March 2014
eMagazine
PlastixANZ eMagazine for the Australian & New Zealand plastics industry 2014 has started with a few road bumps. The challenge for many plastic product & component manufacturers is to locate new products to manufacture or new outlets for current products. Low cost, often inferior quality, imported products continue to be a problem. The move in the exchange rate provides some assistance to local manufacture. Export is an opportunity, however, can take a considerable time period & cost to achieve. Many business’s require results now!. Buying Australian made plastic products & components will assist coniderably.
Buy Australian made plastic products & components. PlastixANZ eMagazine published & distributed by: Grange Products Pty. Ltd. 68 Parkhurst Dve., Knoxfield 3180 Victoria Australia +613 9018 7674 info@plastixanz.com.au
Visit Ausplas 2014 Sydney Showgrounds Sydney Olympic Park May 13 - May 16 Ausplas 2014 returns to Sydney after a 24 year gap Ausplas 2014 will be colocated with NMW 2014. National Manufacturers Week & Ausplas 2014 are presented by Reed exhibitions Support Australian manufacturing
HBM Packaging visit clients with Scott Heins to introduce ALPS Leak Testers
Scott Heins, Director of Sales & Marketing, Alps Leak Testing Equipment recently visited clients in Melbourne & Sydney with their Australian & New Zealand distributor, HBM Packaging.
HBM Plastics Technologies 0288143100 www.hbm.com.au
ALPS have a specific focus on packaging, through design and manufacture of automated inspection equipment to leak test plastic containers and perform auxiliary inspections. ALPS is dedicated to providing reliable, state-of-the-art, top quality machinery to enable its customers to meet and exceed the quality needs of the dynamically changing plastic container market.View below introductory presentation for ALPS Leak Testers
Australian Designer Helps Save Staff, Salmon & Seals John Rafferty of Elemental Manufacturing Pty Ltd has recently designed parts and injection moulding tools for the Australian salmon farming business Huon Aquaculture, for their world-first salmon protection pen. Huon’s managing director has described the pens as “revolutionising the salmon industry worldwide”, and John’s involvement was instrumental in realising the design and producing parts for the pen. In most countries (excluding Aust & NZ) the seals are destroyed by farmers as a pest. The seal proof pens will ultimately protect seals and prevent them from being destroyed as a result of them continually attacking the pens to get at the fish. Many suggest that this revolutionary pen design should be adopted as a new global standard. The new pens also create a safer working environment for staff with the new flat walkway and also keeping aggressive seals away from workers. John’s background is toolmaking before he started his business, Elemental Manufacturing. The business provides clients with industrial design of injection moulded parts and injection moulding tool design, which includes supply and tool commissioning. One of the more significant parts that John designed for Huon was the triple collar stanchion (pictured below right), which is the first and only 450mm plastic injection moulded triple collar stanchion for aquaculture. At 2.5metres in length and weighing over 50Kg, this part is used to support the entire pen and houses the 3 flotation collars (pipes) that keep the pen afloat. The design also includes a fully enclosed walkway and handrail for workers to be able to move safely around the entire circumference of the pen.
As well as the challenges of designing a part that will perform in the conditions and meet all the safety requirements; creating a shape that can physically be moulded is paramount. John faced the hurdle of designing a tool that would not only allow the part to be moulded, but to ensure that any weld lines generated during the moulding process were in the lowest stressed regions of the stanchion. This was no easy feat, as this part is the backbone of the salmon protection pen, and is subject to a myriad of both long and short term loads. But with John’s background and experience he was up to the challenge Some of the benefits of replacing the existing metal stanchions with an engineering polymer include: • A reduction in price of more than 50% compared to the current metal fabricated units. •
A significant weight saving from 160 kg down to 55 kg was made, which allows for larger pens and therefore increased and more efficient production. This weight reduction decreases the energy needed to move the pens, both during assembly and in operation on the water.
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Service life - the metal units can corrode over time , while the polymer units are designed to last at least 10 years, with an expectation of a serviceable life of 20 years or more.
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The polymer stanchions have a significant amount of controlled flexibility, compared to the metal units, which under heavy loads allows many of the forces to be diffused throughout the assembly compared to the metal stanchions which are unforgivingly rigid. This diffusion of forces results in less damage to the pen‘s components during storms and rough conditions. As far as injection moulding is concerned, this +50kg, 2.5m long part is considered extremely large; this together with the 25mm wall thicknesses meant moulding the part would be demanding for both man and machine. John’s success in designing and moulding these extremely large volume parts allows for a rethink on the existing boundaries of what can and cannot be achieved within this industry. He feels that the success of this project paves the way for many new products that were previously considered “not possible” to be looked at in a different light as we continue to push the existing boundaries to suit our ever changing needs. On the success of this first part, Huon Aquaculture again engaged John’s services to commission a larger, heavier version of the product for their continuing expansion. The next size, still in tooling production, will weigh more than 65Kg. John is a great advocate for manufacturing in Australia, and to support the Australian polymer industry he worked with a local injection moulder (Wasson Engineering Plastics, who have proven to be very competitive compared to overseas moulders), to assist with commissioning and running of the tool and ensuring that our local industry not only survives, but grows and is sustainable. Contact Details John Rafferty Elemental Manufacturing Pty Ltd +61 2 4975 5691 +61 412 388 198 john@tooldesign.com.au
Introduction to Extrusion Blow Moulding - SPE: A-NZ Training Course When: Tuesday MAR 25 Where: Woodlands Golf Club, 109 White Street, Mordialloc, VIC 3195 Extrusion Blow Moulding (EBM) is the most flexible of all the plastic moulding processes and has the capability to produce a complex array of different bottles and hollow products for markets from Food and Consumer Goods through to complex Automotive containers. EBM is a unique process and has a complex mix of variable and nonvariable sub-processes needing tight control and more importantly requiring excellent process and tooling design along with process stability during manufacturing to achieve the right result. In the past the Australia-New Zealand Section of the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE: A-NZ Section) has mostly relied on occasional visits by overseas experts for organizing training courses. Locally, actual education on offer in the field of EBM is limited. As a result the EBM industry has suffered in maintaining up to date knowledge in areas of efficiency and competitiveness and is in need of a robust local training course. The SPE: A-NZ Section is committed to improve the education of people within the Plastics Manufacturing Industry and change the direction of current trends. Pro Technical Plastic Manufacturing Solutions as local provider of the EBM training course shares this passion for improvement and works together with the SPE: A-NZ Section with the intent to make a difference. Overview: In this course the major process control factors within the EBM process will be reviewed and discussed in detail with an emphasis on the critical factors. Areas regarding the equipment, tooling and process will be discussed in such a way that the attendees will receive the most value. Over 25 years of experience and expertise will be shared in a structured format. This course is a conduit for beginners to improve skills through effective learning and retention of know-how. For more information, please contact Han Michel on 0416 168 255,hanmichel@bigpond.com or visit: www.plastics.org.au Full Details - View here
Schöttli to demonstrate latest medical and specialty closure mold making technology at Chinaplas 2014 Husky Injection Molding Systems today announced that Schö8li, recently acquired in December 2013, will be exhibiting at the upcoming Chinaplas 2014 tradeshow (April 23 – 26, Shanghai, China). The Schö8li booth will focus on showcasing the company’s latest mold technology for select medical and specialty closure applications. “Chinaplas has always been an important show for Schö8li and we are very excited to be exhibiting this year together with Husky,” said Thomas Anderegg, President of the Schö8li Group. “Asia Pacific is a growing market, particularly for medical molds, and we are looking forward to the opportunity to connect with our customers in this region and demonstrate the combined capabilities of Schö8li and Husky.” By gaining a detailed understanding of our customer’s needs at the tooling level, Schö8li has been able to focus on specific applications and develop mold technology that enables customers to bring the highest quality medical products to market. The Schö8li exhibit will showcase the company’s latest mold making technology for select medical applications, including syringes, infusion/transfusion products, diagnostic systems and feminine care items. Also featured, will be Husky’s unique EASYcube mold technology, which is designed to provide the best platform for molding multi-‐‑material closures. With the recent acquisition of Schö8li, Husky’s goal is to gain deeper mold making knowledge in focused medical applications, as well as develop the expertise to build the strongest melt delivery system in the medical market. In addition, Schö8li complements Husky’s existing closures business and will extend the company’s presence in established and emerging markets.
Flame Retardant Masterbatches For Enhanced Safety And Security As many plastics are inherently flammable, measures must be taken to increase their safety in applications where there is risk of fire. Often the most cost effective method of doing this is to add a flame retardant additive during processing…More
Next month, industry awareness campaign Think Pipes Think PVC celebrates three-years of delivering a wide range of resources on the performance and environmental benefits of PVC pipes. Nigel Jones, Business Development Manager, Think Pipes Think PVC explains the importance of the ongoing campaign. “Three years ago we recognised that the PVC industry had not been active enough in promoting the benefits of PVC pipes and as such there were many myths and untruths surrounding their use. The program has sought to break down a wide range of issues relevant to the industry and be a central resource of information. Read more about three years of the Think Pipes Think PVC Campaign.
New - MAS 2xCDF 500-D (Continuous Disc Filter) MAS, has now available, a new Filter (2xCDF500-‐D) with unbelievable huge filter surface of 7200 cm². With this filter we can offer melt filtraHon for extruders with output up to 3500 kg/Hour. The 2 x CDF 500-D filter is a continuous disc filter, used to clean plastics from mainly soft types of contamination like paper labels, paper fibres, wooden pieces, organic fibres and unmelted plastic particles. The CDF has a steel disc with electronically beam drilled holes forming a sieve filter. The disk is turning constantly whereas the scrappers are fixed. All contamination bigger than the filtration finesse, will not go through the holes of the disc and stick on the surface of the screen until it is lifted up by the scrappers and directly discharged. Especially, when it comes to paper, the CDF has significant advantages in comparison with mesh filter systems. The CDF can handle approx. 3 – 5 % (in some cases even more) of soft contamination like paper or unmelted plastics inside the polymer. For filtration of: LD / LLD / HDPE, PP, PS, ABS melt free of abrasive and corrosive contamination, free of PVC;
Koga Group Mob 0419 558 600
BASF to Develop & Supply Light Stabilizers & Antioxidants to Polyplastics under Latest Agreement NEW `Mission Critical` Label Barcode Printer TSC MX240 Series PlastiComp Adds LFT Pultrusion Line Dedicated To Manufacturing CarbonFiber Reinforced Thermoplastics Clariant’s Exolit® flame retardants keep pace with trends and challenges of transport sector Alternative to heater bands reduces downtime, maintains melt uniformity Stratasys receives Dental Award for Objet30 Orthodesk 3D Printer Leak Testing 2 litre milk bottle BUSINESS MANAGER – POLYMERS / INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
SYDNEY TO OPEN NEW DOORS FOR PLASTICS INDUSTRY
News that Sydney has overtaken Melbourne[1] as Australia's largest manufacturing centre speaks to the success of its many niche manufacturers, says Anthony Reed, Exhibition Director of National Manufacturing Week 2014 (NMW), in Sydney from 13-16 May. It is also good news for visitors to NMW, which is constantly evolving to reflect the latest trends. NMW 2014 will bringing together technologies from around the world to help industry build its capacity for the quick turnaround, highly specialised production that underpins niche manufacturing strategies. NMW will be especially fertile ground for plastics processors, converters and material suppliers: with this year’s event incorporating the triennial Ausplas, Australia's premier plastics industry trade show, in Sydney for the first time in 24 years. Plastics industry visitors will also be interested in many other products and services on show at NMW. These include in the Advanced Materials Product Zone - which will provide access to new and innovative composites with spectacular physical properties - as well as the broader offering in other NMW Product Zones for Additive Manufacturing, Materials Handling, Engineering and Workplace Safety, comments Mr Reed. There will also be updates on industry developments in the Ausplas Hub - one of several industry-specific speaker programs presented at NMW. In addition to presentations from the Plastics Industry Manufacturers Association (PIMA), there will be sessions from the CSIRO and the Australasian Bioplastics Association focusing on the latest in bioplastic technologies.
"In an industry ‘first’ - and addressing the challenge for smaller companies to fund the research that underpins technological innovation - NMW will also put visitors in direct contact with research providers at its R&D Hub," Reed comments. For participants such as R E Davison - specialists in the moulding and assembly of intricate and technical products using composite, thermoset and thermoplastic moulding, metal pressing and deep drawing - NMW and Ausplas will be, above all, a vital source of new ideas. Participating as a visitor and as part of PIMA, R E Davison General Manager, Keith Monaghan comments, "Companies like R E Davison are succeeding by finding and occupying a niche. For example, we focus on manufacturing highly technical, low to medium volume products - and having strong technical skills on board so that we can react quickly to the marketplaces needs. A number of companies are finding that this is the way forward - especially the medical devices companies and their suppliers who seem to be leading the way in commercialising scientific and technical advances.
"We remain convinced about the benefits of manufacturing locally. We have the skills and technology to do amazing things and by developing products here, we can maintain control of each step in the production process, so business can be assured that our products will work right from the start. "Australians are brilliant inventors - there are any number of great ideas out there. The key is to diversify our services, build on our strengths in specialist niches to support these ideas. That's one of the benefits of attending events like NMW and Ausplas. It gives you the opportunity to have a look at the technical advances that can open up new fields and niche markets for your company." NMW and Ausplas 2014 will be held at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park. Entry is free to the trade. For more information or to register, visit www.nationalmanufacturingweek.com.au
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Duromer Products Pty Ltd Stand: 2716
Visit us at Ausplas Stand 2716
Duromer Products is an Australian manufacturer and supplier of thermoplastic polymers and compounds to the plastics industry. Our expertise is the supply of locally manufactured customised thermoplastic solutions.
The Duromer difference is our ability to understand our customers’ challenges in today’s high tech market place. Through this understanding and our knowledge of plastics we are able to recommend either off the shelf products or where required formulate a customised compound solution. . . . . .
Duralon Duraprop Duraform Duralloy Duramid
ENGEL -‐ More than a machine Now more than ever before, Engel offers its customers clear advantages, in terms of innova9ve injec9on moulding machines, automa9on, processing technology – and value for money ! CC 300 control unit genera?on sets a new trend : The ENGEL booth in Hall 15 at last years K show, was well visited. Many trade fair visitors took this opportunity to try out the new control unit generaHon by ENGEL. They experienced a totally new control soluHon that sHll looked familiar at a first glance. "Devices like our smartphones, which we use every day, acted as the role models for developing the user interface," reports Dr. Peter Neumann (CEO Engel Austria). "At the same Hme, the central control element, e-‐move, helps us give a feel for the machine back to the operators. With this unique combinaHon, the CC 300 sets a new trend for the enHre industry." As process integraHon and automaHon increases, the complexity of the producHon process rises, and this poses increasingly tough challenges for control technology. The more intuiHve and convenient the control unit is, the more safely and efficiently the producHon system can work. "The control unit has become an important factor of efficiency in integrated and automated system soluHons," says Peter Neumann. Func%ons – customised and focused -‐ The new CC 300 control unit allows injecHon moulding machines and manufacturing cells to be controlled according to tasks such as mould changing, or according to funcHons such as injecHng. The informaHon displayed concentrates on the essenHal. The new central operaHng element (control wheel) which, provides millimetre-‐precise accuracy and speed-‐sensiHve control for movements, is called ‘e-‐move’. The clearly defined funcHons increase safety levels when sensiHve movements are made and significantly reduce the risk of operaHon error. Simply pressing the intelligent operaHon bucon is enough to start the machine and to iniHate various movement sequences. “With ‘e-‐move’ we are able to fulfil our customers' wish of making it easier and easier to control injecHon moulding processes without reducing efficiency or safety levels. It has taken 'one-‐bucon-‐control' for injecHon moulding machines from being a vision to being reality", says Gerhard Dimmler, Head of Product Research and Development at ENGEL AUSTRIA.
The complete integraHon of ENGEL viper linear robots and ENGEL easix mulH-‐axis robots, which ENGEL will conHnue to use with all the products in its new generaHon of control units, also contributes to this. The enHre manufacturing cell can be controlled and monitored centrally from the injecHon moulding machine's control panel. The CC 300 therefore offers efficiency-‐opHmised interacHon between the injecHon moulding machine and automaHon, reduces cycle Hmes, and by doing this plays a crucial role in maximising compeHHveness. Ergonomics – individualised with higher safety levels Seeing, feeling and adapHng are key factors as far as ergonomic improvements are concerned on the new CC 300 controller. The new 21″₺ full HD display, for example, is easier to read and also offers simpler and user-‐friendlier navigaHon. The informaHon and layout of the different screen pages can be adapted to suit the user's individual needs, and touch elements can be assigned different funcHons. The control panel automaHcally switches to the posiHon which is best ergonomically suited for the individual operator when they log on. Latest technologies – robust, fast and user-‐friendly Thanks to capaciHve touch technologies, the new CC 300 machine control unit can be operated as easily as a smartphone and is also just as quick to respond. Safety glass gives it a surface which remains robust and insensiHve to dirt even in unfavourable environments. The increasing degree of process integraHon and automaHon is constantly presenHng plasHcs processors with new challenges. Acquiring ENGEL's new CC 300 control unit will ensure that they are as well equipped as possible for the future and able to program, acHvate and monitor complex processes easily with outstanding precision and safety. PlasHcs machinery supplier, Techspan Group, have represented ENGEL in New Zealand since 1979. Techspan is sHll a 100% New Zealand owned and operated family business. Phone: 0800 603 603 Email: info@techspanonline.com Web: www.techspanonline.com
Delta Engineering would like to present its new compact, fully automatic palletizer with integrated tray warehouse, for blow moulding Example of installation with DP240 palletizer see picture (including pallet dispenser) Why the DELTA DP240? Quality The DP240 has become an economical palletizer with a very good price-quality ratio based on a good machine concept, minimum assembly times and the use of quality components such as servo motors on each important axis. Compact The goal when developing this machine was to keep it as compact as possible, taking into account the legal prescribed safety distances but without loosing any flexibility. The DP240 has a footprint of 6.90m x 2.40m. Flexibility The DP240 palletizer can pack in trays from 800/600mm up to 1200/1200mm in all directions but also half trays. Thanks to a complete range of standard tools it can handle the most difficult bottles. It can make full height pallets up to 3.1m. Adjustability Short change-over times thanks to recipes. Safety A safety PLC, light curtains and fences make the machine compliant with the latest safety standards. Stability The machine exists of 1 base frame. A solid construction results in low maintenance costs for many years. Modularity Depending on your needs the machine can be operated with manual or automatic pallet outfeed. To automate your complete production line Delta can also deliver you other machines such as a pallet dispenser, roller conveyors (including rotation station, transfer station, ...) and a complete range of chain and flatbelt conveyors. Distributed by Eurotech Agencies www.eurotech-au.com
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