Know-How
Why Compression Ratio is Important
Compression ratios have been pretty much standardized over the years, based on what has typically worked before. But there are quite a few variables that must be considered in order to get the optimum performance from your screw.
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Melt Preparation Part 1: Melt Temperature Optimization
A homogenous melt is required for consistent part quality, but achieving it requires balancing a number of factors, including barrel usage and temperature as well as screw speed, backpressure and residence time. Learn how to prepare your melt for molding success in this two-part series.
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How to Set Barrel Zone Temps in Injection Molding
Start by picking a target melt temperature, and double-check data sheets for the resin supplier’s recommendations. Now for the rest...
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The Strain Rate Effect
The rate of loading for a plastic material is a key component of how we perceive its performance.
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How Much L/D Do You Really Need?
Just like selecting the extruder size and drive combination, the L/D should be carefully evaluated.
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Take Proper Care in Feeding Your Extruder
Everything that happens in an extruder starts at the feed throat, so proper attention to that zone’s temperature pays off in quality and productivity.
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Tracing the History of Polymeric Materials: Polyphenylene Oxide
Behind the scenes of the discovery of PPO.
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How Many Parts Will My Mold Make? Part 1
Follow these guidelines to extend the life of a mold and reduce repair costs.
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Why (and What) You Need to Dry
Other than polyolefins, almost every other polymer exhibits some level of polarity and therefore can absorb a certain amount of moisture from the atmosphere. Here’s a look at some of these materials, and what needs to be done to dry them.
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What is Backpressure and How Should We Calculate It?
Does using an intensification ratio to calculate backpressure result in an accurate reflection of what’s happening in the barrel? Newer machine technologies have us revisiting an old project with fresh eyes.
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