Plastic news december 2013 issue foe web

Volume No. 73 MH/MR/N/200/MBI/12- 14 Issue No. 12 Pages 86 December 2013 Rs. 75.00

SAY YES TO PLASTICS Special Issue

P L A S T I C S N E W S D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 33


17...... AIPMA At Work

...Plastivision 2013 a grand show

...Their Say….

...Associations’ Conclave to discuss Opportunities and

Challenges of the Plastics Industry

24...... PVI 2013 Photo Gallery31...... Company News35...... Features...Plastivision 2013 makes it big generating business worth Rs 1500 crores...Best methods of molding undercuts...PP makes a play in rotomolding...Self-Healing Polymer Could Be Key to Longer-Lasting Batteries...A new look at evaluating fi ll times for injection molding...Fimbulvetr promises a new direction with lightweight

thermoplastic snowshoes

49...... International News67...... Business News73...... Product News77...... Technology80...... In the News83...... Events

MH/MR/N/200/MBI/12-14 December 2013Volume 73 No. 12

Chairman - Editorial Board Mr. Anandilal Oza

Hon. Editor Mr. Ajay Desai

Members Mr. A. E. Ladhaboy Dr. Y. B. Vasudeo Ms. Poorvi Desai

Editorial Co-ordination: Padmesh Prabhune, Dhruv Communications, Mumbai, Tel No: 00-22-2868 5198 / 5049 Fax No : 00-22-28685495 • email: [email protected]

Published by Ms. Uma Gupta on behalf of the owners, The All India Plastics Manufacturers’ AssociationPlot No. A-52, Road No. 1, M.I.D.C., Andheri (E),Mumbai-400 093. Tel: 67778899 • Fax : 00-22-2821 6390E-mail : offi [email protected] : http://www.aipma.netand printed by her at Dhote Offset Technokrafts Pvt. Ltd., Goregaon (E), Mumbai-400 063.

Annual Subscription Rs. 1,000/-Single issue Rs. 75/-

Views/Reports/Extracts etc. published in Plastics News are those of the authors and not necessarily of the Editor. Furthermore except for copies of formal AIPMA communications no other matter in this journal should be interpreted as views of The All India Plastics Mfgrs. Association.

Mr. Sanju DesaiVice President (West Zone)

Mr. Rituraj GuptaHon. Secretary

Mr. Manoj R. ShahHon. Jt. Secretary

Mr. Haren SanghaviHon. Treasurer

OFFICE BEARERS

The Offi cial Organ of The All India Plastics Manufacturers Association Estd. 1945

Mr. Anandilal OzaPresident

Mr. R. K. AggarwalVice President (North Zone)

Mr. Anil BansalVice President (South Zone)

Mr. Ashok AgarwalVice President (East Zone)

IN THIS ISSUE...

CONTENTCONTENT


THE PRESIDENT SAYS


PLASTIVISION INDIA (PVI) 2013 as you

know is a triennial exhibition organized by

AIPMA. This year the exhibition was a great hit

and successful. It has become one of the biggest

and most attractive trade fair. I have had visitors

complementing me for the same and the credit

goes to all.

Our team at The All India Plastics Manufactures’

Association (AIPMA) has been carrying out a

number of activities to ensure the trade show is

well turned out.

We had a turnout of 100,000+ visitors the

biggest one in a trade show and we had the

business of over Rs 1500 crores. Now this is quite

a good fi gure considering the current scenario.

As one of India’s apex associations for the

plastics industry, this trade show has successful

in bringing together the cross sections of the

plastics industry under one roof.

We had the mix of exhibitors in PVI 2013.

Also Due to some of the new initiatives we

had taken, I am sure it would encourage more

entrepreneurship in the plastics industry.

During the fair we were able to communicate

with the government bodies to apprehend them

about our challenges and some issues that act

as barrier for the growth of the Indian plastics

industry. We had just done studies that show

that Indian plastics industry

is all poised for growth

and by 2020 the Plastics

consumption would reach

around 20 MMT. AIPMA had

also organized various B2B

meetings and conclave to

discuss the growth and help design the future

course of action.

I would like also to believe that these kinds of

fairs will help in revamping the image of plastics

as a valuable resource for a developing country’s

appetite.

Also organisation of such event is our aim

to develop the new entrepreneur, new industry,

generation of the employment and the investment

opportunity of the overseas and prominent

platform of the exports for the foreign buyers.

Let us not forget that Plastic is not a luxurious

material but it is an essential commodity for the

poor people and growth of Indian Plastic Industry

and National GDP.

I thank everyone for their support and making

PVI 2013 a grand success.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year…

Anandilal Oza

[email protected]

PVI 2013 marks its Glory across the world

P L A S T I C S N E W S D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 311P L A S T I C S N E W S 11

FROM THE EDITOR'S PEN

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3

The 9th edition of the Plastivision India 2013 was for everyone to see. Hope all of you

would agree to the fact that a lot of efforts goes (months in advance) in planning and making of such exhibitions. Credit goes to all of them and of course, the exhibitors and Patrons / trade visitors without them this would have been impossible.

The exhibition was a success in terms of business trades and yes, it did witnessed some of the best technological advances be it machinery, chemicals or otherwise.

It would be diffi cult to discuss all of them but I would like to talk about the new seal pouch machine WIN 750-P &WIN 750E introduced by Mamata Machinery at the PVI 2013. The machine has the output capacity of 210 bags per minute and is claimed to be world’s fastest machine to pack seal bags offering better output (i.e almost 40 % more production) at lower power consumption of 1.3 KW, which is almost half as compared to other available machines. Also both the machines can make seal bags of HM-HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE, PP, CPP, BOPE, etc. and the fi lm roll with diameter of 600mm can be used in these machines.

The other thing what impressed me was the Nano Mould release technology launched by Luxor Nano Technology for the Indian market. This seems to be quite cost effective as well.

The new Luxor nano mould release technology is non-toxic water based solution that solve the mould sticking problems - a common occurrence during extensive manufacturing process. Unlike conventional mould release agents Luxor Nano Mould Release Technology is a nano scale

barrier which is formulated to facilitate component release, reduce cyc le t ime and component rejections, while improving the part quality in injection, blow rubber and other molding applications. Designed specially to serve a wide spectrum of industries like plastic component, automobile spare parts manufacturing etc. Moreover it is water based solution and very much user friendly and environment friendly. It is having extremely low coeffi cient of friction. The solution is known as hydro–phobic (water repellent) as well Oleo-phobic (oil repellent). It can withstand temperature from -50 up to 450 degrees Celsius, thus suitable for large variety of applications. Luxor nano mould release technology is basically non toxic and can be used on all kinds of steel tools.

The Luxor nano mould release technology can prove to be a niche product for manufacturing units using either injection molding or auto die casting methods.

This was just a glimpse of what I could observe in limited time. There were many happenings at PVI. However we could not cover everything in this same issue. We have tried to cover it in subsequent issues so that you have many more things in detail.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone...

Enjoy reading…

Hon. EditorAjay Desai

[email protected]

Technological Advances at PVI 2013


AIPMA AT WORK

Plastivision 2013 a grand showAIPMA’s 9th Edition of Plastivision (PVI) 2013 was

hosted from 12 to 16 December 2013, at the Bombay Convention & Exhibition Centre, Goregaon, Mumbai.

As expected by the organizers and the dignitaries of Plastic industries, the exhibition was marked as one of the biggest international Plastica exhibition and thus, Plastivision again emerged as a key exhibition in the Plastics Industry. It would be ideal to say that the show was really a boost for the plastic industry and it was one of the greatest at the international scales touching the 100,000 mark of visitor along with record business transactions worth Rs 1500 crores.!

All the excitement and action of the exhibitors, visitors and organizers were worth to watch. Plastivision 2013 covered all

the aspects of plastic industry.

The PVI 2013 had more than 1,225 exhibitors and was spread across 7 spacious halls. To ensure international participation, nine countries had their special pavilions in PVI 2013 which include the US, Chaina, European Union, the UK, Germany, Italy, Turkey, Taiwan and Korea. PVI 2013 has created unique pavilions and implemented visitor promotion activities & exclusive communication programs etc.

With PVI 2013, in Mumbai AIPMA has added one more feather in its cap. The 5- day exhibition literally grabbed the attention global plastic industry. The aim of PVI 2013, to cover the whole Plastics industry and highlighting the demands and the much needed necessary policy changes for the better


AIPMA AT WORK


growth of plastic industry were actually achieved.

Dignitaries like Mr Indrajit Pal, Secretary Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals (DCPC), Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India; Mr Avinash Joshi, Joint Secretary DCPC along with Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Sharjah Expo Centre, made their presence felt at PVI 2013 inauguration function.

The core committee at The All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA) felicitated all respected dignitaries. was done by Mr Indrajit Pal, Secretary Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals (DCPC) offi cially launched the 9th Plastivision 2013 exhibition. Speaking at the function he said, “AIPMA has successfully represented the Indian plastics industry. PVI 2013 has done a great job at promoting positive attributes of plastics. As this industry is majorly dominated by Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and fi rst generation entrepreneurs,

PVI 2013 is building business opportunities.”

Mr. Anandilal Oza, President, AIPMA welcomed all the dignitaries. Soon after the President, Mr. Arvind Mehta, Chairman, National Advisory Council, took the charge to welcome all visitors, exhibitors at the show. He spoke about AIPMA’s role in the Plastic industry, and the way its represents the Indian Plastics Industry. He also talked about AIPMA’s activities for the growth and sustainability of Plastic industries. He thanked the AIPMA team and the organizing committee members for all its efforts. He also spoke about the international delegations arranged by AIPMA and how it strives to foster trade relations between countries.

Mr. Arvind Mehta also elaborated on Plastic industry and how it was able in achieving 14% growth in the year of 2012 though there was decrease in GDP. He added, “Indian industry is playing good part in exports. Today we are exporting to

AIPMA AT WORK


nearby 100 countries of the world. I would like processors to tap this export potential as labor wages in China are increasing and the appreciating of the dollar will work in their favour.”

Mr. Raju Desai,Chairman, Plastivision India 2013 and Mr. Kailash Murarka, Co-Chairman, Plastivision India 2013 also addressed the exhibitors assembled at the function.

Mr. Kailash Murarka highlighted on the synopsis of the exhibition giving out the details of various specially dedicated pavilions making it clear that the exhibition was not to be missed out by any one belonging to the Plastics fraternity.

Mr. Raju Desai addressed the audience at Plastivision 2013 highlighting the importance of Plastics as one of the best alternate matter. He added that “It’s the he need of hour and one should take efforts for growth of the Plastics industry."

Guests like Mr Indrajit Pal, Secretary Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals (DCPC), Mr Avinash Joshi, Joint Secretary DCPC, Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Sharjah Expo Centre also shared their views, opinions and expectations with the PVI 2013’s visitors and exhibitors.

The Secretary and Joint Secretary of the Ministry emphasized the need for early steps to create the favorable image image of the Plastics industry among masses as the misconceptions about Plastics are more of barriers for the progressive industry. The erratic waste collection management and the littering habit among masses creates the so called small problem of carry bags that adds to the waste and garbage.

The Inauguration function was concluded with Mr. Ritukumar Gupta addressing the vote of Thanks.

AIPMA AT WORK


AIPMA AT WORK

Their Say….Mr Anandilal Oza, President, AIPMA

The mix of exhibitors we have in PVI 2013 is creating an opportunity for all of us which is suitable for the formulation of the right business strategies. Due to some of the new initiatives we have taken, I expect the trade fair to encourage more entrepreneurship in the plastics industry. Perhaps we need to change the perception towards Plastics and I am sure such trade airs will help to bring in the much desired and favorable result. I thank everyone for making PVI 2013 a success.

Mr Raju D. Desai, Chairman - Executive Committee, Plastivision India 2013

As the Growth come, challenges comes as well. PVI 2013 is the window through which we can see what is the demand of our customers, industry, and world. One of the factors that indicate the country’s impending growth in the Plastics industry is our per capita consumption which is the

lowest in the world. The scope of reaching an augmented level of consumption remains certain due to the inevitable nature of plastics and its incorporation in everyday life spoke about the excellent opportunity that the fair provides for all those industries that are connected with plastics and tremendous prospects that it would create. We had always kept in mind that while visiting the PVI 2013 our exhibitors and visitors should be satisfi ed and every rupee spent should be justifi ed bringing in higher returns. I thank all my team members of PVI 2013 and they are the star players of the PVI 2013 event.

Mr Arvind M. Mehta, Chairman, Advisory Board, Plastivision India 2013

As we have a fair representation of the DCPC here with us at PVI 2013, I would request the authorities to pay more attention to Free Trade Agreements as getting imports with zero duty is hampering the growth of the plastics industry, especially the SMEs

Issues of the plastic industries especially like service Tax, Higher costs of the fi nance, trained man-power, SME’s some conversions which should get corrected, changing polymer prices, negative image of the plastic industry, all this has to be corrected. We need to work on Image building exercise and create awareness about Plastics. Our Plastics Industry is growing rapidly and is expected to touch 20 billion dollars by the end of 2020”. In PVI 2013 promotions of visitors have been organized by AIPMA. For registrations, online registrations was a process started by the associations well in advance. 30,000 registrations have been recorded online till fi rst day of show. We are extremely optimistic that the ministry will be able to resolve the industry’s problems of fi nance as well as sharply fl uctuating prices of raw material every month.

Mr. Kailash B. Murarka, Co-Chairman, Plastivision India 2013

By having glance at tremendous response for PVI 2013, I feel proud. Needless to say, when an event is spread across 75,000 sq m, it is only wise that one should come armed with a plan of action. To ensure that every minute spent at Plastivision India 2013 is productive, I am sure visitors will defi nitely like to see the plethora of pavilions and special dedicated cells like the Green Pavilion, Solar Energy pavilion, Plasticulture, India Mould, Job & career fair and much more.

Mr. Indrajit Pal, Secretary, DCPCMr Indrajit Pal, secretary of DCPC

said,” Plastics are the materials of choice for the 21st century and are likely to dominate in the materials domain for the next few decades. Increasingly, plastics are replacing conventional materials even for advanced applications and this is a major

growth driver. India has emerged as a preferred center for establishing manufacturing facilities for plastics goods and that PVI 2013 would give impetus to plastics exports from India. He further added that AIPMA has successfully represented the


AIPMA AT WORK

Indian plastics industry. He hoped that PVI 2013 will provide more opportunities to plastic industries and SME sectors to explore and also to access new technologies. Mr. Indrajit Pal also stated that “The Union government is considering Technology Upgradation Fund (TUF) for the plastics industry. The top offi cials from the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals in the Union Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers are proposing to meet the representatives of the industry within next few days to work out the detailed proposal for the TUF scheme. The government is also encouraging the setting up of Plastics Parks in various states to help the growth of the plastics industry, which is so important for the economy as well as employment generation”

Mr. Avinash Joshi, Joint secretary, DCPC The Petrochemical industry is playing a

vital role in India. In the coming years we are going to need more plastics as consumption level is increasing. Plastic industry has seen major changes in last 10 to 15 years, so to face the challenges at global level we need to focus at growth of our plastic

industry in India. Investments in research & development and improvement in quality of products are most important factors and can help us in good returns. It is advisable that the Plastic industry come together as a force,cooperate with one another and come forward for better outputs. We can improve our exports as well. Don’t be passive, we should invest in our image building, should be active and spend more in sustainability and development of plastic industries.

Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Sharjah Expo Centre

It’s my privilege to be the guest at the 9th Plastivision India 2013 and I thank the All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA) for inviting me. It is an honor to be the Guest at thePVI. India is largest and growing market. We need to develop and focus on building and improving trade relations between India and UAE as, India

is UAE’s one of the big partner in business. Our association with AIPMA has helped everyone and that’s how we initiated Plastivision Arabia.

UAE has plenty of opportunities and so I invite and welcome everyone to be a part of Plastivision Arabia that is scheduled in April 2014. I strongly believe that the tie-up with AIPMA will be a precursor to wider relations that will help open up new channels of trade and economic exchanges.

Michael Taylor, Sr. Director, International Affairs and Trade, Society of Plastics Industry, United States

As everyone knows we are leading a trade mission, so we have some of our member companies here at PLASTIVISION INDIA – 2013 to explore the Indian market.

We have strategic partnership with All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA) and they are helping us in putting

together agenda for the companies here on the trade mission.

We are trying to explore opportunities for our member companies. Also, we have a global partnership with AIPMA and we have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) where our environmental initiatives are promoted.

We are of the view that plastics consumption in India is going to double in 2020. There is an enormous growth potential. With the growth of the middle class and increasing domestic demands, opportunities are certainly going to fl ood for our member companies to enter Indian markets. The plastic industry in US is very positive. . The economic fundamentals for the industry are very good. 2013 has been a good year and we are optimistic to achieve higher growth in 2014.

Anton Hanekom,Executive Director, Plastics SA

Indian Plastics Industry is to grow for sure. All of us had been witnessing the growth in Indian Plastics industry and the demand would defi nitely increase. We have been at this expo for understanding the market and promoting South Africa as the desired destination. There is huge scope for

the Indian Processors in South Africa. I am hopeful the Indian delegation will consider and perhaps visit us. We are looking forward to a mutually benefi cial association.


AIPMA AT WORK

Associations’ Conclave to discussOpportunities and Challenges of the Plastics Industry

During the PVI 2013 as a part of its trade fair AIPMA had also organized a business Association

Conclave on Saturday, December 14, 2013 at Westin Hotel, Mumbai. The Association Conclave was focused on discussing major issues like Challenges for Processors in India, Opportunities in America, other industry issues and discussions.

AIPMA’s Conclave was attended by members 130 Association, Presidents, Members and senior leaders of the Industry along with Shri Avinash Joshi, I.A.S, Joint Secretary (Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals), Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India

discussing major issues and challenges being faced by the plastic industry.

Shri Avinash Joshi, I.A.S, Joint Secretary (Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals) inaugurated the conclave following which Mr Anandilal Oza, President, AIPMA welcomed everyone and thanked for their interest in conclave. Mr. Raju Desai, Chairman, Executive committee, PVI 2013 presented the synopsis and an overview of ongoing PVI 2013 show.

Also present at the Conclave had Michael Taylor, Senior Director (International Affairs and Trade), Society of Plastics Industry and discussed the US Plastic market and the opportunities for Indian plastic converters in US.

India is developing country and the plastic is one of the most important factors in today’s life. According to a study, the Indian Plastics Industry is to grow is all poised for growth But the real question is, are we ready for this growth? And how (Plastics) industry will ensure that they contribute towards this growth? Issues like these were discussed and elaborated with the house full with industry players and experts.

The quantity of plastic which we consumed in the last 65 years is equal to the amount of plastics that we are likely to consume over the course of the next 6-7 years and our consumption is expected to reach 20 MMT million tones by the year 2020 as compared to the current 7.5 MMT.

The panel discussed various major issues that would ensure that the Plastics industry makes it to the 20MMt mark. The issues were identifi ed as Taxations (VAT), Additional Finance, Skilled labor, Increased exports, Improved infrastructure, Recycling.

It was discussed that Taxation on plastic products is one of the major problems and should be minimized. For additional fi nance

the alternative of extra funds or other options such as organizing and better management of inventory should be considered. To reach to the magical figure it was unanimously advised to increase the exports by minimum 30 percent. Adequate Infrastructure remains the key for growth and the government along with the industry should work together on it. Thrust on recycling would also lead to growth and better (waste) management systems would further help. It was also advised to create awareness about the Plastics Industry in general to create conducive atmosphere.


PVI 2013 PHOTO GALLERY

The happennings moments of PVI 2013 The photogallery will be continued in the following issue show casing the Gala Nite and ceremony.

So don't miss this page...


COMPANY NEWS

Sanors signs to acquire process technology from Maxiglas to produce PMMA

Russian petrochemicals group Sanors has signed a letter of

intent to acquire process technology from Taiwanese engineering company Maxiglas Corporation to produce polymethyl methacrylate at Russia’s fi rst modern PMMA plant.

The agreement followed licensing negotiations between the companies and a visit by a Sanors delegation to an operating PMMA plant in Shanghai, China. This is run by Shanghai JingQi Polymer Science, a Maxiglas joint venture with Chinese and US investors.

Sanors plans to construct a two line 50,000 tpa PMMA unit to turn out a range of polymer and copolymer products at a larger petrochemicals complex in Russia’s Samara region. This facility, being located at Sanors’s

site in Novokuybyshevsk, will also produce the PMMA intermediate methyl methacrylate (MMA). Sanors is reported to be investing almost €300 mln (£251 mln) in the joint project to construct the PMMA plant and a 70,000 tpa MMA unit at the complex which are due to be operating by 2018.

Rosneft will hold majority stake in the venture of at least 50%, while Sanors will have a lesser share in the enterprise which is due to construct a new world class petrochemicals complex in Samara. This will produce a range of polymers and other chemicals aimed at meeting demand and substituting imports in Russia.

The partners are due to confi rm their outline agreement by signing a binding contract by the end of 2013 following detailed talks on the formation

MRPL to shut 30% crude processing capacity for 15 days

The Mangalore Refi nery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL)

will idle a third of its 300,000 bpd crude processing capacity for 15 days in January as it plans to shut a hydrocracker for maintenance. MRPL plans to shut the 1.3 mln tpa hydrocracker from Jan. 2 for 30 days for catalyst replacement, as per an unknown sorurce.

During the shutdown a 4.8 mln tpa CDU will remain idle for about 15 days, as otherwise surplus generation of vacuum gasoil will lead to ullage problem. A 3 mln tpa delayed coker unit will be commissioned during the shutdown. Once the hydrocracker is back online, a 2.2 mln tpa fl uid catalytic cracker will be ready for commissioning, which will help the refi ner in reducing production of fuel oil and raising output of gasoil and heavy naphtha, the source said.

of the joint venture. Sanors Group was formed in April 2011 through the merger of three regional petrochemical companies: Novokuibyshevskaya Neftekhmicheskaya Kompaniya (NNK), SamaraOrgSintez and NefteKhimiya.

United Resins changes to US Cast

New Jersey based United Resins Inc. is now known as

US Cast Inc., a name which it hopes will better reflect what it does and highlight that its cast acrylic tubes and rods are American made.

The company was founded by World War II veteran Albert O’Brien in 1954 and he personally managed operations until he died at age 92 on Dec. 5, 2012. O’Brien, who had a chemistry degree from West Virginia University, created the formulations and even his own machinery while building the business.

His sister Margaret McCutcheon is the new owner and continues the family tradition. She has taken steps to see that his legacy continues and pointed to the name change as a refl ection of his belief in the community and the American way.

The company has invested in the 30,000-square-foot facility, adding oven capacity as well as polishing and trimming machinery. It also worked to improve effi ciencies in quality control, logistics, inventory management and customer service.


COMPANY NEWS

WACKER to double dispersible polymer powder production in Nanjing

Munich -based spec ia l t y c h e m i c a l c o m p a n y

WackerChemie AG plans to expand its production capacity for dispersible polymer powders capacity at its Nanjing (China) site, in 2014. By productivity improvement and debottlenecking measures in existing facilities, the company plans to essentially double its current capacity of 30,000 metric tpa to meet increasing customer demand in China.

Debottlenecking work is scheduled to start immediately upon issuing of

the necessary permission by the local authorities. WACKER’s dispersible polymer powder production output in Nanjing is expected to reach up to 60,000 metric tpa, depending on product mix.

After the successful capacity expansion for vinyl acetate-ethylene (VAE) copolymer dispersions in Nanjing site earlier this year, we are now ready to increase our dispersible polymer powder capacity as well,” explained Arno von der Eltz, President of WACKER POLYMERS. He added,

“The market demand in China is continually growing, in particular for residential construction.

The increasing trend towards construction of pre-decorated housing is also driving demand for ceramic tile adhesives, which require high-quality dispersible polymer powders. This capacity expansion will support market growth and strengthen our position as the leading manufacturer of dispersible polymer powders in China.

Bayer MaterialScience invests in technical center Bayer MaterialScience AG

h a s u n v e i l e d i t s n e w premium foams technical center and commissioned a production plant for coating raw materials.The new facilities have a combined cost of more than 45 million euros ($60.8 million).

Patrick Thomas, CEO of Bayer MaterialScience said: "This allows us to supply key industries more precisely and with higher volumes of exactly the products they need. Bayer MaterialScience has invested more than 10 million euros in the test center and the company expects the global polyurethane market to continue growing at an average annual rate of about 5 percent.

B a y e r M a t e r i a l S c i e n c e i s expanding its production capacity for the precursors HDI (Hexamethylene

diisocyanate) and IPDI (Isophorone diisocyanat) – both organic compounds in the isocyanates class that are used for polyurethane coatings. The company has invested a year and

a half and 35 million euros in the construction of the multipurpose plant in Leverkusen that can produce either of the raw materials depending on demand.

Saudi Arabia’s US$50 billion diversified petrochemicals

major Sabic has opened i ts technology centre in this tech hub for research in chemistry, material science, process engineering and analytics. Saudi Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Thenayana Al-Saud unveiled the US$100 mln technology centre. “As a strategic centre of excellence, the research facility will

SABIC opens technology centre in Bangalore

cater to global and regional needs of our diversifi ed customers,” Sabic chief executive Mohamed H. Al-Mady said on the occasion. As part of Sabic’s 17 global research and development centres, the Bangalore facility will conduct innovative research in many related fields, including products and processes for its global customers, with 300 scientists and engineers.


COMPANY NEWS

Styrolution partners with research group and academia

St y r o l u t i o n G m b H , t h e Germany-based compounder,

has entered into a partnership with Neue Materialien Bayreuth GmbH (NMB) and the University of Bayreuth. Styrolution will complement its existing R&D efforts by tapping into the broad intellectual and infrastructural polymer research resources of its new partners.

T h e c o m p a n y c l a i m s t h e partnership goes beyond traditional models of corporate cooperation with academia in that NMB and the university are making their infrastructure easily accessible to Styrolution. The partnership enables the company to focus its R&D activit ies on downstream customer innovations across five

Continental Structural Plastics to invest $18.3 million for adding paint line

Michigan based Continental Structural Plastics will invest

$18.3 million to add a paint line to its Carey, Ohio, composites plant to expand its capabilities for customers. CSP currently supplies automakers with Class A sheet molded compound parts from Carey.

The paint line will allow it to provide a wider variety of finished panels.

After the expansion the plant will have 362,000 square feet of manufacturing space with 25 compression presses, a quick die change bond cell, two long-fi ber thermoplastic direct processing machines and the full paint system.

CSP expects to hire 50 additional employees when the new facility is online by the summer of 2015.

KraussMaffei agrees to keep German plant open

KraussMaffei Group has reached an agreement with

unions and workers that allows the company to keep open its plant in Treuchtlingen, Germany.

Earlier the company had said that it would close the plant in order to maintain competitiveness and move its production of components for small- to mid-sized injection molding machines and extruders to other plants in Germany and Slovakia.

However it said that talks between representatives of KM, the IG Metall trade union and the KM works council had resulted in an agreement to halt the closure plans for the Treucht l ingen factory. "In connection with the constructive and professional negotiating discussions, all parties have furthermore agreed that there will be no involuntary redundancy notices up to Dec. 31, 2015," said Jan Siebert, CEO of KraussMaffei Group.

core industries: automotive, electrical & electronics, household appliances, building & construction, healthcare & diagnostics. Initial projects will focus on the fi elds of lightweight structures and 3D printing.

Taesung to build Alabama plant

South Korean injection molder Taesung Precision Co. Ltd.

will build its fi rst U.S. plant — and fi rst site that makes auto parts — in Shorter, Alabama The $6.6 million, 40,000-square-foot plant will employ 70 people during its initial phase of operations,. Taesung, based in Gimhae, has plants in South Korea,

Poland, Russia and Mexico making parts for consumer products, with customers including brand names from LG Electronics, Whirlpool and Electrolux. The site in Shorter puts it close to Hyundai Motor Co.’s assembly plant in Montgomery, Ala., for its entry to the auto industry supply base.


COMPANY NEWS

Clariant launches masterbatch show homeSwitzerland-based Clariant

International Ltd. has opened its fi rst "Project House" – a technological showcase for its masterbatch business unit, in Pogliano, Italy.

The Project House is a 400 square meter facility in Pogliano, Italy, which will house chemists and technicians as well as equipment, including extrusion machinery and analytical equipment. Its key objective is to pursue breakthrough concepts and solutions in masterbatch products and processes. The Project House represents an investment of approximately 2 million euros.

Clariant hopes to co-located industry know-how and bring together teams of experts around the world. The company claims the project will identify

strategic areas and bring together interdisciplinary, cross-functional teams of scientists, technologists, marketer, academics and suppliers to exchange expertise, explore emerging technologies and look at innovative concepts.

The Pro jec t House wi l l be integrated with Clariant's masterbatch activities globally, with connections to other business units including R&D and the company's new innovation center in Frankfurt, Germany. Clariant masterbatches are currently used in bottles, microwaveable trays, biodegradable food containers, multi-layer laminate, active packaging, durable industrial drums and tear-resistant shrink wrap.

Formosa Plastics seeks US permits for Texas operation Formosa Plastics is seeking

United States' permits for a $2 billion expansion of its Texas operations as cheaper natural gas prices make US production more competitive.

The company asked federal and state environmental regulators to approve plans for an ethane cracker unit and downstream derivatives.“Because of shale gas, the cost of making petrochemical and plastic-related products is becoming very competitive here in the United States,” Formosa

Plastics Vice Chairman Susan Wang said. “It’s probably as cost effective as in the Middle East.” The investment is bigger than was previously planned by Formosa Plastics as of February 2012, when it said it would spend US$1.7 bln to build two factories and a polyethylene plastics plant in Texas.

Formosa expects to receive the environmental permits for an expansion at its Point Comfort facility, about 200 km southwest of Houston, sometime within the next year. Construction can begin immediately thereafter.

Maintenance shutdown at IG Petrochemicals’ PA plant

IG P e t r o c h e m i c a l s , manufacturer in phthalic

anhydride(PA), has shut down one of its plants for maintenance purpose. PA is used in industries such as flexible PVC, plastics, paints, construction, transportation.

“The company has taken a planned shutdown of one of its PA plants (PA-1) at Taloja, Maharashtra for change of catalyst. The shutdown is expected to last for approximately four weeks,” IG Petrochemicals said he company has said that it has suffi cient stock of PA in hand and, hence, the product supplies to the customers will be unaffected during the period of shutdown.

BASF starts production of bio-based BDOBASF SE has produced its

fi rst commercial volumes of 1,4-butanediol (BDO) from renewable raw material, and is offering this product to customers for testing and commercial use. The group is using the BDO fermentation technology from San Diego-based Genomatica Inc., which has partnerships with other plastics companies.


Plastivision 2013 makes it big generating business worth Rs 1500 crores

as compared with business of Rs 1,000 crore recorded at the previous Plastivision."

Spread on the area of 75,500 sq m across 7 spacious halls the PVI 2013 had more than 1,225 exhibitors from 30 countries. To ensure international participation, nine countries had their special pavilions in PVI 2013 which include the US, China, European Union, the UK, Germany, Italy, Turkey, Taiwan

and Korea. PVI 2013 had created unique pavilions and implemented visitor promotion activities & exclusive communication programs etc.

Anandilal Oza, President, AIPMA states “Apart from conver ing the P las t ic industry comprehensively at PVI 2013, our aim was to highlight the demands and motivate policy changes that better the growth of the industry.”

Elaborating on what

The AIPMA’s 9th Edition of Plastivision India (PVI) 2013

turned out to be one of the largest international trade fair registering 100,000 mark of visitor along with record business transactions worth Rs 1500 crores.! Plastivision (PVI) 2013 was hosted from 12 to 16 December 2013, at the Bombay Convention & Exhibition Centre, Goregaon, Mumbai.

Speaking about the success of the exhibition Raju Desai Chairman Plastivision India (PVI) 2013 said “the exhibition was very successful. We had a footfall of 100,000 visitors, Not only that, but what makes this exhibition a sucess was all of our exhibitors were happy as they met their business targets within the fi rst three days of exhibition.There were many new launches as well.”

He also added that "Altogether we had business transactions worth Rs 1500 crores bringing 50% growth

made the PVI 2013 a grand success, Kailash Murarka, Co-Chairman, PVI 2013, said that “ it is very difficult to give any one specifi c reasons as we had included everything related to industry and ensured that every rupee is counted. Our concern was to ensure satisfaction of both, exhibitors and visitors, as well. We created 10 dedicated pavilions so that each and every aspect is covered.”

PVI’s comprehensive approach to address issue pertaining to the plastics industry has resulted in the creation of specifi c pavilions.

Job Fair Pavilion "Talent and skilled manpower

crunch is an endemic problem in the plastics industry. In order to bridge this gap, we have organized a Job Fair Pavilion for the plastics industry. This one of a kind career fair will go down in history as this is the fi rst time it has been organized during a plastics trade show.

25 companies that have registered

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with us will be interviewing job aspirants. We are expecting 1200 aspirants during PVI 2013 to take advantage of this innovative job fair," said Mr.Murarka.

Consultant Clinic PavilionReceiving advice from experts, who

have in-depth knowledge regarding particular subjects pertaining to the plastics industry, is a possibility at the

PVI 2013. At the Consultant Clinic Pavillion, which is a new initiative at the trade show, there were experts from various fi elds who are providing suggestions and recommendations to visitors who approach them with various plastics related issues.

India Mold PavilionOver the years, die and mould

makers in India have recorded transformational and highb nall-round market growth. This requires the use

of customized moulding systems that complement the effective functioning of equipment.

Touching upon this issue, PVI 2013, in association with DEMAT (organizers of Euro Mold), India Mold was a novel concept. With its key focus on the moulding industry present in the country, this pavilion tap and showcase the strengths of the moulding industry.

PlastiWorld Pavilion As plastics have become an

inevitable part of everyday life, plastics provide the possibility of manufacturing well designed products from many different types of plastics materials that are available today. PlastiWorld (P las t i cs F in i shed P roduc ts )

showcases quality participation from manufacturers of finished plastic products from all over the globe. The massive display of finished products includes segments like packaging, automobile, engineering, infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare and many others. Major players in the above segments have already confi rmed their participation.

Automation PavilionVi r t u a l s i m u l a t i o n , d i g i t a l

manufacturing and sustainable

manufacturing are some of the best in class practices impacting global manufacturing. These have given companies the ability to dynamically modify operations and reengineer the business process in a short span.

The objective of the Automation Pavilion was to build capacities of local entrepreneurs and industry in industry in India by bringing in modern techniques in order to attain commercial competencies and an optimal exploitation of vast technologies available in the industrial and robotic automation industry. This pavilion presented a substantial display of innovative and productive automation engineering.

Green PavilionTo address and highlight the issues

of major concern of plastics and its effect on the environment, the ‘Green

Pavilion’ is an area set up for this cause. Further, the pavilion had theme ‘No life without plastics’ mantra by

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focusing on its responsible disposal. This segment proved to be a point of edutainment that will bring new life to PVI 2013. The Green Pavilion featured exhibitors with innovative green products and services as well as technologies that balance best business practices and environmentally friendly considerations.

Solar Energy Pavilion Conventional energy sources are

becoming scarce and solar power as

an alternative/ economical renewable source of energy is being regarded as an economic and effective choice.

The Solar Energy Pavilion exhibits and promotes the use of solar energy as renewable source of energy in plastic industry. By decreasingdependece on conventional energy sources, the basic mission is to demonstrate the various technologies of solar energy production, its systems and its economies.

Plastic in Agriculture Pavilion

Agriculture has an important role to play in the Indian economy. For years, the growing use of plastics

in agriculture has helped farmers increase crop production, improve food quality and reduce the ecological footprint of their activity. A wide range of plastics is used in agriculture, including polyolefi n, polyethylene, polypropylene and polyvinyl chloride. At the Plastics in Agriculture Pavilion, the role of vthis versatile material demonstrates way to achieve crop optimization.

Plastics in Medical Pavilion

Modern healthcare has been revolutionized with the help of plastics medical products, which we in most cases take for granted.

For instance products such as disposable syringes, intravenous blood bags and heart valves, etc are contributing heavily towards healthcare. Plastics packaging also is particularly suitable for medical applications.

Plast ics in Medical Pavi l ion s h o w c a s e s t h e u s e o f t h e advancements made in this fi eld.

Plastivision 2013 was able to make its mark in Mumbai, as The All India Plastics Manufacturers Association (AIPMA) did everything to ensure its commercial success.

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Best methods of molding undercutsBob Salhaney, Product Engineer DME Company

Two of the most common methods for dealing with threaded parts are by jumping threads or installing unscrewing mechanisms. Occasionally, if the material is fl exible enough, a molder can simply pull out the core or strip the part, jumping the threads over each other. If this isn’t an option, unscrewing mechanisms built into the mold can unscrew the part from the core as a secondary action.

Unscrewing molds are among the most complex of all injection molds, requiring considerable technical savvy to build and maintain. They are usually built for many years of production and are considered a long-term investment for producing high-volume parts. Unscrewing technology has evolved considerably, but it still has a signifi cant number of limitations. It demands frequent maintenance for issues such as broken rollers, damaged racks, and water and oil leaks. Part quality issues such as scuffi ng, ovality, fl ash, and grease contamination can arise as well.

Collapsible coresOne technology that has expanded

the capabilities of undercut molding more than any other is the collapsible core. Rather than jumping the threads or mechanically unscrewing the parts, fl exing steel collapsible cores function by collapsing radially inward during the normal mold sequence. They eliminate secondary operations and complex coring approaches while providing dramatic cycle-time reductions—often as much as 30% faster than with

Producing plastics parts with undercuts presents distinct

challenges for molders. Undercuts are protrusions or recessions in a part that prevent the mold, after the part is formed, from sliding away along the parting direction. These features inhibit the direct removal of the core, and as a result, generally necessitate using an additional mold piece, such as a side-core or an internal core lifter, to form the shape.

Undercut designs are often used to create threaded parts, such as screw-on bottle caps, snap-on products such as lipstick containers, and a variety of consumer, medical, automotive, and other products. Threaded caps illustrate well the complexities associated with undercuts. After the cap is formed, the threads of the part and the threads of the core are intermeshed and must be disengaged before the core can be pulled out and the cap removed from the mold.

Molders have developed a variety of methods for molding undercut or threaded parts—some as simple as unscrewing the part by hand or machining the undercuts in a separate operation—that range widely in cost-effectiveness and efficiency. This article will present some of the recent technology advancements that give molders better, more cost-efficient methods of producing undercut or threaded parts.

Unscrewing mold mechanisms

unscrewing mechanisms.

The segments of a collapsible core are attached to the ejector plate, while its tapered inner center pin is attached to the back of the mold. When the mold opens, the threaded outer core collapses as the ejector plate moves forward. Incorporating only three moving parts, which utilize conventional mold movements, a collapsible core enables part designs that previously would have been considered impossible to mold.

Collapsible cores are compatible with other mold components, such as two -stage ejectors and internal latch locks. These products enable positive control of both the stroke sequence and distance in two-stage ejection and of mold-plate latching operation.

• Two-stage ejectors: These adapt to a number of mold-base sizes and plate thicknesses and are available in two ejection sequences: top last and bottom last. The stroke range for each ejection stage is fixed in a simple procedure, and it cannot be tampered with or accidentally changed once installed. With internally installed components, the two-stage ejector avoids interference with waterline connectors and externally mounted components.

• Internal latch lock: This allows measured control of the mold-plate opening sequence on mold bases with stripper plates. One group of plates can be latched together while

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the fi rst parting line opens. After a predetermined amount of travel, the latch lock releases the latched plates for the remaining parting line or lines to open. Like the two-stage ejector, once installed, the internal latch lock cannot be accidentally changed and does not interfere with waterline connectors or externally mounted components.

The function of the collapsing core also permits threads to stop at any point along the molded length; threads need not run out to the top of the core, as with unscrewing molds. If a seal is required in the top of the closure, an undercut can often be molded into the part to hold such a seal in place.

The collapsing action also permits a longer threaded area to be formed, without adding to the cycle time or requiring long rack-and-pinion mechanisms. In addition to threads, other confi gurations such as dimples, cut-outs, or protrusions beyond the capabilities of unscrewing molds can be successfully molded.

Collapsible mini-coresCollapsible cores have many

advantages, but sometimes they’re just too large for the application. That’s when molders turn to collapsible mini-cores. These broaden the applications of collapsible-core molds to closures as small as 10.8 mm diam. Due to the smaller diameters involved, these mini-cores employ three larger collapsing segments combined with three narrow, noncollapsing blades, which are an integral part of the center pin. As a result, up to 80% full threads or undercuts can be molded.

Challenges of collapsible cores

The collapsible core is designed to collapse independently when the center pin is withdrawn. The fi t between segments is controlled to permit fl ash-free molding, which means the location of the core on its pin is critical. The distance between the back of the core fl ange and the front of the center-pin fl ange, known as head space, must be precisely maintained. Otherwise, inaccuracies in head space will produce unsatisfactory operation and possibly cause permanent damage to the core.

The collapsible core is designed to operate without benefi t of lubrication. While it’s possible to treat the core with an alloying process for wear reduction and corrosion resistance, plating the core is not recommended.

The individual segments of the collapsible core have a self-cleaning action that will tend to carry any dirt or deposits to the outer surface of the collapsing core. As a result, the fi rst 50 to 100 shots may show foreign matter deposits on the inside of the molded part. Prior to final assembly of the mold, the core should be thoroughly degreased and cleaned. It’s usually a good idea to lightly wipe the tapered end of the center pin with grease or PTFE lubricant to help break it in.

You should also make sure that the collapsing core is free to turn when installed in the ejector plate. This slight play will permit the core fl ange to “fl oat” slightly, helping it fi nd its own center and equalizing wear on the center pin. To completely collapse the core, the center pin must be withdrawn a

specifi ed amount. The ejector stroke varies for different models of the core.

Stripper-plate actuation must be sequenced so that the cylinders have returned the stripper plate before the ejector plate has returned. This will avoid interference of the stripper ring with the core and possible core damage. Collapsible cores are individually fi tted to a matching numbered pin, and cannot be interchanged.

Collapsible cores and mini-cores have set the bar high for effi ciency and cost savings. But even these technologies have room for engineering progress. A recently improved version of this technology, the Dovetail Collapsible Core, enhances the strength and function of the traditional design.

Dovetail collapsible coresDovetail collapsible cores provide

the most compact and simplest way to mold challenging internal undercut features. With a mechanical means for collapsing segments, the Dovetail core has added versatility to handle a larger range of diameters and undercut depths.

Molders sometimes hesitate to use standard collapsible cores in part because the product’s design uses steel flexing segments that are all integral to each other. If, for example, a machine clamps up on a part, the segments of the conventional collapsible core may be damaged or broken. Although the root cause is improper molding operation or mold design, this type of error creates an undeserved negative reputation for fl exing steel collapsing cores.

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Because of their strength, dovetail joints are commonly used to lock components together in woodworking and other industries. Similarly, Dovetail collapsible cores are much stronger than their conventional counterparts. Standard collapsible cores use a tube of steel slotted into 12 individual segments, while the Dovetail uses six independent segments, which are larger, stronger, and easily repaired if necessary.

Conventional collapsible cores work well in the B-half of the mold but can create design issues in the A-half. The segmented design of the Dovetail enables it to work equally well in either half of the mold. This means a molder can use fewer, smaller mold plates and a smaller molding machine for higher

cost savings.

Dovetail collapsible cores also enable shutoffs, both front and side. This is a major advantage for moldmakers compared with conventional collapsible cores, which often require part-design modifi cations to deal with collapsing segments or mold shutoffs. However, both styles of collapsible cores can be used to mold protrusions or cut-outs into the side wall of a part.

Straightforward actuation of the Dovetail collapsible core enables manufacturers to design and build a mold that requires only “mold open/mold shut” commands to operate. In most cases, there is no need for special core-pull circuits or even the common ejector-plate sequence.

The potential cycle-time reduction is enormous. Dovetail collapsible cores also incorporate a patent-pending quick-lock system that enables molders to quickly remove the assembly from the mold without removing the mold from the machine.

Another prominent benefit of Dovetail design is that moldmakers can use a standard fi xture to grind the thread onto the outer diameter of the core. Also while some methods for molding undercuts are tried and true, they might not always provide the cost savings or efficiencies of more advanced technologies. Dovetail collapsible cores have proven to be a great solution for a variety of applications; improving cycle time, cost savings and reliability.

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PP makes a play in rotomoldingPP powders were prohibit ively expensive, costing EUR50-55 per kilogram versus EUR18-20 for PE powders." To reduce material pricing to an acceptable level of EUR25-30 per kilogram, Total turned to the micropelletizaton process developed by HD Kunststoffe. The microgranules have been manufactured since 2o12 in Remscheid, Germany and sold under the HD eco-tech brand. These materials are based on Total's Lumicene impact copolymer impact modifi ed grades.

"Rotomolding with PP enables the excellent surface aspects of PP to come to the fore, such as gloss, brilliance, scratch resistance, and feel," says Naets. "There are also

The rotomolding process is normally associated with linear

low and medium density grades of polyethylene. New polypropylene (PP) micropelletizaton technology developed by compounding company HD Kunststoffe & Kunststofferzeugnisse and rotomolding grades of PP offered by Total Petrochemicals (07.2/D08), however, have opened up potential for penetration of PP into this application, bringing numerous benefi ts to boot.

"Traditionally, rotomolders wanting to process PP had to resort to powder grades prepared through cryogenic grinding," says Veerle Naets, Business Manager Technical Parts, Durables, Consumer Goods at Total. "This generally meant that

benefi ts to be had in terms of chemical resistance."

According to HD Kunststoffe, microgranules also offer opportunities fo r we igh t reduc t ion th rough optimization of wall thickness (30-40% less material), while an extremely high impact strength of >64 kJ/m2 at 23°C is attainable. Heat resistance is up to 148°C.

Recent app l i ca t ions o f PP rotomolding grades include a chemical container, the waste water tank of a floor cleaner, a kayak, a manhole, a hydraulic tank, a glycol tank, and automotive air duct, and a condenser hood for a heat exchanger.


Self-Healing Polymer Could Be Key to Longer-Lasting Batteries

Elizabeth Montalbano

Wang -- who developed the polymer and coating method with Professor Zhenan Bao -- said the inspiration for the work comes from nature, pointing out the ability humans have to heal once we’ve been injured.

However, existing self-healing polymers to date have not been conductive, which required Bao, Wang, and their team to modify a self-healing material that already existed by adding tiny nanoparticles of carbon to the polymer, Wang said.

We want to make the self-healing materials with electrical property, so we modifi ed a previously known self-healing polymer, tuned the mechanical properties according to our need, and made it conductive. It can self-heal because it has a lot of hydrogen bonds, which are weak and reversible.

So when there are mechanical damages, these hydrogen bonds will break fi rst instead of covalent bonds. The hydrogen bonds will reversibly form and self-heal when the damaged interfaces get in touch again.

Wang and Hui Wu, a former Stanford postdoc who is now a faculty member at Tsinghua University in Beijing, co-authored a paper about their research in a recent article in Nature Chemistry.

Indeed, researchers have been trying a number of ways to create

We had already discussed the so-called Terminator

polymer that could heal itself. Now, researchers at Stanford University are using a similar material to improve the durability of lithium-ion batteries so they don’t crack under the pressure of use.

Researchers in Stanford’s and the Department of Energy’s SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have developed a conductive self-healing polymer and used it to coat the electrode of a battery, which binds the electrode together and spontaneously heals tiny cracks that develop during battery operation.

This makes the battery more durable and able to withstand more charge and discharge cycles, lasting 10 times longer in tests in the lab than typical lithium-ion batteries, Chao Wang, a post-doctoral researcher working on the project, told Design News, in an email

The benefit of using self-heal polymer is that the mechanical failures inside the battery can self-heal at the same time, maintaining the electrical and mechanical contact of the materials.

In this way, the decay of the capacity can be much slower. We don't need to change the chemistry of the battery. The self-healing polymer composite serves as a coating on the active materials.

longer-lasting batteries for myriad devices and in particular electric vehicles (EVs), which still lack a viable battery that lasts long enough to go long distances without being recharged.

Battery lifetime is also an issue for electronic devices like smartphones, as researchers seek ways to make batteries not only last longer before needing a recharge but also have a longer life span in general.

Many research efforts under way are experimenting with battery chemistries, trading ion for air in lithium-based batteries or trying a new spin on old chemistries, such as lead-acid batteries.

The Stanford effort appears to be one of the fi rst to fi nd a new way to improve lithium-ion batteries not by altering the chemistry itself but by adding this self-healing property.

Wang said the next step for the research is to increase the battery’s lifetime even further and to apply the self-healing concept to other batteries besides lithium-ion.

However, while the concept is promising to the future of batteries, it will likely be some time -- at least fi ve to 10 years -- before this technology might be commercially available.

Source: plastic technology

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A new look at evaluating fill times for injection moldingDavid A. Hoffman &, John Beaumont Beaumont Technologies Inc.

and is done using a “universal setup sheet” (a term used by John Bozzelli,scientificmolding.com). For example, if you are documenting the melt temperature you would document the temperature of the plastic coming out of the machine nozzle—not the barrel temperature settings on the machine controller.

Establishing optimum fill time

One of the important process parameters to establish and record for any injection molded part is its injection or fi ll time. Fill time is an indication of how fast the plastic is injected into the mold. Fill time affects how much shear heating and shear thinning the plastic experiences, which in turn affect the material’s viscosity, the pressure and temperature of the plastic inside the cavities, and the overall part quality (dimensions, aesthetics, strength, etc.). Any change in fill time may adversely affect the final molded part. Therefore once the ideal fill time is established for a given mold, that fi ll time should live with the mold forever and should be allowed to vary only slightly (±0.04 sec, as per John Bozzelli’s recommendation). The key question is: How does one go about identifying an ideal fi ll time for a given mold?

Molders use several methods to establish a fi ll time, some of which begin with one of the following methods:

• Evaluating the fill time used on

One of the important process parameters to establish and

record for any injection molded part is its injection or fi ll time. Research research reveals the limitations of popularly taught methods of establishing this critical parameter injection molding process methodologies have evolved over the decades from a seat-of-the-pants black art to a more structured approach. A number of schools, companies, and individuals provide a valuable service to the industry by teaching these structured methods, which have been labeled with terms such as Scientifi c Molding, Decoupled Molding, and 2-Stage and 3-Stage processes. These approaches involve similar specific procedures that help establish a foundation on which to build a process. Among the procedures taught are a method for determining a fill time or fill speed using in-mold rheology curves (a.k.a “relative viscosity vs. relative shear rate” curves), as well as methods for establishing an ideal transfer position, ensuring the proper melt temperature, finding the ideal hold pressure, identifying pressure losses within the mold, and fi nding the time when gate seal (gate freeze) occurs.

These approaches also teach that the process must be documented in a manner that allows it to be transferred to other molding machines with the intent of achieving relatively consistent part quality. This requires that the process is recorded by referencing plastic variables, not machine variables,

similar parts and molds.

• Trial and error.

• Design of experiments (DOE) data.

• Experience.

• Mold-fi lling simulation.

• Relative Viscosity test.

Ideally, every part would be evaluated for fill time using mold-filling simulation performed by a skilled analyst with plastics processing experience. Unfortunately this type of analysis data is not available for many plastic parts, so molders need a method to establish an ideal fi ll time that they can employ on the shop fl oor. This is where the Relative Viscosity (RV) test comes into play. The general procedure for this commonly taught method is presented below.

Though some consultants and trainers may add other steps or teach it a bit differently, essentially the approaches are very similar:

1. Using maximum injection velocity, adjust shot size to get the fullest part 95% full.

2. Record the fi ll time and pressure at transfer.

3. Reduce injection velocity and record the fi ll time and pressure at transfer.

4. Repeat Step 3 until the fi ll time is over 10 sec.

5. Use the data to calculate relative shear rates and relative viscosities:

Relative Shear Rate = 1 ÷ fi ll time

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Relative Viscosity = Hydraulic pressure x intensifi cation ratio x fi ll time

6. Graph relative viscosity (y-axis) vs. relative shear rate (x-axis).

7. Select a fi ll time on the “fl at” portion of the curve.

The results of one RV test are shown graphically in Fig. 1. Note that the graph is essentially that of “Fill Time vs. 1 ÷ Fill Time” (where the Fill Time on the y-axis is multiplied by its corresponding pressure). When you graph a number versus its reciprocal, the shape of the curve shown in Fig. 1 is expected. If the change in pressure were directly proportional to the change in fi ll time, the graph would show a straight line. However, this test demonstrates that as plastic fl ows faster (higher shear rate), its viscosity is reduced and becomes fairly consistent over a wide range of injection rates.

The RV test results in “viscosity vs. shear rate” curves that look similar to those produced using laboratory capil lary rheometers (Figs. 2A, 2B). Figure 2A shows the capillary rheometer data of viscosity (poise) versus shear rate (1/sec) plotted on a log-log graph while Fig. 2B shows the same data plotted on a non-log-log

graph. The non-log-log graph in Fig. 2B looks very similar to the RV graph in Fig. 1.

The RV test has been widely taught and adopted by many molding companies to help select a fi ll time for a given mold. Company procedures have been written to include the test as part of their process standards. Thus, there is a great deal of material, labor, and machine time spent each day on running the RV tests in hopes of identifying optimum fi ll times based on a structured approach that a process technician or engineer can use on the shop fl oor.

Ideally, someone applying this technique should also be evaluating the parts for cosmetic issues and other defects to help determine the optimum fill time. But all too often we have found molders looking at the curves as a scientifi cally founded method to establish optimum fi ll time and therefore assuming they should look at other process parameters to address molded part problems.

Those who teach the RV test

method usually state that for most parts the fi ll time should be located somewhere on the fl atter portion of the curve (after the “elbow”). The fl at portion of the curve is considered desirable because it is expected to produce the most consistent melt conditions when changes occur in the process or resin viscosity. These changes might result from lot-to-lot material variations or process drift.

Depending on the range of fi ll times used, the fl at portion of the curve can be a small area or rather large. This leaves the processor asking, “Where on the fl at portion of the RV curve is the optimum fi ll time?” Currently the practice of picking the fi ll time from the curve is quite arbitrary. If you ask three different molders taught in the same class to select a fi ll time from the same RV graph you may get three different answers. Listed below are several common opinions and one formula that have been suggested as guidelines for selecting the target fi ll time:

Method 1: Halfway from the “knee” to the end of the curve.

Method 2: The point right after the “knee.”

Method 3: The farthest point out, because it has the lowest viscosity overall.

Method 4: ([(Highest RV – Lowest RV) x 0.05] ÷ 2) + Lowest RV.

A further complication is that the selected fill time is completely dependent on the scale of the graph at hand. If the scale of the graph changes (i.e. run the test to only 5 sec instead of 10 or 20 sec), the fi ll time chosen by using the current visual and arbitrary fi ll-time selection methods

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may actually change (Fig. 3A vs. 3B). Also, the ideal fi ll time may be harder to determine since the fl at part of the curve will not look as fl at as it does when running the test with more data points at longer fi ll times.

In addition to some ambiguity in the interpretation of the RV test, the method of focusing on a “relative viscosity” to identify a fi ll time raises further questions. It was apparent that further research was required to better understand the RV test and determine if it could be improved upon. This research began several years ago and only a portion is reported here.

Researching the fill-time problem

Early stages of this work began with us asking ourselves, “What do relative viscosity and relative shear rate really mean?” The relative shear rate is defi ned as 1 ÷ fi ll time, which results in units of 1/sec, the same units used by rheologists for describing shear rates.

However actual shear rate depends on the volumetric fl ow rate, the non-Newtonian characteristics (n), and the specifi c geometry through which the plastic is fl owing, as per the following equation:

The term relative shear rate differs from actual shear rate in a number of ways. One is that there is no geometry consideration in the relative shear-rate calculation. In actuality, the fl ow geometry of a mold is constantly changing (nozzle, sprue, progressive runner branches, gates, and cavity). The actual shear rate therefore varies considerably in a mold and can range from a few hundred 1/sec in a cavity

to hundreds of thousands in a gate.

During our research we found that when graphing typical RV data vs. Fill time (FT), a nearly straight line developed (Fig. 4). Surely it cannot really be a pure straight line, due to the pseudo-plastic, non-Newtonian behavior of plastics; but the scale at which we are working with causes this to appear linear. From this phenomenon we theorized that we could very closely recreate the original RV curve by utilizing only two data points. This methodology will be referred to as a “2 Point Rheology Curve.”

Utilizing the data from Fig. 4, we selected two random data points. Then we selected a starting (fastest) fi ll time equal to that of the original mold and increased the fi ll time by 25% until the ending (slowest) fi ll time was near that of the original mold. Relative Viscosity and Relative Shear Rate were then

back-calculated for the fi ll times. The result was an RV curve, created using only two data points, that was nearly identical to the original RV curve generated from 12 data points (Fig. 5).

Using the same approach, 2 Point Rheology Curves were then created for more than 40 other randomly selected production molds. These molds ranged from one to 32 cavities; used different melt-delivery systems (hot runner, hot-to-cold runner, and full cold runner); and were run with different plastic materials (such as PP, PC, and glass-fi lled PBT, PCT, and nylon 66). In each case, the 2 Point Rheology Curve very closely mimicked the original RV curve, similar to Fig. 5.

We theorized that the injection pressure might also be back-calculated for any fill time using the 2 Point Rheology Curve methodology. It was found that this method was within

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very reasonable limits of calculating fill pressure vs. actual pressure in most cases, regardless of differing cavitation, melt-delivery system, or plastic material. The method was found to provide a good prediction of mold fi lling pressures in molds where the pressure continually increased with decreasing fi ll time (Fig. 6 is one example).

In contrast, the method worked poorly in predicting pressures when the lowest fi ll pressure was not at the slowest fi ll time, but rather somewhere between the slowest and fastest fi ll time (Fig. 7). Regardless of the pressure prediction, the calculated RV curves looked nearly identical to the original curves.

Next, the plots of the original RV data for the same molds were

compared with plots of random fill times versus relative shear rate (1/FT) over the same range of fi ll times used in the actual RV test. It was noticed that the resulting two curves looked very similar, though the slopes between data points were different due to the infl uence of pressure on the y-axis values (Fig. 8A). When the curves were plotted separately and shifted to overlay on top of one another, the two curves overlaid very well (Fig. 8B). This indicates that by using the arbitrary methods of selecting a fi ll time on a RV curve, it would be nearly impossible to explain why you would pick a different fi ll time on the original RV curve vs. one from the Random Fill Time curve.

It must be understood that the Random Fill Time Curve data does not include any infl uence of pressure

or material or molding of actual parts. The curve was created by plotting time steps between the fastest and slowest fi ll times of the original RV data versus the reciprocals of those time steps. But yet the Random Fill Time curve is nearly identical to the actual RV curve. These fi ndings were consistent over all molds tested and are a result of sound mathematical equations and substitutions.The results prove that any RV curve can be made to look nearly identical to any other simply by adjusting the vertical scales.

Based on these findings and the nature of the RV test itself, we theorized that every mold would produce the same general RV curve, given the same fi ll times. This would indicate that every mold would have the same selected fi ll time according to current practices of the RV method.

To test this theory, an RV test was run on an eight-cavity test mold using an acetal resin. The test was performed by strategically changing the machine velocity settings to match the fi ll times (as closely as possible) to four of the previously tested molds plus the same eight-cavity mold using a PC resin. Thus, fi ve different RV curves were generated for the same eight-cavity mold. Matching the same fi ll times as the previously tested molds allowed us to maintain the same scale for the Relative Shear Rate x-axis. The data was then overlaid on top of the graph of the original RV data for each of the fi ve molds.

When molding acetal in the eight-cavity test mold, it was found that by matching fi ll times to those of the original molds, each original RV curve and its corresponding eight-cavity

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acetal test-mold RV curve looked nearly identical to one another. As an example, Fig. 9 shows the fi ll times for each mold along with overlaid graphs of the original mold’s RV curve (red) and the eight-cavity acetal RV curve (blue). The x and y-axis labels are removed for clarity reasons but correspond to Relative Shear Rate and Relative Viscosity respectively.

The x-axes are l ined up to one another as a result of the corresponding fill times, but as discussed earlier, a shift up/down was required to get the graphs to overlay due to the different slopes between data points resulting from the different pressures required for each material and mold. Regardless, the general shapes of the curves in each fi gure are nearly identical.

ConclusionThe research reported here

indicates that if the current practice of using the shape of the RV curve is applied to fi nd a target fi ll time, it is very likely that the same fi ll time could be selected for every mold ever made, regardless of material, cavitation, cooling, temperatures, machine, and runner system. The only variation will come from the arbitrarily selected range of fi ll times that the operator selects to develop

the RV curve for a given mold.

The pattern found here may not always be obvious when comparing RV graphs from different molds. The nature of the RV test tends to mask these fi ndings. Consider that each machine and mold combination will influence the range of velocities that can be run during the test. Also consider that each operator will choose different reductions in velocity at each step, and use different ranges of velocity when performing the test. These result in different fi ll times and pressures, which make each RV curve look different. Essentially the machine/mold and the operator are unknowingly varying the scale of the graph and thereby the appearance of the RV curves.

As it is practiced today, there appears to be little value in performing the RV test as an indicator for determining a fi ll time when coupled with the arbitrary methods discussed earlier for identifying a fill time. However, one benefi t of doing a fi ll-time scan (versus RV test) would be to see how the mold and part react to different velocities. This will give the operator an idea of what the mold and molded part can tolerate. For example, you may see shear splay near a gate at a higher velocity. This would tell you that you do not want to inject that fast for this particular mold. This would help establish one end (the fast injection-rate limit) of an injection-time process window. On the other end (the slow injection-rate limit), there may be little reason to run the test up to 10 sec, since most molds have injection times well under that.

You might well ask, “What should we do now to help determine a fi ll time?” As stated earlier, mold-fi lling simulation ideally would be utilized, but that simply is not realistic for all molds. So we need an alternative method.

We are studying numerous alternate approaches. One alternative procedure we have worked with has its foundation in mold-fi lling simulation but is adapted for use on the shop fl oor. Nearly 30 years ago, injection molding analysts would model an “equivalent rectangle” representing the molded part using a 2D strip fi le. The thickness of the strip was set to the nominal wall thickness of the part, the fl ow length was set to the “critical fl ow length” of the part, and the width would be set as needed so that the volume of the equivalent rectangle would equal the volume of the part.

The analyst would then select a plastic material and a mold and melt temperature and run a series of analyses, each having a different fi ll time. With early versions of Moldfl ow software, this was an automated feature referred to as an “injection fi ll-time scan.” The scan would perform approximately 20 analyses with fi ll times ranging from very fast to very slow.

The results were presented in a table (and later as graphs), which provided for each fi ll time a predicted fi ll pressure, shear rate, shear stress, melt temperature, and cooling time. Of particular interest was the pressure vs. fi ll time (Fig. 10A) combined with the melt temperature at the gate and at the end of cavity fi ll. Essentially, this gave the melt-temperature distribution

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across the cavity, which today we can investigate by plotting temperature from a fi nite-element model of a mold cavity, as shown in Fig. 10B.

From the tabulated data, the analyst would initially select a fi ll-time window (range of fi ll times) where the temperature rise and drop across the cavity was +0° C and -20° C, respectively. Temperature rise across the cavity, resulting from excessively fast fi lling, was to be avoided because it could complicate packing “far gate” locations. The analyst would then look for the fi ll times resulting in the lowest pressures, which would often correspond to the region on the bottom of the pressure vs. fi ll time curve in Fig. 11A. Given these two pieces of information, the analyst would select a target fi ll-time range based on a

condition where melt temperatures across the mold cavity were relatively uniform and pressures were relatively low. It was common that the fi ll time corresponding to a uniform melt temperature across the cavity would be near to the lowest pressure. It was also considered desirable that the slow end of the target fi ll-time range be slightly faster than the time corresponding to the lowest pressure, as this would be a shear-dominated rather than thermally dominated cavity condition. This method also has the advantage that it focuses on the part-forming cavity condition, unlike the RV method. Countless molds have been processed with great success utilizing these older simulation techniques.

The fundamentals of the injection-time scan method are quite sound and apply logical methodologies. The process is focused on the quality of the molded part as infl uenced by the melt conditions within the mold cavity. The currently practiced RV test method is incapable of isolating and evaluating rheological conditions within the cavity. Additionally, the RV data is determined from a conglomeration that includes the energy to move the screw and pressure loss through the machine’s end cap, nozzle, sprue, runner system, gate, and fi nally the cavity. A stable Relative Viscosity in the overall conglomeration does not necessarily represent a stable viscosity within the mold cavity. It is the conditions within the cavity that are most signifi cant in determining the outcome of the fi nal molded part.

Unfortunately there is no good technology currently available for

the shop fl oor to determine the melt-temperature distribution across the cavity. However all molding machines have the ability to provide injection pressure vs. fi ll time data.

Though only being able to evaluate Pressure vs. Fill Time has its limitations, it still can provide molders some valuable information to help them make more informed decisions. Since the user will be focused on the pressure changes instead of a Relative Viscosity number, this methodology will provide a quick indication of the fill time at which the process will be close to being pressure-limited. In addition, we fi nd that “fill time” and “pressure” are terms that a processor is familiar with and are more easily interpreted than Relative Viscosity and Relative Shear Rate. And fi nally, there are no calculations required for the Pressure versus Fill Time graph other than multiplying your pressure by the machine’s intensification ratio, if needed (not in the case of an electric machine).

Processors, mold designers, and engineers can also be taught how to calculate actual shear rates in selected mold regions. As true shear degradation limits are not well known or understood in this industry, this practice can allow a company to establish a defect log per material and shear rate. This data can be useful to both mold designers and processors. For example, a designer could increase a gate size if the log indicated that the current gate-size and fl ow-rate combination produced a shear rate that historically caused shear splay for a given material.

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We continue to study this approach and teach this information in our continuing education and training courses, along with other methods that could be used to help the molder on the shop fl oor to identify a preferred fill-time window. These methods include consideration of both fast and relatively slow fi ll times. If you choose to use the RV method and feel it provides benefi t, a great deal of time and money could be saved by adopting our 2 Point Rheology Curve presented here. This data would allow a molder to hone in on the “fl at” part of the curve (if desired) much faster and at a reduced cost.

A more recent method we are researching is the concept of a “critical velocity” based on the polymer melt, wall thickness, and fl ow length. The critical velocity is a condition where the thermal and shear conditions are at equilibrium, establishing relatively stable melt conditions, shear stresses, and frozen-layer thicknesses across the partforming cavity. This method uses our new Therma-fl o injection moldability characterization method The critical velocity would be a material characterization that could provide the optimum fi ll time for a mold prior to actually running the mold.

No matter which method you choose for fi nding a fi ll time, it should be considered only a starting point. The molder should understand the limitations of these methods and adapt the process to achieve the design and application requirements of the actual molded part. This includes consideration of all required quality criteria, including cosmetics, dimensions, warpage, etc. And once the optimum fi ll time and process have been identifi ed, be sure to document the process using a universal setup sheet.

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Fimbulvetr promises a new direction with lightweight thermoplastic snowshoes

other benefi ts. The designers selected DuPont Hytrel thermoplastic elastomer for its combination of strength, durability and fl exibility. They cut that material into an asymmetrical shape, designed to mimic the foot, and punched a honeycomb pattern in it to cut weight while maintaining torsional strength and fl otation. Judging from the photos, the frame also employs a drastically rockered profi le, which seems like it could help prevent the tips and deck from sinking into the snow

Fimbulvetr's innovation doesn't end with the frame. The signature feature of the new snowshoe is the patented all-direction hinge. The wave-shaped mechanism doesn't resemble the typical hinge at all, but appears more like a shock absorbing spring. Instead of locking you into an up-down ankle

It may look like a big slice of Swiss cheese, but the Fimbulvetr

snowshoe is actually a high-end sporting good product from Norway. A series of high-tech components, including a thermoplastic elastomer body and an innovative binding hinge, create a snowshoe that is designed to be light, comfortable and easy to walk in – no matter how nasty the weather

First there were bent branches. Then there were tubular aluminum frames. Now, plastics and composites are becoming more and more popular in snowshoe construction. Models like the Tubbs Flex and TSL Symbioz come with claims of freer, more comfortable strides.

Fimbulvetr snowshoes use a very specifi c form of construction to offer more comfortable strides, along with

motion, Fimbulvetr's design allows you multi-directional foot movement.

On the snow, the all-direction hinge should have a similar impact to the TSL Symbioz's Hyperfl ex frame, allowing for freer movement and better grip when cutting across an incline. Traditional rigid snowshoes can feel as nimble as concrete boots at times, and a little extra motion should only improve dexterity. Fimbulvetr also claims the hinge increases the shoe's performance when descending hills.

As all that fancy thermoplastic-cons t ruc t ion ta l k m igh t have suggested, a pair of Fimbulvetrs will not come cheap. The company just started manufacturing its fi rst batch, which are available for a pre-order price of US$600 and come in gray, red or black.


INTERNATIONAL NEWS

The Vietnamese government will thoroughly evaluate state-

owned Thai PTT's proposed mega-refinery and tightly manage the development of other refi nery and petrochemical projects in the country, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung told the National Assembly Thursday.

Dung made the statements in response to one lawmaker's concern that regional governments appeared to be on a "campaign" to build too many projects.

Vietnam plans to develop several refi nery and petrochemical projects in the coming years, which some industry analysts have questioned.

Ho Si Thoang, an industry analyst with experience in the local petroleum industry, said it was not necessary to scale up the nation's refi ning sector so quickly. "Refi ning and petrochemical sector brings about low margins," he said. "The main purposes for its development are to ensure energy security and develop the chemical industry."

Another local industry expert said investors wanting to build new refineries in Vietnam should try to finish construction as early as possible to secure tax benefi ts and to meet the current domestic fuel shortage.

PTT expects to complete a feasibility study of the proposed 660,000 b/d project in the central province of Binh Dinh in April.

Vietnam government reassures lawmakers onThai PTT mega-refinery project

"I have allowed the investor [PTT] to prepare the feasibility study of the project," Dung said. "Our authorities will thoroughly evaluate the feasibility study once it is submitted. If the project benefi ts us, the investors and is in accordance with our laws, we will consider adding it to our [refi nery and petrochemical sector] development plan."

Dung said most of the proposals for new Vietnamese refi neries have been approved in principle and were included in the country's 2020-25 development plan for the refining and petrochemical sector, which was released in 2011.

However, Dung has asked the municipal government of the southern Can Tho City to consider revoking the investment license of the much-delayed 2 million mt/year Can Tho project. The sponsors, Vietnam's Vien Dong Investment and Trade Corp., are fi nancially unable to move the project forward, the prime minister said.

Dung said Vietnam's sole 130,000 b/d Dung Quat refi nery in the central province of Quang Ngai has shown its effectiveness.

Russia's Gazprom Neft plans to acquire a 49% share in state-owned PetroVietnam's Binh Son Refi ning and Petrochemical, which controls and manages the Dung Quat refi nery. The two parties are currently in price negotiations, Gazprom Neft said November 12.

To modernize the plant, Dung Quat's capacity will be raised to 10-12 million mt/year from the current 6.5 million mt/year within a year, according to Gazprom Neft. The work will also upgrade the technical effi ciency of motor fuel production to meet the Euro-5 standard.

PetroVietnam will use money from the share sales to fi nance the upgrades. It and Gazprom Neft are awaiting agreements between the Vietnamese and Russian governments to advance the project, Dung said.

Dung Quat refinery supplies around 30% of Vietnam's domestic refined products demand, with imports meeting the rest.

PetroVietnam and its partners began construction at the 200,000 b/d Nghi Son refi nery and petrochemical complex last month.

Japanese JGC is expected to start construction at the 160,658 b/d Vung Ro project in 2015 and complete it in 2019, an offi cial said last month.

Two other proposed 200,000 b/d refi nery and petrochemical projects -- PetroVietnam's Long Son complex in the southern province of Ba Ria Vung Tau and state-owned Petrolimex's Nam Van Phong project in the central province of Khanh Hoa -- are looking for foreign investors, the prime minister said.


The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industr ies Inc. ( ISRI) is

increasing its focus on plastics. The Washington-based trade organization announced the creation of a new plastics division within the association, allowing members to join multiple commodity divisions. ISRI has traditionally been a trade group focusing on the metal scrap industry. Previously, the organization simply had an ad hoc committee on plastics.

“The plastics recycling sector is one of the fastest growing segments of the recycling industry, presenting

Scrap recyclers' trade group forms plastics divisiona great opportunity for the newly created plastics division to mitigate some of the barriers to recover plastics while offering visibility into the global supply chain,” said Jonathan Cohen, president of Generated Materials Recovery and chair of ISRI’s Plastics Division. “There is strong industry-wide interest in seeing this area of recycling become more robust and accessible, and we expect the division to play a leading role in contributing to this development.”

Robin Wiener, president of ISRI said, “Allowing members to join

multiple divisions, including the newly formed plastics division, was done to accommodate the changing landscape of the industry.

Twenty years ago companies typically specialized in only one commodity, but today they are increasingly handling significant volumes across multiple commodity streams.This change was needed to ensure members have a voice within ISRI for each and every commodity they produce.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Members o f t he Un i t ed K i n g d o m ' s r e c y c l i n g

community said they did not expect the imminent dismantling of China's Green Fence to radically alter Beijing's approach to waste imports.The barrier, created in February, was designed to block low-quality imports of waste material into the country, yet recyclers in the UK do not believe there will be any signifi cant shift towards an open door policy on the part of the Chinese.

Bernard Chase, purchasing director at Regain Polymers, said that once the quality of materials offered to the Chinese reprocessing markets improved to the point that broadly equivalent standards and TransFrontier Shipment regulations were "genuinely adhered to" then the appetite of the Chinese markets for UK

Removal of China's 'green fence' not a 'green light'

recyclable materials would grow again.

"The Green Fence was in effect a draconian inspection regime designed to eradicate the import of low grade/hazardous materials and, on the understanding that the quality message has now been heard and clearly understood, it is this which is now being relaxed," Chase said.Provided improved standards of imports were maintained, trade fl ows should begin to grow again, he added.

The British Plastics Federation said in a statement: "We haven't seen any offi cial notifi cation of a relaxation of the restriction. If it were to happen it probably wouldn't be a wholesale rolling back. It might possibly take the form of maintaining a high standard, but a less rigorous inspection regime."

GAB Packaging buys three Canadian companies

GAB Packaging Ltd. is expanding into plastics

industrial packaging with the acquisition of three Canadian companies.

GAB of Candiac, Quebec, has specialized in industrial paperboard packaging services. By purchasing the companies it is adding distribution and design of polyethylene and polyurethane foams, air bubble cushioning, laminat ion and a range of thermoforming films, including electrostatic dissipation types, to its services.

GAB is buying Smith-Induspac operations in Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. In addition to distributing plastics packaging they sell paperboard packaging.


INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Iran and six world powers reached a deal early to curb Tehran’s

nuclear program in exchange for limited sanctions relief. The deal will last for six months, during which time the countries will try to work out a more formal agreement.

Regarding oil exports, the EU crude oil ban will remain in effect and Iran will continue to be held to approximately 1 mln bpd in sales, according to Reuters in reference to a fact sheet posted by

Impact of eased sanctions on Iranian petchems being gauged the White House on the U.S. State Department’s website. However, some relief on EU sanctions on oil shipping insurance was included in the deal.

Iran’s big oil customers in Asia have been put off importing even permitted volumes because of diffi culties getting insurance for shipments. The removal of the EU restrictions on insurance opens the door for Iran’s biggest oil buyers - China, India, South Korea and Japan- to increase imports to contract

levels without breaching sanctions. Now players in the petrochemical business are also trying to gauge the impact of this recent deal.

According to the Joint Plan of Action signed in Geneva, sanctions on Iran’s petrochemical exports, associated services such as insurance or transportation as well as sanctions on gold and precious metals and the auto industry will be suspended.

New York City's incoming mayor Bill de Blasio is supporting

the attempt to stop the use of foam product. And while he had been mostly silent on the proposal by Mayor Michael Bloomberg to ban the use of food service PS in New York City restaurants, de Blasio has openly said that he supported the effort.

"As everyone knows, this is not biodegradable, this is a petroleum-based product that really causes environmental harm," he said during a press conference.

"We have better options and better alternatives, and those alternatives will become more plentiful and available and cheaper if cities like New York start turning away from traditional Styrofoam."

With the measure to ban PS for food service still sitting in committee, it's entirely possible de Blasio may have to garner support from a new City Council if he wants a ban to be

Incoming NYC mayor backs polystyrene banenacted in 2014. The incoming mayor backed legislation as a City Council member to end the use of PS in New York City schools.

In addition, with several other lawmakers, he also initiated the Stop Polystyrene And Revitalize the Environment (SPARE) pledge in 2010. The pledge was aimed at municipalities and governmental bodies, asking them to end the use of PS. As a candidate for mayor, de Blasio highlighted both initiatives on his website discussing his record on the environment and sustainability.

He also pushed for a zero waste vision for the city moving forward, saying the city needed to increase its recycling rate and establishing waste reduction plans.

He did not specifi cally mention a PS ban in his platform outline, but said more efforts like it would be needed for the city to move zero waste.

European recycling continues to show steady growth

Plastics Recyclers Europe has confirmed steady

growth of plastics recycling during its annual meeting, which took place recently in Amsterdam. During the event the trade organization celebrated the breakthrough of 100 members and now counts 114 companies. PRE's management committee was reconfi rmed by the members and the president, Ton Emans, has been re-elected for a new mandate. Emans said: "The coming years will bring radical changes in the plastics recycling industry. We need measures to create a market for recycled plastics so that the market pulls recyclable plastics out of the landfi lls. The market barriers restricting the use of recycled plastics should be lifted by the upcoming revision of the European waste legislation.


INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Two of the heavyweight U.S. plastics industry associations

are joining forces to tackle rigid packaging issues like recycling and growth opportunities.

The Society of the Plastics Industry Inc. will begin partnering with the American Chemistry Council on January 01,2013. SPI’s thermoforming committee will work with ACC’s rigid plastics packaging group. The latter group advocates on behalf of rigid plastics producers to advance their products as sustainable choices, to fi ght unnecessary regulation and to

SPI and ACC to work together on rigid packaging issuesincrease collection and recycling.“This partnership maximizes efficiencies and enhances rigid packagers’ shared mission to increase plastics recycling,” noted Jamie Clark, chair of the ACC rigids group, in a news release. Clark is vice president and general manager of film extruder and thermoformer Printpack Inc. of Atlanta and an offi cer-at-large on SPI’s board.

Other executives in the partnership include Brent Beeler, past president of the ACC rigids group, and Dan Mohs, CEO of thermoformer Placon Corp. of Madison, Wis., and chairman of

the SPI committee. Ashley Carlson Consulting LLC of Boston will provide support staff for the partnership and retain its packaging team role at ACC. Mohs said SPI will form a rigid plastics division comprising two subgroups.

ACC’s rigids group will merge with SPI’s thermoformers committee for a subgroup focused on packaging. Transportation and industrial rigid plastics will comprise the other subgroup. The partners plan a rigid plastics packaging conference in spring 2014.

Dart Container Corp. pushed for an alternative for the proposed

polystyrene ban in New York City during a City Council committee hearing.The committee on sanitation and solid waste management held a seven hour hearing discussing a possible food service ban for PS or an alternative to start a curbside recycling program.

Under the original proposal, the ban would take effect July 1, 2015, but could be halted if the city’s deputy sanitation commissioner determines a recycling alternative is possible. It’s that recycling alternative that Dart pushed for during the hearing and since Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced his intention to ban PS during a State of the City address earlier this year.

Dart pushing for PS recycling in New York City

Michael Westerfi eld, Dart’s corporate director of recycling programs, said a test-run with the city’s recycler Sims Metal Management showed the optical sorter could separate PS.

“We’re confi dent that our program will work and we know that because we’ve partnered with other communities in doing this,” he said. Dart says it is willing to pay the additional costs for equipment to sort the material, and said the PS would be shipped via rail to a not-yet-built facility to be washed. Ultimately, Westerfi eld said, Plastic Recycling Inc. would pay $160 per ton for the material in a contract already worked out for fi ve years. Under the system, the PS would be collected at the curb and commingled with other plastics, paper and aluminum.

Groups cooperation on marine litter

A global alliance of plastics associations is calling on

governments and other business sectors like retailers and brand owners to do more to combat trash littering the ocean, and said such broader cooperation could be key to future progress.

Nine plastics associations from Africa, the Americas, Asia and Europe wrapped up three days of meetings in Malaysia in November and said in a statement that the industry had increased the number of marine litter programs worldwide from 100 in 2011 to 140 now.The forum included plastics trade groups from Brazil, Canada, China, Europe, India, Japan, Malaysia, South Africa and the United States, urged the industry to undertake similar efforts.


Chemical Process For Recovery Of Virgin Nylon Resin From Scraps Mixed Rubber Nylon Tyres, Brush Bristles, Fish Nets Etc. Without Affecting Properties Any Grade Can Be Remoulded

Nylon is a Thermoplastic compound & much valued for its tensile strength Conventionally Nylon is being recycled by heat machining which Is a physical Process & which degrades the quality of material because the contamination absorbed by the scraps which gets blended into the recycled material when reprocessed through heat machining. Thus the physical properties are much affected and the processed material is much weaker than the Virgin (Pure) material. Nylon ropes & nets are manufactured by industries & similarly blended rubber is mixed in nylon tyres & after its usage cannot be repured by conventional method because the very molecular structure is affected.

But it is possible to repure this scraps by the Chemical method described hereby using some suitable solvants formula & injection moulding Processing guidelines followed by us it Is observed by testing that its physical & Mechanical properties are not much affected & again rejuvinated repured Nylon can be recovered which is found equal & nearby to the standard Nylon materials available from the companies like GSFC & Century Inka. There are certain injection moulding processing guidelines & the details can be obtained from us under:-

Mr. S. R. KamaniPlastic & Rubber Technology consultant Parvati Bhavan, 2nd Floor, Rm 33 Mkt. Rd., Opp. Municipal School, Mumbra, Thane 400 612Mob: 9833465813E mail: [email protected]


SERVICES AVAILABLE IN AIPMA HOUSE• Elegant Auditorium

• Board Room

• Business Centre & Ground Floor Hall at very nominal tariff for your business purpose

• Library - Free use of books and reports available

THE ALL INDIA PLASTICS MANUFACTURERS' ASSOCIATION

AIPMA House, A-52, Road No. 1, M.I.D.C., Marol, Andheri (E), Mumbai - 400 093.Tel.: +91 22 6777 8899 (100 Lines) / 2821 7324/25/2835 2511 � Fax : +91 22 2821 6390


Plastivision India 2013 evokes good response, garnered business worth Rs 1500 crores• Over 100,000 visitors attended

• Participation from over 1225 exhibitors from 30 countries

• Uttar Pradesh ,Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat Industry players with attractive incentives

Mumbai 16 Dec 2013: Plastivision India 2013 witnessed a grand response from the plastics industry, where more than 100,000 visitors attended the exhibition and recorded a participation from more the 1225 exhibitors from over the world. The fair showcased various innovations and technologies from the plastics industry. The fi ve-day trade fair exhibited a dedicated section for solar energy to create awareness of the optimum use of solar power in Plastics industry .The event has a special focus on recycling for which the fair created a GREEN PAVILLION for people to understand how plastics can be environment friendly.

Speaking on the fi ve-day international event, Mr Raju Desai, chairman of the Plastivision India 2013, said “We are humbled by the positive response that we have received this year at the exhibition and are very optimistic about the growth reaching new heights. The even has successfully generated a business of Rs 1500 crore this time, bringing 50% growth when compared with business of Rs 1,000 crore recorded at the previous Plastivision. We are hopeful to receive all the required support from the government that would facilitate the further growth of the plastics industry”.

The government is also encouraging the setting up of Plastics Parks in various states to help the growth of the plastics industry, which is so important for the economy as well as employment generation. The Ministry has already cleared two plastics parks, one in the state of Madhya Pradesh and one in Orissa and some funds have already been disbursed. Some more parks are under consideration to facilitate the growth of the plastics industry.

About Plastivision India 2013Plastivision India 2013 is the 9th edition of the trade fair that was organised by AIPMA. This event is held at Mumbai at the interval of every three years. Over the years, Plastivision India has become a fl agship event in India and is on the calendar of plastics industry worldwide. Plastivision India 2013 has been the biggest in the series so far held between 12-16 December, witnessing participation by over 1500 companies from India and 30 other countries. Plastivision India-2013 covers an area spanning nearly 70,000 sq. mtrs, visited by over 100,000 core businessmen and other key stakeholders.

About The All India Plastics Manufacturers’ AssociationThe All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA) is a 65-year old body with 25 member associations from across India

affi liated to it. AIPMA is dedicated to the development and growth of plastic industry and contribute to India's growth. AIPMA is based at Mumbai and has Regional Offi ces at Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata. With more than 2500 direct members and 22000 members through Affi liated Associations from more than 175 cities across India, representing various segments of the industry such as polymer manufacturers, machinery manufacturers, processors, moulds & dies makers, traders, exporters, manufacturers, processors, moulds & consultants, institutions and many more. 90% of Membership of AIPMA is from MSME Sector.

Since 1992, AIPMA is partnering and is Sole Selling Principal Agents in India for premier Plastics Exhibitions like Arabplast, Dubai, Plastpack Africa, South Africa, NPE US, etc. AIPMA also organises Trade delegations to K exhibition - Germany, Koplas - Korea, NPE, USA, Taipeiplast - Taiwan, Asiamold - China, Chinaplas, China and many more. In India, AIPMA helps its members through organising trade fairs like Plastivision India. Internationally AIPMA is organising Plastivision Arabia at Sharjah every two years to enhance the exports in the Middle East and Africa.

For more information and details, kindly contact:

Umaa Gupta (AIPMA) Phone No.O9820580911/9874757405

Shirin Amrute (Prana PR Pvt. Ltd.)Phone No. 9769229595

Press Release For immediate publication

PRESS RELEASE


BUSINESS NEWS

Calcutta High Court dismisses all appeals in dispute over HPL disinvestment A division bench of the Calcutta

H i g h C o u r t d i s m i s s e d all appeals of the West Bengal government, WBIDC and Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd over a dispute between them and The Chatterjee Group regarding 155 mln shares of the ailing petrochemical company, as per Business Standard. The division bench dismissed the appeals and observed that as the Supreme Court held that the trial court order in this regard was just and proper, all the appeals against it had become infructuous.

The trial court of Justice I P Mukerji had earlier restrained the state government from dealing with the disputed 155 million shares of

HPL and transfer of the shares to any third party. Challenging this, the state government, WBIDC and HPL, which is at present under the management control of the state, moved the appeal court. The division bench had directed that the instant process of disinvestment in HPL may continue, but no fi nal decision can be taken without the leave of the court. Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) had bid for the shares of HPL which the state wanted to disinvest.

TCG moved the Supreme Court against this order and on November one, the apex court held that the trial court order restraining the state government from taking any step for disinvestment of HPL's 155 million

shares was proper. The Supreme Court had also observed that the high court would hear the suit in this regard. The Supreme Court had passed an order of status quo for three weeks on November 1. On November 22, TCG moved a petition before the trial court of Justice I P Mukerji and obtained an interim order of status quo, extending the order of the apex court, regarding disinvestment of HPL shares. TCG argued that as the Supreme Court observed that the high court would hear the case, it had no option but to move the trial court.

The Gulf’s petrochemicals output reaches US$97.3 bln in 2012

The Gulf’s petrochemicals output reached US$97.3

bln in 2012, a US$3.2 bln increase on the previous year, according to the latest industry report by the Gulf Petrochemicals & Chemicals A s s o c i a t i o n ( G P C A ) , t h e region’s longest standing trade association. GCC petrochemicals output has increased by 19% pa over the last fi ve years. This is the highest growth posted by any petrochemicals producing region in the world. Last year, the Gulf’s petrochemicals industry earned US$52.7 bln in export revenues.

Numaligarh Refinery commissions naphtha splitter unit in AssamAssam based Numal igarh

Ref inery L imi ted (NRL), a subsidiary of Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), has commissioned i ts Naphtha Splitter Unit which has been set up in order to facilitate supply of petrochemical grade Naphtha to Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Ltd (BCPL), also known as Assam Gas Cracker Project, at Lepetkata near Dibrugarh in Upper Assam.

The Unit was formally inaugurated reacently. Executed at a project cost of Rs 87 crore, the Naphtha Splitter Project funded entirely from

internal sources will supply 160,000 mt of petrochemical grade naphtha annually which would be utilised as feed stock in BCPL's plant.

The Unit will convert the Naphtha generated in the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) and Hydrocracker Unit (HCU) of the Refi nery and convert it into paraffi n rich Naphtha, suitable to be used as feedstock in Naphtha Cracker unit of the Gas Cracker Project. The Gas Cracker Project is nearing its completion and is expected to be commissioned next year.


BUSINESS NEWS

GE, Carbon Holdings to provide technology, equity support to Tahrir’s Petrochemicals GE and Carbon Holdings

have signed a US$500 mln agreement to provide technology and equ i ty suppor t to Tahr i r Petrochemicals' greenfi eld naphtha cracker and olefi ns complex project in Ain Sokhna, Egypt. As part of the partnership, GE will provide equity fi nancing and advanced technologies to the new petrochemicals complex.

This is part of an integrated package of solut ions to meet the needs of the country. The technologies to be provided for the new plant include advanced aeroderivatives gas turbines, steam turbines, generators, water fi ltration

and desalination equipment, turbo machinery compressors and industrial solutions services. The new plant would have an annual production capacity of 1.36 mln tons of ethylene and polyethylene and "significant quantities of propylene, benzene, butadiene and linear alpha olefi ns."

Basil El-Baz, Chairman and CEO of Carbon Holdings, said, "Tahrir Petrochemicals Complex marks our vision to further strengthen the petrochemical sector of the country, and strengthen foreign direct investments. Developed through global partnerships, the new plant will contribute to the socioeconomic

growth of Egypt, bringing the newest technologies for greater energy sector effi ciencies and creating new jobs.

Set to generate annual revenue of US$6 bln, once completed, the project will strengthen the country’s overall annual exports by over 25%." Featuring a power, water desalination and water treatment plant, the complex will employ a combined-cycle power plant to generate 300 MW of power. The full-fl edged water desalination plant, featuring GE’s ultrafi ltration and reverse osmosis technology, has a generation capacity of 3,800 cubic meters per hour.

Polymer Group acquires UK based FiberwebPolymer Group Inc . has

completed its acquisition of U.K.based Fiberweb, a global developer and manufacturer of specialty nonwoven products and materials for a variety of industrial end markets.

As a result of the acquisition, PGI is the world’s largest manufacturer of nonwovens. The acquisition of Fiberweb marks a critical step in PGI’s strategy of accelerated and sustainable growth, bringing both companies into new market segments and expanding PGI’s global footprint.

P G I n o w o p e r a t e s i n 1 3 countries with an employee base

of approximately 4,000 employees. Through the combination of the companies, PGI can now serve a broader range of global customers across North America, South America, Europe and the Asia-Pacifi c region with what is said to be an unmatched portfolio of technologies and products, and world-class service.

Fiberweb's unique offerings in Filtration, Building and Construction, Agriculture, Healthcare, Technical Fabrics, Geosynthetics and Hygiene will complement PGI's established presence across Hygiene, Healthcare, Wipes and Industrial markets.

“This is a milestone in our proud

history and a critical moment for our industry,” says J. Joel Hackney Jr., CEO of PGI. “PGI and Fiberweb are stronger together, and we are now well-positioned to deliver on the industry’s growing demand for global scale, innovation and leadership.”

“We are committed to investing and growing our presence in our key market segments as well as those in which Fiberweb operates,” said Hackney.

“We look forward to welcoming the Fiberweb team as they join us in our mission of creating a safer, cleaner, healthier world for our families and communities.


Turkish group buys global additives firm Chemson Turkish industrial conglomerate

Oyak Group has acquired PVC additives producer Chemson AG. The companies announced that Oyak bought Chemson's shares from Austrian private equity fund Buy-Out Central Europe II Beteiligungs-Invest AG, effective November 8, 2013.

Ankara-based Oyak is one of the largest industrial groups in Turkey, with subsidiaries in various industries, including steel, cement and automotive, which employ a total of 35,000. It also owns Akdeniz Kimya, which produces PVC stabilizers and other polymer additives at its facilities

in Izmir, Turkey. Whereas, Chemson, based in Arnoldstein, Austria, is a major producer of stabilizers and processing aids for PVC used in windows and profi les, pipe, injection molding, and soft PVC application such as cables, flooring and roof sheets.

T h e c o m p a n y p r o d u c e s approximately 100,000 metric tonnes of additives per year. Chemson also has production centers in Cologne, Germany; Newcastle, England; Rio Claro, Brazil; Dalian City, China; Philadelphia; and Eastern Creek, Australia.

Japan's Fuji Oil to consider alliance in refining petrochemicalFuji Oil may consider entering

into al l iances with other companies in the Japanese refi ning and petrochemical sector, where it can benefi t, according to reports from Platts.

Fuji Oil, that operates a operates the 143,000 bpd Sodegaura refi nery at Chiba, could consider such an alliance with refi ners or petrochemical companies which have plants in Chiba, Tokyo Bay, but he did not rule out other areas outside the refi ning and petrochemical complex in Tokyo Bay if there were benefi ts.

Sumi tomo Chemica l has a 6.46% stake in Fuji Oil, whose major shareholders include Tokyo Electric Power Company (8.74%),

Fidelity (7.73%), Kuwait Petroleum Corp. (7.43%), the Saudi Arabian government (7.43%), Showa Shell (6.57%), and Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (3.51%).

Fuji Oil's possible alliances could come at a time when a number of Japanese refiners are weighing alliances in refi ning and oil products supply systems to optimize their operations further in the face of diminishing domestic demand.

At Chiba alone, refi ners Cosmo Oil, TonenGeneral and Mitsui Oil are jointly pursuing ways to optimize refi ning operations at two refi neries in the Keiyo Rinkai Industrial Zone under a memorandum of understanding signed on September 30.

Fuji Oil's Sodegaura refinery is adjacent to Sumitomo Chemical's Chiba Works. It is also close to Idemitsu Kosan's 220,000 b/d Chiba refi nery.

In 2010, Idemitsu and Mitsui Chemicals integrated their steam cracker operations in Chiba under a 50:50 joint operating unit.

Dow Chemical to separate chlorine business

Dow Chemica l Co. is sp inn ing o f f what i t

calls "a signifi cant portion" of its chlorine value chain, including its global epoxy business and units that make feedstocks used in PVC production. The businesses to be spun off have annual sales of about $5 billion and employ almost 2,000 at 11 manufacturing sites worldwide.

According to reports The assets "are being carved out for future transactions." Dow's epoxy business includes plants in Freeport, Texas, and Roberta, Ga.; as well as four plants in Europe, two in Asia and one in Brazil. The spin-off also includes the fi rm's chlor-alkali, chlor-vinyl, chlorinated organic and brine operations. Earlier in October, Dow sold i ts polypropylene licensing and catalyst business to W.R. Grace & Co. for $500 million.

BUSINESS NEWS


Sumitomo Chemical expects project finance approval for Rabigh II

BUSINESS NEWS

Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd. expects to win project fi nance

approval for the US$7 bln expansion of a petrochemical project in Saudi Arabia in H1-2014. This it says would happen despite a series of problems at the existing complex. The company maintians that “The Rabigh II plan is on track with an aim to start operation in 2016.

The total investment plan of US$7 billion is unchanged,” said Sumitomo Chemical President Masakazu Tokura He also added “Until the project fi nance is ready, parents companies will be providing money needed to proceed with the Rabigh II project.” PetroRabigh, a JV between Sumitomo

Chemical And Saudi Aramco, has annual output capacity of 18 mln tons of refi ned products and 2.4 mln tons of petrochemicals.

Part of the construction for the second phase of the project had already begun.

Under Rabigh II, an existing ethane cracker will be expanded and a new aromatics complex will be built using around 3 mln tpa of naphtha to make higher-value petrochemical products.

The two parent companies will make a planned capital injection of about 100 billion yen (US$986.19 mln) each in PetroRabigh either next year or in 2015.

Clearview Capital to acquire Novik for $45 million Connecticut-based fi rm Private

investment firm Clearview Capital LLC plans to acquire Novik Inc., a Quebec City-based manufacturer of polymer exterior siding, roof coverings and accessories, for about $45 million.

Novik has said that it has signed a non-binding letter of intent with the company as it has a track record of investing in and developing mid-sized North American companies through partnerships with management. Novik sells building products to the residential and commercial construction industry. Clearview co-

managing partner James G. Anderson sees potential for growth in Canada and the United States. Clearview plans to acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of Novik.

The f i rm proposed a cash consideration of 85 cents per share and the assumption of certain debt. In the meantime, Novik’s Board of Directors can still consider unsolicited “superior” proposals but Clearview has the right to match the offers. If the letter of intent is terminated, Novik must pay Clearview $1.8 million.

Milacron acquires American Extrusion Services Inc

Milacron LLC is boosting its extrusion services

with the acquisition of American Extrusion Services Inc. , of Springboro, Ohio.

Though the company has acquired and completed the deal it did not disclosed the terms of the deal. Dean Roberts, President of Milacron's Aftermarket division said, “What we are looking for is to enhance the service capabilities for our customers. They have 25 years of experience, good relationships with their customers, so it really adds to our ability to serve our customers."

Ohio based American Extrusion Service (AES) offers extruder rebuilds and upgrades, gearbox rebuilds and replacements, barrel alignment, feed screw and barrel measuring, replacement and rebuilding.

Though the company is acquired there wilbe no change and it is said that AES President David Allison will assume a role as director of extrusion services for Milacron. His five-member staff will also remain on the job.

Roberts said the business plans to remain in Springboro and retain the American Extrusion Services name, but that it will be known as part of Milacron.


BUSINESS NEWS

Graham Partners companies make more acquisitions

Several portfolio companies of the private investment firm

Graham Partners have completed add-on plastics acquisitions.

Infi ltrator Systems, Inc., the maker of products for wastewater systems, acquired ICC Technologies LLC, which designs and manufactures similar products for synthetic, aggregate drainage systems and is based in New Jersey. The acquisition will allow the Connecticut-based Infi ltrator to diversify and grow, according to Rob Newbold, managing principal at Graham Partners

“This includes the company's new line of injection molded tanks, which are already changing the industry, and should provide signifi cantly above-market growth for many years to come," Newbold said in a statement.

Infi ltrator also recently completed

its second dividend recapitalization of the year, returning more than $120 million to its equity investors in 2013. Instead of paying shareholders from company earnings, dividend recaps are funded by raising debt, often by issuing bonds.

In another move, Line-X, which provides customized accessories and protective products to the auto and industrial markets, acquired Canadian Poly Coatings (CPC), which is located in Alberta. This was the year’s second add on for Line-X, which has its corporate headquarters in Huntsville, and claims to be the leading U.S. provider of spray-on coatings. CPC was the last North American franchise of its kind and its acquisition marks the final step in a Line-X strategy to streamline distribution by taking control of “master franchisees,” according to Graham Partners.

In November, another Graham portfolio company Chelsea Building Products acquired the assets of a small, unnamed Pennsylvania-based cellular PVC building products extruder. The goal is to expand Chelsea's existing cellular PVC line of moldings and its overall capacity. Operations will be consolidated in to Chelsea 's Oakmont , Pa. , facility.Finally, Troy,-based HB&G acquired Arbors Direct Inc. (ADI) of Childersburg, Ala. HB&G, which makes synthetic products for porch and deck applications, was interested in ADI for the capability to in-source production of pultruded columns.

Sinopec plans stake in Kitimat LNG project with US energy firm Apache Corp China Petroleum and Chemical

Corporation (SNP) plans to buy stake in Kitimat liquefi ed natural-gas (LNG) project with U.S. energy fi rm Apache Corp. (APA).According to reports Sinopec’s stake investment will be utilized to fund the LNG project.

The Kitimat LNG development includes undeveloped shale assets covering roughly 644,000 acres of land, pipelines and a processing plant of LNG. Apache owns 50% of the

project whereas Chevron Corporation holds the rest. Sinopec has been exploring expansion and acquisition opportunities offshore and abroad to reduce its exposure to mature domestic markets.

However, competi t ion from domestic and international peers, as well as the possibility of time-consuming government deregulation and internal company restructuring, make near-term progress diffi cult.

VELOX to distribute Umicore’s accelerators range

Raw materials distribution and sa les company

VELOX GmbH has entered a strategic partnership with Umicore. VELOX says that i t s ded ica ted commerc ia l and technical support service comb ined w i th Umico re ’s accelerators product range will enhance the scope of both parties’ offerings. VELOX will incorporate the Umicore ’s proven product range VALIREX into its product portfolio. The cooperation will also include the new brand ECOS ND15, a cobalt containing polymer.


BUSINESS NEWS

Chromaflo Technologies merges with CPS Color BV's

Ohio based Chromaflo Technologies is merging

with CPS Color BV's colorants business to create a global color and pigment dispersion fi rm with annual sales of more than $400 million.

The combination "is a perfect fit of two players in different segments o f the co lorants industry," Scott Becker, CEO of Ashtabula. The combined business wil l operate under the Chromaflo name and will be majority owned by Arsenal Capital Partners, the New York-based private equity firm that created Chromafl o by combining Plasticolors Inc. and the Colortrend unit of Evonik Industries AG in May 2012.Arsenal then added to Chromaflo by acquiring the Tint-Ayd brand line of colorants from Elementis Specialties Inc. in December 2012.

Tarsus buys 50 %stake in Plastimagen Tarsus Group plc has bought

a 5 0 p e r c e n t s t a k e i n Plastimagen México, one of Latin America’s two largest plast ics industry shows, from E.J. Krause & Associates Inc, of Bethesda. The two have formed a 50-50 joint venture called E.J. Krause Tarsus Events LLC to run not only Plastimagen México but also Expo Manufactura, Mexico's leading metalworking/manufacturing exhibition.José Navarro, managing director of E.J. Krause de México, an EJK subsidiary, said that as part

of the deal, which was negotiated over several months, the Plastimagen brand will be used in countries outside Mexico.Douglas Emslie, managing director of Dublin, Ireland-based Tarsus, said that the company will work with E.J. Krause to launch “collaborative replications of Tarsus’ brands in Mexico and E.J. Krause’s brands in emerging markets where Tarsus has an established footprint.” The fi rst effort will be the Expo Comm show in Indonesia.

Honeywell to modernize petrochemical plants in China Shanghai Honeywell has been

selected by the Sinopec Maoming Company for business management and au tomat ion technology that will rejuvenate and improve operational performance at ageing petrochemical plants in Guangdong Province, China.

Honeywell’s Profit Suite R400 process optimization software will be deployed at two of Maoming

Company ’s e thy lene-c rack ing facilities, helping to improve plant performance by increasing energy efficiency, improving flexibility of its operations, and maximizing the plants’ yield of high-value products.

T h e p l a n t s h a v e b e e n i n operation for more than 50 years and currently produce 1 million tons of petrochemicals a year. Profi t Suite R400 is the most comprehensive

release of Honeywell’s Advanced P r o c e s s C o n t r o l ( A P C ) a n d Optimization technology portfolio, with the ability to integrate with many different distributed control systems (DCS) by multiple manufacturers, as well as legacy systems.

Magna expanding footprint in MexicoMagna Internat ional Inc.

is investing millions into developing its composite business in Mexico and on its automotive operations in Celaya.It's installing new Engel injection molding presses in the city, 163 miles northwest of Mexico City, having almost completed the installation of a robotized paint line

there. In Saltillo, northern Mexico, from where it supplies components primarily for commercial trucks, it has refurbished all its compression molders, allowing for improvements in quality.Magna has also bought several Engel presses with clamping forces ranging from 700 to 2,500 tons for Celaya.


PRODUCT NEWS

Zhafir introduces ‘Pluto Series at PVI 2013

Zhafi r introduced its Huayuan Pluto Series for the Indian

market at the Plastivision 2013. The PLUTO series is also available in FIX PUMP confi guration. Milind Agnihotri, general Sales Manager, Zhafi r Plastics Machinery said, “After establishing the Generation I machines we have successfully launched Generation II machines to cater to Indian Market.” The machines offer better advantages to molders achieved through design excellence emerged from joint efforts of German and Chinese Engineers.”

Zhafi r displayed energy saving servomotor controlled machines in three series i.e. entry level- PLUTO, continuous production low cost MARS, and frequent mold change capable MARS International. The PLUTO series is also available in FIX PUMP confi guration. Zhafi r offers all Electric Machines which are built with world best inputs and German design efforts.

The hydraulic standard solution “Pluto Series” focuses on the mass market with highly efficient and reasonable parameter. Pluto Series is available with the “energy saving” technology. Pluto series assures quality at each stage of production. High fl exibility which helps in satisfying shorter delivery time of the market. It also achieves mass production with perfect industry chain which shows highest price performance ratio. Its having the Ultra bright screen technology to provide cycle and control system information for the user and machine maintenance.

Compared to hydraul ic machines with a fi xed pump, the Pluto achieves about 30%-80% energy reduction (depending on the products. A new generation of injection o i l channel prov ides a compact structure, easy assembl ing , and more sta¬bility. The application is house hold appliance. The improved design of the toggle system provides more dynamic and smooth mold movement. Equipped with energy saving heating components, the Pluto II Series can save up to 50% heating power. The Pluto-Version of the “J5” drive concept will be available as standard. For a comfortable machine operation, the control terminal of the Pluto II provides a 7 inch color screen up to 250 tons and an 8 inch color screen for the bigger clamping sizes.

Mr Agnihotri also added that Zhafi r have succeeded in transferring revolutionary ideas and innovative concepts into professional solutions for our customers: all-electric, high-

grade energy-efficient, precision injection-molding machines.

Zhafi r’s ‘MARS’ series machines are equally sturdy. The machines are suitable for thin walled molding; deep drawn articles understanding the need of rigid clamping unit. It is highly optimized servo-hydraulic technology, with improved efficiency for lower energy consumption.Optimized clamping unit provides lower energy consumption and faster movements for reduced cycle times. Because of providing better lubrication and lower lubrication consumption at the machines, a smooth operation leads to longer lifetime of the clamp.

A Wisconsin company that has specialized in metal precision

turned parts for more than 60 years now has an in-house injection molding unit to complement those metal components.MicroPrecision Inc. of Delavan, has added three Engel victory spex injection molding machines within a 10,000-square-

Wisconsin adds injection molding capabilityfoot injection molding facility to make fully fi nished and assembled parts.

The 85-ton, 130-ton and 180-ton presses have a tie-barless design, which allows for more fl exibility as MicroPrecision brings more plastics molding on-line.


PRODUCT NEWSPRODUCT NEWS

STEER launches the MEGA SPECIAL PLUS at Plastivision 2013

STEER has introduced a new line of extruders The “MEGA

SPECIAL PLUS” at PVI 2013, the biggest international exhibition for Plastics Industry held during 12-16 December in Mumbai.

STEER displayed a versatile 50mm MEGA SPECIAL PLUS extruder with new technology to utilize full motor power of 160 kW at screw speeds of 625 rpm, 750 rpm, 1000 rpm and 1200 rpm at the PVI 2013. Speaking about the machine, Satish Padmanabhan, Director and Global CEO STEER said “It would offer the best power utilization making it truly a mixing vessel that can operate at full power at different speeds.”

' T h e M e g a S p e c i a l h a s demonstrated capability to support high volume manufacturing of most legacy engineering thermoplastics, including polycarbonate, nylon, POM, ABS, PPE, PET, PBT, filled and reinforced ETP's, as well as commodity plastics such as PP and PE'.

MEGA SPECIAL PLUS extruder is having very competitive pricing for a high performance extruder which is having High quality, low cost of ownership. It helps to minimize down-time and maximize productivity. MEGA SPECIAL PLUS can achieve high levels of dispersion, wet-out and homogenization. It has greatest process stabil ity for continuous production. It assures lower energy consumption & lower operating costs. It has ability to handle diffi cult applications and to process sensitive

materials with the capacity to achieve planned rated output and to produce material with better properties.

It is use in applications like fi ber grade Polyester, Polyethylene, master batches, polymer blends, automotive Compounds, Short Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic compounds, PP impact modifier, Color Compounds, Thermo Plastic Vulcanizates.

Mr Padmanabhan added that “Mega Special Plus is built with greater emphasis on ‘reliability and safety’ to cater to the dynamic needs of the industry which arise of unscheduled or unplanned requirements for small quantities, control over work-in-progress (WIP) - during grade change and power failures, the lean operation feature of the system also allows effective testing of new formulations

with minimum wastages.

It is an extruder which can gives different viscosities and capacity to produce more and more. With the help MEGA SPECIAL PLUS, one time investment, output which one can going to get defi nitely higher. It helps to increased economic utility and viability. Plastic processors have opportunity to make money through this as this extruder is helps in cutting costs and saving energies.”

German specialty chemicals company LANXESS’High

performance Materials (HPM) business unit showcased its Under-the-Hood applications along with products for blow molding, hybrid technology and electronic & electrical applications.

The company displayed its all-plastic Front End Module’ of Skoda Octavia, Daimler truck ‘Oil Pan’, Light-weight Air Bag

LANXESS showcases its applications for automotive industry

HOUSING, Hybrid Pedal Module, Air Duct, LED-Lamps and Mini Circuit Breaker.

Lanxess had earlier launched at K -2103, its high-tech heat stabilizing systems from LANXESS namely, the XTS1 and XTS2 (Xtreme Temperature Stabilization) belong to the Durethan polyamide product family that boost the continuous service temperatures from 180 to 220 degrees Celsius.


PRODUCT NEWS

Windsor Machineries launches SPEED 45

India's largest plastics processing machinery maker, Windsor

Machineries has launched SPEED 45 – single screw Extruder for the fi rst time in India at PVI 2013 exhibition. Windsor represented both divisions Injection Molding as well Extrusion Machineries Division with two of their launches ‘SPEED 45 ‘ – Single Screw High Speed polyethylene extruder

and ‘Excell- 180’. While the single extruder Speed 45 has high output the injection moulding, Excell 180 has the large mould platten area and is quite economical.

Speaking about the SPEED series Vikas Deo, Senior Manager, Business Development said, “We are launching the fourth generation energy effi cient extruders for the fi rst time

in India. This European Proven Technology ensures excellent linearity of specifi c output."

The extruder has 330 pipes per hour output. The direct coupled design of SPEED 45 ensures minimum transmission loss. Its Wear resistant coating ensures long screw life at

high rpm. The series has 10 different models, which are classifi eds based on their speed range.

SPEED 45 helps to minimize the energy inputs.

The Lowest power consumption is the unique selling point of SPEED 45. It is having the Japanese PID digital temperature controllers which help in controlling the temperature of injection molding machines. One can say the machines are having high reliability. These machines are also having hard face coating and PLC controls as standard on some selected models.

SPEED 45 could be used in supplying potable water for rural and urban places, Casing and column pipes for bore well, city sewage pipes, sprinkler irrigation systems and etc.

3M aids customer orientation with new film lineMinneapolis based 3M has

inves ted in labora to ry equipment to evaluate advanced high performance multilayer fi lms for its customers.

The three layer co-extrusion blown fi lm line was installed by 3M Benelux after monitor ing market trends that are moving towards optically clear multilayer fi lm architecture for applications such as food packaging.

These films may be blown or cast, but problems can occur in the production process as a result of different combinations of polymers

and layer with different rheological characteristics.

The fi lms offer a range of benefi ts, such as improved barrier properties, adhesion, mechanical properties and cost reduction, but if the layers meet at the die at confl icting rates, the resulting interfacial instability can disrupt the optical clarity of a fi lm – a key criteria for some food packaging applications, for example, meat and poultry barrier fi lms.

3M says its Dynamar polymer processing additives can provide a solution to these problems and

improve the surface propert ies of multilayer films. In addition to these benefi ts, a resulting pressure reduction in the production process facilitates increased output and cost savings.

3M's technical experts are currently using the laboratory co-extrusion blown fi lm line to study the performance of the Dynamar polymer processing additives under different conditions. This enables them to determine the appropriate concentration and method of application based on the customer's formulation before moving to full-scale production.


PRODUCT NEWS

Trac Measurement Systems launches new bottle wall thickness gauge for PET beverage bottles

Trac Measurement Systems has launched a new B300

bottle wall thickness system that allows measurements to be taken at fi nite intervals of 50 microns with a sensor spot size of 7.2 microns. The company says that the wall thickness gauge facilitates comprehensive measurements to be taken at user def inable posit ions ensuring a "fast, non-destructive, non-contact, accurate measurement."

Trac Measurement Systems recently launched its new B300 bottle wall thickness gauge for PET bottles at the Drinktec 2013 Show. "The machine proved to be incredibly popular at the show with positive

feedback from major beverage fi llers and PET plastic bottle manufacturers," said Clodagh Monahan, sales and business development PET engineer for Trac Measurement Systems.

The machine brings several measurement benefits including the capability to produce a detailed measurement report of up to 4800 points. These points are taken by the sensor from outside of the bottle while maintaining perpendicularity to the bottle surface, thus preventing angular errors giving significant measurement benefi ts over traditional infra-red systems. The sensor can also be rotated to specifi ed positions which will suit all bottle designs giving

outstanding fl exibility.

Other additional benefi ts reportedly include highly accurate linear sensor technology within the gauge, factory calibrated with no additional need for calibration, a Magna-Mike or reference gauge.

The system can take up 960 measurements per feature type and completely eliminates the need for base weight checks. A 7.2 micron spot measurement enables a more inclusive positional test and fi nally bottle height, base clearance, base thickness, base corner thickness, shoulder and wall thickness can be tested in one operation.

Mamata Machinery Pvt Ltd, the leading manufacturer

of plastic processing machinery

Mamata Machinery introduces its WIN 750-P &WIN 750E, the fastest seal pouch machine at PVI 2013

introduced its seal pouch mach ine WIN 750-P &WIN 7 5 0 E , w i t h a n output capaci ty of 210 bags per m i n u t e a t t h e plastivision 2013. According to the company its world’s fastest machine to pack seal bags o f f e r i n g b e t t e r

output at lower power consumption. Apurva Kane, Senior Vice President,

Mamata Machinery Pvt Ltd said, “We manufacture the fastest seal bag maker machines in the world. Moreover, as compared to the competitors, our machine offers 40% more production. Our machines consumes 1.3 kilowatt of power that is half as compared to others. This machine costs at Rs.9.19 lakh. Both the machines can make seal bags of HM-HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE, PP, CPP, BOPE, etc. Also, the fi lm roll with diameter of 600mm can be used in these machines for making seal bags.”


Mexican researchers point to potential of natural fiber feedstocksMexico has a host of natural

fi bers that could be used in the manufacture of biodegradable polymers, according to studies conducted at a leading research center in the country.

The Nat iona l Po ly technica l Institute's Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV) in Querétaro used starch taken from native corn and sugarcane fiber to make plates, using glycerol as a plastifying agent.

In a paper describing the research, the team, led by Fernando Martínez Bustos, a chemical engianeer, writes that Mexico has available to it at least 77 million tons of natural fi bers found in agricultural residues, 50 percent of them corn, followed by wheat, sorghum and sugar cane, from which

starch can be extracted.

"Other potential sources of fi bers, such as sisal, lechugillas, palm trees, blue tequila, mezcal and pulque agave plants, forest residues and so on are also available," the four-man research team points out.

Asked about the level of interest within the Mexican plastics industry in commercializing such polymers, M a r t í n e z B u s t o s s a i d s o m e companies are interested because of the high cost of importing materials whose biodegradability is often not guaranteed.

But "unfortunately, the funds for research in this area are very limited, probably because of a lack of consciousness of the importance of the development of these biodegradable materials."

A "great help" towards making the project commercially viable would be if the government passed laws making the use of biodegradable materials obligatory, he said. "It's a question of [having] the proper incentives, some economic, some social and some legal."

And he added progress could also be made if Mexican or international industry were interested enough to "do the life cycle analysis and industrial-level testing that [would] demonstrate the economic benefits" of organic polymers.

According to Martínez Bustos and his team, Mexico produces 32 million tons of urban garbage a year, 4 percent (1.28 million tons) of which is plastic, however Only about 9.43 percent of the plastic waste is recycled.

TECHNOLOGY

New polymer gel that enables complex materials to regenerate themselves Researchers are studying the

possibility of materials that could be programmed to regenerate-themselves, replenishing the damaged or missing components, and thereby extend their lifetime and reduce cost of repairs.

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering, who have developed computational models to design a new polymer gel that would enable complex

materials to regenerate themselves. The article was published in the American Chemical Society journal Nano Letters.

The research team was inspired by biological processes in species such as amphibians, which can regenerate severed limbs. This type of tissue regeneration is guided by three critical instruction sets – initiation, propagation, and termination – which the principal investigators, Dr. Balazs

describes as a "beautiful dynamic cascade" of biological events.

"We needed to develop a system that first would sense the removal of material and initiate regrowth, then propagate that growth until the material reached the desired size and then, self-terminate the process." The team developed a hybrid material of nanorods embedded in a polymer gel, which is surrounded by a solution containing monomers and


Luxor launches its NANO mould release technology at PVI Luxor Nanotechno logy, a

Luxor Group company, has launched a revolutionary product for the Plastic Injection Molding Industry. The innovative Luxor NANO mould release technology is the fi rst of its kind product in India.

“Nanotechnology will drive the next industrial revolution-worldwide. It has infi nite applications in almost everything we do. Now with this In the usage of this unique technology the molding industries do not require any other kind of sprays or releasing agent.” Says Vikram Singh of Luxor Nanotechnology. Use of Nano Mould Release Technology forms a nano scale barrier on the mould which due to its low co-effi cient of friction, facilitates better fl ow of material thereby facilitating component release while improving part quality in injection, blow, rubber and other molding applications.

It resolves mould sticking problem

a n d a s i n g l e application may last minimum three hundred thousand u n i n t e r r u p t e d cycles.

T h e n e w Luxor nano mould release technology is non-toxic water based solution that solve the mould sticking problems - a c o m m o n occurrence during extensive manufacturing process. Unlike conventional mould release agents Luxor Nano Mould Release Technology is a nano scale barrier which is formulated to facilitate component release, reduce cycle time and component rejections, while improving the part quality in injection, blow rubber and other molding

applications. Designed specially to serve a wide spectrum of industries like plastic component, automobile spare parts manufacturing etc.

The revolutionary Luxor nano mould release technology can prove to be a niche product for manufacturing units using either injection molding or auto die casting methods.

TECHNOLOGY

cross-linkers (molecules that link one polymer chain to another) in order to replicate the dynamic cascade. When part of the gel is severed, the nanorods near the cut act as sensors and migrate to the new interface.

The functionalized chains or "skirts" on one end of these nanorods keeps them localized at the interface and the sites (or "initiators") along the rod's surface trigger a polymerization reaction with the monomer and cross-linkers in the outer solution.

Drs. Yong and Kuksenok developed the computational models, and thereby

established guidelines to control the process so that the new gel behaves and appears like the gel it replaced, and to terminate the reaction so that the material would not grow out of control. The nanorods are approximately ten nanometers in thickness, about 10,000 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair. The team also credit Krzysztof Matyjaszewski, who contributed toward the understanding of the chemistry behind the polymerization process.

The next generation of research

would further optimize the process to grow multiple layers, creating more complex materials with multiple functions. Principal investigator is Anna C. Balazs, PhD, the Swanson School's Distinguished Robert v. d. Luft Professor of chemical and petroleum engineering, and co-authors are Xin Yong, PhD, postdoctoral associate, who is the article's lead author; Olga Kuksenok, PhD, research associate professor; and Krzysztof Matyjaszewski, PhD, J.C. Warner University Professor of Natural Sciences, department of chemistry at Carnegie Mellon University.


It is water based solution and very much user friendly and environment friendly. It is having extremely low coefficient of friction. The solution is known as hydro –phobic (water repellent) as well Oleo-phobic (oil repellent). It can withstand temperature from -50 up to 450 degrees Celsius, thus suitable for large variety of applications. Luxor nano mould release technology is basically non toxic and can be used on all kinds of steel tools.

one have to put the solution on the soft cloth or brush, then apply evenly on the surface. The application of Nano Solution should be done at room temperature. It takes drying time of 2 -3 hours (exposure to air) after which it is ready to use. Before application o f N A N O M O U L D R E L E A S E TECHNOLOGY SOLUTION, should

have to follow following steps:

Mould Pre Cleaning :- Use Alkaline cleaner such as solution of Sodium bicarbonate mixed with water, Solvent cleaner or ultrasonic cleaning machine to remove oil & grease stains.

Final Cleaning :- After pre-cleaning, to ensure that all oil, grease & other stains are removed, Damp a small piece of cloth with ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, rub on the mould cavity, core, inserts & other parts completely & then wipe off with the dry Luxor microfi ber cloth.

Have to take the note of that the surface of the Mould cavity, core, inserts & other parts should be clean and free from all dirt, dust, oil, strain etc.

Depending on the varied texture & architecture of the mould surface,

Use micro fi ber soft cotton cloth or soft brush or dampen for the proper application.

Luxor NANO MOULD RELEASE TECHNOLOGY resolves mould sticking problems and replaces usages of silicon spray as a release agent during molding processes. It helps in eliminating formation of unwanted chemical by-products called mold fouling. It also improves the productivity of machines as because of this less maintenance of moulds is require, withstands most chemicals, maintains dimensional integrity of mould. It also enhances fl ow of resin in molds due to low- co-effi cient friction.

TECHNOLOGY

Tree bark presents innovative non-petroleum PU foam solutionA project to develop a fully

bio-based tannin foam as a substitute to petroleum-based foams won an innovation award at the Association Foamed Plastics and Polyurethanes’ (FSK) annual conference.

The BioFoamBark process, coordinated by Freiburg Material Research Center member Marie-Pierre Laborie, involves the extraction of tannins from the bark of prevalent softwood species in Europe.

Other components for the foam formulation, like glycerol and furfural or nanocellulose, are recovered as by-products from biodiesel and the pulp

and paper industry.

One aim is to develop foams with the properties of building insulation materials and for conversion into synthesis gas at the end of the product life. The team behind the project plan to assess the environmental performance, techno-economic feasibility and market potentials of the biomaterials.

The consortium won funding from WoodWisdom-Net/ERA-NET Bioenergy program (Fachagentur Nachwachsende Rohstoffe e. V. FNR in Germany) and the project is due to run for three years.

Varysoft Process for soft touch parts

Ge o r g K a u f m a n n F o r m e n b a u A G o f

Switzerland has improved its Varysoft process for the production of soft-touch parts in automotive interiors. The company says that surfaces made using Varysoft are now “even more pleasant and softer and feature a much better grip”.The Varysoft technology involves a three-layer part comprising a sub-structure, a layer of foam and a layer of decorative material.This invloves a multi-function mold that combines the three functions of injection molding, vacuum forming/embossing and foam molding. Production is done using an Engel Duo 3550/650 pico combi M injection molding machine.The mold imparts the grain effect to the decorative material during the vacuum forming operation and also sets the thickness of polyurethane foam as required.


IN THE NEWS

The Union government is considering allocating the

Technology Upgradation Fund (TUF) and also setting up Plastics Parks across the country to ensure growth of the Plastics Industry.

Speaking at the inaugural function of the 9th Plastivision 2013, the International Plastics Exhibition held

Government to provide funds and set up Plastics Park across Country

during 12-16 December i n N S E g r o u n d s , Mumbai, organized by The All India Plastics M a n u f a c t u r e r s ’ A s s o c i a t i o n , M r Indrajit Pal, secretary o f the Depar tment o f C h e m i c a l s a n d Petrochemicals, said that , “The Plast ics Industry is growing rapidly and is expected to touch 20 billion dollars

by the end of 2020”.

He also added that “offi cials from the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals in the Union Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers are meeting the representatives of the industry to work out the detailed proposal for the TUF scheme.

T h e g o v e r n m e n t i s a l s o encouraging the setting up of Plastics Parks in various states to help the growth of the plastics industry, which is so important for the economy as well as employment generation.” Mr. Pal further informed that the Ministry has already cleared two Plastics parks, one in the state of Madhya Pradesh and one in the Orissa and some funds have already been disbursed.

He complimented the AIPMA for organiz ing the PVI 2013.Mr Avinash Joshi, joint secretary in the ministry, on this occasion said that the petrochemical industry is playing a key role in the development of economy and he felt that this exhibition will create a new era for plastic industry.

The National Green Tribunal h a s i s s u e d n o t i c e s t o

the department of chemicals and petrochemicals and the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (Tidco) to give clarification on the status of the petroleum, chemicals and petrochemical investment region project (PCPIR) and posted the case to December 11 for further hearing.

The tribunal passed the order to issue notices after the counsel

Green tribunal issues notices to Tidco, regarding PCPIR appear ing for T Murugandam, former president of Killai panchayat, pleaded with the tribunal to cancel the environment clearance granted by the Union ministry of environment and forests to Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services (IL & FS) for its 3,600MW coal-based power plant at Chidambaram in Cuddalore district.

The counsel contended that though IL & FS prepared the cumulative environmental impact assessment

(EIA) declaring that it had given up the PCPIR, the said project is still on and will have an additional impact on environment, life and health of the people near the project site.

IL & FS claimed that the PCPIR project was only conceived and not implemented. The ministry gave clearance to IL & FS based on EIA, which does outline the cumulative impact of the project.


IN THE NEWS

Haldia Petrochemicals is likely to opt for a temporary

shutdown from the fourth week of this month following severe working capital crisis that is resulting in a shortage of naphtha and low plant load for the last few months.

According to a report, It has been learnt that most of the technical offi cers of HPL, as well as shortlisted bidder Indian Oil, are not averse to the idea of a shutdown for a few weeks to cut down continuous losses and maintenance of the plant. The capacity of the plant is 260 tons per hour, but it is operating at 110-120 tons on average. IOC is giving 1,000 tons naphtha per week.

Haldia Petrochemicals plans temporary shutdown due to severe working capital

Not much naphtha has been lined up for the next few weeks. Besides, there has been no maintenance of the plant for the last 18 months. It is also said that HPL is losing Rs 2-2.5 crore every day due to low-capacity operation.

The fi rm had an accumulated loss of Rs 2,500 crore till March 2013. From April to October, 2013, HPL has posted a loss of Rs 521 crore taking the accumulated losses to over Rs 3,000 crore. The net worth of HPL has already eroded by Rs 50 crore. If the losses continue, then the company will have to go to BIFR. HPL board will meet on December 17 for discussing the future course of action following

the Supreme Court verdict that has allowed the Chatterjee Group to move to International Court in Paris for arbitration regarding the disputed 15.5 crore shares. This block constitutes 9.22% equity stake of the company and holds the key for management control.

Food-service packaging, long considered diffi cult to recycle

due to contamination, might not be so challenging after all.

A small study of one ton of randomly selected curbside recyclables in Boston, including plastics, showed encouraging results, according to the Foodservice Packaging Institute. But the Virginia.-based trade group Falls Church, also cautioned there is more work to do beyond this initial study. The study examined the levels of food residue on a variety of food service packaging, including plastic lids and tubs, corrugated and mixed paper,

Study reports encouraging results for recycling food-service packaging

aluminum cans and foils and pans, the group said. The recycling samples were found to be exceptionally clean, and showed no appreciable difference in the amount of contamination between food-service packaging and food-contact packaging.”

“At least from this initial study, it looks like food contamination may be a perceived barrier, and not a real one. However we must also take this into perspective and consider this sample as only representative of the Boston area. No doubt, there’s more work to be done,” Dyer said.

Alfa Laval awarded SEK 60 mln Energy-Efficiency order in the US

Alfa Laval, a world leader in heat transfer, centrifugal

separation and fluid handling, has won an order to supply Alfa Laval OLMI heat exchangers to a petrochemical plant in the US. The order, booked in the Process Industry segment has a value of approximately SEK 60 million. Deliveries are scheduled for 2014 and 2015.

The Alfa Laval OLMI heat exchangers wil l be used to increase the yield and recover energy in the production of ethylene, an important ingredient f o r t h e m a n u f a c t u r i n g o f industrial chemicals and plastics products.“This order is an example of the reindustrialization we see, driven by shale gas,” says Lars Renström, President and CEO of the Alfa Laval Group.


European Union and Canadian plastics exporters are to benefi t

from a new free trade deal. Once the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) has been ratifi ed (probably in 2015), it will lead to all existing non-food duties imposed on good traded between the parties being scrapped.

According to experts, this will mean an end to 6.5 percent duties levied by the EU and Canada on imports of each other's plastic tubes, pipes and hoses, and fi ttings; plastic fl oor coverings; lavatory seats and covers; plastic sacks and bags; and tableware, kitchenware and other household

Plastics exporters to benefit from EU-Canada trade deal articles.

With this trade deal the 2-6.5 percent levy charged by Canada on EU plastic self-adhesive plates, sheets, fi lm, foil, tape, strip and other fl at shapes; and the 6.3 percent duties charged by the EU on these products when made in Canada will be also scrapped. And the 3 percent duties charged by Canada on EU exports of melamine resins, and the 6.5 percent duties charged by the EU on Canadian exports of the same, will go.

European Commission president José Manuel Barroso said: "This agreement will provide signifi cant new opportunities for companies in the EU

IN THE NEWS

India lifts anti-dumping duty on Polypropylene from Oman

India has l i fted an anti-dumping duty imposed

on polypropylene from Oman, especially Oman Polypropylene.

The industry is yet to respond to this and is keeping a check. An anti-dumping duty of 6.5% was levied on polypropylene originating from Oman or exported from the Sultanate (and from Saudi Arabia and Singapore) on November 19, 2010 to protect domestic manufacturers.

and in Canada by increasing market access for goods and services." The EU already sells substantial volumes of plastics to Canada. In 2012 it exported US$49.4 million worth of plastic plates, sheets, fi lm, foil and strip; US$45.2 million worth of plastic tubes, pipes and hoses, and fi ttings.

It also sold US$7.2 million worth of plastic tableware and kitchenware.As for Canadian exporters, in 2012 they sold US$33.1 million worth of plastic plates, sheets, fi lm, foil and strip to the EU, and US$8.9 million worth of plastic tubes, pipes and hoses, and fi ttings; and US$2.1 million worth of tableware and kitchenware, for instance.

Asia is the top global region for market growth and is a centre

for innovation and rapid advances in technology according to a study from AMI. The report says that the packaging industry is a key sector of this fast developing economy: as demand for vital products rises so there is a greater need to conserve resources. Flexible packaging offers a lightweight solution for transport and with its printability gives a versatile range of designs for shelf-appeal.

Some key new developments are being seen in this region and these will be discussed at the AMI international conference on Specialty Packaging

Asia is top global region for growth packaging

Films Asia 2014, in Bangkok, Thailand.

Andrew Reynolds of AMI has been studying the global fl exible packaging market and will kick off the conference.

A leading pouch producer, TPN Flexpak, will then highlight the latest packaging trends in Thailand and Lotus Chemical Technology will review the plastics packaging industry in Vietnam. There is also an overview from the Indonesian Packaging Federation on functional barrier films. The Orient Design company of Singapore will highlight how it has worked with leading companies to produce eye-catching graphics and forms of packaging.


Events and Exhibitions11TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE AND TECHNOLOGY EXHIBITION10–11 January 2014

Venue: Ahmedabad Management Association, Ahmedabad, India

The 11th National Conference And Technology Exhibition on “Indian Medical Devices & Plastics Disposables/ Implants Industry 2014” is being organized since 2001 with active involvement and support of “Association Of Indian Medical Device Industry “ ( AIMED ) and other related Industry Associations both in Medical Devices and Plastics Sectors.

INDPACK 2014 16th National Packaging Exhibition and Conference January 16-18 2014

Venue: Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India

The Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP), an autonomous body under the ministry of commerce and industry, Government of India, encourages Mumbai/Maharashtra based packaging manufacturers to register for INDPACK 2014.

The ‘National Conference on Modern Trends in Consumer Packaging – Challenges & Opportunities’ is also planned concurrently with INDPACK 2014. Industry’s’ renowned experts will present their papers in the conference to cover Prospects of latest trends and needs of Consumer Packaging industry.

17TH INTERPLASTICA, TRADE FAIRMoscow, Russia

28 to 31st January

At INTERPLASTICA 2014, an impressive range of innovative products and services will be on show in the areas of machines and equipment, raw material production and processing.

Main Product Categories: Machines and equipment for preprocessing and recycling,

EVENTS

With Best Compliments

Daman Polymers India Pvt. Ltd.

Manufacturers of:Shrink - Stretch - Prestretch -

Emboss - Diary - Water Pouch -

Lamy Film - VCI Film - Sheet & Bags -

Surface Protection / Masking -

Film - Mulch Film etc.

Offi ce Address

C-2, 703, 7th Floor, Satellite Classic CHS Ltd.,Near Railway Station, Jogeshwari (East),

Mumbai - 400 060.Phone: 022-28216946

[email protected]

Factory Address

Plot 16, Silver Industrial Estate,Bhimpore, Daman - 396210

Phone: [email protected]

For more product details visit:

www.damnpolymer.in


YUDO. ...........................................................................................................................................................cover

Madhu Machines & Systems ...............................................................................................................inside cover

Anupam Heaters...................................................................................................................................................3

Polymechplast ......................................................................................................................................................4

Plastlink Technologies ..........................................................................................................................................6

Ferromatik Milacron. .............................................................................................................................................7

FITCO. ..................................................................................................................................................................8

GMS Plastic Machineries Pvt. Ltd... ...................................................................................................................10

PASL Windtech... ................................................................................................................................................12

Organization of Plastics Processors of India ......................................................................................................13

Chuan Lih Fa Machinery Works Pvt. Ltd.. ..........................................................................................................14

Reifenhauser India Ltd.. .....................................................................................................................................15

Endoor Polymers. ...............................................................................................................................................28

Leister Technologies India Pvt. Ltd.. ...................................................................................................................29

Reliance Polymers..............................................................................................................................................30

KABRA Extrusion Technik Ltd.. ..........................................................................................................................53

Vora Packaging. .................................................................................................................................................54

Plastivision Arabia 2014 .....................................................................................................................................55

Merit Polyplast. ...................................................................................................................................................56

AIPMA Industrial Park.........................................................................................................................................57

TAGMA ..............................................................................................................................................................58

Shanghai Forward .............................................................................................................................................59

R R Plast Extrusion ...........................................................................................................................................60

Rajamane Industries Pvt. Ltd. ............................................................................................................................61

Andritz Biax. .......................................................................................................................................................61

Yann Bang Electrical Machinery Co. Ltd. ...........................................................................................................62

Ningbo Haitai Machinery ...................................................................................................................................63

Forwell Presision Machinery Co. .......................................................................................................................63

Sun Lung Gear Works Co. Ltd. ..........................................................................................................................64

Hi More Robot Co. Ltd. . .....................................................................................................................................64

Vivek Electroplast ...............................................................................................................................................65

Daman Polymers ...............................................................................................................................................83

Zambello Riduttori Group ...........................................................................................................Inside back cover

Rajoo Engineers ...................................................................................................................................Back cover


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Posted at Patrika Channel Sorting Offi ce, Mumbai 400 001Posting date : 25th - 26th of every month

Registered with Registrar of Newspapers under RNI No. 22731/72Postal Registration No. No. MH/MR/N/200/MBI/12-14Date of Publication: 25th of every month (as per declaration in Affi davit form)

Posted at Patrika Channel Sorting Offi ce, Mumbai 400 001Posting date : 25th - 26th of every month

Plastic news december 2013 issue foe web

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