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When a plastics processor specializing in injection molding for medical device OEMs wanted to automate its medical tubing line, it turned to Plastimation, a designer of custom factory automation systems. It collaborated with longtime partner Epson to develop a competitive solution that would meet the stringent quality requirements of the medical device sector. In the process, the customer was able to triple productivity. The standard 2.5-in.-long tubes, constructed from clear…

Sustainability is about much more than the manufactured product, and it’s about more than the environment—recycling, waste reduction, energy efficiency, etc. The good news is that plastics processors are concerned with all of what Sustainability entails—even if they don’t think of it that way. (Photo: Graham Packaging) Last week, I wrote a brief “book review” of a highly useful new publication from consulting engineer Dr. Robin Kent, whose 18 articles…

In response to a petition filed by a coalition of healthcare professionals, scientists, and public health and environmental organizations, FDA reportedly has agreed to reconsider the safety of bisphenol A (BPA) in polycarbonate, metal can coatings, and other food-contacting materials. FDA will come to a final decision on the safety of the additive by Oct. 31, 2022, according to the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), one of the petition’s signatories. The…

A new patent-protected method and technology for micro molding medical parts, created by Westfall Technik, eliminates cold runners and increases the allowable residence time of material in the machine. The benefits include slashed production time, lower per-piece cost, and reduced material usage. Vijay Kudchadkar, Director of Advanced Engineering for Westfall Technik, will detail the company’s new technology — developed over the past 10 years — in a June 14 presentation at…

Our guest this month on the Resin Report Monthly Edition is Jeremy Pafford, Head of North America, Market Development, at business intelligence firm ICIS. As always, we began our conversation with a recap of resin pricing trends in the previous month and a look at what might be in store in June and beyond. In terms of future trends to watch, Pafford believes that supply and demand may begin to find some…