Sheet Extrusion
LCPs Break New Ground in Film Coextrusion and Thermoforming
Liquid-crystal polymer extrusion resins cost over $10/lb, but when used sparingly in 2-5 micron layers, they can be cost-effective in barrier packaging films.
Read MoreCoextrusion Adds Shine to PP For Thermoforming Large Parts
New coextruded resin combinations are making polypropylene a contender for large thermoformed parts in outdoor uses from pleasure boats to automotive exterior trim.
Read MorePP Engineering Alloys Branch Out Into Molding, Extrusion, Thermoforming
The Hivalloy line of in-reactor grafted alloys of polypropylene and amorphous resins from Montell Polyolefins, Wilmington, Del., is expanding its market reach with new grades, new developmental alloy families, and dramatic new applications. Besides injection molding, developing applications now include thermoformed sheet and even barrier packaging films.
Read MoreTime for a Switch to Electric Heater Rolls?
Web processors and converters who use liquid-heated rollers for orienting, annealing, laminating, and embossing should take a look at recent advances in electric-heated rolls. You could get better temperature control with less maintenance and downtime.
Read MoreWood is Good for Compounding, Sheet & Profile
Extruding composites of wood and plastic has long been a "black art" practiced by a few specialists. But in the past year, this "hidden" market has burst into the sunlight as new producers and new applications sprout up all over.
Read More'Non-Denting' Ceramic Coating Gives PVC Sheet a Smooth Ride
Over the past four years, vinyl sheet extruders have proven the value of using nip rolls with a thick, "non-denting" ceramic coating developed by American Roller Co., Bannockburn, Ill. Four processors have installed the multi-layer ceramic rolls, producing clear, rigid PVC sheet with greatly reduced maintenance and downtime.
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