being planned by companies in the plastics, polymers and allied industries.

New facility

moulding and automated tape layup. Construction of the facility will begin shortly, and Carbures plans to have the facility online in the second quarter of 2012. It will employ 50 people.

Project news

Project location

Lubrizol Corporation has proposed to set up a ` 1,175-crore Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) industrial unit in a joint venture at Dahej Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC), Bharuch, Gujarat. The construction of the unit will start in January 2013 and the production by October 2014. CPVC products have great demand in South-East Asia, Middle East and Africa. Considering the investor-friendly and transparent policies and best infrastructural facilities in Gujarat, the company has chosen the state for setting up this unit.

Greenville, USA

Project location

BASF

Dahej, Gujarat

Project type

Project cost

New facility

` 1,175 crore ($ 245 million)

Project news

Implementation stage

BASF has broken ground on a previously announced multi-million dollar plastic additives facility at the Bahrain International Investment Park, with production of Customer Specific Antioxidant Blends (CSB) to start in 2012. The company said that the investment was spurred by a supply agreement with Astra Polymer, the Damman, Saudi Arabia-based supplier of masterbatch, additives and compounds, as well as opportunities presented by the countries of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which represent one of the fastest growing sectors of polyolefin production worldwide. The new operation will become one of the world’s largest CSB plants with an annual capacity of about 16,000 metric tonne.

Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) Lubrizol Corporation

Project type

Proposed Contact details: Aant Pant Lubrizol India Pvt Ltd 9/3, Thane Belapur Road, Turbhe Navi Mumbai - 400705 Tel: 022-27672568-74 Fax: 022-27632407 Email: apan@lubrizol.com

Composites processing Carbures

Project type New facility

Project news Spain-based Carbures plans to invest $ 6.5 million to build a composites manufacturing plant in Greenville, USA. The company selected the location in part due to its proximity to potential customers like Lockheed, Boeing, Proterra and BMW. Processes will include hand layup, resin transfer 78

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Project cost

Contact details: Reinhold Lutz BASF Bahrain PO Box 18696 Al Seef, Bahrain Tel: +973-17585251 Fax: +973-17583400 Email: reinhold.lutz@basf.com

$ 6.5 million (€ 4.9 million)

Implementation stage

Polysilicon

Planning

Punj Lloyd

Project type Contact details: Carbures USA 5, Hercules Way Donaldson Center Airport Greenville, South Carolina - 29605 Tel: +1-864-593 3934 Email: info@carbures.com

Plastic additives

Project location Bahrain

Project cost Not known

Implementation stage Planning

New contract

Project news Punj Lloyd has bagged an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract to set up Qatar’s first plant for manufacture of polysilicon, the raw material used to build solar cells. The contract has been awarded by Qatar Solar Technologies (QSTec) and is scheduled to be commissioned by mid-2013. The EPC contract awarded to the Indian conglomerate involves the establishment of 4,000 Tonne Per Annum (TPA) of polysilicon manufacturing capacity. The total envisaged capacity of the plant is 8,000 TPA of highpurity solar grade polysilicon at an investment of $ 1 billion. The work under the contract involves residual basic engineering & design, detailed engineering, procurement, supply, manufacturing, construction and commissioning, among others.

Project location Ras Laffan Industrial City, Qatar

Project cost $ 1 billion approx

Implementation stage Planning Contact details: Punj Lloyd House 17-18 Nehru Place New Delhi - 110019 Tel: 011-26466105 Fax: 011-26427812 Email: info@punjlloyd.com



EVENT LIST

National

Ahmedabad

Pune

Chennai

Ludhiana

Indore

Aurangabad

Rudrapur

Gujarat Oct 5-8, 2012

Maharastra Nov 2-5, 2012

Tamil Nadu Nov 22-25, 2012

Punjab Dec 21-24, 2012

Madhya Pradesh Jan 11-14, 2013

Maharastra Feb 1-4, 2013

Uttarakhand Feb 23-26, 2013

India’s premier industrial trade fair on products and technologies related to Machine Tools, Hydraulics & Pneumatics, Process Machinery & Equipment, Automation Instrumentation, Packaging & Auxiliaries, IT Products, Electrical & Electronics, Material Handling and Safety Equipment.

For details contact: Infomedia 18 Ltd, Infomedia 18 Ltd, Ruby House, 1st Floor, J K Sawant Marg, Dadar (W), Mumbai 400 028. Tel: 022 3003 4651 • Fax: 022 3003 4499 • Email: engexpo@infomedia18.in • Web: www.engg-expo.com

Packplus South 2012 This will be an opportunity to focus on the emerging opportunities in the fast industrialising markets of South India. This event will emphasise on plastic packaging applications through the latest trends and technologies, especially by SMEs; July 6-9, 2012; at Hyderabad International Trade Exposition Centre (HITEX), Hyderabad For details contact: Prateek Kaushik Print Packaging Pvt Ltd E-6, 1st Floor Lajpat Nagar 2, New Delhi Tel: 011-2981 2833/2981 2934/2981 2834, Mob: 09313011029 Fax: 011-4172 2130 Website: www.print-packaging.com

India Chem 2012 As the Indian industry is soaring in terms of commodity plastics and engineering polymers, this event will focus on the specialty polymers, fine chemicals, agro plastics, masterbatches, pigments, additives, etc, with emphasis on sustainable processing and effluent management; October 4-6, 2012; at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai For details contact: Vishal Ganju FICCI Mumbai 33/B, Krisnamai Building Pochakanwala Road, Worli Mumbai – 400030 80

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Tel: 022-2496 8000, 2496 6633 - 39 Fax: 022-2496 6631/32 Email: vishal.ganju@f icci.com Website: www.indiachemgujarat.com

Ind plast This is an initiative to promote India as a leading producer of plastics and specialty polymers on the global platform. The event will facilitate interaction and international investments in the domestic market. For enhancing trade practices, equipment, materials, products & services can be sourced here; October 5-8, 2012; at Science City Ground, Kolkata For details contact: Vishal Ganju FICCI Mumbai 33/B, Krisnamai Building Pochakanwala Road, Worli Mumbai – 400030 Tel: 022-2496 8000, 2496 6633 - 39 Fax: 022-2496 6631/32 Email: vishal.ganju@f icci.com Website: www.indiachemgujarat.com

Plast Expo 2012 This is a unique opportunity for exhibitors to develop a direct relationship with their clients. It will be an interactive platform to display raw materials, chemicals and auxiliaries, equipment & services, moulds, dies, etc; October 7-10, 2012; at Rajkot Race Course Ground, Rajkot, Gujarat

For details contact: Brijesh Purohit Saurashtra Plastic Manufacturers Association, “Laxman”, 3rd Floor Paramount Hall Bhutkhana Chowk Rajkot – 360 002, Gujarat Mob: 09426249072 Tel: 0281-2228802 Fax: 0281-2223798 Email: spma@plasticmanufacturer.org Website: www.plasticmanufacturer.org

PlastAsia 2013 The fourth edition of this exhibition will be among the highly anticipated launch pad for the plastics industry, and will take off amid an era of renewed optimism in Asia. This is an excellent platform to build business alliances and increase channels to expand opportunities in the dynamically expanding plastics industry; February 15-18, 2013; at Palace Grounds, Bengaluru For details contact: Vilma Pereira No 25, 3rd Floor 8th Main Road Vasanthnagar Bengaluru – 560 052 Tel: 080 4330401 Mob: 09480944213 Fax: 080 22352772 Email: info@plastasia2013.com Website: www.plastasia2013.com



EVENT LIST

International PLAST 2012 Among the world’s leading markets for plastics processing machinery, Italy is at the forefront of technology and innovations. This event will highlight machines for foam, reactive and reinforced resins, laboratory control & test equipment, ancillary equipment, raw materials, acrylics, polyamides, polyolefinics, styrenes, vinylics, thermoplastic polyesters, masterbatches, fillers, reinforcements, additives, etc; May 8-12, 2012; at Fiera Milano, Milan, Italy

automation solutions. It will be a meeting ground for the scientific community and R&D professionals across Asia; June 2628, 2012; at Suntec City, Singapore For details contact: Jun Wang 25 boulevard de l’Amiral Bruix Paris-75116, France Tel: +33 1 58 36 15 07, Fax: +33 1 58 36 15 19 Email: info@jeccomposites.com Website: www.jeccomposites.com

PLASTEX 2012 For details contact: Promaplast Centro Direzionale Milanofiori Palazzo F/3 - 20090 Assago, Milan, Italy Tel: 039 02 8228371, Fax: +39 02 57512490 Email: info@promaplast.org Website: www.plastonline.org

Plastivision Arabia 2012 While serving as an international platform for the Indian plastics industry, this exhibition will facilitate business prospects for all major global players in the region. The event will provide opportunities and exposure to manufacturers of raw material and machinery, auxiliary equipment, pigments & additives, dies & moulds, etc; May 14-17, 2012; at Expo Centre Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

This is an important international trade fair dedicated to the plastic machinery, components, raw materials and chemicals in the Middle East and North Africa. It will present products and services, technologies & innovations, trends and tendencies for trade markets. It is an international meetingplace for worldwide suppliers and regional manufacturers; September 6-9, 2012; at Cairo International Convention & Exhibition Centre, Nasr City, Egypt

JEC Composites Asia 2012 JEC is a composite industry organisation dedicated to developing products and services for its customers and for the composite industry. This conference will address the booming composites market’s requirements of raw materials and

82

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

FAKUMA 2012 This international trade fair for plastics processing is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a record-breaking edition that will demonstrate plastics advantages for conservation of resources, lightweight design engineering and energy efficiency. The exhibition will provide the industry with enormous opportunities for futuristic manufacturing solutions; October 16-20, 2012; at Friedrichshafen Exhibition Centre, Germany For details contact: P. E. Schall GmbH & Co. KG Messeunternehmen, Gustav-Werner-Straße 6 D-72636 Frickenhausen Tel: +49 7025 9206-0 Fax: +49 7025 9206-620 Email: info@schall-messen.de Website: www.fakuma-messe.de

Thermoplastic Elastomers 2012 For details contact: Ahmed Mostafa 41 Street No. 269, New Maadi, Cairo, Egypt Tel: +202 275 38 401, Fax: +202 275 38 323 Email: ahmed@acg-itf.com Website: www.plastex-online.com

AFRIMOLD 2012 For details contact: AIPMA House A-52, Street No. 1, MIDC Marol, Andheri (E), Mumbai - 400 093 Tel: +91 22 28217324 / 25, 28352511 Fax: +91 22 28216390 Email: office@aipma.net Website: www.plastivisionarabia.org

Email: ron@afrimold.co.za Website: www.afrimold.co.za

This is among the leading exhibitions for precision machining, tooling, mouldmaking, designing and application development in the African continent. This show will demonstrate cutting-edge technology for plastics tooling such as CAE/CAD/CAM, rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, press tools and ancillary tooling; October 10-12, 2012; at Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa For details contact: Ron MacLarty PO Box 7266, Primrose Hill, 1417, South Africa Tel: +27 82 353 6699, Fax: +27 86 516 2975

In its 15th edition, this international conference is a great opportunity to network with leaders in the surging global thermoplastics industry. From medical applications to automotives and consumer durables, this event will highlight the current & furute trends in thermoplastics applications; November 13-14, 2012; at Berlin Exhibition Centre, Germany For details contact: Smithers Rapra Shawbury, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 4NR, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 1939 250383 Fax: +44 (0)1939 251118 Email: info@rapra.net Website: www.smithersrapra.com The information published in this section is as per the details furnished by the respective organiser. In any case, it does not represent the views of Business Insights •Technologies•Opportunities



EVENT PREVIEW: Plastivision Arabia 2012

Opening avenues for profitable partnerships Feedstock availability and logistics convenience are among the leading factors that are attracting the Indian business fraternity to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Looking at this trend, Plastivision Arabia 2012 will strengthen the export avenues for the surging Indian plastics industry into the Middle East. Annabel Dsouza

T

he Indian plastics industry has taken great strides owing to a rapidly expanding application spectrum and per capita consumption of commodity plastics and engineering polymers. Although the Indian market is primarily driven by domestic demand, Indian entrepreneurs are also exploring foreign shores for business growth and expansion. In keeping with the Indian industry’s advancements in polymer technology, processing machinery, expertise and cost-effective manufacturing, Plastivision Arabia 2012 will open enormous opportunities not only for established players, but also for

small and medium enterprises in the plastics processing sector. Ajay Desai, Chairman, Plastivision Arabia 2012, says, “The UAE plastics industry is projected to grow by 20 per cent year-on-year backed by cheap and easily available feedstock as well as the regional governments’ focus on economic diversification. This presents huge opportunities for Indian manufacturers and investors. The Gulf region, including neighbouring countries such as Iran and Iraq, boasts of the large amounts of the world’s oil & gas reserves. The UAE itself holds the world’s sixth largest proven oil reserves of 98 billion barrels and seventh largest gas reserves of 215 trillion cubic feet. Going by this data, there will never be a

A glimpse of the launch function of Plastivision Arabia 2012

84

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

shortage of raw materials for the plastics and petrochemicals industry.”

Strategic advantages During the last decade, the Middle East has emerged as an important player in the global market owing to the twin benefits of low prices of raw material and feedstock as well as proximity to the highly lucrative Asian market. As a rapidly growing region, the Middle East offers an excellent opportunity for companies in plastics and petrochemical processing. The rationale for the lower rates of feedstock is that it is a natural by-product in upstream operations, and hence involves minimal cost of production. This cheap and assured supply provides a significant competitive


Plastivision Arabia 2012

Plastivision Arabia 2012: In a nutshell When

May 14–17, 2012

Where

Expo Centre Sharjah, UAE

Net exhibition Area

10,000 sq m

Total no of exhibitors

120+

Expected no of visitors

6,000+

advantage to the Gulf players visà-vis their global competitors who procure feedstock at market rates. These cost advantages, coupled with increasing environmental regulation of petrochemicals companies in the West and the rising margin pressure across the world, offer a congenial environment for growth of the petrochemicals industry in the Gulf. UAE is a country strategically linked to high-growth markets such as India and China, apart from several other emerging markets in Africa and the Middle East. This advantage reduces transportation costs in comparison to any South East Asian country or Europe. Plastivision Arabia 2012 will be a significant and comprehensive sourcing platform for raw materials, primary processing and auxiliary equipment, machinery and related products & services. The show is expected to contribute to an exponentially growing plastics industry owing to the twin benefits of abundant availability of raw materials and low feedstock prices in the region. Desai avers, “Indian machinery suppliers are best placed to effectively tap the fast-expanding plastics and petrochemicals sector in the UAE as well as the adjacent regions, owing to factors such as logistical advantage due to geographic proximity, excellent trade & cultural ties, and the unique demographic benefit of trading with a strong Indianorigin business community. Proximity of UAE to India will be a great boon to the manufacturing sector of both regions. With just over three hours of flying time between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and major cities of India, the cost of transportation and ease of travel

for technicians to install & maintain machines is cost-effective as compared to that in any part of the world.”

Banking on people power The traditionally close and friendly India–UAE bilateral relationship has evolved into a significant partnership in the economic and commercial sphere. Indians have emerged as important investors in the UAE and India has become an important export destination for UAE-manufactured goods. Apart from manufacturing, the two nations have been cooperating on several fronts such as scientific research, defence technology, cultural exchange, among others. UAE is home to an Indian expatriate community of over 1.75 million – the largest expatriate community in the UAE. The Indian community has played a major role in the economic development of the UAE. The economic boom in the UAE has created a huge demand for skilled and

Key highlights of UAE Trade hub of the Middle East Major polymer processing centre Gateway to GCC and African countries Modern ports and logistics facilities Free trade zones Tax-free environment Availability of highly skilled workforce Favourable labour laws Proximity to major consumer base Large hydrocarbon resources

semi-skilled professionals from India. Desai adds, “A major chunk of the 1.7-million Indian population in the UAE involves qualified technical personnel and business professionals engaged in different sectors. The majority of the workforce in the UAE constitutes Indians, and this will help create a unique synergy between both the sides in terms of coordination, cooperation and communication in situations that might arise due to expansions, machinery upgrades and maintenance. Since Indians also hold important positions in major UAEbased companies, their presence in various segments of the petrochemicals and plastics industry is encouraging. Indian investors’ attention in the UAE will play a significant role in the growth and exposure of the region’s plastics industry.”

Strengthening the ties According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, the data for the 2010-11 fiscal year shows that exports and imports between the two countries totaled $ 67 billion, with exports amounting to over $ 34 billion and imports coming in at just under $ 33 billion. With huge volume demand pressures on the local manufacturing f raternity, the region is becoming the focus of international polymer producers and converters. This offers immense growth potential for the regional downstream industry as well as the international plastics materials and machinery expertise. Desai c on c l u d e s , “Indian manufacturers can also leverage on the flourishing trade ties, with the UAE being the top trading partner of India. As UAE is the commercial and regional re-export hub, Indian plastics machinery suppliers can also explore the rest of the region, with the total number of Indians working and living in the Gulf standing at over six million, and the India–GCC trade accounting for over $ 130 billion in 2010-11.” Email: lionel.alva@infomedia18.in

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

85




EVENT REPORT: Vinyl India-2012

Capitalising on infrastructure growth The stage was set for Vinyl India-2012, now in its second edition, which allowed producers and processors to explore opportunities and form partnerships on a unique platform where global giants from the industry could interact with their Indian counterparts, thereby establishing a formidable alliance. Lionel Alva

T

he illustrious ascent of the Indian polymer industry has been a silent contributor of sorts to the shimmering spectacle of India’s success story as being among the fastest growing markets the world over. It is no secret that the polymer industry does not really get its due despite being an inseparable part of our lives today, as is apparent from its ubiquitous presence in almost every application. This is largely owing to significant innovations in polymers that have opened up new vistas for potential applications that were not considered earlier as being even remotely possible. Vinyl India-2012, recently held in Mumbai, was the second international vinyl conference organised by Chemicals

and Petrochemicals Manufacturers’ Association (CPMA) and Elite Plus Business Services Pvt Ltd. The conference was attended by more than 500 delegates from over 250 companies and 20 countries. The conference saw participation of over 30 eminent speakers from India and overseas. The two-day action-packed event included discussions on Indian and global Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) industry, feedstock to polymers, machinery, compounding & processing, health safety & environment, PVC profiles and Oriented PVC (O-PVC), which is an emerging technology for high-quality pipes. The major attractions of the twoday event were a panel discussion on the Indian PVC industry and a Chinese delegation. The organisers also presented ‘Life Time Achievement Awards’ to three eminent veterans of the PVC industry

(L-R) Kamal P Nanavaty, President - Strategy Development, Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL); S S Naik, Senior Vice President, RIL; Warren Wilder, President, Polymer & Cracker Business, RIL; Dr Rajiv Kumar, Secretary General, FICCI; and Shailesh Haribhakti, Chairman, BDO Consulting Pvt Ltd, at the inaugural session

88

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

– M P Taparia of Supreme Industries, Bhavarlal Jain of Jain Irrigation and N Sankar of Chemplast Sanmar Group.

Driving the need for regulations Valued at over ` 20,000 crore, the vinyl industry in India is a force to reckon with and consists of five major producers and over 600 processors engaged in making consumer and industrial products. Vinyl India-2012 provided a strong platform for the industry to build closer ties, examine key areas of concern and establish major business partnerships, further accelerating the growth and development of this vibrant sector. PVC producers and processors equally shared the concern for the need for high quality standards in India, which often takes a back seat and low cost becomes priority. Chlorinated PVC (C-PVC) is an emerging application in India for hot and cold water in plumbing & industrial applications. With India accounting for a sizeable share of global C-PVC, it is another game-changing application that grew by 45 per cent last year. The conference brought out clearly that the pipe sector would undergo structural changes in the next 3-4 years, with preference for quality pipes over low cost. “There is an elaborate focus on the construction industry and much needs to be done to change the perspective. Today, most metallic applications are being replaced with PVC, and although PVC quality is improving steadily, it is still not on par with the international standards due to the absence of industry regulations. The industry has


Vinyl India-2012

Life Time Achievement Awards to three eminent veterans of the PVC industry (L - R): M P Taparia of Supreme Industries, Padmashri Dr Bhavarlal Jain of Jain Irrigation and N Sankar of Chemplast Sanmar Group

a promising future, since from here it can only get better,� observed Sumeet Sindhu, Director, Sindhu Group. The occasion also witnessed the launch of Indian Plastic Pipe Academy (IPPA). IPPA is envisioned to be a nodal agency and guide the user segment for the use of optimum quality products. Hopefully, this will go a long way in furthering the growth of the industry.

Focus on sustainability PVC consumption in India has grown

over 10 per cent per annum in the past; moreover, future projections indicate double-digit growth. At present, PVC consumption in India is 2 Million Metric Tonne (MMT) per year, with infrastructure and housing sector being the key drivers of growth. Further, the 12th Plan projection of the Government of India calls for increasing the share of manufacturing in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 18 per cent to 25 per cent, which is an indication of the growth potential of the PVC industry. With investment all set to double at

$ 1025 billion in the 12th Plan from $ 514 billion in the 11th Plan, this depicts the potential for plastics applications in the construction industry. The average domestic demand is 12.75 MMT in 2012, with exports at 4.2 MMT. While consolidation of growth opportunities was the key area of discussion, there was a heightened emphasis on sustainability where the speakers highlighted the need for integrated solutions, including the supply chain, value drivers and end-user segments. Email: lionel.alva@infomedia18.in

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

89


EVENT REPORT: Conference on Indian Medical Devices and Plastics Disposables Industr y 2012

Leveraging on healthy prospects The growth potential for the Indian medical device industry is on an overdrive. This is cause by increasing use of plastics in medicine and diagnostics. In such a scenario, the recently conducted Conference on Indian Medical Devices and Plastics Disposables Industry 2012 adds vigour to the Indian medical device industry, and thereby the plastics industry, ensuring a healthy growth. Avani Jain

T

he use of plastics in medical devices is growing continuously, as new polymers edge out metals, ceramics and other conventional materials. A wide array of medical plastics is available for manufacturers today, and the choices are still expanding, as materials developers find new ways to deliver greater strength, flexibility, resistance to sterilisation or bodily materials or aesthetic appeal. Besides, the medical devices industry is facing certain issues, which must be resolved for ensuring continuous growth. With the aim to discuss the domestic and global challenges faced by the industry, the Conference on Indian

Medical Devices and Plastics Disposables Industry 2012 was recently organised in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The two-day event was sponsored by Government of Gujarat under the Vibrant Gujarat 2013 event series and saw participation of many industry associations - Association Of Indian Medical Device Industry; Medical Disposables Manufacturers Association; Society of Biomaterials & Artificial Organs; National Biomedical Engineering Society; Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council (Pharmexcil); Food and Drugs Control Administration, Government of Gujarat; Association of Diagnostics Manufacturers of India; All India Plastics Manufacturers Association; Gujarat State Plastics Manufacturers Association; and Indian Plastics Institute.

Hemant G Koshia, Commissioner, Food & Drugs Control Administration, Government of Gujarat (third from left) and Raghuveer G Kini, Additional Executive Director, Pharmexcil (second from right) lighting the lamp at the inaugural ceremony along with other dignitaries

90

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

Raising the curtain The event was inaugurated by B B Swain, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC), in the presence of many other dignitaries. In his inaugural address, Swain said, “India is witnessing an increasing demand for medical devices. The medical device market is worth $ 3 billion and expected to grow at 12-16 per cent over the next five years.�

Platform for opportunities The event served as a perfect meeting place for industry leaders, decision makers and trade associations looking for new tie-ups and announcements for the future. More than 45 experts shared their rich experience, knowledge and vision on varied subjects relating to the industry with over 400 delegates. A Conference was held in conjunction with Technology Display Show Exhibition and the Global Business Meet for medical device exporters, organised by Pharmexcil. The Global Business Meet saw about 20 buyers from various countries meeting about 40 Indian manufacturers and exporters of medical devices, surgicals & pharmaceuticals. The Technology Display Show Exhibition was also well received during the two-day event. The event proved to be an effective and interactive platform for delegates representing the industry, research and academic institutions from India & abroad, all under one roof. Email: avani.jain@infomedia18.in



BOOK REVIEW

Polyelectrolytes and Polyzwitterions Editor : Lowe & McCormik Price : ` 7,940

Controlled / Living Radical Polymerization Editor : Krzysztof Matyjaszewski Price : ` 11,155

Polymers or macromolecules, which resemble synthetic analogues of fundamental building blocks of life, such as proteins, DNA and certain carbohydrates, are of interest to polymer chemists. Polyelectrolytes and polyzwitterions are such synthetic analogues that find applications in oil recovery, cosmetics, paper making, stabilisers in emulsion formulations, drug delivery vehicles, contact lenses & coating for blood filtration devices. Polyelectrolytes – often called polysalts – display properties of salts and high-molecular-weight compounds in aqueous solutions. Many biological molecules such as proteins and DNA are polyelectrolytes. Polyzwitterions are polysalts that are neutral molecules having positive and negative charges. Polybetains are electrolytes with positive and negative functional groups and are a subclass of Polyzwitterions. The book mentions advancements in Controlled Radical Polymerisation by using techniques such as Stable Free Radical Polymerisation (SFRP), Atom Transfer Polymerisation (ATRP) and Reversible Addition Fragmentation Polymerisation (RAFT). These techniques are used for creating new molecules in biomedical applications, personal care, mining and oil field chemical formulations. The book is a part of ACS Symposium Series of American Chemical Society. This series publishes timely, original research and review papers from ACS-sponsored symposia based on current scientific research in Chemistry.

This volume of Controlled/Living Radical Polymerization comprises topical reviews and specialist contributions presented at the ACS symposium in 2005. The symposium was supported by all leading chemical companies of the world who are engaged in polymer research. This shows the interest in this new field that has emerged in the last two decades. Living polymerisation is a method of synthesising block copolymers, which became popular in the last two decades. Here, a polymer can be synthesised in stages, with each stage containing a different type of monomer with predetermined molar mass and control over end groups. Since polymerisation is carried out with precise control over molecular architecture, the process is called Controlled Polymerisation (CRP). The techniques used are Stable Free Radical Polymerisation (SFRP), Atom Transfer Polymerisation (ATRP) and Reversible Addition Fragmentation Polymerisation (RAFT). These techniques have been developed in the last decade and find applications in commercial production of many new materials. Polymers made from such techniques are used as sealants, coatings and hybrid nanocomposites to improve lubrication and prevent corrosion as well as biomedical applications such as controlled drug release and drug targeting. The book is meant for researchers in the field of CRP.

Reviewer: Dr Yatish B Vasudeo, President, BY INNOVATIONS Consultancy (I) Pvt Ltd Avaliable at: SCI-TECH Books & Periodicals, 414, Janki Centre, Veera Desai Road, Andheri (W), Mumbai 400 053 Tel: 022-2673 5260/6697 0507 • Telefax: 022-2673 5424/2673 5260 • Email: scitech@vsnl.com

92

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012





PRODUCT S

Looking For A Specific Product? Searching and sourcing products were never so easy. Just type MPP (space) Product Name and send it to 51818

eg. MPP Pump and send it to 51818 Anti-static plastic pallet Plastic flap loaded foot valve The new range of plastic flap loaded foot valve is most popular due to its friction-free low cost design. It gives better linear flow of water in the suction lines than CI foot valves. These products exhibit some of the distinguished features, like durability, f riction-f ree design, corrosion resistance, leakage-proof and dimensional accuracy. Technical specifications include standards as per IS:10805:1986 of BIS, thread as per IS:554:1985 of BIS, body test pressure at 0.5 MPa, seat test pressure at 0.02 MPa, normal bore size 21/2" and 3" (65 mm and 80 mm), and materials of construction: PP body, PP strainer, and PVC washer. Arti Products Rajkot - Gujarat Tel: 0281-2388908, Mob: 09428155144 Email: arti_product@sify.com Website: www.artiproducts.in

Dehumidifying dryer The SDD series dehumidifying dryer uses honeycomb dehumidifier with very elegant and semi-integral appearance. This model contains dehumidifying and drying into same unit. The drying hopper comes with downwards dry air blowing system, which improves drying efficiency. Also it reduces energy consumption and is most economical for customers using it. The dehumidifier of SDD contains two coolers inside it, which ensures low return air temperature and low dew point. This equipment is microprocessor controlled and compact. It has applications in plastic processing industries and is unique for those processors who use PA, PC, PBT, PET, etc. All models come with process heaters and insulated drying hopper. Shini Plastics Technologies (India) Pvt Ltd Dist Thane - Maharashtra Tel: 0250-3021132 Email: info@shiniindia.com Website: www.shini.com 96

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

This anti-static plastic pallet is available in various sizes. It is made from virgin foodgrade plastic materials and is used in pharmaceutical and food-based industries. Also offered are grain storage pallets, steel reinforced plastic pallets, drum pallets, moulded plastic pallets, rackable plastic pallets, etc. Ergen Plastic Industries Jodhpur - Rajasthan Tel: 0291-2433737, Mob: 09414195707 Email: info@ercon.co.in Website: www.indiamart.com

Plastic planters These coloured plastic planters are made using optimum quality and hard plastic. Durable in nature and sturdy by frame, the plastic planters are offered in various colours and design patterns. The plastic planters are ideal for indoor as well as outdoor applications. These are used to hold plants and enhance the decor of surroundings. The products comply to all national and international standards set by the industry. Samruddhi Industries Ltd Sangli - Maharashtra Tel: 0233-264573, Mob: 09423677084 Email: samruddhi@samruddhi.com Website: www.samruddhi.com

Automatic mould changing trolley tamper The prototype of multiple ejection forming machines (punching machines) jointly shares one set of quick die changing system for practitioners, enabling them to use it to be able to totally and really understand automatic mould changing trolley system, its demand and necessity during production automation. Forwell Precision Machinery Co Ltd Changhua County - Taiwan Tel: +886-4-8345196 Email: forwell@forwell.com Website: www.forwell.com



PRODUCT S

Twin-screw extruder gearbox Corresponding to the increasing demand of the twin-screw extruder, the series of high-performance gearbox for the twinscrew extruder has been developed. The gearbox of this series is developed by featuring high-torque and high-speed output rate. This series of gearboxes is embedded with excellence high dissipation and oil lubrication system to perform stable output under heavyloading force. The axial thrust is supported by an axial roller-type swivel thrust-bearing of the 294-E series, coupled with thrust bearings assembled in tandem way. Sun Lung Gear Works Co, Ltd Tainan City - Taiwan Tel: +886-6-2639969 Email: david@slgear.com.tw Website: www.slgear.com.tw

Rotary filtration systems Rotary filtration systems enable fully automatic, process and pressure constant filtration. Its disk with its ring of screen cavities is located between two solid steel blocks. The Gneuss MRS multi-rotation systems offer possibilities in the venting or devolatilisation of polymer melts. These allow processing of PET without pre-drying. Gneuss Kunststofftechnik GmbH Bad Oeynhausen - Germany Tel: +49-5731-57315307 Email: gneuss@gneuss.com Website: www.gneuss.de

Metering feeders Conair BFS and BFH metering feeders provide injection moulders and extruders with a versatile, economical way to volumetrically meter colorants or other additives into the flow of virgin material directly at the throat of the processing machine. By metering additives directly at the throat, greater 98

Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

savings in material inventory and colourant is achieved over traditional pre-coloured or centrally blended material schemes. Features include model for low/high throughput, injection or extrusion control, easy, no-tools cleanout, digital setpoint accuracy, optional low level alarm, etc. Nu-Vu Conair Pvt Ltd Ahmedabad - Gujarat Tel: 079-32985993 Email: nuvu@conairgroup.com Website: www.conairgroup.com

Temperature control system The 2 to 16 zone control panel for hot runner temperature control system is widely used in plastic injection moulding. Panels are designed taking into consideration all the required controlling and safety features to accurately maintain the desired temperature of all the zones. The main components of the control panel include: model PID-723 temperature controller, LTC16 SCR based heater power regulator, HMC-8 heater monitoring card, PWM-4 pulse width modulation card, and pther panel accessories. Libratherm Instruments Pvt Ltd Mumbai - Maharashtra Tel: )22-28963823, Mob: 09821136685 Email: libratherm@libratherm.com Website: www.libratherm.com

Plastic pallet A wide range of plastic pallets is offered for every application in material handling. These pallets are made out of prime grade advanced polyethylene materials. The pallets are known for longer life, superior performance and ensuring best in industry quality standards in both automated and traditional material handling and distribution systems. The heavy-duty steel reinforced plastic pallets are ideal alternatives for steel and wooden pallets. Swift Techno Plast Pvt Ltd Navi Mumbai - Maharashtra Tel: 022-22978351, Mob: 09769220221 Email: sales@swiftind.co.in Website: www.plasticpallet.co.in



PRODUCT S

In-mould labelling system The in-mould labelling system has advantages, like reduced costs, promotes hygienic production, increases decorative possibilities, offers resistant to heat & scratching, reduction in-house container inventory & overhead costs, better strain & squeeze resistance, improved sidewall strength and self-life. Application areas are injection moulding IML for cups & containers, thermoforming IML, blow moulding IML, and BDA (blister decorating applications) for thermoformed PET/ PVC blister packaging. Neejtech India Ahmedabad - Gujarat Tel: 079-26561312, Mob: 09825040231 Email: info@neejtech.com Website: www.neejtech.com

Centrifugal air blowers and fans The high-efficiency centrifugal air blowers and fans handle air/hot flow gases/corrosive gases/dust/fibber/powder materials, etc. These are available for impeller mounted and motor shaft/direct coupled/V-belt drive. The impeller has backward/back inclined/forward curves type design with construction welded/riveted selected based on required application. The blowers and fans are designed in single stage/multi-stage/DWDI type depending upon the required specification. These have capacity ranging from 100 m続/hr to 3, 00,000 m続/hr and pressure up to 2500 mm WG. Vacunair Engineering Co Pvt Ltd Ahmedabad, Gujarat Tel: 079-22910771, Mob: 09824036375 Email: info@vacunair.com Website: www.vacunair.com

PP sheets The polypropylene (PP) sheets have excellent smooth surface. These sheets also have glass cloth backing options available. The sheets come with good weldability, weathering resistance, outstanding flexibility, low thermal conductivity, high chemical conductivity, high chemical resistance and long life. Sangir Plastics Pvt Ltd Mumbai - Maharashtra Tel: 022-28726120 Email: sangirnp@bom7.vsnl.net.in Website: www.sangirplastics.com 100 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



PRODUCT S

Rotomoulded plastic pallets

Injection moulding machine

Steel reinforced plastic pallets are perfect solution for heavyduty application of pallets in material handling. These pallets are manufactured by high quality UV stabilised virgin foodgrade polyethylene (LLDPE) material, and hence are safe for contact with food stuff. Steel reinforcement technology enhances the static and dynamic load capacity of the pallets. Some of the features are high load bearing capacity due to inbuilt hidden steel reinforcement, UV stabilised polyethylene prevents from harmful UV rays, enhancing extra life to the pallet, moulded in onepiece body structure, plain top, washable, clean and sanitary, weather-proof, termite-proof and fungus-resistant, etc. All pallets are strictly manufactured as per IS7276 standards.

The EI series injection moulding machine saves up to 70 per cent energy consumption by using servo motor as energy saving solutions. This has achieved highly precision, lowly platen deflection and wearresistance. The personified operational interface makes the machine operation easy and ensures the production quality. It is easy to operate with automatic detection functions, displaying the machine’s extraordinary injection moulding performance. The machine is widely used in electronic industry, auto industry, optical eyewear and household appliances all over the world.

Swift Techno Plast Pvt Ltd Navi Mumbai - Maharashtra Tel: 022-22978351, Mob: 09769220221 Email: sales@swiftind.co.in Website: www.plasticpallet.co.in

Shuenn Jann Machinery Co Ltd Tainan - Taiwan Tel: +886-6-2339590 Email: dearday@ms15.hinet.net Website: www.soongiant.com.tw

102 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



PRODUCT S

Air-cooled compressor

Co-extrusion system

A unique range of air-cooled compressors is offered for industries that demand oilfree air at their application point. The non-lubricated compressor offers advantages of low energy consumption and low running costs. The air-cooled design eliminates the need for water cooling systems, thereby saving industrial water costs. Twostage air-cooled aftercooler has a 0.25 kW single-phase motor driving a cooling fan. This eliminates the need for cooling towers, water circulation pumps and the associated piping, thus reducing the initial investment. This also reduces the installed power.

This is a complete air-cooled blown-film co-extrusion system up to 11-layers for the most demanding food, medical and industrial packaging applications. The barrier film line is configured with the legendary streamlined co-extrusion die (SCD) either in its conventional configuration with air-gap temperature isolation between modules or in its more recent compact FlexSTACK configuration. Superior thickness uniformity is achieved with the I-Flex auto gauge control system, while unsurpassed roll quality with any type of film is attained with the FlexWIN gap turret winders with linear lay-on roll.

Elgi Equipments Ltd Coimbatore - Tamil Nadu Tel: 0422-2589326, Mob: 09790039326 Email: enquiry@elgi.com Website: www.elgi.com

Brampton Engineering Inc Ontario - Canada Tel: +1-905-7933000 Email: salesadmin@be-ca.com Website: www.be-ca.com

104 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



PRODUCT S

High-pressure cleaner The HDS 558 C Eco hot-water compact class high-pressure cleaner is simple in operation. The impressive features of the compact class include single-button control, chassis with integrated tank and the integrated high-pressure hose reel. It is very user-friendly and is a single-phase comfort unit of the compact class with one-button operation. The high-pressure cleaner has chassis with integrated tanks, hose and accessory stowage. Karcher Cleaning System Pvt Ltd Noida - Uttar Pradesh Tel: 0120-4661800 Email: kritika.batra@karcher.in Website: www.karcher.in

Thermic fluid heater The thermic fluid heater and hot water generator have capacities ranging from 30,000 kCal/hr to 20,00,000 kCal/hr. Maximum operating temperature is 300°C for thermic fluid and 130°C for hot water. Concentric coil is made from MS seamless tube of Asthma 106 GR-B. The unit is equipped with high efficiency oil/gas burner with air pre-heater arrangement giving high thermal efficiency of 87 ±2 per cent on NCV. The unit is outside the purview of IBR. Aero Therm Systems Pvt Ltd Ahmedabad, Gujarat Tel: 079-25890158, Mob: 09825008720 Email: contact@aerothermsystem.com Website: www.aerothermsystem.com

TPE foaming materials The TPE foaming materials meet international environmental standards. These are comfortable to touch with conforming physical characteristic. The foaming materials have optimised vulcanisation resulting in excellent flexibility and anti-spreading. These have excellent electroinsulation compounds and contain durability for better acid and alkali resistance. The materials are non-toxic, odourless, and harmless to the environment and human body. These can meet the individual demands for the customers with adjustable materials. Microcell Composite Company Tainan County , Taiwan Tel: 886-6-2641352 Email: karen@microcell.com.tw Website: www.microcell.com.tw 106 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



PRODUCT S

Plastic injection moulding machine The PET-LINE is based on the platform with 3500 kN clamping force covering moulds with 48 to 128 cavities. This machine offers solution to cope with the rising demand from the beverages and foodstuffs industry. Numerous optimisations, such as the simplified product removal and aftercooling unit or the increased injection pressure to shorten the cycle time make the PETLINE a economical system solution for production of PET preforms. Netstal-Maschinen AG Naefels - Switzerland Tel: +41-55-6186111 Email: marketing@netstal.com Website: www.netstal.com

Reduction gearbox and geared motor The new ZPE series for driving single-screw extruders is effectively very complete, as it begins with the smallest gearbox size of 100 (suitable for single-screw extruders having screw diameters of 25/30 mm) and reaches the 630 size (suitable for big single-screw extruders having screw diameters of 250/300 mm). High

108 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012

quality is a typical feature of this new range. This refers to all toothed gears, which are manufactured and checked with utmost precision. Zambello Riduttori Group Milano - Italy Tel: +39-331-307616 Email: info@zambello.it Website: www.zambello.it

Hot runner systems Mastip hot-half-hot runner system is used in plastic moulding industry. It is also used for manufacturing electrical, electronics, packaging, automobiles, white goods and consumer products. The key feature of the system is that it takes away hassles of assembly and ensures smooth start-up, reduces time-span of mould manufacturing to parts production. The hot halfs are engineered to international standards and pre-sales liaison with mould manufacturer makes hot half installation in the mould, convenient and easy. Madhu Machines & Systems Pvt Ltd Vadodara - Gujarat Tel: 0265-2353886 Email: machinery@madhu-group.com



PRODUCT S

Injection moulding machine The twoplaten injection m o u l d i n g machine is available f rom 850-3500 tons. This machine takes less space, and is provided with four sets of hydraulic cylinders, which are on the moveable platen instead of fixed platen. The design not only ensures precise and accurate clamping force but also gives large space for operator to work on the fixed platen. Mould-open position is more accurate. The tie bars and hydraulic cylinder pistons are isolated. There is no need to dismantle hydraulic cylinders and there is no risk of damaging seals while changing tie bars. Jon Wai Machinery Works Co Ltd Taipei - Taiwan Tel: +886-2-25954867 Email: jonwai.mc@msa.hinet.net Website: www.jonwai.com

110 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



PRODUCT S

Injection moulding and vulcanising machine A diversified range of hydraulic, compression, rubber injection moulding and vulcanising machinery is offered. The machines are designed for processes involved with temperature and pressure, rubber and silicon-based applications, as well as for metal processing. The production capacity ranges from 5 to 10,000 tons. Also offered is customdesigned machinery, which is used for manufacturing automotive parts, 3C, aerospace, military and medical equipment, transportation, tyre-retread, solid tyre, rubber block, conveyor belt, dock fence, etc. Tung Yu Hydraulic Machinery Co Ltd Nantou County - Taiwan Tel: +886-49-2253588 Email: tungyu@tungyu.com Website: www.tungyu.com

Injection moulding machines The product range of these injection moulding machine includes: mould makers, A/C, HVAC parts/components, auto parts/components, OA furniture, 3C parts/components, plastic houseware, etc. Aplus Molds & Plastics Co Ltd Tainan - Taiwan Tel: +886-2-27235390 Email: green-maxi@umail.hinet.net Website: www.chenlueng.com

PVC perforated cable tray Shital rigid PVC perforated cable tray is ideal replacement to MS tray. It is not affected by any corrosive chemicals and is waterproof. The tray is UV stabilised to resist ultraviolet rays of the sun and hence is used outside for prolonged period. The PVC cable tray is available in widths ranging from 50 to 500 mm, with flange heights of 25, 50 and 75 mm and standard length of 2.9 meters. It is lightweight and maintenance-free. The cable tray is joined by socketed jointing system, which means no coupler plates incorporated. Supreme Electroplast Industries Mumbai - Maharashtra Tel: 022-28873428, Mob: 09820306252 Email: supshitl@vsnl.com Website: www.supshitl.com 112 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



PRODUCT S

Automatic dies These automatic dies are used for extrusion & coextrusion and cast film lines. The automatic dies control the precision of products effectively and promptly thorough fine-adjustment of thermal expansion bolts in accordance with the feedback data measured by thickness gauge. As of the control to the expansion of thermal bolts, the thickness of final product is adjusted quicker and precisely. This guarantees thickness in the tolerance all time and acquire qualified projects in much more shorter period. Jingcheng Times (Beijing) Plastic Machinery Co Ltd Beijing - China Tel: +86-10-59003588 Email: jingcheng_times@vip.163.com Website: www.jingcheng.com

Blow moulding machines These are fully automatic blow moulding machines for PET containers. The machines are accepted in different industries to manufacture PET containers, ie, mineral and distilled water, carbonated drinks, food and candy, sauce and juices, edible oil, detergent, pharmacy, cosmetic, liquor, etc. Various models are available that have different capacity, ie, 300 bottles to 600 bottles per hour. Santec Hydrofluid Engineers New Delhi Tel: 011-27311039, Mob: 09811664677 Email: info@santecindia.com Website: www.santecindia.com

Extruder This extruder is offered for producing nylon monofilament. Nylon monofilament is used as bristles in production of brushes, brooms and also fishing nets, etc. The equipment comprises a single-screw extruder fitted with nitrided screw and barrel set, AC motor drive, inverter panel for smooth control of screw speed, heaters, die-head with spinneret for producing filaments, chilling tank, take-up stations with variable speed drives, orientation oven, stabilising oven, spool winder and control panels. Malik Engineers Dist Thane - Maharashtra Tel: 0250-2390839 Email: info@malikengg.com Website: www.malikengg.com

The information published in this section is as per the details furnished by the respective manufacturer/ distributor. In any case, it does not represent the views of Business Insights •Technologies•Opportunities

114 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012


Why Subscribe? Be the first to get the latest news, views & reviews relevant to your Industry. Door delivery of copies. Never miss an issue. Easy payment options.

Years

(36 issues)

You Pay `. 1999/Get 44% dis c ount on Cover Price `. 3600/-

http://eshop.infomedia18.in

Year (12 issues)

You Pay `. 799/Get 33% dis c ount on Cover Price `. 1200/-

SSSSS UUUUU BBBBB SSSSS CCC C C RRRIRR I IBII BBEBB EE EE



LIST OF PRODUCT S

Looking For A Specific Product? Searching and sourcing products were never so easy. Just type MPP (space) Product Name and send it to 51818

eg. MPP Pump and send it to 51818 Product

Pg No

AC drive ..................................................................110 Acoustic enclosure ............................................................ 49 Additives .......................................................................... 27 Air audit blower ............................................................... 41 Air bubble sheet plant...................................................... 87 Air chiller ......................................................................... 25 Air-cooled chiller ............................................................. 14 Air-cooled compressor ................................................... 104 Aluminum extrusion ...................................................... 114 Ammonia liquid chiller .................................................... 94 Anti-static plastic pallet ................................................... 96 Automatic dies ............................................................... 114 Automatic mould changing trolley tamper ...................... 96 Automation system .......................................................... 91 Automation ...................................................................... 99 Bag making machine ................................................100 Barrel screws..................................................................... 19 Barrel .............................................................................. 124 Bi-axial plant .................................................................. 119 Bio-degradable additive.............................................. 27, 36 Black masterbatches ......................................................... 27 Blender .................................................................... FIC, 21 Blow moulding machines ......................................... 16, 114 Blow moulding-extrusion ............................................... 104 Blower .............................................................................. 91 Blown film extrusion system .......................................... BC Bottle testing equipment ................................................ 102 Brine chiller...................................................................... 14 Bulk milk cooler ............................................................... 94 Butterfly valve .................................................................. 94 Cast film line ......................................................87, 104 Centrifugal air blowers and fans .................................... 100 Chillers for batching plant ............................................... 14 Circular weaving loom ..................................................... 86 Circular weaving machine ................................................ 12 Clamps ........................................................................... 112 Cleaning oven ................................................................ 124 Cleanroom applications.................................................... 15 CNC vertical machining centre ....................................... 51 Co-extrusion moulding machine ................................... 104 Co-extrusion system....................................................... 104 Colour masterbatches ....................................................... 13 Colour additives ............................................................... 27 Colour masterbatches ....................................................... 27 Colouring extrusion plant .............................................. 119 Compact chiller ........................................................ 25, 121 Compounding extrusion................................................. 119 Compounding mixer ...................................................... 119 Compounds ...................................................................... 27 Compressed air dryer ..................................................... 113 Compression moulding hydraulic press ......................... 114 Compressor ...................................................................... 41 Conical twin screw extruder ...................................... 23, 61 Continuous screen changer ............................................ 124

Product

Pg No

Controller ......................................................................... 32 Conveying system............................................................. 99 CPVC pipes ................................................................. 8, 17 Crystalliser...................................................................... 113 Customised development scanner .................................... 32 Cutting and stitching machine ........................................ 12 Cyclic olefin copolymer....................................... FGF, BIC Dairy machinery ........................................................94 Data logger ....................................................................... 32 Dehumidified air dryer ............................................ 25, 121 Dehumidified dryer ................................................. FIC, 77 Dehumidifying dryer ........................................................ 96 Die changing system ........................................................ 50 Digital panel meter .......................................................... 10 Digital temperature controller.......................................... 97 Dosing and blending equipment...................................... 99 Dosing and mixing system ............................................... 91 Double shaft gearbox ................................................. 54, 89 Downstream extrusion equipment ................................. 104 Drives ............................................................................... 97 Dry vane pump ................................................................ 49 Dry-break couplings......................................................... 41 Drying and dehumidifying system................................... 91 Drying system .................................................................. 99 Drymax air-hot air dryer .............................................. FIC Drymax dryer ................................................................ FIC Drymax pet-dehumidified dryer ................................... FIC Dual channel with modbus .............................................. 97 Dyestuffs .......................................................................... 81 Dynamic controller .......................................................... 97 Ejector.......................................................................41 Electric injection moulding machine gearbox............ 5, 110 Extruder machine ....................................................... 33, 39 Extruder ......................................................................... 114 Extrusion coating lamination plant.................................. 87 Extrusion coating line ...................................................... 12 Extrusion dies..................................................................... 6 Extrusion plant............................................................... 119 Extrusion pump.............................................................. 111 Extrusion system ............................................................ BC Extrusion-blow film ....................................................... 104 Extrusion-film and sheet................................................ 104 Extrusion-laminating and coating.................................. 104 Extrusion-pipe................................................................ 104 Extrusion-single screw extruder ..................................... 104 Extrusion-twin screw extruder ....................................... 104 Feeding and conveying system .............................91, 113 Ferrous casting machine ............................................... 114 Filler compounds .............................................................. 27 Fixtures ........................................................................... 112 Flame retardants............................................................... 27 Flexo printing machine ........................................................ 100........................................................................................ Fluorescent ....................................................................... 81

Product

Pg No

Foam moulding machine ............................................... 104 Forged components ........................................................ 114 Fueling system .................................................................. 41 Fully automatic strapping plant ....................................... 87 Gear motor .............................................................. 109 Gear pump ............................................................. 111, 124 Gearbox ...................................................................... 54, 89 Gears .......................................................................... 54, 89 Granulating and recycling plant ...................................... 91 Granulator ................................................FIC, 25, 113, 121 Gravimetric blender ....................................................... 121 Grinder ............................................................................. 25 Grip plier........................................................................ 112 Hard/sofa and free expansion sheet making plant...... 104 Heart valve frame........................................... 47, 59, 67, 69 Heat transfer rolls .......................................................... 124 Heating and cooling system ....................................... 91, 99 Helical speed reducer ................................................. 54, 89 High cavitations ............................................................... 15 High-performance screws .............................................. 124 High-precision hydraulic clamping injection moulding machine........................................... 107 High-pressure cleaner .................................................... 106 High-speed mixer ...................................................... 33, 39 High-speed rotogravure printing machine..................... 100 HM/ HDPE/ LDPE/ LLDPE....................................... 87 Hopper dryer .................................................................... 25 Hopper loader .......................................................... 25, 121 Horizontal handle clamp ............................................... 112 Hot air dryer ............................................................ 77, 121 Hot runner systems .................................................. 91, 108 Hydraulic power packs and automatic voltage stabiliser .. 50 IML technique ..........................................................15 Injection blow moulding machine ................................... 50 Injection moulding and vulcanising machine ................ 112 Injection moulding machines ........ 16, 21, 29, 101, 102, 105, 107, 110, 112, 114 In-line drip irrigation plant.............................................. 75 Inline drip tubing ......................................................... 8, 17 In-mould labelling system.............................................. 100 Insert moulding machine ................................................. 16 Jigs ........................................................................... 112 Jumbo blown film plant ................................................... 86 Lamination machine ................................................ 100 Lamination plant........................................................ 12, 86 Large flow water heater ................................................... 91 Liquid crystaline lymer ....................................... FGF, BIC Liquifier............................................................................ 14 Loader ........................................................................... FIC Loading arm..................................................................... 41 Machined components ............................................. 114 Manual and hydraulic screen changer ............................ 124 Masterbatches................................................................... 27 Material dryer .................................................................. 21

FGF - Front Gate Fold, FIC - Front Inside Cover, BIC - Back Inside Cover, BGF - Back Gate Fold, BC - Back Cover

May 2012 | Modern Plastics & Polymers 117


LIST OF PRODUCT S

Product

Pg No

Material storage system.................................................. 121 Material testing instrument ........................................... 102 Medical moulds ................................................................ 15 Metering feeders .............................................................. 98 Micro fine pulverising system ........................................ 119 Milky polymers .............................................................. 112 Mono and multi-layer sheet line...................................... 12 Monofilament line ........................................................... 12 Monofilament plant for PP/HDPE rope and twine ....... 86 Monolayer blown film line............................................. BC Monolayer blown film .................................................. 8, 17 Mould changing system ................................................... 73 Mould protection system paint shop ............................... 50 Mould temperature controllers .......................... 25, 77, 121 Moulding machine ........................................................... 15 Moulds ....................................................................... 33, 39 MTC ............................................................................. FIC Multi-component moulds ................................................ 15 Multi-layer blown film line .......................................12, BC Multi-layer blown film plant ........................................... 87 Multi-layer blown film ................................................. 8, 17 Multi-layer cast film line ................................................. 12 Natural polymers .....................................................112 Neat resin ......................................................................... 81 Non-ferrous casting........................................................ 114 Oil chiller .................................................................14 Paper chemicals .........................................................81 Paper lamination plant ..................................................... 86 Paperless recorder ............................................................. 10 Parallel and right angle axes gearbox ................................. 5 Parallel shaft helical gearbox ............................................ 54 Pelletisers ........................................................................ 124 PET bottle testing equipment ....................................... 102 PET box strapping plant ................................................. 87 PET perform dedicated machine..................................... 63 PET/PE washing line ...................................................... 12 PID temperature controller.............................................. 32 Pipe extrusion line for PVC/PPR/PE ........................... 107 Planetary gearbox ....................................................... 54, 89 Plastic auxiliary equipment .............................................. 50 Plastic brightener ........................................................... 112 Plastic compounds............................................................ 27 Plastic conveyor belt......................................................... 33 Plastic flap loaded foot valve............................................ 96 Plastic injection moulding machine ............................... 108 Plastic masterbatches ....................................................... 31 Plastic moulding machines............................................. 114 Plastic pallet ..................................................................... 98 Plastic planters ................................................................. 96 Plastic processing machine ............................................... 12 Plastic processing machinery ancillaries and spare .......... 19 Plastic textile and machinery ........................................... 71 Plastic tinopol ................................................................ 112 Plastic whitener .............................................................. 112 Plate heat exchanger ........................................................ 94 PLC and control .............................................................. 50 PLCs ................................................................................ 97 PLS and HMI based project ........................................... 32 Plug valve ......................................................................... 94 Plybutylene terepthalate ...................................... FGF, BIC Pneumatic valve................................................................ 94 Polymer conveyer belt ...................................................... 25 Polyolefin pipe.............................................................. 8, 17 Polyphenylene sulfide .......................................... FGF, BIC PP sheets ........................................................................ 100 PP TQ plant .................................................................... 87

Product

Pg No

PP/ HDPE semi-automatic strapping plant ................... 87 PP/HDPE rafffia tape lines............................................. 87 Pplyacetal copolymer........................................... FGF, BIC PP-r pipes .................................................................... 8, 17 PPRP powder................................................................. 112 Precision fabrication work .............................................. 112 Priming valves .................................................................. 41 Printing and cutting ........................................................ 12 Process controller ............................................................. 10 Process indicator .............................................................. 32 Process tank...................................................................... 94 Product assemblies ......................................................... 114 Profile controller............................................................... 97 Programmable counter and timer .................................... 32 Pull-action clamp ........................................................... 112 Pulveriser .................................................................... 33, 39 Pump .......................................................................... 41, 49 PVC foam core pipes ................................................... 8, 17 PVC kisan pipe plant ....................................................... 86 PVC mixer cooler......................................................... 8, 17 PVC palletising lines.................................................... 8, 17 PVC perforated cable tray.............................................. 112 PVC pipe...................................................................... 8, 17 PVC profile lines.......................................................... 8, 17 Quick die change system ............................................73 Quick mould change system ............................................ 73 Rail tanker.................................................................94 Recycled polymer ............................................................. 27 Recycling lines.................................................................. 12 Recycling machine ......................................................... 100 Recycling plant ................................................................. 99 Reduction gearbox and gear motor ................................ 108 Refrigerant pump ............................................................. 94 Refrigeration .................................................................... 94 Reprocessing plant ........................................................... 86 Resin dehumidifier ......................................................... 113 Rewinding machines ........................................................ 12 Robot system .............................................................. 21, 25 Robotics.......................................................................... 106 Robots ........................................................................... FIC Rock-and-roll machine .............................................. 33, 39 Roots blower .................................................................... 49 Rotary automatic hot colour marking machine ............... 95 Rotary filtration systems .................................................. 98 Rotational moulding machine ........................................ 119 Rotational moulds .......................................................... 119 Rotogravure printing machine ....................................... 100 Rotomoulded plastic pallets ........................................... 102 Rotomoulding machine .................................................. 119 Round table carrousel....................................................... 33 Safety access equipment .............................................41 Screw compressor ............................................................. 94 Screws............................................................................... 19 Secon and dull polymers ................................................ 112 Servo energy saving machine ........................................... 63 Shaft-mounted speed reducers ................................... 54, 89 Shut off nozzles ............................................................. 124 Shuttle rotomoulding machine ...................................... 119 Shuttle series plant ......................................................... 119 Side sealing bag-making machine.................................. 100 Single mill pulveriser.................................................. 33, 39 Single screw extruder gearbox ............................................ 5 Single screw extruder plant ........................................ 23, 61 Single shaft extruder gearbox ..................................... 54, 89 Single-screw extruder gearbox ......................................... 98 Slitting machine ............................................................. 100

Product

Pg No

Software for central monitoring..................................... 113 Solid granulators ............................................................ 119 Sprocket...................................................................... 54, 89 Stack moulds .................................................................... 15 Storage tank equipment ................................................... 41 Straight-line action clamp.............................................. 112 Stretch blow moulding machine ...................................... 16 System solution ................................................................ 91 Tank truck equipment................................................41 Tanks and silos ................................................................. 94 Tape stretching line .......................................................... 12 Technical moulds ............................................................. 15 Temperature control system ............................................. 98 Temperature controller ............................................... 10, 97 Testing instruments ........................................................ 102 Thermic fluid heater ...................................................... 106 Thermoformers .............................................................. BC Thermoforming and PS foam........................................ BC Thermoforming .............................................................. BC Thermoplastic alloys ........................................................ 81 Thermoplastic compounds ............................................... 81 Thermoplastic polyurethane............................................. 83 Thick and wide plastic sheet extrusion line..................... 18 Three-arm bi-axial rotomoulding machine................ 33, 39 Toggle action clamp ....................................................... 112 Toggle press.................................................................... 112 TPE foaming materials .................................................. 106 TPU adhesive ................................................................. 108 TPU hot-melt adhesive.................................................. 108 TPU ink ......................................................................... 108 TPU masterbatches .......................................................... 13 TPU shoe adhesive ........................................................ 108 Transmissions and PTOS ................................................ 41 Turned component ......................................................... 114 Twin mill pulverisers .................................................. 33, 39 Twin-screw co-rotating extruder ............ 47, 59, 67, 69, 123 Twin-screw element ............................... 47, 59, 67, 69, 123 Twin-screw extruder gearbox ..................................... 5, 110 Twin-screw extruder............................... 47, 59, 67, 69, 123 Twin-screw extrusion line .......................................... 23, 61 Two-colour cane plant ..................................................... 86 Two-layer blown film ................................................... 8, 17 Ultra sonic flow meter ................................................10 Universal controller .......................................................... 97 Vacuum booster pump ................................................49 Vacuum dryer ................................................................... 77 Vacuum forming machine .............................................. BC Vacuum pumps and systems ............................................ 41 Vacuum system ................................................................. 49 Variable displacement pump energy-saving machine ...... 63 Vertical handle clamp..................................................... 112 Vertical injection moulding machine ............................... 50 Vibratory screening system ............................................ 119 Vibroscreen................................................................. 33, 39 Virgin polymer ............................................................... 112 Volumetric dosing unit................................................... 113 Water chiller ............................................................ 113 Water jetting .................................................................... 41 Water-cooled chiller ......................................................... 14 WFR ............................................................................. FIC White masterbatches........................................................ 27 Winder ............................................................................. 86 Wire EDM ...................................................................... 51 Worm reducer gearbox ............................................... 54, 89 Worm reducers ........................................................... 54, 89 Woven-sack tape plant ..................................................... 86

FGF - Front Gate Fold, FIC - Front Inside Cover, BIC - Back Inside Cover, BGF - Back Gate Fold, BC - Back Cover

118 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



LIST OF ADVERTISERS Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Aerodry Plastics Automation Pvt Ltd

Pg No

Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details

45

Pg No

Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details

Pg No

Everest Transmission .................................... 49

Jing Cheng Mold Machinery Co. Ltd.............. 6

T: +91-120 4766777

T: +91-11-45457777

T: +86-576-8461-0001

E: info@aerodry.com

E: info@everestblowers.com

E: jc@jingcheng.com

W: www.aerodry.com

W: www.everestblowers.com

W: www.jc-times.com

Adroit Control Engineers ............................. 99

Ferromatik Milaon India Pvt Ltd .................. 25

Kabra Extrusion Technik Ltd.....................8, 17

T: +91-11- 47600700

T: +91-79-25890081

T: +91-22-2673 4822

E: salesfmi@milacron.com

E: sunil@kolsitegroup.com

W: www.milacronindia.com

W: www.kolsite.com

Flu Tech .....................................................114

Konark Plastomech Pvt Ltd .......................... 87

T: +91-79-40084051

T: +91-79-22891670

E: flutech@yahoo.com

E: sales@konarkplastomech.com

W: www.flutechindia.com

W: www.konarkplastomech.com

Forwell Precision Machinery Co Ltd ............ 73

K-Tron Process Group ................................. 79

E: sales@alokindustries.com

T: +886-4-834-5196

T: +856-589-0500

W: www.alokmasterbatches.com

E: forwell@forwell.com

Ash Win Engineers .....................................119

W: www.forwell.com

T: +91-79-22811879

Gardner Denver Engineered Pro. (I) ............. 41

E: info@ashwinengineersindia.com

T: +91-79-40089312

W: www.ashwinengineersindia.com

E: info.ahm@gardnerdenver.com

AVI Additives Pvt Ltd .................................. 27

W: www.gardnerdenver.com

T: +91-40-23550551/2/3/4

Goodie International ...................................111

E: info@aviadditives.com

T: +91-11-41613643

W: www.aviadditives.com

E: witte@goodiesons.com

Boge Compressed Air System ....................... 36

W: www.witte-pumps.de

E: sales@adroitcontrol.com W: www.adroitcontrol.com Aeromec Marketing Co Pvt Ltd .................... 95 T: +91-250-2454915 E: hvt@aeromec.in W: www.aeromec.in Alok Masterbatches Ltd ............................... 13 T: +91-11-41612244

T: +91-44-43009610

Heattrans Equipments Pvt Ltd ....................114

E: s.sriram@boge.com

T: +91-79-25840105

W: www.boge.in

E: info@heattrans.com

Bombay Hydraulic India ..............................110

W: www.heattrans.com

T: +91-161-2494216

Hindustan Plastic and

E: bombayhydraulic@yahoo.co.in

Machine Corporation .............................. 23, 61

W: www.info@bombayhydraulic.com

W: www.ktron.com L & T Plastics Machinery Ltd .................. FGF T: +91-22-67587668 E: tushar.birje@polyplastics.com W: www.polyplastics.com Larsen & Toubro Ltd ................................... 44 T: +91-22-6752 5656 E: ss-ccd@lth.ltindia.com W: www.larsentoubro.com Lohia Starlinger Ltd ..................................... 71 T: +91-11-30641770 E: prom.lsl@lohiagroup.com W: www.lohiagroup.com Loxim Industries Ltd .................................... 81 T: +91-2717-308000 E: info@loxim.com W: www.loxim.com

Chamunda Equipments ...............................112

T: +91-11-25473361

T: +91-79-27522437

E: poonam@hindustanplastics.com

E: clamp@chamundaequip.com

W: www.hindustanplastics.com

W: www.chamundaequip.com

IDMC Ltd ................................................... 94

Chi Chang Machinery Enterprise Co.,.........104

T: +91-2692-225399

T: +886-6-261-2121

E: idmc@idmc.coop

E: johnny@extrusion.com.tw

W: www.idmc.coop

E: rahuldeep@mass.motherson.com

W: www.extrusion.com.tw

Ingeco Gears Pvt Ltd.................................... 54

Disha Technologies ...................................... 50

Mifa Systems................................................ 97

T: +91-2717-651551

T: +91-11-45635747

T: +91-79-26870825

E: info@ingecogears.com

E: director@dishatech.co.in

E: info@mifasystems.com

W: www.ingecogears.com

W: www.dmppl.co.in

W: www.mifasystems.com

Ishan International......................................100

N.A. Corporation ......................................... 39

T: +91-9737992000

T: +91-79-25840374

E: sales@ishan-intl.com

E: info@naroto.com

W: www.ishan-intl.com

W: www.naroto.com

J.P. Extrusiontech Ltd................................... 12

Neejtech India (Braun) ................................. 15

T: +91-2646-222163

T: +91-79-26561312

E: info@jpextrusiontech.com

E: info@neejtech.com

W: www.jpextrusiontech.com

W: www.neejtech.com

Dongguan Alfa Automation Machinery .......106 T: +86-769-8318-0326 E: info@alfarobot.com W: www.alfarobot.com Essential Power Transmission Pvt Ltd..........109 T: +91-22-28488742 E: jshah@esenpro.com W: www.esenpro.com Our consistent advertisers

Lubrizol Advanced Materials India Pvt Ltd .. 83 T: +91-22-66027800 E: Estane-SA@lubrizol.com W: www.estane.com Matsui Technologies India Ltd ..................... 77 T: +91-120-4243862

COC - Cover on Cover, FGF - Front Gate Fold, FIC - Front Inside Cover, BIC - Back Inside Cover, BC - Back Cover

120 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012



LIST OF ADVERTISERS Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details

Pg No

Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details

Pg No

Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details

Pg No

Neejtech India (Niigata) ............................... 29

Radiant Controls And Automation Pvt Ltd... 32

Sun Yang Global Co Ltd ..............................108

T: +91-9909974224

T: +91-79-30126483

T: +886-4-2407-1588

E: contact@niigataindia.com

E: sales@radiantcontrols.in

E: justin@sunyangtpu.com

W: www.niigataindia.com

W: www.radiantcontrols.in

W: www.sunyangtpu.com

Rajoo Engineers Ltd....................................BC

Supermac Machinery ...................................103

T: +91-2827-252701

T: +91-9998040433

E: kcdoshi@rajoo.com

E: info@supermachinery.com

W: www.rajoo.com

W: www.supermacmachinery.com

T: +91-79-25620953

Remica Platics Machinery Manufactur ......... 86

Suresh Engineering Works ........................... 75

E: info@panchalmachinery.in

T: +91-79-25712741

T: +91-731-2527872

W: www.panchalmachinery.in

E: remicaplastic@dataone.in

E: suresen@aittelmail.in

Piovan India ...............................................113

W: www.remicaplastics.com

W: www.sureshengg.com

T: +91-22-28560450

Reynold India Pvt Ltd .................................. 14

Toshiba Machine (India) Pvt Ltd .................105

E: amit.bajaj@piovnindia.com

T: +91-120-4664000

T: +91-11-43291111

W: www.piovan.com

E: v.bali@reynoldindia.com

E: dineshelija@toshiba-machine.co.in

W: www.reynoldindia.com

W: www.toshiba-machine.co.jp

S&T Engineers ............................................ 51

Unimark (Maguire)....................................... 21

T: +91-422-2590810

T: +91-22-25506712

E: stycm@stengineers.com

E: infomum@unimark.in

W: www.stengineers.com

W: www.unimark.in

E: goldcoin@polymechplast.com

Sacmi Engineering India Pvt Ltd .................101

Unimark (Stahuli)......................................... 93

W: www..polymachplast.com

T: +91-7600003968

T: +91-22-25506712

Polyplastics Marketing (India) Pvt Ltd....... BIC

E: sales@negribossi.in

E: infomum@unimark.in

T: +91-22-67587668

W: www.negribossi.com

W: www.unimark.in

E: tushar.birje@polyplastics.com

Sanity International ..................................... 19

Vacon Drives ...............................................110

W: www.polyplastics.com

T: +91-79-65227458

T: +91-44-24490024

E: info@sanityindia.com

E: bavani@vacon.com

W: www.sanityindia.com

W: www.vacon.com

Shini Plastics Technologies I Pvt Ltd............ 91

Windsor Machines Limited .........................107

T: +91-250-3021166

T: +91-79-25841591

T: +91-11-47262000

E: jnbhat@shiniindia.com

E: sales.imm@windsormachines.com

E: delhi@prayagmb.com

W: www.shini.com

W: www.windsormachines.com

W: www.prayagmb.com

Specific Engineering ...................................123

Wittmann Battenfeld India Pvt Ltd ............FIC

Presto Stantest Pvt Ltd ................................102

T: +91-265-2646871

T: +91-44-42077009

T: +91-129-4085000

E: info@specificgroup.com

E: info@wittman-group.in

E: gaurav@prestogroup.com

W: www.specificgroup.com

W: www.info@wittman-group.in

Sri Sai Plasto Tech ....................................... 63

Xaloy Asia (Thailand) Ltd ...........................124

T: +91-44-42994365

T: +91-79-40327380

E: sspt_plastics@live.in

E: m.sanghvi@th.xaloy.com

W: www.srisaiplastotech.com

W: www.xaloy.com

R R Plast Extrusions Pvt Ltd ........................ 18

Steer Engineering Pvt Ltd ............ 47, 59, 67, 69

Zambello Riduttori S. R.I............................... 5

T: +91-22-42461500

T: +91-80-23723309

T: +39-0331-307-616

E: marketing@rrplast.com

E: info@steerworld.com

E: info@zambello.it

W: www.rrplast.com

W: www.steerworld.com

W: www.zambello.it

Nu - Vu Conair Pvt Ltd ...............................121 T: +91-9376783206 E: salesindia@conairgroup.com W: www.conairgroup.com Panchal Machinery ....................................... 89

Plast Fine Polymers .....................................112 T: +91-79-65242332 E: plastfine@gmail.com W: www.plastfine.com Poly Mechplast Machines Ltd....................... 16 T: +91-265-2631211

Prasad Gwk Cooltech Pvt Ltd....................... 33 T: +91-79-25830112 E: plastics@prasadgroup.com W: www.prasadgroup.com Prayag Polytech Pvt Ltd ............................... 31

W: www.prestogroup.com Procon Technologies Pvt Ltd ........................ 10 T: +91-79-27492566 E: info@procon.co.in W: www.procon.co.in

Our consistent advertisers

COC - Cover on Cover, FGF - Front Gate Fold, FIC - Front Inside Cover, BIC - Back Inside Cover, BC - Back Cover

122 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2012





May 2012

126

Modern Plastics & Polymers

Reg No: MH/MR/WEST/234/2012-2014 RNI No: MAHENG / 2008 / 25265 Licence to Post at Mumbai Patrika Channel Sorting OfďŹ ce, Mumbai GPO., Mumbai 400 001. Date Of Posting 1st & 2nd Of Every Month / English & Monthly. Date Of Publication: 28th Of Every Month.


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.