modern plastics & polymers - may 2011

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17May 2011 | Modern Plastics & Polymers

As India fast emerges as one of the leading polymer consumers in the world amid growing novel applications of plastics in several

sunrise sectors, it is only natural to expect more demanding products and processes. Given this context, plastics processing has to raise the competitiveness bar and evolve to accommodate complex design requirements while controlling production costs. In this journey, the role of Information Technology (IT) and automation can be a crucial differentiator for both plastics processors as well as processing machinery manufacturers.

In terms of benefits, automation can offer better product quality, improved equipment uptime, faster cycle times and more reliable production flow, among others. More significantly, flexible automation holds enormous potential in adding a globally competitive edge to the plastics processing capability of today and tomorrow.

Online performance monitoring can be another advantage accruing from automated control systems for the plastics industry. This will ensure that both the product quality and process parameters are not only continuously monitored, but also, if necessary, controlled. Besides, fault diagnosis of sensors and other instrumentation can be facilitated by such systems to help reduce production downtime.

That said there remain many challenges that risk the process of automation. While for automation providers, these range from upfront investment levels to resistance from operators, the processors may have to face the issues of economic viability, troubleshooting, availability of appropriate spares and manpower, etc. ‘Sector Watch’ offers some of the latest perspectives on IT & automation from the industry.

On another note, rotomoulding seems to be standing at the crossroads as far as exploring its potential to the fullest is concerned. A highly versatile process with remarkable design flexibility and low production costs, an unlimited array of products ranging from micromoulding of PVC earpieces to large polyethylene tanks can be manufactured by rotomoulding. Turn to ‘Market Trends’ for an in-depth account as it forays into unexplored markets and new product lines.

As the countdown begins for Chinaplas 2011 – one of the largest plastics industry related trade events on earth – we bring you a snapshot of what is in the offing. Take a look at the ‘Chinaplas Special’ section.

Advantage automation

Manas R [email protected]

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Editorial Advisory Board A E Ladhabhoy Plastics Technologist

Dr Sushil K VermaFormer Director General, CIPET

Dr Swapan K DharaRegional Technical Head, Basell Polyolefins India Pvt Ltd

Mohan K JainMD, Indoplast & past president, AIPMA

P P KharasChairman, Ecoplast

Raman M Patel Chairman, Industrial Products Mfg Co

Vijay Merchant President, Polycraft

CONTENTS

18 Modern Plastics & Polymers | May 2011

Note: ` stands for Indian rupee, $ stands for US dollar and £ stands for UK pound, unless mentioned otherwise

Sector Watch : Blow Moulding Market Trends : Plastics in Building & Construction And much more...

Leaders Speak 42 Ramesh Dumbre, Vice President - Marketing, Plastiblends India Ltd

Facility Visit 44 Star Technocrates Pvt Ltd: Enterprise through innovation

Sector Watch 46 IT and automation: The virtual success agent

Market Trends 52 Rotomoulding: Tapping growth prospects

Material Corner 58 PVDF and its copolymers: Offering a host of performance properties David Seiler and Mandar Amrute, Arkema Inc

Injection Zone 62 Mould sweating: Greater control for increased production Y R Anand, Partner, Unimark

Technofocus 66 PVC compounding: Ingredients to enhance versatility of polymers Siddhartha Roy, Consultant, RoyPlasTech

Management Mantras 68 Triple bottom line: The road ahead Sanjay Gawde, Senior Consultant, Savoir Faire Management Consultancy Pvt Ltd

73 Chinaplas 2011: Revving up the growth engine

74 Curtain Raiser

76 In the News

78 Product Showcase

42

REGUL AR SECTIONS

Editorial......................... 17

National News............... 20

Asia News ..................... 26

World News................... 30

Tech Updates ................. 38

68

58

Highlights of Next Edition

Details on page no.88, 102

46

Events Calendar............. 88

Technology Transfer .........90

Book Shelf ......................92

Product Update...............94

Product Index............... 103

Advertisers’ List ............ 106

44 52

Highlights of Next Edition

6th

Anniversary

SpecialCover photo courtesy : ABB India

N AT I O N A L N E W S


ACQUISITION

Rhodia takes over PI Polymers

Specialty chemical producer Rhodia has completed the acquisition of the engineering plastics business of Indian company PI Industries Ltd (PIL), after receiving approval of country’s authorities. Rhodia Polymers & Specialties India Pvt Ltd is the name of the legal entity created to host Rhodia’s newly integrated assets, including

one industrial facility based in Panoli (Gujarat), R&D capabilities as well as logistics network in India. This acquisition is a major step in Rhodia Engineering Plastics growth ambition in India, aiming at doubling its local production capacities to represent 15 per cent of Indian polyamide compound market by 2015.

François Hincker, President, Rhodia Engineering Plastics, said, “We received enthusiastic feedbacks from both PIL and Rhodia’s customers and suppliers regarding this strategic move. All our international partners in the region as well as domestic Indian players are fully confident in our ability to accelerate their growth through a rapid expansion of our activity”.

EXPANSION

Huntsman to build new polyurethane system house in India

The polyurethanes division of Huntsman Corporation announced plans to expand its polyurethane production capabilities in India. Over the next year, Huntsman will invest $10 million in the construction of a world-class system house in Pune, India. The new facility is scheduled to be operational by the end of the first quarter of 2012. It will replace Huntsman’s existing system house in Thane,

which has served the company well but has limited scope for expansion and occupies land that is due to transfer. This new facility will enable Huntsman to capitalise on its leading position in the Indian polyurethanes market, enhance its range of services, and continue to supply local customers quickly and efficiently.

Nick Webster, Vice President, Huntsman Polyurethanes, said, “India is the world’s second fastest growing economy. The new system house will be optimised to meet our specific production and blending requirements. It will give us room for future growth, reflecting our long-term commitment to the provision of high-quality polyurethane products and first-class customer service across the entire Indian sub-continent.”

OUTREACH

Plastindia initiative helps marginal farmers with effeciency Plasticulture is a scheme launched by Plastindia Foundation whereby farmers are provided with drip irrigation facility and are also shown its benefits. Plastindia’s Plasticulture activity is being done in association with the Organisation of Plastic Processors of India. Plastindia Foundation, in association with NABARD and Dilasa, an NGO, has identified 16 villages covering 1400 farmers at Aurangabad. Farmers will be provided loans by NABARD through the NGO, with a subsidy from Plastindia, to undertake drip irrigation for an area of 1 hectare each. Work on distributing the funds and providing the drip irrigation has begun in full earnest.

With a view to show the benefits of using drip irrigation, 8 villages have been identified in Jalna, where a demo plant of 1 acre in each village will be put up with drip irrigation facilities. Simultaneously, exhibitions will be held to showcase the use of plastics in agriculture. Both these models of Plasticulture are efforts to help marginal farmers save water through drip irrigation and not only increase yield per crop but also put them in a position to grow more than one crop per year.

CONSULTING Mott MacDonald appointed consultant for manufacturing plant in IndiaMott MacDonald has been appointed by ASB International Pvt Ltd to provide engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) services for an ` 550 million ($12 million) PET bottles machinery and mould manufacturing plant expansion to be located at Ambernath in the Thane. This will pertain to the 10,800 sq m extension to ASB international’s existing operational facility, which is one of the most modern single stage PET processing machine manufacturers in the world. This will include a major machinery and quality assurance laboratory as well as utilities and office space. Mott MacDonald will provide its world class industrial design expertise - ranging from utilities, architecture, civil and structural, mechanical and electrical to instrumentation and fire protection systems - to the project.

M C Jagtiani, Project Director, Mott MacDonald, said, “We look forward to delivering what will be a challenging project designing a vibration free structure building to ensure that the mold manufactured with CNC machines is within five microns of accuracy, which is a benchmark set by the client for the mould production.” Mott MacDonald is a global management, enineering and development consultancy with more than 14,000 staff, £1 billion revenue and established in 140 countries for the public and private sectors.

(L-R): Frank Laganier, Director, Asia Pacific, Rhodia Engineering Plastics; François

Hincker, President, Rhodia Engineering Plastics; Thomas Leutner, Country

Manager – India

Nick Webster



IMPORTS

Growth in India’s PVC imports At the Vinyls-India 2011 conference in Mumbai, it was observed that the outlook for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) in India is surging ahead. India’s per-capita consumption of PVC is only 1.7kg as against 13.4 kg in the US, 9.2kg in China, 6.5kg in Malaysia and 4.5kg in Brazil, pointed out S Gopal, Managing Director, Chemplast Sanmar. The key drivers will be agriculture, healthcare, housing and water management.

The infrastructure sector is estimated to draw in nearly $100 billion in investment in 2011. Additionally, the government plans to spend $16 billion in the agricultural sector in 2011 while $15 billion has been allocated for rural and urban housing development. Pipes and fittings account for 71 per cent of India’s PVC consumption of 1.87 million tonne. This will continue to be a major end-user as the Indian pipe market is estimated at 4.7 million tonne of which plastics accounts for 1.7 million tonne with the rest being steel, cement and iron. Among the different plastic pipes, PVC has a dominant share of 86 per cent, followed by polyethylene (12 per cent). So it looks like India will continue to import large volumes of PVC for the next few years. Nearly 650,000 tonne of suspension grade was imported during 2010-11; about 35 per cent of total demand.

SUSTAINABILITY

India working on recycling infrastructure

India needs to work on improving waste m a n a g e m e n t and recycling policies for plastics, say the

country’s industry leaders. Speaking at the PlastAvenues Summit in Mumbai,

leaders said plastics have suffered from being identified with pollution and litter rather than on being useful products. Vijay Merchant, Vice President, Indian Plastics Institute, said, “Solid waste management rules were passed in 2000, therefore, there is a proper policy framework in place. But implementation and enforcement is not as good as it is in the West or in countries like Germany, Dubai or Singapore.”

India’s plastics recycling sector accounts for about $2 billion in annual

revenue, employs more than 3 million people and handles between 2.5 million and 3 million metric tons of material annually. Small recyclers also tend to discharge effluent into drains and small rivers, pointing to a need for larger plants, or clusters of plants, with improved technology. The PlastIndia Foundation is working on a project that may help with those problems. It plans to set up model plastics recycling plants that can demonstrate the economic and technological viability of recycling.

COLLABORATION

DSM working with Indian agency on auto development Among the world’s leading engineering plastics group, DSM and the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) are working on a long-term alliance for automotive developments in India. ARAI is a co-operative industrial research association established by the automotive industry and Ministry of Industries, Government of India.The alliance will provide sustainable solutions for the automotive industry through the shared knowledge of both companies in understanding industry requirements and their interaction with applications and materials. Ojas Mehta, Marketing Manager, DSM

Engineering Plastics India Pvt Ltd, said, “The alliance would develop plastic components for the engine and power transmission for the passenger car vehicles. Some of the key areas for automotive sector the alliance is working on are decreasing the weight of the vehicle, friction reduction and improving fuel economy.”

ARAI will contribute expertise in automotive testing equipments, systems knowledge, and standards for four, three and two wheelers. For ARAI, vehicle weight reduction is a key area to address fuel consumption and emission concerns. DSM is also working with Tier 1 suppliers in the Indian automotive industry on interior, exterior and powertrain applications.

APPOINTMENT

Ferromatik Milacron promotes leadership positions in India Ferromatik Milacron India Ltd (FMIL) is among India’s leading injection moulding machine manufacturer. It has promoted two individuals to key leadership roles as the company continues its rapid growth. Shirish Divgi is now Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Vinod Bhalavat is Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of FMIL, a division of Milacron Plastics Machinery. The promotions correspond with the recent retirement of former FMIL President N K Balgi.

Dave Lawrence, President, Milacron Plastics Machinery, said, “Divgi and Bhalavat have been instrumental in helping us meet the challenges of plastics manufacturing customers throughout the growing Indian

marketplace. Their promotions put both of them in a position to accelerate that success.”

As COO, Divgi will be responsible for operations, engineering, sales & marketing. He will report directly to Jay Woerner, Vice President, India Operations, Milacron Plastics Machinery. As CFO, Bhalavat will assume responsibility for finance, human resources and information technology. He will report directly to John Francy, Milacron LLC Chief Financial Officer.

(L-R): Shirish Divgi, Vinod Bhalavat



REGULATION

Plastic makers oppose ‘discriminatory’ BMC green tax

The All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA) has opposed the ‘green tax’ that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to impose on plastic manufacturers. The association has written a letter to Mumbai Mayor Shraddha Jadhav, in which it has termed the proposed

tax as ‘discriminatory’. The AIPMA also pointed out the the civic body’s

solid waste management department and citizens’ littering habits, stemming from a lack of civic sense. The proposed plan by BMC states that the plastics manufacturer will have to recollect the plastic product and dispose it at its own expense. If the manufacturer presents a disposal plan, it may get a concession. The tax would be collected by the sales tax department and then deposited to the BMC.

According to the AIPMA, plastic is a versatile material that is used extensively in almost each and every industry. It further argued that its members are small-scale entrepreneurs and are already burdened with a lot of other taxes.

CONFERENCE

Polymerupdate Conference highlights emerging trends The Polymerupdate Global Petrochemical Conference (PGPC) on engineering & high performance plastics was the perfect meeting place for decision makers of leading companies to showcase innovative technologies and market trends. The one day session had presentations on the latest industrial developments and the supply-demand scenario in key sectors like automotives and electricals. The conference was attended by over a hundred delegates from all across Asia. Industry speakers from Borouge, Arkema, Bayer Material Science, SABIC and others presented their papers at the event.

A combination of strategic, technical, market and commercial presentations were provided

to the delegates with the latest developments on the global engineering plastics industry. The delegates had an opportunity to learn from key market players about recent product innovation & applications, ways to improve efficiency and productivity and future drivers. PGPC 2011 had a very broad representation of senior professionals and participants from all segments of the plastics industry, including upstream energy and petrochemical producers, resin distributors, downstream processors, OEMs and traders. This conference raised crucial debates on issues of sustainability versus commercial viability of various technologies in the pipeline.

EXPANSION

Finolex to start PVC plant at Vadodara by March Pune-based PVC pipe maker, Finolex Industries will start production at its new facility near Vadodara, Gujarat. Finolex has an outlay of ` 100 crore for the plant, which will be able to produce 50,000 tonne per annum (tpa) of PVC pipes and fittings. In December 2010, the company had said it would start the unit in two years after construction begins. Finolex has two PVC pipe making units in Ratnagiri and Pune, with a combined production capacity of 140,000 tpa. It also has a PVC resin manufacturing facility at Ratnagiri with a capacity of 260,000 tpa. The company is now planning to start making chlorinated PVC (CPVC) pipes, which are used in hot water transportation. About 80 per cent of Finolex’s pipes goes to agriculture.

P Subramaniam, Additional MD and Chief Financial Officer, Finolex Industries, said, “We should do over ` 2,000 crore (of revenue) in this year and should grow at about 20 per cent this fiscal. During the previous four years, sales of pipes and fittings increased 147 per cent, while all other segments (PVC resin and chemicals) at Finolex Industries grew only 62 per cent.”

INDUSTRY BOOST

Centre tells Assam to promote plastic sector The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has asked Government of Assam to initiate steps to promote plastic processing industry in the North Eastern region to boost the prospect of downstream industries. This comes in the light of implementation delay of the Gas Cracker Project in the State. The Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC) has asked the Assam Government to initiate necessary action for organising an exhibition for promotion of downstream plastic processing industries in the North East. The Monitoring Committee meeting held at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has decided that the next exhibition for promotion of plastic processing industries should be held in Dibrugarh.

The North East International Plasto Fair held last year was organised at Guwahati by the Government of Assam in coordination with the DCPC and industry associations. The outcome of this was found to be encouraging with local entrepreneurs showing interest in setting up plastic process industries as a result of the exhibition. The feedback also formed part of the deliberations held in the monitoring committee meeting on the implementation of the Gas cracker Project held in the State. According to the latest revision, the Assam Gas Cracker Project is now likely to be completed by the end of 2013 and cost has escalated to over ` 9,000 crore from ` 5,460 crore.

A S I A N E W S


NEW FACILITY

Arkema brings its new Kynar PVDF production plant in Changshu

Arkema now boasts of significant Vinylidene Fluoride (VF2) and Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) production resources in three continents – Europe, North America and Asia – and can thus provide superior service to its customers in each region. In accordance with the group’s growth strategy in emerging countries, the new plant dedicated to production of Kynar and VF2 monomer,

based in Changshu and fitted with the latest equipment, is boosting Arkema’s position in Asia. This plant helps in the growth of Asian customers, and responds better to global demand for PVDF in applications ranging from high-performance industrial coatings, offshore

and chemical engineering markets to emerging sectors like lithium-ion batteries & photovoltaic panels.

Arkema has announced speeding up the extension of this new plant by additional 50 per cent capacity. This increase should come into effect by mid-2012. “The startup of a world-scale plant in the fast-growing sector of fluorinated polymers positions us in all regions of the world so we can assist our customers in their growth by providing local service and high-quality offerings,” said Erwoan Pezron, Global Director of Arkema’s fluorinated polymer business.

PARTNERSHIP

Solvay names Link Upon as Far East Ultra polymers Distributor

Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC, has named Link Upon Advanced Material Corp, Taipei, Taiwan, as an authorised distributor for KetaSpire® Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and AvaSpire® Polyaryletherketone (PAEK) resins in the Far East. Effective April 1, Link Upon will handle distribution

of these ultra-performance polymers in Hong Kong, Taiwan and China.

A leading supplier of high-performance engineering thermoplastics, Link Upon has a broad range of processing expertise in injection moulding, extrusion, machining, assembly and product & mould design. The distribution agreement further expands Solvay’s existing business relationship as a direct supplier of KetaSpire® PEEK and AvaSpire® PAEK resins to Link Upon for demanding applications.

“We are excited to announce this extension of our partnership with Link Upon, a company with strong technical depth and great market awareness in industries with extreme performance requirements,” said Chris Wilson, Vice President - Ultra Polymers Business, Solvay Advanced Polymers.

DEMAND SURGE PBT market on revival Demand for engineered plastics such as Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) is largely dependent on the growth trends in key end-use industries such as automotive, electrical & electronics and consumer appliances. One of the main factors affecting the engineered plastics market is the level and rate of replacement of traditional materials. In developed countries, significant conversion has been noted from metal to engineered plastics in almost all key industries. In developing countries, however, there is gross underutilisation of the material, with per capita consumption level of less than half kilogram in some Asia-Pacific countries, as per Global Industry Analysts Inc.

PBT is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic performance-engineering polymer popularly known as Polytetramethylene Terephthalate (PTMT). The compound features exceptional dimensional precision, thermal stability, moulding stability and superior electrical characteristics and entails high heat-resistant & superior electrical insulation properties. Automotive engineering is an expanding application area for PBT. Usage of PBT enables reducing cost and weight of the car by finding application in carrier units, water pump impellers, sparkplug connectors, throttle valve housing, ignition distributors, mounting boxes for truck intercoolers and equipment boxes.

INVESTMENT IPIC seeks to bring Nova Chemicals to Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC) is in the quest to bring Nova Chemicals to Abu Dhabi, as it has shifted focus to the domestic petrochemical industry. Abu Dhabi will be investing $20 billion (Dh73.45 bn) in petrochemicals to build a chemical city in the Western Region, which would be named ChemaWEyaat. The aim is to add value to the oil & gas industries and diversify the structure of the economy. IPIC is a 40 per

cent shareholder in ChemaWEyaat, and also owns several other ventures including Nova Chemicals in Canada, which it bought in July 2009, and a 64 per cent stake in Borealis, a chemicals company based in Austria. IPIC plans to consolidate Nova and Borealis. “In the near term, we are looking to consolidate the two companies together and bring Nova to Abu Dhabi to work on some projects with Adnoc [the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company] and ChemaWEyaat,” said Al Qubaisi, Managing Director, IPIC.

A S I A N E W S


CAPACITY REDUCTION

SBR, SBS turnaround, run cuts to pressurise Asian butadiene in H2 Asian butadiene prices face downward pressure over the second quarter, as several producers of downstream

products will shut their plants for planned maintenance or reduce run rates. The main feedstocks for SBR are butadiene (60 per cent) and styrene (30 per cent). In China, Lanzhou Petrochemical plans to shut its 100,000 tpa styrene butadiene rubber at Lanzhou, Gansu province, from April 15 to May 3, for scheduled maintenance. Shanghai Gaoqiao Petrochemical plans to shut its 100,000 tpa SBR plant at the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park in Caojing in May for about a month.

In South Korea, Kumho Petrochemical plans to cut production rates at its styrene-butadiene-styrene/thermoplastic elastomer plant at Yeosu, from 85-90 per cent in April to about 50 per cent in May, and its design capacity of 70,000 tpa on poor margins. As a result, about 3,000 million tonne/month of butadiene feedstock will free up. In Taiwan, Lee Chang Yung Chemical Corp. is operating its TPE plant at Kaohsiung at about 90 per cent of its design capacity of 140,000 tpa.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Players brace for another month of major hikes in PVC, VCM in Asia Players in Asia’s PVC markets are p r e p a r i n g for another m o n t h of steep increases in PVC and VCM prices, with a South Korean producer quotes higher May import offers to China, as per Chemorbis. Persistently limited VCM availability with higher costs was cited as the major reasons for the ongoing increases in PVC prices. Spot VCM deals for April were concluded towards the end of March with increases of $60/tonne from March done deal levels.

As availability of VCM from Japan – Asia’s largest VCM producer – remains limited and upstream energy costs have been gaining over the past two weeks, most players expect to see higher initial May offers for VCM, although no clear sell ideas have been reported yet. Upstream, crude oil futures on the NYMEX have gained nearly $5/barrel from the start of the month to surpass the $112/barrel threshold while spot naphtha prices on the basis of CFR Japan are up more than $50/tonne since the start of the month. Both crude oil and naphtha prices are currently trading at their highest levels since the summer of 2008.

COLLABORATION

SIIG, Petrochem plan to merge, and build a Petrochem complex by 2012

Saudi Industrial Investment Group (SIIG) currently owns 50 per cent of National Petrochemical Co (Petrochem) and produces about 1.3 million tonne (MT) of petrochemical products. A potential merger, expected to complete in nine months, will create the third-largest petrochemical firm in Saudi Arabia after Saudi Basic

Industries (Sabic) and Saudi Kayan Petrochemical Co. SIIG has a market value of around $3 billion and Petrochem is valued at $2.9 billion, according to Reuters’ data.

“It does not make sense for us to have too many companies, so we want to merge the two. We are in the process of soliciting offers from banks and then discuss and nominate consultants,” said Suleiman al-Mandeel, Managing Director, Saudi Industrial Investment Group. ‘This will require six to nine months, if everyone agrees – ie, the shareholders and capital market authority,” he said. SIIG expects production to rise to 6 MT after Petrochem’s $5.4 billion joint venture with Chevron Phillips – Saudi Polymers – starts production in the fourth quarter.

NEW MARKET

Asia Polymer Corp to invest in EVA plant in Kaohsiung County

Asia Polymer Corp. (member of USI Far East Group) plans to increase the output of the high-margin Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA). The company plans to invest NT$4-5 billion to build a new plant in Kaohsiung County, with annual capacity of 120,000 tonne, as per CENS report.

Taiwan’s sixth naphtha cracker is scheduled for completion in

the beginning of 2013 by the state-run CPC Corp. Asia Polymer can generate another NT$10 billion in annual sales based on the current average selling price of EVA. Institutional investors say foam-grade EVA sells at $2,900 with gross profit reaching $1,400 per metric tonne. Strong demand from China’s downstream industry has propped average selling price of EVA since H2-10 by 70 per cent to between $2850-2950 from the earlier $1700/tonne.

A S I A N E W S


EXPORT REVERSAL

Trade reversal as Middle East ships 150,000 tonne naphtha to West

In a rare reversal of usual arbitrage flows, the Middle East will export three naphtha cargoes of approximately 150,000 tonne to the West (Europe and the US), instead of sending to East (Asia). This is because European naphtha prices have flipped to a premium at Asian levels. Two vessels carrying about 60,000 tonne each were booked from the Arabian Gulf to travel to the West, while a third cargo was expected in Europe through the Suez Canal. BP Plc was reported to have booked one of the 55,000-60,000 tonne cargoes for US traders; while the destination of the second vessel was unclear, it was bound for the US market.

This flow of cargo from the Middle East to the West instead of Asia could go on, if refinery maintenance and strong demand from the US and Brazil continue to support European markets. Demand in Asia is weakening, although JX Nippon Oil and Maruzen have restarted their crackers. Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corp’s Kashima units are two still offline crackers – with a total nameplate capacity of 851,000 tpa –using around 52,000 tonne of naphtha demand per week.

PRICE HIKE

Styrene prices surge in AsiaSpot styrene prices in Asia and Europe mostly tracked a downward trend in March. But, this trend reversed with firmer prices seen at the beginning of April, in line with bullish developments in

the upstream markets, pulling oil and, subsequently, benzene prices higher. In Asia, spot styrene prices lost ground by $105/tonne during March before they started to recover in April. Within a week’s time in April, spot styrene prices gained $60/tonne on FOB Korea basis causing players to adopt a more positive outlook on the styrene market’s direction. Bullish upstream developments and optimistic outlook regarding China’s EPS market contributed to this recovery. Oil prices reached two and a half year high in April, as they surpassed the $110/bbl threshold. The major driver of the strong oil prices are worries about crude oil supplies, as players are concerned that the ongoing political turmoil in Libya might spread to other oil-exporting countries amid declining output from Libya. Meanwhile, spot benzene prices, supported by higher oil prices and strong buying interest, recorded $35/tonne increases since the beginning of April and propped up the styrene market in Asia.

W O R L D N E W S


INNOVATION

SABIC Innovative Plastics flies high with breakthrough materials solutionsSABIC Innovative Plastics is highlighting high-performance thermoplastic resin, sheet, foam and composite solutions that help aviation customers meet critical challenges of weight-out, regulatory compliance and sustainability, while enhancing the flying experience. These products, together with the company’s extended portfolio of advanced material technologies, are helping global aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) reduce weight by up to 50 per cent, which can conserve

fuel and lower emissions, meet tough Flame-Smoke-Toxicity (FST) regulations, reduce overall system costs and enhance safety and comfort of cabin environment. SABIC’s growing array of products reinforces the company’s leadership as a global supplier to the aviation sector and demonstrates the transformative power of high-performance plastics.

“Global aerospace OEMs and tiers need compliant, safe and fuel-efficient solutions to cost-effectively design and manufacture next-generation aircraft. Our expertise and commitment to work side-by-side with our aerospace customers enables us to help meet these challenges. Our continuous investment to expand capacity and develop newer, better advanced materials solutions will help drive long-term customer success,” said Jack Govers, General Manager, Specialty Film & Sheet, SABIC Innovative Plastics.

SALES AGREEMENT

Polyshot to sell Plasel’s unique injection moulded mould cavities in North AmericaPolyshot Corp, a leading manufacturer of hot-runner systems, entered into a distribution agreement with Plasel Mold of Lavon, Israel, to sell Plasel’s novel injection moulded mould cavities in North America. Plasel has developed

a unique injection moulding process using Powered Metal Technology (PMT) to produce precision mould cavities for high-cavitation injection moulded applications.

“This is a game-changing technology for the mould making industry and we are excited about our partnership with Plasel,” said Doug Hepler, President, Polyshot Corp. High-cavitation moulds (typically 32

cavities and larger) are being targeted for injection moulded medical and consumer products. It allows PMT duplication from a master mould, guaranteeing that all cavities are precisely the same, regardless of volume or date of manufacture. Due to the extremely precise cavity replication, tolerances of up to 15 microns are achievable, depending on cavity size and configuration.

ACTIVITY INTEGRATION

Solvay Specialty Polymers is now a global business unit Solvay Advanced Polymers, Solvay Padanaplast, Solvay Solexis and SolVin PVDC are integrating their activities under a single, global business enterprise – Solvay Specialty Polymers.

The Global Business Unit, a specialty unit of Solvay Group, which represents about 15 per cent of the Group’s total sales (about EUR 1.1 billion) in 2010, will leverage the strengths from each business to secure its position as benchmark for discovering, developing and delivering high-performance specialty polymers that meet the challenges facing the society, today and in future. Headquartered in Bollate, Italy, it employs over 2,500 people across 26 locations in North & South America, Asia and Europe.

“Looking at the future, we expect the global high-performance specialty polymers market to continue presenting complex challenges and opportunities,” said Augusto Di Donfrancesco, General Manager, Solvay Specialty Polymers. Solvay Specialty Polymers has a strong global manufacturing & supply chain capability, and leverages global Research, Development and Technology (RD&T) expertise to innovate and meet customer needs.

EXPANSION

SPI expands NPE2012 to include all three halls at the Orlando venue With a year to go before the start of the NPE2012 international plastics exposition, exhibit sales are equivalent to 98 per cent of the total occupied space at the last NPE in 2009. The organisers are confident of exceeding this total further. This was announced by SPI – The Plastics Industry Trade Association, which produces the triennial event. NPE2012

is scheduled for April 1-5, 2012, at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC), Orlando, Florida.Thus far, 862 exhibiting companies have purchased 761,225 sq ft (70,720 sq m) of space. As a result of the surge in sales, SPI has expanded the show into the North Hall of the OCCC, in addition to West and South Halls. The three halls constitute

the entire available exhibit space at the OCCC.

“Many exhibitors are taking bigger booths than they did at our 2009 show in Chicago and plan to operate more equipment on the show floor,” said Gene Sanders, Senior Vice President – SPI, and in charge of trade shows. “They feel that the lower cost of exhibiting in Orlando has enabled them to invest in more space, along with simpler logistics and work rules that encouraged them to bring more machinery, he added.”

W O R L D N E W S


INVESTMENT

Klöckner Pentaplast Group launches new manufacturing equipment for Europe The Klöckner Pentaplast Group has announced the launch of the company’s new state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment and technology at its two facilities – Montabaur, Germany, and Santo Tirso, Portugal. The €40 million investment will further enhance the company’s production capabilities and

product quality in the European market. This business decision allows Klöckner Pentaplast to optimise capacity and streamline production processes for the

shrink-label films, food, thermoforming, boxmaking, adhesive tape and decorative surfaces business segments. “Klöckner Pentaplast is committed to servicing the needs of the European market with high-quality film, service and support,” commented Hans-Joachim Kogelnik, President and COO, Klöckner Pentaplast, Europe. He added, “This strategy will help us remain competitive in today’s challenging business environment and position us well for the future.”

CAPACITY EXPANSION

AkzoNobel invests €30 million to meet demand for Expancel AkzoNobel is boosting capacity in Sweden for its Expancel expandable microspheres to meet growing global demand. Used as a blowing agent or lightweight filler, the Expancel product line continues to evolve and find new applications in markets such as thermoplastics, printing inks, coatings as well as paper and board.

The extra capacity – scheduled to come on stream in early 2012 – will be added at the company’s site in Stockvik. Part of the investment will be used to further improve eco-efficiency at the facility and implement additional upgrades.

“This is a significant investment in organic growth, which underlines our commitment to seize opportunities in established markets and contribute to the company’s accelerated growth agenda,” explained Rob Frohn, Member, AkzoNobel Executive

Committee, who is responsible for Specialty Chemicals.

Ruud Joosten, Managing Director - Pulp & Paper Chemicals business, AkzoNobel, added, “As we continue to find new applications for Expancel, we are becoming more competitive in the market, and hence the need to increase capacity. Strong worldwide demand is also forecast to intensify in the years ahead, so we will be well positioned to establish ourselves in new markets when opportunities arise.”

PARTNERSHIP

Songwon appoints Bodo Möller Chimica Italia Srl as new distribution partner for Italy Songwon, a global leader in manufacture and delivery of additives for the plastics industry, and Bodo Möller Chimica Italia Srl have entered into a distribution agreement for market development and sales of the Songwon portfolio of products in Italy. The new partnership, effective from April 15, 2011, aims to strengthen the position of Songwon in the Italian market.

Bodo Möller Chimica Italia Srl is part of Bodo Möller Chemie, one of the leading distributors of specialty chemical products and bonding solutions in Europe. It has over 35 years of experience in the chemicals and technical materials markets.

Frank Haug, Managing Director, Bodo Möller Chemie, commented, “Songwon’s range of materials perfectly fits our offering and will enable us to bring sound solutions to the Italian market. Our extensive customer network and knowledge of the Italian market will simplify business and help Songwon to reach a larger customer base.”

NEW COLOURANTS

SABIC Innovative Plastics launches Expression 2012 Palette

SABIC Innovative Plastics has unveiled its new Expression 2012 palette, the company’s fifth annual portfolio of eye-catching resin colours and special effects to inspire designers and give customers new ways to differentiate their products from the competition. The colour palette is created based on the ColorXpress Europe’s research in the latest industry colour trends. It features brilliant new colours such as retro hues of fuchsia, teal & orange and versatile neutrals. The colourful new palette can be used in a range of SABIC Innovative Plastics resin technologies,

including Lexan* and Cycoloy* resins, answering customers’ calls for better, longer lasting and efficient materials.

The new Expression 2012 colour palette features in-surface decoration – a sustainable, direct-decoration colourising process that works by enabling water-soluble colourants to soak into a resin to eliminate the need for paint. The in-surface decoration in combination with SABIC Innovative Plastics’ materials makes the colour palette fully recyclable.

W O R L D N E W S


PRICE STABILITY

Italy’s spot PVC market stabilises After three consecutive months of rising prices, local PVC prices in Italy have stabilised in April due to growing resistance from buyers. Complaining about continuously rising local prices, many converters had shown an interest in alternative supply sources for the

past several months while keeping local purchases restricted. As the high season for PVC applications has just begun, buyers are reporting that demand for their end-products is only at a normal level for now. European PVC offers in Turkey’s import market for the past several weeks at prices close to the lower end of the Italian market, which confirm weak market conditions in Italy. A small

increase of €10/tonne posted in April, in ethylene contracts and comfortable regional supplies encouraged buyers to push for stable prices in the next month.Supply in Italy has also witnessed the return of Ineos, which is back in the Italian market after the end of an agreement not to sell in Italy for a certain period following the sale of local PVC plants to Vinyls Italia.

GOLDEN JUBILEE

Arburg celebrates 50 years of being an allrounderThe Allrounder principle was invented by Karl Hehl 50 years ago. The solution devised by the Swabian entrepreneur and innovator was as clever as it was simple: A rotation point with a screw gear drive and equal-axis distances enabled both horizontal and vertical arrangement of clamping and injection units. By breaking off from the principle of a rigid construction, more flexible working suddenly became possible. In addition to injection moulding, the

hydraulic allrounder’s capabilities also extend to blow moulding and extrusion and was able to process thermoplastics, elastomers and thermosets. Due to the possibility of combining a horizontal and vertical injection unit, the innovative Arburg solution paved the way for multi-component injection moulding as well.Over the years, the ‘do-it-all’ machines were transformed into customised products. Today, customers receive a solution tailored to their specific requirements for all injection moulding processes and sectors.

The advantages of this Allrounder philosophy to customers were

demonstrated in the Technology Days. Over 40 hydraulic, hybrid & electric machines and a comprehensive range of applications provided impressive evidence that the modular Allrounder range always provides optimal customer-specific solutions.

ACQUISITION

Britton Flexibles bought by private investment firm

Private investment firm Sun European Partners has purchased Britton Flexibles,has adding to its packaging holdings. UK-based Britton is one

of Europe’s largest polyethylene film producers. The company has been owned by HSBC Private Equity since a 2008 management buyout.

Britton specialises in flexible packaging, with extrusion, printing, lamination and conversion capabilities. It has three plants in northern England producing cereal liner film, printed shrink wrap, banking coin bags and other products. Mike Clark, Chief Executive, Britton, informed that ownership by Sun European Partners will offer significant synergies to the firm. Philippe Neuschaefer, Vice President, Sun European Partners, said that in the past year alone, the affiliates of his firm have completed over half a dozen acquisitions in the packaging industry in Europe and the US.

PRODUCTION ORDER

Wittmann Battenfeld supplies four injection moulding machines to Veggoplast Veggoplast, a Wittmann Battenfeld customer of long-standing, based in Volpiano, Turin, currently operates 28 Battenfeld injection moulding machines with clamping forces in the range of 35-350 t. In February, Wittmann Battenfeld received an order from Veggoplast for another four machines.

The machines on order from Veggoplast are toggle machines of TM series with 110 t clamping force. The machines are equipped with W702 robots and MAS2 granulators from Wittmann. Another feature of the machines is the UNILOG B6 control system, which offers uniform control

and operation concept for easy handling of injection moulding machines, including all integrated peripheral equipment. The control system, running under Windows XP®, facilitates integration of machines in PDA systems, in Internet-based service support systems. Veggoplast – a popular partner of automotive suppliers

Veggoplast specialises in just-in-time production of critical components for the automotive industry, especially fastening elements. “Its streamlined planning of machine capacity, efficient workflow and excellent customer orientation have made Veggoplast a fast-growing, reliable partner to the automotive industry,” said, Oscar Veggo, General Manager, Veggoplast.

T E C H U P DAT E S


Conair develops insulated, high-heat blenders for PET processors

Producers of PET sheet, strapping and

other products that incorporate high levels

of recycled polyester plastics can realise

significant energy savings and productivity

benefits by using a new fully insulated

gravimetric blender from Conair.

The new high-heat TrueBlend™ blender

allows processors to keep recycled and

virgin materials separate until just before

they are fed to an extruder or moulding

machine. This approach yields several

distinct advantages:

A problem in

one material stream

(eg, contamination

in recycled PET)

need not shut down

the entire production

line. Blended virgin

pellets and regrind

fluff, which have

significantly different

bulk densities and

flow characteristics,

reach the machine

feed throat faster

and have less

opportunity to re-separate during

conveying.

By not allowing the heat input during

desiccant drying to dissipate while

blending, less energy needs to be added

during final processing. Responding to

environmental concerns, companies

are using ever greater volumes of post-

industrial and post-consumer recycled PET,

particularly in sheet that are commonly

thermoformed into yoghurt cups and

other disposable food containers. Makers

of polyester strapping, used in packaging

and material handling, are also heavy

users of recycled PET.

Micropen applies conductive features to Solvay’s Radel® PPSU

Micropen Technologies Corp has successfully used its

unique Micropenning® direct printing process to apply

patterned conductive and dielectric thick film coatings

onto a disposable medical device component made

from Radel® polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) resin from Solvay

Advanced Polymers, LLC. It was critical that the disposable

component, part of a unique spinal therapy system, form

a conductive electrode that was highly reliable electrically as well as mechanically.

The mix of Radel® PPSU and Micropenning® technology gives medical device

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) innovative option over traditional metal

and plastic solutions to build electrically conductive features onto complex parts.

“We subjected the Radel® PPSU component to considerable chemical abuse

and high heat, and the material maintained its mechanical properties that were

critical to the application,” said Dr William Grande, Vice President - Research and

Business Development, Micropen Technologies. He noted that the project team

had tested and rejected various materials before examining PPSU. “We had never

worked with sulfone polymers before, but Radel® provided excellent film adhesion

and biocompatibility,” added Dr Grande.

New improved hot runner temperature controller for rapid returns

A new modular

controller for hot

runner systems yields

an early return on

investment by helping

moulders to increase

productivity and

reduce maintenance,

scrap generation and

peak energy demand.

Designed to control

up to 24 zones, the ion series system

makes it possible to save a large fraction

of its initial cost by virtue of its accuracy

and operator-friendliness, according to

Sean Rainsford, Director of Sales. Key

features of this system include a user

interface that is easy to navigate and PID

software that takes temperature readings

30 times per second, using that data

to maintain temperatures within narrow

tolerances.

“The Fast Heat software in the

Ion Series controller removes many of

the variables inherent with standard

modular controllers. Also, the operator

interface is designed such that one is

never more than one click away from

the main screen,” said Rainsford. He

added, “This new system works largely

behind the scenes, enabling users to set

it and forget it.”

Welex Inc commercialises new extrusion system for multi-coloured sheets

Welex Inc’s new custom nine-extruder, five-layer sheet extrusion system for the

production of multi-coloured striped sheets for thermoformed yoghurt cups is one

of the most innovative and sophisticated packaging sheet lines on the market. The

novel system, built for a leading European custom sheet manufacturer, is expected

to commence production the next month.

Multi-coloured striped yoghurt containers are a big market in Europe, and Welex’s

innovative system broadens the capabilities for thermoformers of these form, fill and

seal containers. “This system is one of our most ambitious projects and sets a new

mark for the number of extruders on one die,” said Wayne Lewis, President, Welex.

He added, “It significantly elevates the capabilities of sheet makers and packaging

companies.” These can be configured to provide virtually unlimited multiple

stripe-and-layer combinations.

T E C H U P DAT E S


Bioengineers produce plastics without using fossil fuels

A team of pioneering South

Korean scientists has succeeded

in producing the polymers used

for everyday plastics through

bioengineering, rather than using

fossil fuel-based chemicals. This

groundbreaking research, which

may now allow for the production of environment conscious

plastics, is published in the journal Biotechnology and Bioengineering.

Polymers are molecules found in everyday life in the form

of plastics and rubbers. The team from KAIST University and

Korean chemical company LG Chem, led by Professor Sang

Yup Lee, focussed their research on Polylactic Acid (PLA), a

bio-based polymer, which holds the key to producing plastics

through natural and renewable resources.

“Polyesters and other polymers that we use everyday are

mostly derived from fossil fuels produced by the refinery

or chemical process,” said Professor Sang Yup Lee,

KAIST University. He added, “The idea of producing

polymers from renewable biomass has attracted much

attention due to the increasing concerns of environmental

problems and the limited nature of fossil resources.

PLA is considered a good alternative to petroleum-based plastics,

as it is biodegradable and has a low toxicity to humans.”

ABB robot-based technology for plastics industry

ABB, the global power and

automation technologies group

has offered robots and support

products dedicated to increasing

manufacturing efficiency in the

plastics industry.

Heading the line-up is ABB’s

latest six-axis robot, the IRB

1600, which was launched in

the UK at Interplas 2005. Specially designed for fast

and accurate handling operations across a diverse

range of industrial tasks, the IRB 1600 is a backward-

bending, steam-washable robot, with optional IP

67 classification. It is available in four versions, with a reach

of 1.2 m or 1.45 m, and payload of 5 or 7 kg. Its high

payload makes IRB 1600 the strongest robot on the

market in its class.

Perfect for tending small- to medium-sized injection

moulding machines, the IRB 1600’s combination of ABB

motion control and powerful servo motors results in the

shortest cycle times of any robot in its class. This gives

a distinct advantage to producers wanting to improve

cycle times in loading & unloading injection moulding

machines with sizes 100-250 tonne.

Stormwater and drainage pipes made from recycled plastic

The Green Pipe is widely recognised as a cost-effective and

environment-friendly alternative for stormwater and drainage

systems. Approved and used by councils throughout

Australia for stormwater and sewage re-use systems, the

Green Pipe provides a real opportunity for Government

and non-government organisations to promote their

green credentials. Their willingness to use quality, recycled

products as an alternative to conventional virgin products

is widely recognised. Ease of handling solves many difficult

access issues and, at the same time, reduces machinery

requirements. Also, ease of installation will substantially

reduce costs for all drainage projects.

The fully installed and lifecycle cost is lower than that

of comparable products for most applications. These are

manufactured in 6-m lengths, creating fewer joints during

installation, improving laying rates and minimising potential

leakage points. The Green Pipe is tough and is not affected

even by soil with very high acidity; hence, once installed,

it will last indefinitely. This pipe can easily be cut using a

chainsaw, circular saw or angle grinder.

Android smartphone with a solar panel by Umeox

Here is good news

for smartphone users

who do not have

access to continuous

power supply.

Umeox, a Chinese

handset maker, has showcased its solar powered Android

smartphone called Apollo at the recently concluded

Mobile World Congress 2011. It has announced that

it will ship the phone to India and other European,

African and Asian countries by May 2011. The phone

will cost less than $100 (`4,500). It requires 2 hours and

30 minutes of sun exposure to charge the phone’s battery

if it is not entirely drained. A full recharge, however,

will take 17 hours of sun exposure. The phone has a

3.2-inch touchscreen with 320 x 480 pixel resolution and

1 GB internal storage, which is expandable using a micro

SD card. It has an FM Radio, a 3-mega pixel rear camera,

3.5-mm audio jack and Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP. Phones

made by Umeox have been available in India for quite

some time, but have not been very successful. However,

it is expected that Apollo will change the company’s

fortunes in this electricity-starved country.

MPP

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No. 32

….says Ramesh Dumbre, Vice President - Marketing,

Plastiblends India Ltd. In this exclusive interview with

Annabel Dsouza, he shares his experience and insights

gained over 22 years in the pigment processing and

formulations industry. Here, he highlights the growth

potential in the masterbatch segment, while also

revealing future strategies for the industry.

“Indian processors are

demanding better quality to

match global standards”

Current market dynamics

Commodity plastics mainly account for growth of the plastics industry in

India. The demand is driven by the use of polymers for manufacturing

white goods and furniture, packaging materials, water irrigation pipes,

materials for road building, communication cables, power cables, railways

and automotives.

The per capita consumption of plastics in India is 5 kg as compared to the

much higher use in advanced markets such as the US, where it is more than

100 kg. Even in developing markets such as China, the use of plastics is

six times higher than that in India. These figures indicate the beginning of

our ascent towards new heights.

Polymer use in automotive and engineering machinery manufacturing

segments is expected to grow substantially as a result of extreme volatility

in metal prices and versatility in the use of polymer processing. Natural

resources are becoming scarcer, thus triggering a need for replacement

products. The use of engineering polymers as the only viable alternative

is bound to rise substantially in the near future. Metal part replacement

applications are some of the key areas for use of performance polymers.

We are working on various aspects of these polymers in areas such as

improvement in their properties, eg, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS),

Polypropylene (PP), Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) and Polyethylene

Terephthalate (PET), by offering additive masterbatches.

Growth potential of India’s masterbatches industry

The global market for engineering plastics is projected to grow at a

Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.5 per cent over the next

10 years. Additive masterbatches are critical to the growth of performance

polymers. For the past few years, volume growth of masterbatches has

been above 25 per cent, with better topline growth numbers, as we are

focussing mainly on innovative products. This growth will further accelerate

with improved per capita income and increased spending by India’s rapidly

growing middle class.

L E A D E R S S P E A K


L E A D E R S S P E A K


The key growth drivers are as follows:

Packaging industry growth mainly

triggered by development of

organised retail marketing

Drip irrigation, agricultural mulch

films and greenhouse films

Booming automotive industry in

India

Construction materials required

for huge infrastructure building

activities, sports stadiums, etc

Increased demand for furniture and

white goods

Communication equipment and

power cables

Recent innovations and their impact

on the industry

In terms of product development, we

are trying to bridge the gap between

developed and developing markets by

working closely with upstream suppliers

who are market leaders in product

development. Following are the recently

introduced products:

Antimicrobial masterbatches for

healthcare products

Oxo-biodegradable masterbatches

for packaging segment

Nucleating and clarifying agents to

improve PP performance properties

and reduce process cycle times

Fire retardant masterbatches to

make plastics safer for use

Non-toxic material such as heavy

metal & chemical-free, non-

carcinogenic masterbatches to

make plastics safe for food contact

and pharma use

Considering the current growth

of the automotive industry and its

long-term prospects of even higher

growth, we are now focussing our efforts

towards offering competent alternatives

against established competitors.

Most of the additive/masterbatch

products for pharmaceutical or medical

markets are currently imported from

suppliers in developed countries.

However, with technology development

on home turf, this market is expected

to rapidly grow in India in 3-4 years.

Plastiblends supplies about 300

masterbatches of various types for

food packaging purposes, which meet

the stringent plastics-in-food-contact

regulations. And we are comfortably

placed in this segment.

Indian processors’ response to high-

end polymer solutions vis-à-vis the

cost factor

Indian processors are now demanding

better quality to match global

standards. Masterbatch suppliers are

now offering most products that are

tailored to customer needs; thus,

customers are now more open to trying

out new products and solutions. This

encourages us to continue our research

and innovation activities. Plastiblends

now has 700+ colour masterbatches

and more than 100 grades under

various additive masterbatch types as

well as a range of white and black

masterbatches.

Our range of PET fibre and

masterbatches for PET extrusion

products has proved highly successful

for one of the most demanding polymer

segments in India as well as our

overseas clients. The industry is currently

witnessing several global innovations

available from domestic suppliers at

cost-effective prices.

Initiatives towards sustainability

and waste reduction

Polymers are non-volatile substances

and most polymers can be processed

more than once. This avoids generation

of solid as well as gaseous wastes.

We make special efforts to control

dust and air pollution. However,

growing environmental concerns at the

processing level are forcing us to build

on more sustainable solutions available

from peers in developed countries.

Challenges faced and the counter-

measures adopted

Currently, this industry is fragmented

& unorganised and most of the units

have localised presence; hence, we are

not well equipped to face manipulation

from market forces. As a downstream

user, it depends on polymer and other

raw material suppliers who have the

ability to control prices, as they are

the organised players. Masterbatch

producers are thus sandwiched between

powerful suppliers and demanding

customers.

Future plans of Plastiblends to tap

the potential of India’s evolving

engineering polymers market

Today, Plastiblends commands a

leadership position in the additive,

colour and black & white masterbatch

segments. It is also among the top

few in the anti-fibrillation masterbatch

segment. As a downstream user, we are

working closely with key global players

who develop basic molecule chemistries

for industry use. We have selected

some important molecule compounds,

which help modify various polymer

properties and offer masterbatches

based on these. On an average, annual

consumption of engineering plastics is

likely to reach 3 million tonne by 2013,

which is about 18 per cent of the total

demand. Plastiblends is now focussing

on various growth segments to maintain

the leadership position in the next

2-3 years.

Export opportunities for

Indian processors

Looking at the current growth trend,

we expect the export market to grow

rapidly and double in the next three

years. Plastiblends exports 35 per cent

of the production volume to about 25

countries. For promoting this further,

we need to emphasise on infrastructure

growth like roads, ports, etc. This will

ensure timely deliveries and establish

the reliability and credibility of Indian

suppliers. As China is very aggressive

with exports and has superior

infrastructure, we are facing hurdles

to grow overseas. Our growth will

accelerate if the government amends the

market fundamentals. For manufacturers

in India, meeting the manufacturing and

export volumes of China is still an

unfulfilled dream.


FA C I L I T Y V I S I T

In a commercially dynamic state like

Gujarat, enterprise and innovation

often collaborate to drive the wheel

of a prosperous industry. And

the plastics extrusion and packaging

machinery segment is no exception to

this rule. As Gujarat’s plastics industry

surges at a Compounded Annual

Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 15 per

cent, there is tremendous demand and

subsequent growth potential in the

machinery sector. Since processors in

the State are seeking to widen their base

in the export market, the quality of their

machinery is making all the difference

in terms of increased productivity and

better delivery.

In such a scenario, extrusion

machinery suppliers are entrusted with

the daunting task of providing world-

class solutions for the rapidly expanding

domestic market. As the industry takes

greater strides and machinery demand

surges to new heights, Star Technocrates

Pvt Ltd is creating a niche through

a differentiated business model that

combines export quality products for the

continuously evolving plastics industry

in Gujarat. As flexible packaging is an

important application of commodity

plastics, Star Technocrates has built on

its key strength of manufacturing and

servicing bag making machines. This

function allows the company an edge

in the growing packaging segment as

well. Star Technocrates is a relatively

new player in the plastics machinery

segment, having begun operations in

April 2010. The company is a part of

the Kody/Vishwa group of industries,

which is dedicated to manufacturing and

marketing of rubber roller technology.

Although new in the equipment

manufacturing domain, the founders

of Star Technocrates have a combined

experience spanning three decades in

the State’s engineering industry. Uday

Shah, Director, Star Technocrates Pvt Ltd,

says, “With considerable exposure to

the machinery export segment, we have

tried to understand the strengths and

challenges of delivering quality solutions

to our customers in the State. We are

currently focussing on the local market,

Enterprise through innovation


With the country’s commodity plastics industry on an accelerated growth drive, emerging

players are gaining a foothold through adoption of distinct technology. Star Technocrates,

based in Gujarat, is a shining example of this. Annabel Dsouza routes through the strategies

of the company that is leveraging on rising demand in Gujarat’s plastics machinery sector.

Star Technocrates Pvt Ltd

Photo: Joshua Navalkar



which is quite buoyant and promising.

Being a new entrant in the business, Star

Technocrates is aiming at building brand

through manufacturing of cost-effective

and reliable machinery.”

Cutting-edge infrastructureStar Technocrates operates from its

20,000 sq ft manufacturing and

administrative facility base in Vatva

industrial estate, Ahmedabad. The

infrastructure has been designed and

developed taking into consideration the

requirements of customers. Although

many functions are currently outsourced,

the company ensures precision in

manufacturing and timely delivery

through state-of-the-art assembly

and quality assurance processes. The

company realises the importance of

operator-friendly machines, and thus

strives to develop such products. The

facility is equipped with the industry’s

leading energy-efficient drives and

motors, thereby enhancing productivity

and reducing power consumption.

The company is on an extensive

growth tangent, with infrastructure

being is a critical part of this. By July

2011, the company expects to add

another manufacturing base around

its current co-ordinates in order to

optimise its vendor and supplier base

in the region. In terms of technical

competence, Shah opines, “Gujarat has

a strong manufacturing culture and our

customers are constantly upgrading their

existing machinery. Many of the current

manufacturing practices in the company

have been derived from Germany and

modified to suit local demand. Although

plastic processing in this region has

evolved from the State’s textile industry,

today we are witnessing greater strides

in quality in terms of increased speed

and higher accuracy.”

Offering a distinct product portfolioOn an average, Star Technocrates

manufactures two made-to-order

machines a month. Its product profile

encompasses the following:

Side sealing and cutting machine

Centre seal pouch making machine

Bottom sealing machine

Three side seal pouch making

machine

Plastic blown film plant

With an in-house design and production

team, Star Technocrates ensures that all

its equipment meet the given customer

specifications, while outperforming

existing industry standards. Cost

competitiveness is an integral aspect to the

success of any enterprise. This especially

holds true for an industry novice like Star

Technocrates. Without compromising on

quality delivery, the company tries to

add maximum value at the lowest price

points possible. Shah highlights, “Price

and service must compete with market

norms. Since there are established

players in the industry, why would a

processor approach a new brand like

Star? Hence, to stay competitive we try

to differentiate our products and services

through cost-effectiveness as well as

superior performance.”

In January 2011, Star Technocrates

had displayed its products and services

at Plastivision India, where it received

tremendous response. Leveraging on

opportunities such as this, the company

is expecting to increase its capacity to

produce about six machines a month.

Star Technocrates and its indigenous

solutions will also be present at

Plastindia 2012.

Emphasising on customer collaboration and serviceCustomer feedback is a critical aspect

of any business, and Star Technocrates

invests conscious efforts to ensure that not

only all specifications are met adequately,

but also support services are offered

on time. The company has delegated

a team of five on-field engineers to

troubleshoot machinery problems at the

customers’ end. Even in terms of product

development, the design team works

in tandem with customers to improve

existing equipment and add value to

new machines. Reiterating the important

role of its customers, Shah states, “Since

Star Technocrates is aiming at long

innings in the industry, we emphasise on

maintaining and improving relations with

new and existing customers.” He adds,

“Although we have had many teething

problems on account of being a new

enterprise, our customers have been

generous towards us. We are doing our

best to ensure customer satisfaction so

as to attract reference customers through

business ethics and goodwill.”

Working towards long inningsWith accelerated growth plans, Star

Technocrates is in the process of

developing better machines, while

upgrading its automation systems and

interacting with professionals & veterans

of the global extrusion and packaging

machinery. On a futuristic note, Shah

concludes, “Star Technocrates hopes to

have long innings in the domestic market

while also tapping export potential

in the near future. We are not in any

hurry to supply machines in the market,

which may lead to quality compromise.

Therefore, we will continue to build on

our key strengths of cost-competitive and

operator-friendly solutions.”

Uday ShahDirector, Star Technocrates Pvt Ltd

With considerable

exposure to the

machinery segment, we

have tried to understand

the strengths and

challenges of delivering

quality solutions to our

customers in the state.

Courtesy: ABB India

S E C TO R WATC H


PC-based automation, geared specifically for the plastics industry, continues to expand as processors recognise the benefits that robots can provide – including cost and labour savings, reduced cycle times and improved part quality & safety. Also, productivity, support and efficiency offered by automation devices in the plastics industry are equivalent to large numbers of trained human hands at work. Beverley Lewis takes a closer look at the benefits of using automation in the plastics industry.


S E C TO R WATC H

PC-based automation basically includes a PC platform and a Windows operating system. It ensures a host of benefits

to the plastics industry, ranging from higher quality parts through improved equipment uptime, faster cycle times, more predictable production flow all the way to reduced employee turnover. In short, it will enable flexible automation, giving manufacturers the edge to thrive in today’s highly competitive climate. A PC-based solution offers a style of operation similar to desktop PC applications, which any individual can use today. This has a direct impact on the human operator performance considering the rules of behavioural science.

Adopting automationThe excellent performance of microprocessors used in modern PC enables machine builders to build fast controllers for increasing productivity and quality. In particular, wall thickness control in blow moulding machines and injection control in injection moulding machines require the use of fast PC-based controllers. Nearly unlimited memory resources are used to monitor important process variables over a long time. “Machines with PC-based controllers could be easily adapted to production cells via a fast industrial fieldbus system (EtherCAT). Windows operation system provides several ways to use plant network or Internet-based computing. Incorporating PC-based control in mould making machines also improves the quality of dies & moulds produced,” informs Thomas Kosthorst, Plastics Industry Market Manager, Beckhoff Automation GmbH. Typically, touch screen panels instead of mouse operation enable easy navigation on the screen. Colourful Graphical User Interface (GUI) software can be installed on PCs. This not only makes machine operations interesting & motivating to operators, but also shortens the learning curve for them.

Machine operation becomes more enjoyable to the operator.

The controls in use at present have very high response time due to microprocessor-controlled high-speed Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems and monitor various process parameters with close tolerance to output quality parts. Other benefits of PC-based controls include easy access to online manuals as well as data exchange with standard office programs such as Excel or database applications. In this way, moulders are able to analyse the process and also install a knowledge database. Common accessories such as cameras or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) readers could be easily integrated. This is commercially motivating for the management of companies investing in the PC-based control technology. “Therefore, the tolerance of plastic components can be taken to the next higher level of precision & accuracy in terms of dimension and weight tolerance. The current generation of controls can be easily customised for integration of various external devices and the operator can define his own setup, all of which make it more user-friendly,” opines Jayesh Gandhi, General Manager - Application & Technical Service, Ferromatik Milacron India.

Controllers speak “In the ‘simple view’, the sequence of robot actions is displayed in the form of

a circle. Individual actions are visualised graphically in their temporal sequence, creating a clear and simple view of the robot operations. Furthermore, the operator can see where the robot is currently operating,” asserts J Devlia, Managing Director, Engel Machinery India Pvt Ltd. At the press of a button, the set-up person can select a

Courtesy: @Youngester

Thomas KosthorstPlastics Industry Market Manager, Beckhoff Automation GmbH

Injection moulding machines use a time critical axis, eg, clamp unit or injection unit. In order to reduce cycle times and avoid damage to the mould, the control algorithm must be fast and highly sophisticated.


S E C TO R WATC H

completely different standard procedure or adapt its function to the required procedure. The ‘simple view’ wide selections of tried-and-tested standard procedures are available to the operator in the controller for different automation applications. The set-up person does not require any programming know-how; he/she can simply select a procedure and then adapt the process sequences to the requirements demanded by changing variants. All settings necessary for a sequence (position, speed and time) are displayed on a clearly arranged settings page. Commands to be inserted are simply selected from an extensive functions list and placed at the desired point in the sequence. Pressing the symbols in the sequence editor immediately calls up the respective screen page on which the parameters can be set. Even very complex sequences can be quickly configured. An operator able to create movement sequences for linear robots can thus learn to program articulated-arm robots within minimum time. Machine manufacturers and plastics processors are thus well-equipped to face the demands of the future, as the trend towards a higher degree of automation is inexorable.

“It enables the processor to understand the process in depth since important parameters are monitored, recorded and controlled. Once the parameters for a product are determined, there is no need for conducting trials and removing errors (and wastage of material and energy) in repeating the process since all parameters are already stored and available at the flick of a button,” reveals Sunil Jain, President, Rajoo Engineers Ltd. It is a boon for the owner as he is no more dependent on the vagaries and whims of operators who run the machine by ‘touch and feel’. It makes the whole system more scientific and less operator-dependent.

Online performance monitoringOnline performance monitoring can benefit the plastics industry by confirming

whether the equipment is performing as promised by the manufacturer. In online performance monitoring, both the product quality and process parameters are continuously monitored and, if necessary, controlled. Properties of the products (eg, thickness variation, blend ratios of different polymers, dosage of individual components and yield in case of films & sheets) and processing parameters such as melt temperatures, pressures, screw and line speeds are not only monitored but also controlled online. Fault diagnosis of sensors and other instrumentation is also facilitated by employing such automation techniques, as these help reduce plant downtime. PC-based control needs a fast, deterministic Ethernet-based bus system to transfer process information according to the high-speed requirements in plastics processing. “Beckhoff has established EtherCAT, a deterministic Ethernet, as a quasi-standard for the plastics industry. Usually, injection moulding machines use a time critical axis, eg, clamp unit

J DevliaManaging Director, Engel Machinery India Pvt Ltd

In the ‘simple view’, the sequence of robot actions is displayed in a circle. Individual actions are visualised graphically in their temporal sequence, creating a clear and simple view.

User-friendly Human machine Interface (HMI)

Machines are equipped with HMI, which is operator-friendly and easily accessible for process parameters. It provides excellent troubleshooting guideline, along with help and alarm menu pages. It has following features:

Functionally oriented screen layouts Process parameter monitoring in real-time and

feeding value on absolute basis Simple & pictorial diagrams to enable operator

understanding ‘Auto temperature and temperature profile

selection’ for homogeneous melt from the first shot

‘Extruder overrun’ for uninterrupted auto cycle ‘Auto heating start’, ‘shut down’ and ‘standby’ to

save time and energy during operation Intrusion, insert moulding, gas-assisted interface,

core pulling, etc for multitasking utilisation ‘Auto purging’ for smooth shutdown ‘Mould cooling’, ‘mould gate option’, ‘sprue

break’, ‘nozzle shut off valve,’ ‘cold slug remove’, etc for various applications

Smart input/output for uninterrupted production

Jayesh GandhiGeneral Manager - Application & Technical Service, Ferromatik Milacron India Pvt Ltd

The current generation of controls can be easily customised for integration of various external devices and the operator can define his own setup, all of which make it more user-friendly.


S E C TO R WATC H

or injection unit. In order to reduce cycle times and avoid damage to the mould, the control algorithm must be fast and highly sophisticated,” opines Kosthorst. Part quality of injection-moulded parts is directly influenced by a quick switchover from injection to holding pressure. Also, wall thickness control of blow moulding machines needs exact position control of the die.

Surviving the challenges As companies move into the age of agile manufacturing, they are discovering what it takes to survive and compete in today’s manufacturing marketplace. Open systems architecture is viewed as the centrepoint technology for this era, forging PC-based technology applications to achieve shorter lead times to regain lost time to market, bolstering flexibility in product offerings and ultimately maximising competitiveness. But even as this ‘agility’ in industrial automation gains momentum, there are concerns with regard to the risks in this transition. The more that can be learned about transition and applications strategies the better. Inadequate knowledge & undervaluation of the PC control technology by end-users & further by machine builders discourage automation companies. Automation solutions are application focussed & not price oriented. Hence, the return on investment should be calculated based on total machine lifecycle cost and not on cash outflow. For automation companies, upfront investment levels coupled by resistance from operators are some of the obstacles. “For processors, the major hindrances are economic viability and troubleshooting and, further, the availability of appropriate spares and manpower. However, these are gradually being overcome by offering cost-effective solutions and training of operators,” reveals Jain.

Automation and roboticsThe tools and equipment used in the plastics industry today are different from those used a decade ago. Traditionally,

linear/beam robots have been used to extract parts from the injection moulding machine and to place the parts on the conveyor, ie, they have helped replace the human being with a robot. The modern six-axes robots have become more user-friendly and are also competitive in price. These features clearly show that more can be achieved with a six-axes robot around the plastics processing machine. Equipment such as controllers are also moving towards becoming automated. Retrofitting plays an important role in automation and robotics, as it leads to modernisation or expansion of existing production systems. “The basis of a retrofit is often the need to manufacture a new, more complex component, even more cost-effectively, and thus to implement an automated process solution, which will also have the flexibility to meet future requirements. In other words, it will be a solution that, in its entirety, meets more than the requirements of the part currently being manufactured,” says Tobias Scheich, Key Technology Manager, KUKA Roboter GmbH.

Future trendsFast and efficient machines with a high-tech appearance is the future trend. Continuous demand for more precision and higher productivity requires use of high-speed controllers and servo-electric axes instead of hydraulic axes. In the future, measurement of energy consumption as well as energy-optimised algorithm on a PC-based platform will help save resources. Kosthorst states, “Preventive maintenance, which reduces the downtime, needs processing power and intelligent algorithms, which can be run on PC-based architecture. This makes the machine more energy efficient.”

The future trends focus on addressing these issues by offering automation solutions that are affordable. For example, in blown film extrusion, complete solutions will be offered for online monitoring and controlling.

Tobias ScheichKey Technology Manager, KUKA Roboter GmbH

The basis of a retrofit is often the need to manufacture a new, more complex component, even more cost-effectively.

Sunil JainPresident, Rajoo Engineers Ltd

For processors, the major hindrances are economic viability and troubleshooting and, further, availability of appropriate spares and manpower.

India is currently poised to emerge as an attractive destination for the global plastics industry in terms of

per capita polymer consumption as well as novel applications in burgeoning sectors like automotives and infrastructure. In this scenario, manufacturing practices will play a crucial role in ensuring that complicated design requirements are met while controlling production costs in order to stay competitive. Rotomoulding is a highly versatile process used to manufacture an unlimited range of products in all shapes and sizes while allowing manufacturers to offer economically viable solutions to the industry. However, unlike injection and blow moulding processes, the manufacturing potential of rotomoulding has not been fully explored and, today, it stands as one of the most promising domains of plastics processing.

Rotomoulding has unique advantages such as design flexibility and low production costs. The range of products that can be moulded is matched only by innovative methods in which

moulders develop new product lines and enter unexplored markets. The product portfolio of rotomoulding ranges from micromoulding of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) earpieces to large polyethylene tanks.

However, in India, rotomoulded products constitute only about 1-1.5 per cent of the total plastics consumption. Even in more developed markets like North America and Europe, rotomoulding remains a niche process for specific applications only. North America is the largest market for rotomoulding, with an annual capacity of 600 Kilo Tonne (KT), followed by Europe with a capacity of 400 KT. In India, rotomoulding was introduced almost 35 years ago with simple products like toys, balls and general products. Today, the annual production of rotomoulded products across the country is in the range of 100-125 KT.

Since its inception in the early 1970s, the Indian rotomoulding industry has become the hub for prduction of large voluminous water tanks and containers. This product became extremely popular due

M A R K E T T R E N D S


Tapping growth prospectsRotomoulding

Over the years, rotomoulding has evolved from being a largely empirical and niche process to a dynamic technology offering a wide spectrum of applications. Annabel Dsouza explores the promises and potential within the Indian plastics industry’s rotomoulding segment, as it reveals its manufacturing capabilities beyond conventional markets and products.

Courtesy: Society of Asian Rotomoulders; Sintex Industries Ltd



to its light weight, durability, hygienic & easy installation & maintenance, easy availability and low cost. Since then, the industry has grown by leaps and bounds, in terms of number of industry players as well as total plastic consumption. L K Singh, Director, Fixopan Machines Pvt Ltd, says, “I have been associated with this industry since 1987, when the rotomoulding was in its infancy in India. The industry has grown steadily in the last quarter century. From perhaps one or two rotomoulders, today, we have around 300 rotomoulders in India. The mainstay of the product has always been water storage tanks, which cover about 85 per cent of all products rotomoulded. It started with these tanks and even today the industry delivers about 855 tanks annually.” He elaborates, “Today, there are rotomoulding factories scattered throughout the country. The organised sector is huge, with around 20 companies consuming almost 80 per cent volume of raw materials. Currently, very few companies produce non-tank range of products. This should hopefully change as the market now demands wider applications.”

Current market scenarioAs the construction and infrastructure spheres in India expand, water tanks and other large-capacity applications will continue to demand the same marketshare. However, with increased awareness and access to global markets, many Indian rotomoulders have started venturing into custom-made industrial products such as fuel tanks, chemical tanks, material handling products and solid waste management products. Although in the nascent stage, these goods are expected to register high growth rates in the years to come. Moreover, awareness is growing rapidly in the Indian design community about the process and its products, and this will further fuel growth in the industry, as new and innovative products are designed & developed. The rotomoulding segment is currently witnessing a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 20 per cent, which is in tandem with the overall growth in the plastics industry.

Sanjib Roy, Senior President, Plastics Division, Sintex Industries Ltd, says, “Our country is currently growing at 9 per cent Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which indicates an all round growth across the industry, agriculture and services. Infrastructure will continue to grow at a rapid pace due to increasing urbanisation and housing needs. Several opportunities will arise from each of these areas in which rotomoulding will play a huge role. Future growth is definitely based on rapid industrialisation. Sectors such as automotives will continue to grow on the manufacturing side, which will encourage production of rotomoulded fuel tanks, bumpers, crash guards, air ducts, engine covers, etc.” He adds, “Various other applications are awaiting rotomoulded materials. Moulders have started

working on industrial and sub-ground products (eg, septic tank, manhole, etc), construction and infrastructure projects. This will evolve over a period of time and the market size will continue to rise at a rapid pace. The

rotomoulding industry will definitely keep pace with the booming plastics industry. We anticipate it to grow further, as infrastructure development in India is witnessing rapid progress, and there will be an increased scope for rotomoulding in this sector.”

Technology edgeAt present, rotomoulders in India use fabricated sheetmetal and stainless steel moulds. However, rotomoulders have extended their knowledge of sheetmetal fabrication to new products. The development of casting technology and use of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machined aluminium moulds is being explored through intensive investments. For complex designs and specific surface finishes/textures, rotomoulders prefer cast aluminium moulds or CNC-machined aluminium moulds, which offer very high degree of design flexibility and consistency. Even though the costs of these moulds are comparatively higher than sheetmetal moulds, these offer a very high value-addition to end products in terms of quality and finish.

Moreover, mould-in or mould-on graphics in rotomoulded products are the new norm. Indian rotomoulding industry is undergoing

structural changes in terms of material development, technological advancement in machines, processes, moulds and new market segments. Singh avers, “Indian players are keen on catching up with global technology. We are witnessing greater networking among consultants, mould makers, compounders and rotomoulders in order to draw attention to technical developments and innovations at the global stage. For example, Indian players are now familiar with the use of accurate temperature logger rotologger within the mould as against the oven temperature or estimated visual checks to control the moulding operation.”

Recent technological developments in terms of materials, machines, moulds and process control, have opened up new application avenues. However, the versatility of the process is still largely unknown to potential end-users and the design community. Increased awareness in the mould design community will open up more areas for rotational moulding, which have not yet been considered or explored. Singh states, “However, in order to utilise all opportunities offered to the industry, we need superior design methodology, such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA). These will enable the industry to gradually achieve global benchmarks of quality and delivery.”

Sustainability indexThis is a crucial parameter whereby an industry measures its performance in order to stay ahead of the competition. As rotomoulders strive to achieve economies of scale while eluding escalating operating costs, efficient technology and green innovations will go a long way in deciding the industry’s future. Roy says, “There is conscious effort to conserve energy, as fuel is one of the major constituents of the rotomoulding industry. Use of good burners, ovens and machinery, along with overall handling of the



Figure 1: Estimated consumption of rotomoulded products worldwide

46%

21%

11%

11%

6%3% 2%

N America

Europe

South Asia

Australia

Middle East

Africa

Others

Source: Fixopan Machines Pvt Ltd

L K SinghDirector, Fixopan Machines Pvt Ltd

The organised sector is huge, with around 20 companies consuming almost 80 per cent volume of raw materials. Currently, very few companies produce non-tank range of products. This should hopefully change.



production process is paving the way towards achieving energy efficiency and waste reduction. Efficient rotomoulders will be more successful in controlling production costs and delivering cost-effective solutions.”

Seconding the statement, Singh says, “High rates of power, fuel and labour have forced the industry to become very conscious of energy efficiency and work towards waste reduction. Machinery suppliers are advocating the use of better technology with increased production lines over controlled consumption. Initially, the trend was to employ old or second hand machines, but now processors have realised the inefficiency costs incurred as a result of this trend.”

Countering challengesAs the rotomoulding sector gears up to welcome abounding opportunities offered by India’s surging economy, awareness about the advantages and importance of the process will be a key deciding factor. Also, part quality and consistency manufactured by rotomoulding will enable the industry to command greater application in a wide range of industries. Since the rotomoulded sector has a large concentration of unorganised and small manufacturers, investments in better moulds, equipment and quality control technology is essential. Research and innovation is integral to any successful manufacturing industry. This holds true for rotomoulding as well, especially for delivering competitive and customised products for new applications.

According to Blaise Costabir, MD, GMI Zarhak Moulders Pvt Ltd, “Among the critical challenges before the industry today is availability of better testing facilities and mould makers who can deliver cost-competitive solutions on time. As a result, rotomoulders today have to import special grades of raw materials because local suppliers are not interested in low-volume delivery. Another challenging area here is educating customers about

the benefits of this process and its versatility.” In support, Roy says, “The industry also needs better visibility in the plastics market. Rotomoulded applications can be projected to the government and an overall offer made to popularise these products vis-à-vis traditional products.”

Future scopeThe Indian rotomoulding industry is currently standing at exciting crossroads, with growth and expansion in every direction. Easy availability of raw materials, technical support from local material manufacturers and access to the global information system will give further impetus to this success saga. Along with the ever-evolving domestic demand, rotomoulders are keen to explore the export potential offered by the industry. Traditionally, rotomoulded water tanks have not been a very export-friendly product due to their voluminous size. However, this limitation will be a thing of the past, as smaller products find increased market space. Roy asserts, “As the industry is moving away from tanks to value-added products, more and more applications are emerging, and therefore much of offshoring is possible where manufacturing cost in other countries would be higher.”

As the Indian plastics industry continues to take greater strides towards capacity and consumption growth, the economy will witness increased participation from the rotomoulding sector in terms of innovations, quality and overall value-driven services.

Blaise CostabirMD, GMI Zarhak Moulders Pvt Ltd

Among the critical challenges before the industry today is availability of better testing facilities and mould makers who can deliver cost-competitive solutions on time.

Sanjib RoySenior President, Plastics Division, Sintex Industries Ltd

There is conscious effort to conserve energy, as fuel is one of the major constituents of the rotomoulding industry. Use of good burners, ovens and machinery is paving the way towards achieving energy efficiency and waste

Source: Fixopan Machines Pvt Ltd

Figure 2: Most selling rotomoulded products worldwide

Water tanks85%

Others 15%


Offering a host of performance properties

PVDF and its copolymers

Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) – a tough engineering thermoplastic – exhibits certain special properties that set it apart from other commercial plastics in use today. Considered a solutions provider, PVDF and its copolymers have a vast multitude of characteristics desired by various industrial sectors. An overview of various industries employing this thermoplastic…

David Seiler and Mandar Amrute

Since the construction of the first Kynar® Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) commercial plant in 1965, in Calvert City, KY, USA,

this product has been used in many types of chemical industries. The first applications of PVDF revolved around the excellent chemical resistance to chlorine & chlorinated solvents, bromine, hot acids and combinations of chemicals for waste handling.

Users in these chemical areas soon discovered that PVDF had other special properties not universally associated with all plastics. PVDF was found to offer high abrasion resistance similar to UltraHigh Molecular Weight (UHMW) and Nylon; high tensile strength at elevated temperatures, which set it apart from commodity plastics and other fluoropolymers; ability to withstand high doses of radiation in service, which make it superior to almost any known polymer; excellent

M AT E R I A L C O R N E R

PVDF pipes & fittingsCourtesy: Arkema Inc

Tower packingCourtesy: Arkema Inc



flame resistance; superior sunlight (UV) resistance; and overall weathering durability.

Although most equipment designers and engineers would prefer a thermoplastic material over metal components for chemical-related applications, no such material has been found yet that meets all their needs in an economical fashion. Simply put, PVDF is a high-end plastic and a problem solver. It is often not the first product looked at as a solution, but once it is chosen, most end-users are satisfied with its performance and continue to scan their facility to find more areas in which they desire long life and trouble-free performance.

Properties and characteristicsPVDF is a tough engineering thermoplastic that offers a unique balance of performance properties. It is available in two versions – rigid and flexible. For easy understanding of industrial use of PVDF and/or its copolymers, enumerated here

are some sectors where these materials are used, making it one of the most desirable thermoplastics used today.

Pulp & paper bleaching: The pulp & paper industry commonly uses chlorine-based technology for bleaching operations. Chlorine reacts aggressively to metals and quickly rusts and corrodes equipment. Additionally, chlorine and chlorinated compounds are aggressive to many polymers, ultimately leading to corrosion-induced stress cracking. PVDF is not appreciably attacked by chlorine, and hence is often used for long-term handling of chlorinated chemicals. In bleach applications where the chlorinated compound is also blended with a caustic solution that increases pH level, PVDF copolymers are preferred because the softer and more flexible nature of these materials have greater overall resistance to any potential cracking over time.

Metals preparation and mining: In the metals industry, various acids are used to clean, treat, prepare or separate the final product. Strong acids like hydrofluoric, hydrochloric, sulphuric, nitric and chromic acids are commonly used in this industry. The concentrations of these chemicals vary during the process; temperatures tend to be elevated and mixtures of acids are common. This combination of variables makes it difficult to find a single material to meet the requirements for handling the process and waste chemicals. PVDF and its copolymers extend the temperature limits of equipment and allow for protection from upset

conditions encountered in case the blending of chemicals yields aggressive by-products that would cause problems for other potential material choices.

Fuel: In recent years, formulation of fuels has become increasingly complicated. Gasoline formulation at one time was simple, but now there are other types of fuel like diesel, alcohol blends, ether additives for octane adjustment and, the latest, biodiesel. In underground transport and holding systems, the installations are usually expected to last for years without any need for replacement or repair. While these versions of fuel can usually be handled by relatively cheap materials, each fuel variation poses a potential disaster in case the line is required to switch fuel type at some point. PVDF gives the designer an unusual combination of resistance to alcohol, hydrocarbons (aromatic and aliphatic) as well as to oxidants commonly associated with the new biodiesel technology.

In the related area of ethanol production process, generation of low levels of sulphuric acid is quite common. Several processing plants initially began construction using stainless steel, but have now turned towards using PVDF-lined process equipment to avoid corrosion caused by low percentage acid concentrations.

Pharmaceutical and biotech: The field of life sciences uses a multitude of chemical combinations, eg, bromine, iodine, chlorine, acids and alcohols, to name a few. Simply reading the ingredients on a medicine box gives one a feel of the process challenges that this industry faces. This is coupled with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Class 6 requirements and process water purification targets. PVDF meets all these requirements, with the added advantage over common plastics that it can be repeatedly steam cleaned at up to 30 psi steam. Plastics are gaining increased usage in the pharmaceutical industry for the reason that these do not rust when exposed to cleaning agents and do not rouge over time with water

Properties and characteristics of PVDF

Resistance to most chemicals and solvents Resistance to ultraviolet and nuclear radiation Resistance to weathering Low permeability to most gases and liquids Low flame and smoke characteristics Mechanical strength and toughness High abrasion resistance High thermal stability High purity Readily melt processability

Table 1: General physical properties of PVDF

Property of the material Unit for propertyPVDF homopolymer

PVDF copolymer

Melt point oC 168 158Specific gravity 1.77 1.78Tensile strength @ yield* psig 7,500 5,000Tensile strength @ break* psig 7,000 5,000Elongation @ break* % 50 200Flexural modulus* psig 280,000 170,000Notched izod impact strength* Ft lb/in 3 6Hardness Shore D 78 74

*Values indicated above are only for reference. One must consult material manufacturer while selecting the grade for specific application.

Homopolymers and copolymers have ranges of performance; the table reflects data for only one grade of PVDF.



exposure. PVDF and its copolymers are listed in the ASME Bioprocessing Equipment (ASME-BPE) standards as a common material selected by designers for biotech system design. Piping, flexible tubing, tanks, membranes and pumps are some of the common applications for PVDF in this industry.

Semiconductor processing: Perhaps the biggest industrial use for PVDF is in the semiconductor industry. PVDF has numerous properties that this industry desires and that are not always required in general chemical applications. Flame and smoke-resistant compliance outlined by Factory Mutual (FM) 4910 plus Underwriters Laboratories (UL 2360) and SEMI F57 high-purity standards are special requirements in the manufacture of high-purity piping systems and acid etching equipment used for preparing silicon wafers. The combination of chemical resistance, high purity and superior strength of PVDF compared to other high-quality materials has made it a standard material for construction in a semiconductor facility.

Nuclear industry: The nuclear reclamation industry faces some intriguing challenges. First, a series of harsh chemicals are used in the glove boxes manufactured to purify the radioactive ores. While many materials handle chemicals such as hydrochloric acid and nitric acid used to purify plutonium and uranium, the contact surfaces of the glove box must also be able to handle the radioactivity associated with this process. After several years of testing and field

experience, PVDF has been found to be a polymer that has the highest resistance to radiation as well as is capable of long life in nuclear glove box design and waste holding equipment.

Potable water and wastewater: Certain grades of PVDF are listed by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) for use in potable water (NSF 61). While water is not commonly considered highly corrosive, there is an increasing desire for water systems to last nearly indefinitely. With concerns for bacterial infections, bioterrorism, chlorine content in water and UV exposure for many years of service life, a material like PVDF offers a greater opportunity for long system life even if system parameters change over time.

In wastewater applications, a general concern is that chemical compatibility could be unpredictable. A product like PVDF offers an improved safety factor in the event of any unexpected or unplanned chemical combinations. It is unlikely that any combination of chemicals at 140?C or below over a short period of time would attack PVDF in a catastrophic manner like it could occur with metals or lower performing polymers.

Food, dairy and beverage: In general, food materials are not corrosive, but consumable food products such as sauces and fruits can have pH in the range of 2.0-3.5. This can be a very aggressive environment over time. PVDF components are often machined and used in the processing of cranberry, hot sauces, alcoholic beverages, lime juices and few other relatively common foods. The abrasion resistance of PVDF and its ability to be sterilised with various chemicals and steam also add to the attractiveness of this material for food, dairy and beverage applications.

Power industry: A multitude of chemicals find applications in power plants. PVDF and its copolymers are mainly used in areas where sodium hypochlorite and sulphuric acid are stored and used in various processes.

Institutional construction (laboratories): Government research buildings, schools and universities require

that laboratory piping and components that pass through the return plenum space must be able to meet more stringent fire testing. Certain grades of PVDF have met the ASTM E-84 (25/50) requirement that allows materials exposed in plenums to be considered equivalent to noncombustible. PVDF is quite an attractive material in these applications for waste drainage and process piping due to its capability to reach high temperature of 150?C, excellent short-term chemical resistance to almost any chemical combination, lightweight and easy welding fabrication compared to metal or glass as well as low cost compared to other reasonable material options that have all the above characteristics, and it meets the 25/50 flame and smoke criteria as well.

A versatile polymerPVDF is undoubtedly one of the most popular thermoplastics that find application in a variety of industry sectors, due to the versatile properties that it displays.

References1. High Performance Non-edible

Vegetable Oil Polyamide 11 – By Simon TING, Automotive Manufacturer Autumn 2008

2. Comparison of Rilsan PA11 & PA12 against other Polyamides, Metal and Rubber – By Simon TING, Nicolas AMOUROUX and Thibaut MONTANARI

3. Rilsan Technical Guide – By Arkema

David Seiler is Global Kynar Technical adviser for Arkema Inc. Email: [email protected]

Mandar Amrute works with Arkema India for Application & Business Development of Kynar® PVDF in chemical processing industry. He has an

experience of more than four years in the field of polymers, masterbatches and additives. Email: [email protected]

PVDF lined pipesCourtesy: Arkema Inc

I N J E C T I O N Z O N E


Y R Anand

As the industry moves to higher volumes, pressure on manufacturing companies is increasing to produce more

using same moulds and machines. The cooling time is usually the

largest contributor to the cycle time in the production process; therefore, most processors try to reduce it by lowering mould temperatures. In high-cavity moulds used for short cycle times, it is a common practice to use pure water at a temperature range of 6-10°C. Going below 6°C is not ideal, as it may require addition of anti-freeze compounds. Anti-freeze agents generally have low thermal conductivity, which lowers heat dissipation from the product in the mould. Most such agents have high viscosity, which lowers water pump performance and reduces water flow rates. Chilled water flow rates are recommended to create turbulent water flow in the mould cooling channels.

When the surrounding temperature is close to this, there is no problem. But when the ambient air in the mould shop is higher, it starts to sweat around and inside the mould. Further, a humid climate such as that in most tropical countries(eg, India) increases the problem of sweating. Such problems arise in even relatively dry and cool climates, due to rising demand for decreasing mould temperatures.

Mould sweating creates multiple problems like those mentioned below:

Sticking of parts to injection core

Hazy spots and streaks – worse in clear parts

Dimensional instability Short shots due to gate blockage Rusting of mould and surrounding

machine partsIf mould temperature is increased to overcome this, then cycle times start increasing to allow the melt to solidify properly. But this may lead to a commercial disaster.

Thus, various methods have been devised to overcome such issues. Some of these are mentioned below.

Air conditioning the plantApparently, the easiest way to prevent sweating-related issues in a hot and humid climate is by air conditioning the whole moulding plant. Air conditioning reduces the temperature imbalance and relative humidity in the area. This allows moulders to keep the mould area clean by installing filters in air inlets and making the moulding area clean as in a clean room area. Also, machine operators can work in better conditions.

However, all these measures do not cure the problem completely, as the room temperature tends to be 22-24°C, while the moulds will be substantially colder in most cases. Also, the energy cost of air conditioning large mould shops is considerable.

Air conditioning of entire plant does not result in absolute control of humidity. Ambient air mixes with air in the plant whenever a gate or a door is opened. Exchanging of moulds in processing machines is also accompanied by water leakages. Cleaning and washing of floors also add moisture to the plant air.

Greater control for increased production Mould sweating

Most manufacturing companies face a common problem of ‘mould sweating’, which results from an imbalance between temperatures in the mould and its surroundings. Optimum cooling in moulds is crucial for enhancing productivity. This article explores some of the methods to resolve this problem and maintain adequate cooling temperature in moulds.

Courtesy: Eisbär, AustriaSchematic of system without refrigeration

System without refrigerationCourtesy: Eisbär, Austria

I N J E C T I O N Z O N E


Also, the air conditioning system must be able to handle the heat radiated in the plant and dehumidification of the air inside the manufacturing plant.

Mould area drying with refrigerationA solution in most cases is to prepare a hood in the moulding area (injection or blow moulding or film making) and a pipe in cold dry air to this area.

Mould Area Protection (MAP) system can be used to achieve this. This includes a simple air dehumidification unit with integrated chiller (condensation dryer). It filters the ambient air sucked into the unit through a washable and replaceable filter and chills the air to a temperature of 3°C in two steps, and then heats the air to 25°C. The first chilling step requires chilled water from the plant’s chiller at same temperature as that used in mould cooling.

The second chilling step is carried out by the integrated chiller of the MAP unit. Large amount of moisture in the air is removed by condensation on cold surfaces of the heat exchangers (pre-cooler & evaporator). The heat extracted from air in the second chilling step is expelled into the air after the moisture is removed in the condenser of the chiller.

MAP is a complete system wherein the clamp and mould area of all machines is enshrouded and separated from the ambient air. Trained technicians install custom-made covers on the machines and connect the dry air ductwork to all machines. This should be combined with a good ventilation system in the plant to expel excessive heat radiated from the machines in the plant.

This system has a few disadvantages as well. One of these is control of air temperature. Since this is an independent system, the refrigeration temperature has to be readjusted to follow the temperature of water entering the mould. Another disadvantage is the running cost. Since the system is based on refrigeration of air, it uses

compressors, which leads to higher energy and maintenance costs.

Mould area drying without refrigerationMould dehumidification unit without refrigerants is another way to dry the mould area. This system uses the cold water used for mould cooling to bring dry air to the same temperature. Air is first dried using a desiccant system to completely remove the moisture. Subsequently, the heat exchanger is supplied with the same water entering the mould. This follows the temperature of the mould cooling water, ensuring balanced temperature at all time.

Since this system does not use a refrigeration system, it requires fewer parts and considerably lower energy needs. It has following advantages:

Dry moulds (no condensation) Clean products without water marks Protect moulds & machines from

rust Increased productivity Payback could be within 12 months

or lessThis system can be used on individual

machines, each with a complete system or central cooling and drying station feeding multiple machines, depending on the size of operation.

Increased productivityLift cooling system is an innovative offshoot of this system, which ensures increased productivity and product stability. It helps in cooling the moulded plastic parts after ejection and provides more form stability.

When high-cavity moulds eject large numbers of caps in very short cycles into packaging containers, the caps at the bottom tend to distort. This happens because the caps do not get sufficient time to solidify completely due to short production cycles. If the distortion is beyond acceptable limits, it might create problems in assembly machines.

This system is useful for stabilising the parts after moulding to prevent further

rejection of products. This is becoming increasingly popular in high-speed caps and closures production systems. It has following advantages:

Higher dimension stability after ejection

Low residual heat within the packaging

Equal temperature profile of all parts

Shorter cycle through after-cooling effect

Low energy consumptionAn additional benefit of this system

is slightly shorter cycle times. The parts may be ejected even before full curing, as automatic post curing occurs in the lift cooling systems. This will improve the utility of moulding systems, which are expensive when using large high-speed moulds.

Ensuring continuous improvementsThere are several areas of injection moulding, blow moulding and vacuum forming where continuous and incremental improvement is possible. The benefits with such systems are not direct, nevertheless these produce dramatic improvements.

Y R Anand has a Master’s degree in Production Engineering from IIT, Kharagpur. He worked for over nine years in manufacturing

industries in Mumbai. Since 1980, he has been a partner of UNIMARK. The company deals with selling and servicing machines in plastics processing, tooling industry, micro-electronics and wire mesh welding industry. Email: [email protected]

Lift cooler

Courtesy: Eisbär, Austria

Siddhartha Roy

The increasing dominance of plastics in the 21st century and its continuously expanding usage have forced several

plastics manufacturing companies to come up with an array of innovations, attractive designs and colours to differentiate their products from others.

The second part of the two-part series highlights the roles of lubricants, fillers, pigments and other special additives in Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) formulation to make it suitable for various applications.

LubricantsLubricants prevent hot PVC from sticking to metal surfaces during processing. These are a must with suspension resin compounds, but play a much lesser role in plastisols – a suspension of PVC particles in a plasticiser. Some commonly used lubricants are stearic acid, waxes (including high-molecular-weight waxes) and many complex esters. These are given at low dosages, ie, 0.1-0.3 Parts Per Hundred (PHR).

Correct selection of lubricants plays a vital role in PVC processing. Very less amount makes the melt sticky, which hangs up inside the processing surface and starts degrading. Excessive amounts of lubricants cause the melt to slip on the extruder screw, resulting in reduced production rate. Over-lubrication inhibits gelation and prevents development of full physical properties of the additive.Lubricants are of two types:

Internal: Lubricates movement of melt molecules and improving processability

External: Lubricates melt flow over metal processing surfaces

It is important for the lubrication system to have a balance of both types of lubricants. Metallic soaps like lead stearate & calcium stearate have both stabilising and lubricating action. Nearly all mixed metal and tin stabilisers have non-lubricating properties.

FillersFillers are inert inorganic powders, which are significant with regard to cost reduction in polymer formulation.

Ingredients to enhance versatility of polymersPVC compounding

The first of the two-part series explained the role of plasticisers and stabilisers in Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) formulation. Taking it further, this part explores the attributes of other additives besides these two that confer special properties to PVC. These include stabilisers, lubricants, fillers, pigments and other special additives.


T E C H N O F O C U S



Addition of fillers, especially at high dosages, adversely affects most of the desirable properties of PVC. Hence, these are rightly viewed as cost-reducing agents. But some properties like electrical strength and stiffness still have much scope for improvement.

Reinforcing fillers such as glass fibre & carbon fibre are more costly than PVC resin and not widely used in PVC formulations. In contrast, non-reinforcing fillers group includes a wide variety of fillers. Calcium carbonate is the most important filler for PVC. Two types of calcium carbonate are used widely – Ground Calcium Carbonate (GCC) and Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC).

Ground calcium carbonate: Good quality limestone (whiting) mined from quarries is pulverised into a powder with a particle size suitable for adding to plastics. This is by far the cheapest type of filler, with transportation costs sometimes exceeding the product price. Purity of GCC depends solely on the quality of the limestone source. This is because there is no chemical refining process to remove impurities from limestone, especially abrasive silicate and other rocky materials.

GCC is extensively used for leather cloth manufacturing, where a PVC paste is coated on to substrates like textiles, paper, etc, which is subsequently cured continuously in an oven. The abrasive contaminants can be removed by a process called knife coating. The abrasive nature of GCC prevents its widespread use with suspension resin, as abrasion on extruders and injection moulding machines would be prohibitive. Coated fabrics made with the costlier paste grade resin are able to compete with laminated products made from suspension resin because of the cheap filler used.

However, not all GCC are of low quality. Premium champagne whiting obtained from special limestone quarries can be more expensive

than PCC and is used in high-end electrical and pipe applications. Hence, these carbonates are generally imported. GCC adversely affects the surface quality, but in the leather cloth industry, a thin high-quality top coat is used to conceal such defects.

Precipitated calcium carbonate: Preparation of PCC involves dissolving limestone and filtering out impurities. After further chemical purification to remove elements such as iron and magnesium, the solution is carbonated by adding CO2. Very pure calcium carbonate is precipitated, filtered and dried. Several grades of calcium carbonate are available, based on their purity and particle size, and accordingly, their prices vary. PCC is the most widely used filler in PVC, and is the main ingredient in toothpaste, accounting for more tonnage than that of PVC fillers. Thus, a large number of manufacturers in India produce PCC.

Both GCC and PCC absorb expensive plasticisers, and in the process, expel some portions meant for adding flexibility to PVC. This necessitates addition of more Dioctyl Phthalate (DOP) to compensate this loss, thus partly offsetting the cost advantage. This can be significant, especially with an increase in dosages. This also results in increased viscosity.

For reducing oil (DOP) absorption, PCC is coated with stearic acid/calcium stearate. This reduces DOP absorption considerably and improves processing & gloss. These are premium fillers and termed as activated PCC.

Recently, several manufacturers have started offering better quality GCC, which is replacing the costlier PCC in lower-end PVC applications, eg, agri pipes, SWR, etc. Other mineral fillers include talc, dolomite, wollastonite and asbestos. Earlier, asbestos was widely used in vinyl floor tiling, but is not used any more due to its carcinogenic nature. While calcium

carbonate seems to be the most attractive cost-reducing agent, care must be taken to optimise its addition level and grade selection to achieve the best results.

PigmentsA number of colouring agents such as dyes and pigments are added to polymers to make them attractive, which enables customers to identify and differentiate products. Pigments are broadly classified as inorganic pigments, organic pigments and carbon black.

Inorganic pigments: These are oxides and salts of metals as well as complex minerals. The most important ones include titanium dioxide, which is the chief whitening pigment used in plastics. Following are some of the important inorganic pigment groups:

Ultramarine: Blue, violet Chrome: Yellow, orange, brown Cadmium: Red, orange, yellow Iron oxide: Brown, black. Iron

oxide catalyses decomposition of PVC, so it must be used with care.

Inorganic pigments are heat stable and cheaper, but do not have the colour strength and brightness as compared to organic pigments.

Organic pigments: Important organic pigment groups include the following:

Phthalocyanine: Blue, green Chromophthal: Red, orange Azo pigments: These include

a wide range of colours, but are carcinogenic

Lakes and toners: Oil-soluble dyes leach out with the plasticiser in PVC. But, when deposited and reacted with inorganic carriers, these form lakes, which are widely used in plastics.Carbon black: It is a material

produced by incomplete combustion of heavy petroleum products like coal tar, ethylene cracking tar, etc. An important industrial raw material, carbon black finds the most common application as a black



pigment and a reinforcing phase in automobile tyres.

MasterbatchesA masterbatch is a colour-matched pigment mixture encapsulated in a polymer carrier, which is compatible with the polymer being processed.

Most processors today depend on masterbatch suppliers for providing the technology of obtaining the right shade for the product. Developing colours in-house, starting with pigments, is a complex job. Maintaining shades requires accurate weighing of multiple pigments. The conveniences and low-cost factor offered by masterbatch make it the preferred colouring route.

Special additivesA variety of special additives are added to polymers to improve the performance of the moulding. The most interesting ones are as follows:

Flow promoters: These are special acrylic polymers that aid in PVC processing by reducing the melt viscosity. These are mainly used in rigid PVC applications that are difficult to process, eg, pipe fittings, calendered & extruded sheets, thick wall pipes, etc. Although flow promoters have limited efficacy in plasticised PVC, these are used in applications where the plasticiser level is low.

Impact modifiers: These are a family of acrylic and Methyl Methacrylate-Butadiene-Styrene (MBS) copolymers, which function like rubber and can improve resistance to shock loads in rigid PVC products. Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE) is widely used as an impact modifier in PVC pipes.

Fire retardants and smoke suppressants: The classic route of imparting fire and flame retardance to plastics is well established. Most polymers can be burnt quite easily. By introducing a halogenated compound and then adding Antimony Trioxide (Sb2O3), the polymer can be protected from burning. The halogen reacts with

the Sb2O3, emitting a thick cloud of non-burning gas, which envelopes the burning part like a blanket. Oxygen supply is cut off and the flame extinguishes.

PVC contains 56 per cent chlorine, a halogen; hence, costly (and toxic) brominated compounds need not be added, as is the case with other polymers. Amount of Sb2O3 added need not be as high as in other polymers. Aluminium Trihydrate (ATH) is a chemical that contains water of crystallisation, which is also used as a filler. When a flame strikes the product, ATH releases steam that acts as a fire extinguisher and counteracts the flame. Several other proprietary flame retardants and smoke suppressing additives are also available, most of which are imported.

Foaming agents: These are chemicals that decompose at gelling temperatures, releasing inert gases such as nitrogen or CO2. The gases are trapped in the thick melt, thus generating a foamed structure. This is a useful method to increase the volume of the moulding and lower the density to a great extent. These are extensively used in the leather cloth industry. Another popular application of these agents is in microcellular shoe soles. Several novel embossed and raised effects are obtained in spread-coated vinyl rolled flooring by printing patterns with PVC plastisols containing blowing agents. Upon curing, the printed portions foam up, creating novel patterns.

Fungicides and biocides: These protect the non-plastic components, eg, plasticisers, from fungal growth. These are important in wet and humid environments like bathrooms, especially for PVC shower curtains.

Calculating volume costMost entrepreneurs do not have a clear idea of the volume cost and its implications, which is vital before embarking on cost-reduction exercises.

Plastic finished goods are rarely sold by weight. These are priced either per piece (mouldings) or per unit length (pipes, cables, tape). Thus, the costing and pricing are done for fixed volumes. As plastic raw materials are usually purchased per unit weight, the tendency is to calculate cost on per kilo basis, and the finished product is priced accordingly.

For instance, if cost calculations are done on per kilo basis, often reduction in cost by adding fillers is calculated as a percentage of original formulation cost. The savings may be translated into a price reduction, especially in competitive situations to maintain marketshare. After some time, the entrepreneur would realise that he is sustaining losses, as the reduction in volume cost was nowhere near the per kilo reduction in cost.Volume cost (Rs/litre) = Purchase cost (Rs/kg) x Density (kg/litre or g/cm3)

An example to understand this can be floor tile formulation, where filler loading is very high. Reducing filler loading can help resolve several problems. But, this may be the last resort, as it would increase costs. From a volume cost angle, the increase in actual cost is not significant. If rejections and scrap generation are drastically cut down, reducing filler amount may prove cost effective.

Strengthening the polymer In a nutshell, polymer additives include materials that have the ability to modify polymers. These enhance the performance and quality of plastic products, by increasing flexibility & strength and reducing degradation of polymers. The resulting polymers are ready for a range of applications in various industries.

Siddhartha Roy is well-versed in the processing of polyolefins, styrenics, polyamides and PC. A Chemical Engineer from IIT

Kharagpur, he is a consultant at RoyPlasTech. Email: [email protected]

Triple bottom line

Several recent incidences have prompted companies to take note of the changing times, in terms of both the economy and environment. This necessitates achieving sustainability, which means meeting the needs of the present without compromising on those of future generations. One such approach towards sustainability is Triple Bottom Line (TBL), which aims to bring together environmental responsibility, social equity and economic performance.

Sanjay Gawde

Two waves of economic depression in the last decade have made us think about new challenges of the 21st

century. Environmental concerns such as climate change, natural resource depletion and energy crisis are hitting organisations head on and demanding attention towards aspects of the business beyond just achieving quarterly financial results. It is no longer acceptable to simply maximise short-term shareholder value. Instead, firms must focus on the economic, social and environmental effects of their operations – another word for which is sustainability. Triple Bottom Line (TBL) is one such step towards attaining sustainability.

Dimensions of TBLThe importance of humanity’s need without harming future generations has climbed to the top of corporate

agendas. Sustainability is defined as ‘development that meets the needs of the present world without compromising on the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’. It addresses all stakeholders of an organisation – shareholders, lenders, employees, customers, suppliers, society and government. A framework that helps in operating within this sustainability lens is TBL, which focusses on organisations in terms of not just the monetary value they add, but also the environmental value and social value they add – and destroy.

The three-dimensional bottomline represents the society (People), the economy (Profit) and the environment (Planet). TBL works by mapping a range of issues that stakeholders are concerned with. All analysed issues of stakeholders come under environmental, social and economic dimensions. For example, for a large multinational, it is very likely that the issues of concern to stakeholders will include global warming, human rights violations and dividend payments. Thus, TBL emphasises on the accountability of these three dimensions.

Profit or economic value: This dimension of TBL cannot be treated as economic profit, which means financial returns enjoyed by a company by adjusting monetary revenues with monetary cost. Financial return is just one dimension of economic value. Therefore, the most helpful

The road ahead

M A N A G E M E N T M A N T R A S




interpretation of the economic dimension is one that not only acknowledges and gives due weight to dividend payments, but also sets such payments in the context of economic impacts. These impacts can be effects on the viability of local economies or the net, rather than the gross, number of jobs created by some project.

People or society: This dimension of TBL seeks to benefit everyone in the society who is impacted by its activities. It encompasses a range of policies, from accounting transparency to treatment towards female and child labour. Tata Chemicals Ltd, through its Desh Ko Arpan programme, contributes 10 paise for every kilogram of Tata salt sold during a specific period for the education of underprivileged children.

Planet or environment: It emphasises on policies to be followed to address the challenges faced by the environment, eg, global warming, plastic wastes, etc. It includes Research and Development (R&D) of new products that are non-toxic, innovative and creative, as well as where organisations seek ways of using or minimising waste. As part of a global launch of products made of 100 per cent organic cotton, Levi’s introduced its new Eco jeans for customers who want to minimise their impact on environment. Hilex Poly Company has designed HED Bag, a plastic grocery bag that degrades into harmless material in as little as 8 weeks when littered and can be recycled into new bags.

Additional accountingThe financial value-added statement captures only the financial flows that accrue to the individual organisation. It takes no account of external impacts (positive or negative) that accrue to third-party stakeholders. These external impacts, or ‘externalities’, may be economic, environmental or social in nature. For example, an economic externality may be the effect of an organisation’s operations on the employment of the local economy. A social externality may be adverse health impacts of consuming the company’s products (eg, tobacco or alcohol). An environmental externality might include impacts on the local community from water pollution or air emissions.

In reality, the three bottomlines are closely interlinked and the concept of TBL is a convenient reflection of the different types of capital that an organisation uses for providing goods and services to the society (Figure 1).

The challenge for business and societies worldwide is to operate in ways that maximise all the scarce forms of capital involved in producing goods and services, recognising that capital is of three main types, rather than just one – environmental (natural), social (human) and human-made (economic).



TBL in practice: A case in pointIn 1999, Novo Nordisk, a Danish Healthcare firm, began to explore more systematically the wider socio-economic aspects of its business, with case studies at the local level. In its first attempt to map out issues at the local level, the company undertook a pilot study at its largest production site at Kalundborg in Denmark. Major stakeholder representatives were asked to define issues and dilemmas that they thought were most important. In addition, an analysis of the economic impact of the operations on the local community was performed.

The presence of a big employer such as Novo Nordisk is of great importance to a small community like Kalundborg. For example, it influences the employment structure, as 60 per cent of the factory’s 1,657 employees reside here. In fact, Novo Nordisk employs 1 in 10 of the working population from the municipality of Kalundborg and is, therefore, the community’s largest private employer. Obviously, this dominant position implies a strong contribution to the local economy. The total gross salaries paid to the households by Novo Nordisk amount to 10 per cent of the total income in the community.

The municipality’s budget also benefits from the tax revenues generated by the activities at Novo Nordisk. In 1999, the company tax paid by Novo Nordisk to the municipality amounted to 26 million Danish Krone (DKK). In addition, the contribution of income tax from Novo Nordisk employees to the municipality was valued at DKK 58 million, which amounted to

6 per cent of the municipality’s total tax revenues. On the other hand, Novo Nordisk received about DKK 3.5 million in 1999 as reimbursements for wage costs to employees on maternity leave and during periods of sickness.

Adopting a 3D formulationSustainability, therefore, is not a goal in itself. Rather, there is a need to look at how the benefits are achieved, who benefits and how one can offset any harm done. Companies today are primarily rewarded for their financial performance even if what they are delivering to the society may be socially or environmentally damaging. To counter this, TBL brings together three critical dimensions – environmental responsibility, social equity and economic performance. By adopting this formulation, companies hope to be able to take a more systematic and sustainable approach to managing business risks, staying attuned to concerns of the society and spotting opportunities, as well as potential problems.

References1. Adrian Henriques and Julie

Richardson, Triple Bottom Line: Does it all add up

2. John Elinkton, Cannibals with forks

3. Laura Quinn and Jessica Baltes, Leadership and Triple Bottom Line

Sanjay Gawde pracitises consultancy at Savoir Faire Management Services, Mumbai. He is a Production Engineer with an MBA in

Finance and has executed projects in designing & developing cost information systems and process improvement. Savoir Faire develops cost information systems to support pricing, outsourcing and control decisions using the cost excellence (CE©) model. Email: [email protected]

Examples of external costs and benefits

Environmental Social Economic

CustomersEnvironmental costs or benefits in the use and disposal of products

Ethical, social and health costs or benefits associated with the product

Consumer surplus over and above the market price

Suppliers

Environmental impacts associated with production of purchased goods and services

Ethical, social and health costs or benefits associated with production of purchased goods and services

Stimulation of economic growth through supply chain

EmployeesEnvironmental benefits or risks associated with the workplace

Workplace social costs (eg, unpaid overtime) and benefits (eg, training and development)

Employment creation by economic multiplier effect

Community

Emissions, effluents and waste to land, air and water (local, regional, national and international)

Community health impacts, wider social impacts of redundancy and plant closure, nuisance and disturbance

Urban and rural regeneration, infrastructure (eg, transport links, congestion)

Public Sector/Government

Environmental benefits from public sector investment of corporate taxes in environmental protection

Social benefits from public sector investment of corporate taxes in health, education and social programmes

Public sector economic multiplier effects

InvestorsRisks to investors from poor corporate environmental reputation

Risks to investors from poor corporate social and ethical reputation

Risks to investors from poor corporate economic reputation

Figure 1: Types of capital an organisation uses to provide goods & services to society

Economic capital

Social capital

Enviromentalcapital

Finance

Goods & services

Employees

Stakeholders & society

Raw materials

Biodiversity

Dear Reader,

‘Modern Plastics & Polymers’ solicits original, well-written, application-oriented, unpublished articles that

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Curtain Raiser .......................................................... 74

In the News............................................................. 76

Product Showcase .................................................... 78


Chinaplas 2011, the 25th international exhibition on plastics and rubber industries, will be held from May 17–20, 2011, in the largest exhibition hall in Asia, the China Import and Export Fair Pazhou Complex in Guangzhou, China. The event is the largest plastics and rubber exhibition in Asia and one of the most influential exhibitions of its kind.

With the theme of ‘The Growth Engine for Your Industries’,

Chinaplas 2011 – the 25th International Exhibition on Plastics

and Rubber Industries – is expected to offer a multitude

of solutions for enterprises and display some of the most

innovative & advanced plastics and rubber machinery as well

as raw materials. About 2,200 renowned exhibitors from

over 35 countries across Asia, Europe, the US and South

Africa are expected to participate at the event and about

80,000 visitors will be welcomed. A preview…

The accelerated growth in

China’s industry and market

has been successful in

attracting a lot of overseas

businesses. Today, a number of foreign

companies are vying for expanding

their business to the Chinese market.

Thus, to serve as a platform for

business expansion and networking,

the 25th – silver edition – of Chinaplas

is being organised from May 17-20,

2011, at China Import & Export

Fair Pazhou Complex, Guangzhou,

PR China.

Spread across an area of over

160,000 sq m, the exhibition will

represent 11 countries and regions

including Austria, Canada, France,

Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, the

US, China, Taiwan as well as India.

The event will display over 1,900 sets

of machines and chemicals & raw

materials. Special events will be held

concurrently to celebrate the silver

edition of Chinaplas.

“The first edition of Chinaplas

covered some thousand square metres

of area. As most exhibitors in this

edition were overseas companies,

products and technology made in

China were not displayed. But, thanks

to growth of plastics and rubber

industries, Chinaplas has become one

of the top three international plastics

& rubber fairs in the world and, today,

ranks first in Asia,” says Stanley Chu,

Chairman, Adsale, Organiser of

Chinaplas 2011.

Concurrent events To celebrate the silver edition, the

organiser will launch a ‘We Build and We Share – Chinaplas 25th Edition

Celebration eMagazine’. The content

will present the milestones of Chinaplas

in the past years, with photographs

capturing precious moments at each

edition of the show and congratulation

messages from major exhibitors and

associations, among other things.

Another important concept to be

launched at the show is environmental

protection and recycling with ‘Beating

Record by Recycling Bottles’. Here, a

large number of used plastic bottles

will be used to make an environmental

sculpture. More than 80,000 exhibitors,

as well as local and overseas visitors

can witness this meaningful sculpture.

Another feature – Green Forum – with

conferences on eco-friendly plastics will

also be held, where experts will discuss

topics like production technology, market

supply chain, practical application of

low-carbon plastics, successful case

studies, breakthroughs in research, etc.

The Green ForumEcological environmental protection

is a common topic that the world is

Revving up the growth engine

C U R TA I N R A I S E R


Chinaplas 2011

SHOW INFORMATION

Event title: Chinaplas 2011

The 25th international exhibition on

plastics and rubber industries

Venue: China Import & Export Fair Pazhou

Complex, Guangzhou, PR China

Date: May 17-20, 2011

Registration: www.ChinaplasOnline.com


C U R TA I N R A I S E R

currently concerned with. In recent

years, plastics & rubber industries and

many other sectors have been adopting

production methods that enable energy-

saving, low-carbon and recycling to

promote sustainable development of

the economy. All these steps are being

taken to achieve the goal of minimising

resource utilisation and establishing an

eco-friendly society.

Inheriting the vision, ‘Green Plastics. Our Goal. Our Future’ from

Chinaplas 2010, a green event will

be held at the exhibition ground. A

plastic sculpture will be made using

over 3,000 used plastic bottles, which

will be designed by Wing Lee, a

popular product designer from Hong

Kong. This sculpture will be set in the

fairground during the show, allowing

visitors to experience the power of

recycling. With an attempt to break

the Guinness World Record, this

plastic sculpture will demonstrate the

importance of recycling in promoting

sustainable development of plastics &

rubber industries.

Eco-friendly Plastics ConferenceWorldwide, more than 10 billion plastic

bottles are disposed in landfills, seas,

rivers or incinerated every year. Plastic

bottles need more than a hundred

years to decompose completely

in the natural environment. It is

important to change the current ways

of plastic bottle disposal, which if not

done, can damage the environment

irreversibly. Two concurrent events at

the exhibition, ‘Beating Record by

Recycling Bottles’ and ‘Eco-friendly

Plastics Conference’, will focus on

three major global market concerns

of green manufacturing, namely,

‘bio-plastics and degradable plastics’,

‘recycling and carbon emission

reduction’ and ‘energy saving’.

The ‘Eco-friendly Plastics

Conference’ will be held on May 18

and 19. Speakers have been invited

from associations such as Degradable

Plastics Committee of China Plastics

Processing Industry Association, British

Plastics Federation and the Society

of the Plastics Industry; universities

like Beijing University of Chemical

Technology; and key manufacturers

such as NatureWorks, Fukutomi,

Zhong Yu Energy Technology, Closed

Loop Recycling, EREMA and Sacmi.

These experts will share at the

conference their latest technologies,

research findings, experiences and the

green market development initiatives.

Some manufacturers, such as P&G,

have also been invited to share the

challenges in application from the

user’s perspective.

The two-day conference will be

held in three sessions. The topics

include the following: The Challenge

of Sustainability and the Applications

of Bio-plastics and Degradable

Plastics, Reduce Carbon Emission

with Plastics Recycling Technology and

Achieve Energy Efficiency with Energy

Saving Plastics Technology. Besides

the macro view of these topics, which

focusses on their environment, market

trends and standards in various

countries, the conference will facilitate

sharing of experience on research

and technology development by

manufacturers, as well as application

by users.

Rubber industry zoneAt the 2011 edition, Chinaplas

will set up for the first time the

‘Rubber Machinery and Equipment

Zone’. The new theme zone is

intended to attract not only rubber

machinery manufacturers, rubber

product manufacturers and other

supporting equipment suppliers

around the world, but also buyers

from different application sectors to

visit, source and network. Currently,

over 20 leading players in the rubber

industry have confirmed or reserved

exhibition booths. Also, Chinaplas will

commence its VIP buyers programme,

tailor-made for key enterprises in the

rubber industry. The statistics show

that the accumulated sales volume of

rubber products in China has reached

RMB 220.5 billion (EUR 25.3 billion)

between January and May, 2010, with

a growth of 35.38 per cent on a year-

on-year basis, whereas the growth rate

witnessed an increase of 31.57 per

cent compared with that in the same

period last year.

Stimulated by promising prospects

for conveyor belts and rubber tubes,

rubber seals, rubber snubber for

buildings and rubber products for

automotive applications, the country

has overcome the adversity that arose

from the recent global financial crisis

and is now showing rapid growth.

Making its markThe influence and importance of

the trade fair are highly reflected by

the overwhelming response from the

plastics and rubber industry across the

globe. More than 50 groups covering

sectors including plastic products,

automobiles, building & construction,

packaging, medical moulding, etc, are

expected to make their presence felt at

Chinaplas 2011.

Stanley ChuChairman, Adsale, Organiser of Chinaplas 2011

Due to growth of

plastics and rubber

industries, Chinaplas

has become one of the

top three international

plastics & rubber fairs

in the world and, today,

ranks first in Asia.


I N T H E N E W S

Borouge showcases innovative, value creating solutions Borouge, a leading provider of innovative, value-creating plastics solutions will showcase its commitment to Value Creation through Innovation at Chinaplas, 2011.

Three key pillars will form Borouge’s presence at the exhibition, namely, innovative plastics solutions, investments and water for the world. Visitors will experience how the unique Borstar® technology provides differentiated solutions for the infrastructure, automotive and advanced packaging markets.

The plastics industry in China has continuously maintained high-speed growth for the past 30 years, and the Chinese market has become the single largest market for Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP), with 30 million tonne consumed in 2010.

Borouge has a broad portfolio of innovative products and sustainable solutions, which help deliver better performance and value to its customers. A prime example of this is the Polyolefins (PO) solution for large diameter pipes that Borouge supplies in the Middle East to develop efficient and robust pipes solutions for new industrial plants in the region in an effort to support its customers.

Holliday Pigments focusses on pigments for food contact plastics

In-line with increasing demand for its specially formulated food contact grades across the Asia Pacific region, Holliday Pigments is focussing on its Ultramarine Premier BC plastics range at Chinaplas 2011.

The company has recently introduced improvements in its manufacturing process that specifically enable production of pigments for taste & taint-free plastics packaging. The resulting Premier BC for still water and BC-R for carbonated soft drinks have since been

widely specified across the European food & beverage sector and Holliday Pigments is now seeing an upsurge in demand for specialist food contact grades from China, Japan and South East Asia.

“Synthetic Ultramarine is non-toxic and inherently safe for sensitive applications including cosmetics, children’s toys and plastics that come into contact with food stuffs, but we recognised that we could add value to the caps & closures market by developing a grade that was proven to impart no taste or odour during the production process,” said Matthew Nicholson, Asia Pacific Sales and Marketing Manager, Holliday Pigments.

BEKUM offers new clamping system BEKUM is known worldwide for innovation in the area of blow moulding technology. As the technology leader,

B E K U M ’ s expertise lies not only in the packaging sector, but also in industrial containers as

well as high-quality technical parts for the automotive industry.

At the K Show 2010 in Düsseldorf, BEKUM has presented new-generation electric series – EBLOW-X07 – the proven and long-established worldwide line of BEKUM blow moulding machines. It features a completely new clamping system design and moldular construction.

Two versions of the X07 machines are available, with the traditional hydraulic system and in a new,

fully electric EBLOW version with persuasive advantages.

Non-impact machine movements extend working life and afford positioning accuracy within 0.01 mm with quick build up of clamping force. At a maximum of 72 dB, the EBLOW System has low noise. The new clamping system is prepared for additional installation of bottom calibration and, therefore permits top and bottom calibration.

KEBA displays technology innovations for optimised control solutions KEBA AG is an internationally successful high-tech company based in Austria, with branches in Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, Romania, Turkey, China, Taiwan, Japan and the US, in line with its credo, ‘Automation by innovation’. KEBA develops and manufactures inventive, top-quality automation solutions for industrial, banking and service branches.

At this year’s Chinaplas, KEBA AG

will present i n n o v a t i o n s from its KePlast product series, which are known for optimised control solutions for injection moulding machines. Also, KEBA’s robot control solution KeMotion IMM Handling will display its capabilities in IMM processes. The following novelties will be exhibited: KePlast ServiceNet allows quick worldwide remote control

of injection moulding machines, without changes or intervention of a company’s IT network. KePlast i1000 V-IMM is a cost-optimised control solution for vertical IMMs with a customisable control panel. KePlast EasyNet 2.0 is an enhanced software control centre for monitoring processes, machine productivity and long-term statistics. KeMotion IMM Handling, which allows faster and efficient material handling in IMM processes and offers fast start-up and easy operation.


I N T H E N E W S

Optimised control solution for plastics machinery

KEBA offers an optimised c o n t r o l p l a t f o r m – KePlast – especially

designed for all types of plastic injection moulding machines. It provides basic solutions for standard equipment as well as sophisticated versions for high-end machines.

KePlast systems yield ideal product irrespective of the machine type or application. Their scalability is not only limited to the control hardware

with regard to CPU performance, I/O capacity, modularity and extension possibilities, but also applies to the size of panel, number of keys and individual features.

The comprehensive nature of KePlast control solutions allows any system to be operated by only a single application. This means that should a system performance demands increase, only the hardware needs to be exchanged, and the existing software can remain the same. One application can be employed for all machines of one manufacturer, which greatly reduces customer expenditure.

New-generation trudex series by Maag for modern extrusion processes

Demand is increasing for gear pumps designed for high-pressure applications. This trend

is driven by the increased applications involving highly complex processes. This includes the modern foam processing used for material-efficient foam pipes as well as blow film processes. The use of modern filter equipment for ultraclean plastics also requires increasingly high-pressure levels during extrusion.

The hallmark of this trend is extrusion equipment working with operating pressures of >120 bar. The pressure at the tool itself is as high as >400 bar. The trudex series provides a consistent solution to processors working with modern extrusion processes.

Various tempering options, including the choice of electric or fluid media, cover all process-related requirements of extrusion applications. Maag also offers special configuration of the pump to match specific customer requirement profiles as an optional service. The combination of pump construction and processing experience puts Maag in a unique position worldwide, according to the company.

AQUAREX blown film line in focus

With the AQUAREX blown film line, the machine m a n u f a c t u r e r Windmöller & Hölscher (W&H) expands its blown film product range to include a line

that blows film downwards and uses water instead of air to quench the bubble. W&H takes technology, known

for its use with smaller, special lines, and tailors it to meet the needs of the flexible packaging industry. The AQUAREX opens up opportunities for blown film manufacturers to create a new spectrum of packaging products that reach beyond medical applications.

Quenching the bubble with water rather than air decreases the cooling time by a factor of 30. The sudden freezing of the melt minimises build up of crystallites in the plastic, thereby creating an amorphous structure with excellent optical properties.


S H O W C A S E

Zambello riduttori Group offers gearboxes for electric injection moulding machines. Its MNP3 is upgraded series from MHP3, which is mainly shorter than the bell connected with motor, and becomes more compact overall. In addition, the new MNP3 series gearboxes are equipped with new cooling plate system up to size MNP3-280. The innovative cooling plate solution is entirely made of aluminium and provided with internal

channels used for water circulation. The plate is fitted directly to the cast-iron housing of the gearbox, which offers excellent efficiency and long life. In order to provide a complete solution for customers, the company also supplies the high-performance motor made by Oemer, SpA.

Zambello riduttori GroupMilano - ItalyTel: +39-0331-307 616Fax: +39-0331-309 577Email: [email protected]

Gearbox Hall 4.1,

Stall C41

Zig Sheng Industrial Co manufactures and offers nylon products, including nylon chips, filaments, DTY and engineering compounds. ZISLLOY brand is offered for a full range of engineering compounds, including PA6, PA66, PP, PA6/12 and

PPS products. ZISLLOY products are widely used in automotive, electrical & electronics, sports, power tools, blowing tube, blowing film and fishing line industries. Total solutions for compound products are also provided to satisfy customers’ requirements.

Zig Sheng Industrial Co LtdTaipei - TaiwanTel: +886-2-92189 4055, Fax: +886-2-2559 1357Email: [email protected]

Nylon product Hall 11.2,

Stall P41

Wordly Industrial Co offers Rotogravure printing machine (WAP series). The company has designed the

six-colour printing station in printing structure, and combined a coating machine in the terminal. This coating machine has an outstanding capacity to lacquer over aluminium foil after printing to improve printing effect. It is also equipped with spine glue function for many different printing requirements. It adopts special reverse structure for aluminium foil between each colour printing station, and sets up doctor blade units on both sides to enable reverse printing in any colour. This meets various requirements in printing. Besides, it adopts 'Sumimoto' sectional motor system in every printing station. The machine has a four-sectional drying tunnel system, which enables more efficient drying. All machines are link-controlled by high-efficiency PLC and HMI touch interface, making the controlling effect precise and highly efficient. It is also equipped with automatic colour register function, which makes printing quality beyond perfection. As for Quality Check (QC), Worldly selects video monitoring system to achieve real-time QC inspection. It effectively assists printing work and improves quality even in high-speed printing operation.

Worldly Industrial Co Ltd Taichung - TaiwanTel: +886-4-359 9850Fax: +886-4-359 6625Email: [email protected]

Rotogravure printing machine Hall 10.1,

Stall D51

Tung Yu (Ning Bo) Hydraulic Industries offers compression moulding machine. This is designed for processes involved with temperature

& pressure. Rubber & silicon-based applications are the majority including some metal processes additionally. The company offers to various sectors such as automotive parts, 3C, aerospace, military, medical equipment, transportation, tire-retread, slid tire, rubber block, conveyor belt and dock fencing manufacturing. The production capacity ranges from 5 tonne to 10,000 tonne.

Tung Yu Hydraulic Machinery Co LtdNantou - TaiwanTel: +86-574-8659 8056/ 8058Fax: +86-574 8659 9050Email: [email protected]

Compression moulding machine Hall 10.1,

Stall A11


S H O W C A S E

Jon Wai Machinery Work offers Centre Force extra large-size toggle-type injection moulding machine. This CF-series fits a centre force and external-acting five-point double toggle clamping to give long efficiency and reliable movement. These machines with large inner tie-rod distance and thickened

platen can minimise toggle pressure, lower deformation, and increase structure rigidity and reliability. In order to optimise the production need, the CF-series is used for different types of material and different design of screws. The CF-series are used in automotives, housewares, electronics, appliances and furniture, for any specific demand on production machinery.

Jon Wai Machinery Work Co LtdKunshan - TaiwanTel: +86-512 5766 6123-7Fax: +86-512 5793 2889Email: [email protected]

Injection moulding machine Hall 10.1,

Stall L21


S H O W C A S E

Ever Polymer E V E R L O N c o m p o u n d s are high-p e r f o r m a n c e thermoplas t ic e l a s t o m e r s .

These are designed specifically for the production of moulded and extruded products on conventional thermoplastic processing equipment and do not require vulcanisation. These are used for injection moulding, blow moulding, compression moulding and extrusion. EVERLON scrap can be recycled without losing its physical properties.

Ever Polymer Co LtdTaoyuan - TaiwanTel: +886-3-312 5717, Fax: +886-3-312 5718Email: [email protected]

Thermoplastic elastomers Hall 13.2,

Stall M51

M i c r o c e l l C o m p o s i t e Company (MCC) offers TPE foaming materials. These are comfortable to touch with c o n f o r m i n g p h y s i c a l c h a r a c t e r i s t i c

and have no vilcanisation process involving, resulting in excellent flexibility and anti-spreading. These have excellent electro-insulation compounds and durability for better acid & alkali resistance. These foaming materials are non-toxic, odourless and are harmless to the environment and human body. These meet international environmental standards as well. Its waste materials are completely recyclable and reusable. These can meet individual demands for customers with their adjustable materials. These materials find usage in shoes, sports equipment, semiconductors, building construction, toys, medical treatment, stereos and products of anti-percussion in the information industry.

Microcell Composite CompanyTel: +886-6-264 1352Fax: +886-6-249 1692Email: [email protected]

TPE foaming materials Hall 12.2,

Stall P01


S H O W C A S E

Zambello riduttori Group offers Super High-Torque gearboxes for twin-screw extruders. The design and manufacturing of the gearboxes are all carried out according to standards of American Gear Manufacturers

Association (AGMA). The gears use the finest quality steel from Europe. Twin Super Torque (TST) series is suitable for screw rotating speed at 600-1200 rpm/min. It has a top-bottom dissect structure, which enables easy service and maintenance. The company manufactures gearboxes for twin-screw extruders, starting from a centre distance between screws of 21.5 mm up to a centre distance between output shafts over 200 mm. The gearboxes of this series have been developed by featuring excellent compactness. Also for this series, the axial thrust is supported by an axial roller-type swivel thrust-bearing of the 294.e series, coupled with thrust bearings assembled in tandem. All these bearings are purchased from the best of European manufacturers.

Zambello riduttori GroupMilano - ItalyTel: +39-0331-307 616, Fax: +39-0331-309 577Email: [email protected]

High-torque gearbox Hall 4.1,

Stall C41


S H O W C A S E

Chen Way Machinery Co offers the ABL series blow moulding machines. These are particularly used for producing Jerry can/drum tank/large articles. These machines can be

combined with some accessory equipment to increase the efficiency and expand functions, such as after cooling unit/auto deflashing unit. The die head can stock the melting resin and purge the material for blowing, and its design includes two heart flow channels. This can make welding line-free to increase the strength of production. The tie bar-less clamping unit consists of stiff structure frame and guiding devices that ensure deflection-free advantage. Also, the device with precision rack gear of both sides enables synchronised movement of plates. The blow pin unit is designed for production calibrating that will be suited for different demand of customers.

Chen Way Machinery Co Ltd Tainan Hsien - TaiwánTel: +886-6-243-4077Fax: +886-6-243-4071Email: [email protected]

Blow moulding machine Hall 10.1,

Stall T79

Arico Taiwan Co offers new design 'Galaxy AR series' for efficient industrial processing controller. The integrated innovative technology with reliable distributed control system contains higher performance. Software combined with state-

of-the-art window screen (Van Gogh) provides smart and instinct object-oriented editing style hybrid switching with a simple and popular PLC ladder program editor. This high-speed Ethernet communication network links up the humanity interface and remote devices to display the future one-stop control advantages. It can be broadly applied to automated machinery control such as rubber, plastic processing machinery and equipment.

Arico Technology Co LtdTaipei - TaiwanTel: +886-2 2910 1266Fax: +886-2 2915 9434Email: [email protected]

Precision programmable control system Hall 8.1,

Stall C01

Cosmo Machinery Co offers high-speed 6 tracks T-shirt bag and bottom sealing bag making

machine. It is computer controlled over the entire process and makes film roll to finished bag in one process. The machine automatically stops when a bag gets jammed or a film is broken. It has high production & manpower capacity and is time-saving. It is equipped with cold and hot pins. It has automatic film feeding, coordination free from the need for adjustment. It is servo motor driven, involves easy adjustment for bag length and has high production speed.

Cosmo Machinery Co LtdTaipei Hsien - TaiwanTel: +886-2 2680 6116Fax: +886-2 2680 6118Email: [email protected]

Bag making machine Hall 10.1,

Stall L41

Leader Extrusion Machinery Corp offers solutions for production of mono, multiple, m i c r o - l a y e r optical film/sheet a p p l i c a t i o n s knowledge of MS/PS, PMMA,

PC, PEN, PBT, PET and PCT for processing. The combination technology includes stack layers feed block, laminar flow, multi-extrusion screw, film orientation (MDO & TDO), creating the future of leader extrusion machinery. Professional plastics knowledge builds the foundation of Leader Extrusion Machinery. Every CNC utilises the knowhow of 3D adapt, rheology flow behaviour. The result is change in the metal surface and smoothness of the process. Machine process for customers is also developed.

Leader Extrusion Machinery Ind Co LtdTaichung - TaiwanTel: +886-4 2638 0888Fax: +886-4 2638 0333Email: [email protected]

Production solution Hall 10.1,

Stall F55


S H O W C A S E

Hi-More Robot Co offers robots and automation for plastic injection moulding machines.

For durability robotic arm, the company uses in its major parts high-quality products from Japan and Europe. Quick assembly on-site is cost-effective and maintains good quality. The main arm & sub arm of the robots are interchangeable, in order to minimise store and servicing.

Hi-More Robot Co LtdTaoyuan - TaiwanTel: +886-3-452 5235Fax: +886-3-452 2982Email: harmo@[email protected]

Robots for plastic injection Hall 3.2,

Stall Q31


S H O W C A S E

Chuan Lih Fa Machinery Works Co offers injection moulding machine (model) for use in the field of constant pursuit of high precision, high stability, high speed, keeping in mind the obligation and responsibilities

on energy saving & carbon reduction. The company has successfully developed integral systems for mass production, and fast cycle IML production systems to provide customers new machines that are cleaner, faster, quieter, more precise, more energy-efficient and more environment friendly.

Chuan Lih Fa Machinery Works Co LtdTainan Hsien - TaiwanTel: +886-6 2532 111Fax: +886-6 2533 311Email: [email protected]

Injection moulding machine Hall 10.1,

Stall Q41

Shini Plastics Technologies’ ST3 series are specially designed robots for small manufacturing plants. These can quickly and accurately remove finished products from the mould and place in desired

location, and can be equipped with special jig for plug-in module assignments. It is suitable for large hot runner mould users. Based on the stoke of the arms, there are three models (STM1-900-1600DT, STM1-1100-1800DT, STM1-1300-2000DT) available for use with plastic injection moulding machine 200T, 300T, 450T and under 650T. The series has European style streamline, beam, crosswise and vertical arms. It uses servo motor, and with high-precision steel wire belts, cooperates with linear guides to achieve maximum stretching and faster running. Sucker and gripper work with gear rack and gear wheel, which are cylinder driven. External oleo-strut and proximity switch are present in the limit position of the arms that remove products, which has accuracy limit & sucker with a protection device. Customers can adjust the parameters according to their needs. Electrical support uses the enable move design, and is easy to install and maintain. The machine has an intelligent controller and is man-machine interface friendly, easy to operate, has self-diagnostic function as well as triggers alarm for trouble and its cause.

Shini Plastics Technologies (Dongguan) IncTaipei - TaiwanTel: +86-769-8111 6600, Fax: +86-769-8111 6611Email: [email protected]

Servo driven robot Hall 8.1,

Stall A21

Multiplas offers high-speed vertical injection moulding machines (model V60-M70ASR-EPC). The company is devoted to development of moulding technology for the lead frame for Light-Emitting Diode (LED) by using its fully automatic

high-speed vertical injection moulding machines. It offers moulding technology and equipment to LED manufacturers. LEDs are used as indicator lamps in many devices and are increasingly used for other lighting purposes. Modern versions are available across the visible, ultraviolet and infrared wavelengths, with very high brightness. An LED is often small in area (less than 1 mm2), and integrated optical components may be used to shape its radiation pattern. LEDs present many advantages over incandescent light sources including lower energy consumption, longer lifetime, improved robustness, smaller size, faster switching and greater durability and reliability. These are used as replacements for aviation lighting, automotive lighting (particularly brake lamps, turn signals and indicators) as well as in traffic signals. Infrared LEDs are also used in the remote control units of many commercial products including televisions, panel display, monitors, DVD players and other domestic appliances.

Multiplas Enginery Co LtdGueishan - TaiwanTel: 886-3-3180090, Fax: 886-3-3974598Email: [email protected]

Vertical injection moulding machine Hall 10.1,

Stall J41

Sun Lung Gear Works offers green purified gearbox. Based on American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) standard, it has best transmission efficiency, low noise & high-torque gear box

structure by using computer virtual simulation and stress analysis calculation of safety coefficient. The output direction at the vertical & horizontal side can be selected based on customers’ request. Top-quality SKF or FAG bearings are selected and input/output shafts incorporated with Japanese NOK oil seals, with seats being hard chrome-plated, which ensure excellent quality. The operation noise, temperature and vibration meet green product design.

Sun Lung Gear Works Co Ltd Tainan - TaiwanTel: +886-6-2639969, Fax: +886-6-2639626Email: [email protected]

Gearbox Hall 10.1,

Stall M4


S H O W C A S E

The information published in this section is as per the details furnished by the respective manufacturer/distributor.

In any case, it does not represent the views of Business Insights •Technologies•Opportunities

Yann Bang Electrical Machinery offers Vacuum Dehumidifying Dryer (DHV) series. With the patented drying technology, it can dry four times faster than traditional machines, with good quality. It saves 75 per cent of drying time and 60 per cent of energy, reduces 75 per cent of space, decreases 70 per

cent of carbon emission, increases 15 per cent of production and spends zero dollars on spare parts.

Yann Bang Electrical Machinery Co LtdTaichung - TaiwanTel: +886-4-2271 0000Fax: +886-4-2271 1988Email: [email protected]

Vacuum dehumidifying dryer Hall 10.1,

Stall J11

Forwell precision Machinery offers quick die change system for mechanical press. This can be adopted along with various kinds of mould clamping systems for automatic machines such as punch presses, injection moulding and die casting machines, PCB fine piercing system and various series die clamp system. Forwell is mainly engaged in automatic production, manpower saving to serve quick die change system.

Quick die change system

Hall 10.1,

Stall B01

Forwell Precision Machinery Co LtdZhenjing - ChinaTel: +86-574-8659 9196, Fax: +86-574-8659 9197Email: [email protected]

E V E N T S C A L E N DA R


Plastex CaspianThis is an international trade exhibition for raw materials, equipment, plastics & rubber production and processing technologies. This is the first edition of the show; May 25-27, 2011; at the International Exhibition Centre, Pune

For details contact:Mathias LaukGiMA International Exhibition Group GmbHLübeck Str 128, D-22087 Hamburg Tel: +49 (0)40 2 35 24-0 Fax: +49 (0)40 2 35 24-400 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.gima.de

Eastern Plastic & Rubber ExpoThis exhibition is expected to be a platform for modern machinery, materials and accessories segments, and to understand their need and demands. The four-day international exhibition will showcase the entire spectrum of products, latest trends, technology, equipment and services in its chosen sector; June 16-19, 2011; at TBA, Kolkata

For details contact:Nayan DhayaniD-43 Clover Centre, 7- Moledina Road Camp, Pune Tel: 020 40068318/32911450Mob: 09371025233Fax: 020 26054870E-mail: [email protected]: www.vnbindia.com

PackPlus South 2011Packaging is among the leading end-user segments of the commodity plastics

industry. This is among the Indian packaging industry’s leading exhibitions that will bring together highly competitive and new-age solutions from major suppliers and buyers under one roof; July 1-4, 2011; at HITEX Exhibition Centre, Hyderabad

For details contact:Neetu AroraPrint-Packaging.com Pvt LtdF 101, Tower No 71st Floor, International Infotech Park, VashiNavi Mumbai-400 705Tel: 022 2781 2093, 2619Fax: 022 2781 2578Email: [email protected]: www.packplussouth.in

PET+Drink TECH ASIA 2011The fifth edition of this international exhibition and seminar will showcase the entire spectrum of products, latest trends, technology, equipment and services in PET, drinks and liquid processing, filling & packaging related sector; August 27-29, 2011; at Milan Mela Exhibition Centre, Kolkata

For details contact:SK BhardwajScf 172-A, First Floor Grain Market Sector-26, ChandigarhTel: 0172 2795067Mob: 09216129027E-mail: [email protected]/ [email protected]: www.kesarimedia.com

CONVEXPOThis exhibition is dedicated to the converting and printing industry, with applications of

paper and plastics in packaging. Leading exhibits at this event will be plastic films, packaging & printing machinery, tapes/plastic pallets, warehousing equipment, bag making machinery, material handling equipment; November 23-27, 2011; at University Grounds, Ahmedabad

For details contact:B SwaminathanSmart ExposT-6, Agarwal Court - K G Plaza41-44, General Patters Road, ChennaiTel: 044-28603086Fax: 044-28604261Mob: 09789095247Email: [email protected]: www.smartexpos.in

Plastindia 2012This is the premier exhibition of the Indian plastics industry. It will once again prove to be a strategic meeting point for all large and small players from the global arena. It will showcase cutting-edge technology and applications of high-end polymer solutions; February 1-6, 2012; at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi

For details contact:Plastindia Foundation 401, Landmark B, Suren RoadOff Andheri Kurla Road, Andheri (East), Mumbai -400093 Tel: 022-26832911 Fax: 022- 26845861 Email: [email protected] Website: www.plastindia.org

National

India’s premier industrial trade fair on products and technologies related to Machine Tools, Hydraulics & Pneumatics, Process Machinery & Equipment, Automation Instrumentation, Packaging & Auxiliaries, IT Products, Electrical & Electronics, Material Handling and Safety Equipment.

For details contact:

Infomedia 18 Ltd, Infomedia 18 Ltd, Ruby House, 1st Floor, J K Sawant Marg, Dadar (W), Mumbai 400 028.

Tel: 022 3003 4651 • Fax: 022 3003 4499 • Email: [email protected]

RudrapurUttarakhand

Sep 23-26, 2011Gandhi Park

PuneMaharashtra

Nov 18-21, 2011Auto Cluster Exhibition Centre,

Pimpri-Chinchwad

IndoreMadhya Pradesh

Jan 6-9, 2012Poddar Plaza,

Nr Gandhi Hall

ChennaiTamil Nadu

Dec 16-19, 2011Chennai Trade Centre,

Nandambakkam

AhmedabadGujarat

Oct 14-17, 2011Gujarat University

Exhibition Hall

AurangabadMaharashtra

Feb 17-20, 2012Garware Stadium,

Chikkalthana

E V E N T S C A L E N DA R


MOLDPLAS 2011This is among Europe’s most niche trade fair dedicated entirely to the tooling requirements of the region’s highly developed plastics industry. A wide range of machinery and raw materials and sheetmetal work equipment will be on display. It will be an opportunity to network with the leading brands and policy & decision makers in Europe; May 5-8, 2011; at Batalha Exhibition Centre, Batalha, Portugal

For details contact:ExpoSalaoPO Box 39 2441-951 Batalha, PortugalTel: +351 244 769 480,Fax: +351 244 767 489 Email: [email protected]: www.exposalao.pt

CHINAPLAS 2011The largest plastics and rubber trade fair in Asia, CHINAPLAS has evolved as an ideal business partner of the region’s surging specialty polymers industry. CHINAPLAS will serve as a platform to network with all the application sectors like automotives, construction, electrical & electronics, etc; May 17-20, 2011; at the China Import & Export Fair Pazhou Complex, Guangzhou, PR China

For details contact:Lillian TseAdsale Exhibition Services Limited6th Floor, 321 Java RoadNorth Point, Hong KongTel: (852) 2516 3374, Fax: (852) 2516 5024Email: [email protected]: www.chinaplasonline.com

POLYMER MARKETS 2011Among the world’s leading polymer destinations, today, Russia is the fifth largest importer of processing machinery and specialty grade polymers. This exhibition will be a unique opportunity to network with the regions processors, OEMs, raw material & equipment suppliers; May 22-27, 2011; at More Hotel, Alushta, Crimea, Ukraine

For details contact:Nadya KaminskayaBusiness Forum LLC49094, DnepropetrovskNaberezhnaya Pobedy, 48-B, UkraineTel: +38 0562 313 919/ +38 056 794 33 94Fax: +380 (056)2 313919Email: [email protected]: www.b-forum.ru

PLASTPOL 2011Dedicated to the plastics industry in Poland, this exhibition features almost all products used in and related to the plastics processing industry – from production to disposal and recycling. Among the exhibits will be plastics processing machines, moulds and tools, components, recycling technologies and IT systems applied in plastics processing; May 24-27, 2011; at Kielce fairground, Kielce, Poland

For details contact:Kamil PerzTargi Kielce, Zakladowa 125-672 Kielce, PolandTel: +48 41 365 12 30Fax: +48 41 345 62 61E-mail: [email protected]/[email protected]: www.targikielce.pl

PLASTEC EastThis conference will witness the latest developments, technologies, products and services affecting the industry, including primary processing machinery, computer-aided design and manufacturing, production machinery, materials, moulds & mould components, automation technology, materials handling and logistics; June 6-9, 2011; at Jacob Javits Convention Centre, New York

For details contact:UBM Canon11444 W Olympic BoulevardLos Angeles, California 90064-1549Tel: 310/445-4200, Fax: 310/996-9499Email: [email protected]: www.plastecheast.com

InterPlas Thailand 2011This will be the 20th edition of Thailand’s leading plastics & rubber manufacturing machinery and technologies conference. Apart from showcasing the ASEAN region’s key plastics processing technologies, the show will feature business activities and industrial conferences focussed on latest trends and know-how. This will help all visitors to further expand their horizons and synergise with industrial networks; June 23-26, 2011; at Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC), Bangkok, Thailand

For details contact:Reed Tradex Company 32nd floor, Sathorn Nakorn Tower100/68-69 North Sathon Road, SilomBangkok-10500 ThailandTel: +66 2686-7299Fax: +66 2686-7288 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.reedtradex.com

Interplas 2011This international event is aimed at showcasing the European polymer industry. It will feature the latest machinery & equipment for processing and converting polymers; September 27-29, 2011; at NEC, Birmingham, United Kingdom

For details contact:Jenna ReidPlastics Multimedia Communications LtdUnit 2, Chowley Oak LaneTattenhall, CheshireUnited KingdomTel: +44 (0) 1829 770037 Fax: +44 (0) 1829 770047 Email: [email protected] Website: www.britishplasticsshow.com

International

The information published in this section is as per the details furnished by the

respective organiser. In any case, it does not represent the views of

Business Insights •Technologies•Opportunities

T E C H N O LO GY T R A N S F E R


As part of our endeavour to spread the technology culture, this section provides a means to promote and facilitate exchange of select technologies.

We strive to bring together suppliers of such technologies with suitable users for negotiations and industrial collaboration.

Technology Offered

Conversion of batch-poly plant to C P plant A company from China is interested

in providing consultancy for the

modification of batch-poly plant to

C P plant like polyester plant, polyester

chip or direct spinning.

Areas of application

Chemical fibre and plastics

Forms of transfer

Turnkey

Plastic recycling technologies using organic and inorganic compoundsAn Iranian company offers plastic

recycling technologies using organic

and inorganic compounds. This idea

is based on the principle of water

electrolysis in which sodium chloride is

kept in proximity of turpentine/pine oil

and plastics.


Plastic recycling

Forms of transfer

Others

Plastic recycling technologies An Iranian company is willing to provide

plastic recycling technologies using

urea and ammonium carbonate and

synthetic ammonia.


Plastic recycling

Forms of transfer

Technology licensing

Polyester chip plantA company from China offers

polyester production plant,

polycondensation plant, polymerisation

line, hot-melt adhesive plant

(500-5,000 tpa), polyester chip plant

(2,000-1,50,000 tpa) and film grade

polyester plant (2,000-1,50,000 tpa).


Polymerisation and fibre lines

Forms of transfer

Technology licensing and turnkey

Pilot plants for small-scale production An Indian company offers pilot plants

for laboratory or small-scale production

purpose. The plant consists of a spinneret,

metering pump, spinning beam, candle

filter, extruder unit, godet unit, PP

multifilament plant manufacturer, single-

screw extruder machine or melt flow

index tester machine for masterbatch

industries.


Plastics, textiles, etc

Forms of transfer

Sub-contracting, turnkey, etc

Rotational moulding of plastics A manufacturer of rotational moulding

machines from India offers plant and

machinery for constructing water

storage tanks and other hollow plastic

parts.


Chemical storage tanks, water

storage tanks, material handling

trolleys, pallets, containers, etc

Forms of transfer

Others

Recycling of PET wastes into polyester polyolsA Czech Republican company

is offering the technology for

recycling of PET wastes (plastic

PET bottles, X-ray films, etc)

to produce polyester polyols.

The process consists of the

following steps: Collection of

PET wastes, sorting out & shredding of

collected PET wastes, simple chemical

process of glycolysis & esterification

and production of polyester polyols.


Chemicals industry: Polyester

polyol is a base material for the

chemistry of polyurethanes, especially

production of polyurethane foams,

which are primarily transferred into

energy saving and insulating

materials

Forms of transfer

Technology licensing, others

Share Your Technology PropositionsThe mission of Modern Plastics and Polymers is to spread the technology culture. We offer you an opportunity to participate

in this endeavour by publishing the best technology ideas. Technology developers/sellers are invited to furnish the techno-commercial details (with environmental benefits, if any) for publication in the Technology Transfer column of Modern Plastics and Polymers. R&D organisations, technical consultancy organisations and individuals assisting small and medium enterprises send the

relevant literature, indicating the scope & services and the areas of specification.

Contact: Modern Plastics and PolymersInfomedia 18 Ltd, ‘A’ Wing, Ruby House, J K Sawant Marg, Dadar (W), Mumbai 400 028.

Tel: 022-3024 5000 � Fax: 022-3003 4499 � Email: [email protected]

T E C H N O LO GY T R A N S F E R


Disposal and recycling of plastics wasteA Polish firm seeks the technology for

dry processing of all kinds of plastic

waste or a magnetic processing method

in the electrostatic field. The technology

should allow sorting of all kinds of plastic

materials, hay-silage foils, PET, HDPE,

PVC, etc, by excluding dangerous waste.

Specific technical requirements

include initial cleaning without the use

of water, sorting of all kinds of plastic

materials after cleaning in a closed

system, and a maximum processing

capacity of 10,000 tonne of waste

per annum.


Plastics industry, waste recycling,

waste management

Forms of transfer

Others

Lab-scale non-woven and monofilament plant An Indian company is looking for a lab-

scale, non-woven and monofilament

plant in a single station.


Plastics

Forms of transfer

Others

Plastics recycling technologiesA Sri Lankan company is seeking the

latest plastics recycling technologies,

especially for automatic sorting,

washing, metal detection, granulation

process system, washing plants,

crushers, extruders, etc.


Plastics recycling

Forms of transfer

Others

Polyacetal resinsA Gulf-based organisation wants to

promote projects in the chemicals and

petrochemicals sectors in GCC countries.

It is looking for technology suppliers for

the manufacture of polyacetal resins.


Chemicals/petrochemicals industry

Forms of transfer

Feasibility study, know-how, equipment,

turnkey plant, joint venture

PP/PET strap processingAn Indian company is seeking the

technology for PP and PET strap

processing.


Packaging industry

Forms of transfer

Others

Recycled PET polyester polyols plantA Poland-based company specialising

in recycled PET polyester polyols

manufacturing, is looking for an

alternative proposal of design and

engineering of bigger (approximately

25 ktpa) production plant. It plans to start

with proper quality recycled PET flakes

being delivered in big bags. Hence, the

company needs a complete package offer

for this service.


Plastics and polymers industry

Forms of transfer

Others

Recycled plastic-making technologyA company based in Vietnam is seeking

the technology to recycle plastics.

The diameters of recycled plastic

granules should range from 120

to 200 mm, while the capacity of

the production should range from

150 to 300 kg/hr.


Raw materials for making plastic

products

Forms of transfer

Others

Road filling materials for road maintenanceAn Indian company requires the

technology to make materials by

transforming waste plastics that gels

uniformly with road materials. This is for

filling potholes in roads. It also needs

the know-how regarding products that

are made from waste plastics like jumble

strips, speed breakers, etc.


Road transport

Forms of transfer

Others

Utilisation of natural rubber in asphaltA Pakistan-based company needs know-

how regarding utilisation of natural

rubber in modified asphalt covering.

It needs the following information:

Standards and specifications guiding

the use of natural rubber in modified

asphalt; appropriate proportion of

natural rubber in mixture & handling

of the operation; additives needed; and

details of improvement in the asphalt

properties by using natural rubber.


Rubber industry

Forms of transfer

Others

Information courtesy: Information courtesy: Dr Krishnan S Raghavan, In-Charge, Technology Transfer Services Group, United Nations - Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTT), APCTT Building , C-2, Qutab Institutional Area, New Delhi 110 016

Tel: 011 - 2696 6509, Fax: 011 - 2685 6274, Email: [email protected], Website: www.apctt.org

For more information on technology offers and requests, please log on to www.technology4sme.net and register with your contact details. This is a free of cost platform provided by APCTT for facilitating interaction between buyers and seekers of technologies across the globe. After submitting technology offer or request to this website, you are requested to wait for at least two weeks for

receiving a response from a prospective buyer / seeker through this website, before contacting APCTT for further assistance.

Technology Requested

B O O K S H E L F


Injection Molding Technology and FundamentalsEditors: Musa R Kamal, Avraam I Isayev & Shih-Jung Liu Series Editor: James L WhitePrice : `16,600

Additives for Plastics Author : John MurphyPrice : ̀ 14,000

Avaliable at: Wisdom Book Distributors, Hornby Building, 1st floor, 174, D N Road, Mumbai 400 001Tel: 022-2207 4484/6631 8958 • Telefax: 022-2203 4058 • Email: [email protected]

The plastics industry has experienced phenomenal growth since the middle of the last century. The growth of plastics production in most of the industrialised countries has experienced a wide range of markets, replacing other materials and providing growth rates that exceeded twice those of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth. The use of plastics has penetrated a wide range of markets, replacing other materials and providing new concepts of material use and novel applications. This book attempts to survey the state of the science and technology of the injection moulding process. It represents a comprehensive, balanced mix of practical and theoretical aspects for a wide range of injection moulding applications. The authors of the 21 chapters in the book are experts and leaders in their respective areas of specialisation in the injection moulding field. While it is not possible to cover all aspects of such a dynamic growth field, we hope that the reader will find sufficient information and background to become acquainted, at various levels, with key components of the science and technology of injection moulding.

Additives, both technically and economically, form a large and increasingly significant part of the polymer industry, including plastics as well as elastomers. In the five years since the first edition of this handbook was introduced, there have been wide-ranging developments, encompassing the chemistry and formulation of new and more efficient additive systems and safer use of additives, both by processors in the factory and, in the wider field, as they affect the general public. The Additives for Plastics Handbook is arranged in a user-friendly fashion, starting from the information requirement of the user, and hence classifying additives by the properties these offer as well as applications in which they are used. The handbook covers all substances that can be added to a polymer to improve its application, and thus includes information on reinforcing materials (eg, glass fibre), carbon black and titanium dioxide, in addition to more frequently occurring additives. A comprehensive view of all types of additives, concentrating mainly on their technical aspects, is enhanced with notes on the commercial background of each. The result is an essential handbook for manufacturers, compounders, specifiers and users of additives for plastics, which is expected to prove its worth time and again.

P R O D U C T U P DAT E


Electric injection moulding machine

Neejtech India offers electrical

horizontal injection moulding

machines from Niigata, Japan.

The machine ranges from 30-

1,000 tonne & vertical IMM

ranges from 30-150 tonne. All electric machines are generally

known as green machines because these save more than 60

per cent power consumption than hydraulic/toggle machines of

similar size. The machine is absolutely free from oil and is non-

polluting. Due to no oil use, it reduces maintenance & repair cost

of hydraulic system. It ensures enhanced accuracy and reliability,

and provides great cost savings and contributes to environmental

preservation. This machine is ideal for medical, automotive,

pharmaceutical–healthcare and packaging moulding segment of

industry. This machine runs silent & without vibrations and is very

precise due to no deviation through oil viscosity, compressibility,

through drifting hydraulic valve action time. By switching over from

hydraulic to electric injection moulding machines, greater cost on

power consumption, cooling water consumption, hydraulic oil

elimination as well as housekeeping and maintenance cost can be

saved. The electric injection moulding machine increases up time

and decreases material wastage.

Neejtech IndiaAhmedabad - GujaratTel: 079-2656 1312, Mob: 098250 40231Email: [email protected]

Plastic brightner/shiner

Plast Fine Polymers offers

plastic brightners/shiners/

whitener for natural

transparent, coloured and

milky white end-products.

This is used for adding clarity

and gloss finish to natural

transparent polymers. It gives

shining and bright finish colours to end-products. This brightner/

whitener removes yellowness and dullness from the end-products

and makes it super milky white. This product is used in virgin,

second, dull natural or milky white sutli, ropes, twine, reprocess

granules, High-density Polyethylene, Low-density Polyethylene,

Polyvinyl Chloride (HDPE-LDPE-PVC) pipes & profiles, box strap,

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) jars, spoons, containers, carry

bags, liners, sheet, yarns and other end-products. One of the main

advantages of this product is that it also saves excess usage of

white pigments and titanium dioxide for opaque end-products.

Plast Fine Polymers Ahmedabad - GujaratTel: 079-6524 2332, Mob: 098255 87152Email: [email protected]

High-pressure compressor

Comp-tech Equipment offers

high-pressure compressor

for PET blowing. Its features

include valve piston & rider

rings designed for annual

one time maintenance,

low Revolutions Per Minute

(RPM) & rugged cast iron

design ideal for heavy duty

continues 24x7, operating year after year, forged crank shaft &

connecting rod, precision main & crank pin bearings with force

feed lubrication have very high load-bearing capacity & hardly need

replacements. Two throw balance-opposed frames are designed to

minimise unbalanced forces. Cylinders are constructed with large

cast-in-water jackets and have specially designed intercoolers for

dimensional stability & better cooling under continuous operation.

Distance pieces feature two compartments ensuring the lubricant

isolated from the cylinders. All components are constructed in

accordance with international standards. The standard package

includes a compact skid-mounted compressor, belt guard, electric

motor, starter and control panel, after cooler, non-return valve with

optional air dryer, compressed air filter and air receiver.

Comp-Tech Equipment LtdAhmedabad - GujaratTel: 079-2220 1296, Fax: 079-2220 3009Mob: 098250 39768Email: [email protected]

Digital colour mark sensor

Lubi Electronics offers ‘Sunx’ LX-100

series digital colour mark sensor. This

can detect any marking because the

sensor is equipped with red, green

and blue LED element. Furthermore,

to expand the functionality, the sensor

comes with dual mode, ie, mark mode

(ultra high-speed response) & colour mode (high-precision mark

colour discrimination) to suit any application. This sensor comes

with Mode Navi technology for enhancing the features and is

easy to use. This is provided with a 4-digit digital display, 12-bit

A/D converter, D-code, key lock, timer, NPN or PNP outputs, IP67

protection, etc. The sensor is used in many applications/industries,

especially in packaging, food, pharmaceuticals, textile, plastics,

among others.

Lubi ElectronicsAhmedabad - GujaratTel: 079-2220 5471, Fax: 079-2220 0660Mob: 093274 97006Email: [email protected]



Blown film line

Kabra Extrusiontechnik offers

a blown film line. The three-

layer blown film line has

2 x 55 mm grooved feed

extruders and a 65-mm extruder

for the outer layer. The outer

extruder is connected with European PIB liquid injection pump.

The plant is equipped with a 300-mm Kabraflex die head and

cooling ring. The film is wound on a back-to-back dual station

load-cell controlled duplex winder with latest design, which ensures

uniform film tension during the entire operation. The monolayer

film plant with liquid PIB technology is being used for producing

stretch cling film. The advanced PIB technology imparts stickiness

to the cling film and helps it to effectively cling to the product to

be wrapped.

Kabra Extrusiontechnik LtdMumbai - MaharashtraTel: 022-2673 4822-25, Fax: 022-2673 5041Email: [email protected]

Lab model screw extruder

Malik Engineers offers mega series

single-screw and twin-screw extruder.

This is suitable for laboratory trials and

small-scale production of polymeric

and food cereals. This extruder is driven

through helical gear box & AC induction

motor with frequency control panel for

stepless control of screw speed. The

barrel is of modular construction, is

made up of segments and electrically

heated. It is also provided with water jackets for removing extra

heat. Hopper is provided with auger feeder for controlled feeding

over the screws. A devolatising port is provided, which can be used

to remove moisture and volatiles from the material. Both screw and

barrel are made up of separate segments, which can be assembled

as per process demand. Different segments of barrel and screw are

supplied for thermoplastics and food cereals extrusion. The machine

can be used to test properties of thermoplastic product, testing of

polymer blend and alloys, etc. It can be used for processing all

polymers including Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene

(PS), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), nylon, Polybutylene Terephthalate

(PBT), Polycarbonate (PC), etc. The machine is provided with accurate

digital controllers and indicators for keeping a record of all important

parameters of extrusion, ie, drive torque, current, extrusion pressure,

temperature, rotational speeds, etc.

Malik EngineersThane - MaharashtraTel: 0250-239 0839, Fax: 022-2883 0751Email: [email protected]

Mr L. R. KatratManaging Director - CEOKatlax Enterprises Pvt. Ltd.

“We have been a regular advertiser of our products in

leading publications such as SEARCH, Modern Machine

Tools and Modern Plastics & Polymers of Infomedia 18

Ltd. We are associated with the publication house for

more than 12 years and are utilising these magazines to

promote our products aggressively and receiving good

response.”

[email protected]



On-line digital printing technology

M&M Technologies offers online

digital printing technology. It provides

the printers with high-resolution Piezo

ink-jet technology, thereby offering the

packaging industry the most efficient

and state-of-the-art technology in terms

of hardware, software, accessories and

consumables. In terms of application, it

is the most cost-effective modern technology, used for marking,

printing and traceability. It is a user-friendly, robust and compact

technology. The simplified operation at each level of production

process is versatility in application software to design the logos,

text, barcodes, variable and fixed data field, option for multi-colour

printing, standalone or network printing. Low maintenance and

easy operability makes the system more user-friendly. The printing

can be done on coated or uncoated corrugated boxes, aluminium

foil, glass, metal for address printing, pharmaceutical primary,

secondary package printing as well as on pallets. This system can

also be linked into multi-plant and multi-location with Wi-Fi and

Internet connection.

M&M Technologies Pvt LtdNavi Mumbai - MaharashtraTel: 022-2778 1580Email: [email protected]



Laser distance measurement sensor

SBS Precision Systems offers

'AR200' laser measurement

sensor. It is an acuity’s value

distance measuring sensor. Using

laser triangulation measurement

principles with high-speed CMOS

detection arrays, the 'AR200'

sensor delivers high accuracy

in a very compact model. This

model includes both serial and

analog outputs for simple integration. Measuring 54 x 20 x 70

mm, the 'AR200' sensor head fits anywhere. With integrated

digital, analog and discrete output signals, this sensor requires no

external controller or signal conditioner. It may be simply plugged

into a PC or PLC and has a sharp resolution. Its specifications

begin at 1.8 microns. This sensor is equipped with RS232,

0-10 V analog, 4-20 mA current loop and NPN & PNP discrete

outputs for alarm triggers. The 'AR200' can be used for measuring

steel strip thickness, measuring defects on sheets, positioning silicon

wafers, etc.

SBS Precision Systems (India) Pvt LtdKolkata - West BengalTel: 033-3292 0078, Fax: 033-2400 3097Email: [email protected]

Temperature controllers

Adinath Controls

offers controllers

of the new

Platinum series

that are suitable

for a wide range

of applications

including heat/

cool control

capability. Easy

con f i gu ra t i on

and simple operating methods are merged with standard

characteristics of more complex devices like auto tune,

auto/man, three standard outputs and IP65 front panel

protection option include; serial communications, analog

control or retransmission output, transmitter power supply,

start-up and timer special function, auxiliary current

transformer input, two front bezel colours and DIN

rail mounting.

Adinath Controls Pvt LtdGandhinagar - GujaratTel: 02764-286 573Fax: 02764-286 574Email: [email protected]



DC motorsNBE Motors offers DC motors that are used in applications where variable speed control drives are used. The speed control of DC motors by armature control or field control at constants torque helps in constant continuous operation. The V-weld imparts heavy strength to the yoke. Armature laminations are of high-quality electrical grade steel. The commutator is made from silver-copper-alloy. Electrolytic copper segments are insulated from one another with mica. Riser connections are TIG welded. The armature windings are impregnated with synthetic resin and are baked at a designated temperature to give complete protection against damage from moisture, acids and alkalis. The main poles are made from thick laminations (GI sheet). For ventilation, the motor is equipped with Screen Protected Drip Proof (SPDP) and is completely enclosed. External force cooling is provided with the blower-mounted motor.

NBE Motors Pvt LtdAhmedabad - GujaratTel: 079-2274 0467, Fax: 079-2274 1196Email: [email protected]

Biodegradable additivesAVI Additives offers Bio Add range of biodegradable additives. Heat, oxygen and sunlight are used to cause degradation benefits. Its flame-retardant masterbatches are used for engineering and commodity plastics. AVI Additives also offers colour masterbatches & special effect masterbatches; filler masterbatches for raffia, blown film & moulding; performance additives leading to biodegradation. This adheres to new legal requirements, reduces waste, has ecological and economical, biodegradable additives & flame retardants; polymer blends, colours for enineering polymers & recycled plastics. With a palette of 10,000 colours and more being added, it can provide with a complete spectrum of colours for the entire industry.

AVI Additives Pvt LtdHyderabad - Andhra PradeshTel: 40-2355 0551-2-3Email: [email protected]

The information published in this section is as per the details furnished by the respective manufacturer/distributor.

In any case, it does not represent the views of

Business Insights •Technologies•Opportunities

P R O D U C T I N D E X


1 Additive.......................................... 95

2 Additive masterbatch ................. COC,16

3 Air bubble sheet plant ........................ 57

4 Ammonia liquid chiller ....................... 23

5 Analytical instrument .......................... 51

6 Automation controller......................... 21

7 Automation system ............................. 41

8 Auxiliary equipment ............................ 79

9 Bag making machine ..................... 84

10 Banking services ................................ 83

11 Barrel ............................................... BIC

12 Bi-axial plant ................................... 107

13 Biodegradable masterbatch ....... COC,16

14 Biodegradable additive..................... 101

15 Black masterbatch.............. 16,95,COC

16 Blender ...................................... 15, FIC

17 Blow moulding machine ..................... 84

18 Blower series ..................................... 41

19 Blown film extrusion system.................BC

20 Blown film line................................... 98

21 Bulk milk cooler................................. 23

22 Butterfly valve .................................... 23

23 Cast film line ............................ 57,98

24 Chiller ............................................... 53

25 Clamp............................................... 83

26 Clean room application ..................... 35

27 Cleaning oven .................................. BIC

28 CNC vertical machining centre ........... 55

29 Colour additive.................................. 95

30 Colour masterbatch ........ 16,31,95 COC

31 Colouring extrusion plant ................. 107

32 Compact chiller ................................. 14

33 Complex multi-part assembly ................ 8

34 Compounding extrusion plant ........... 107

35 Compounding extrusion system......... 107

36 Compounding mixer ........................ 107

37 Compressed air dryer ......................... 61

38 Compression moulding machine......... 78

39 Compressor air chiller ........................ 12

40 Conductive compound ................... COC

41 Continuous screen changer ............... BIC

42 Counters & power supplies ................... 5

43 CPVC pipe ........................................ 33

44 Crystalliser ......................................... 61

45 Dairy machinery............................. 23

46 DC motor........................................ 101

47 Dehumidified dryers .......................... FIC

48 Dehumidifying air dryer ...................... 14

49 Digital colour mark sensor.................. 96

50 Digital panel meter ............................ 10

51 Digital temperature controller ............. 39

52 Dosing & mixing ................................ 41

53 Drives........................................... 21,39

54 Drying & dehumidifying system ........... 41

55 Drymax dryer .................................... FIC

56 Drymax pet-dehumidified dryer .......... FIC

57 Dual channel with modbus ................. 39

58 Dyestuff ............................................... 6

59 Dynamic controller ............................. 39

60 Electric injection moulding machine96

61 Electric injection moulding

machine gearbox ................................. 7

62 Electric solution.................................. 27

63 Email marketing................................. 85

64 Encoder............................................... 5

65 Euro gearbox................................... 102

66 Exhibition - engineering expo............ 102

67 Extruder and extrusion production line. 79

68 Extruder machine ...................13, 37, 79

69 Extrusion coating lamination plant....... 57

70 Extrusion machinery....................... 19,79

71 Extrusion pipe .................................... 79

72 Extrusion plant ................................. 107

73 Extrusion system .................................BC

74 Fabrication system.......................... 83

75 Feeding & conveying.................... 41, 61

76 Filler compound................................. 95

77 Financial services ............................... 83

78 Flame retardant ................................. 95

79 Flame retardant masterbatch .............. 16

80 Fluorescent .......................................... 6

81 Fully automatic strapping plant ........... 57

82 Gear motor .................................. 105

83 Gear pump ...................................... BIC

84 Gearbox................................ 78,86,105

85 Geared motor ................................. 105

86 Granulating & recycling...................... 41

87 Granulator ...........................14, 61, FIC

88 Gravimetric blender ........................... 14

89 Grip plier .......................................... 83

90 HDPE pipe plant............................. 33

91 Heat transfer roll............................... BIC

92 Heating & cooling.............................. 41

93 Helical inline geared motor/reducer ..... 105

94 High cavitation .................................. 35

95 High-performance screw.................... BIC

96 High-pressure compressor .................. 96

97 High-speed mixer......................... 13, 37

98 High-torque gearbox .......................... 83

99 HM/HDPE/IDPE/IIDPE plant................ 57

100 HMI .................................................. 21

101 Hopper loader ................................... 14

102 Horizontal handle clamp .................... 83

103 Hot air dryer............................... FIC, 14

104 Hot runner system .............................. 41

105 IML technique ................................ 35

106 Induction motor ................................. 21

107 Industrial chilling equipment ............... 85

108 Industrial control & sensing device ........ 5

109 Injection and blow moulding .............. 12

110 Injection mould.................................. 29

111 Injection moulding machine....................

................................ 9, 29,49,69,79,86

112 Injection moulding-multi-component

system ............................................... 29

113 Inline drip irrigation pipe plant............ 33

114 Inline shaft mounted helical geared

motor/reducer.................................. 105

115 Invertor/variable frequency drive ........... 5

116 ITA nomination .................................. 93

117 Jigs & fixture .................................. 83

118 Lab model screw extruder .............. 97

119 Largeflow water heater ....................... 41

120 Laser distance measurement sensor... 100

121 Level controller .................................... 5

122 Loader.............................................. FIC

123 Manual & hydraulic screen changer...BIC

124 Masterbatch................................. 16, 95

125 Material dryer .................................... 15

126 Material storage................................. 14

127 Measuring & monitoring relay............... 5

128 Medical mould .................................. 35

129 Micro fine pulverising system ............ 107

130 Milky polymer .................................... 97

131 Monolayer blown film line ..................BC

132 Motion control ..................................... 5

133 Mould ......................................... 13, 37

134 Mould changing system...................... 87

Sl No Product Pg No Sl No Product Pg No Sl No Product Pg No

To know more about the products in this magazine, refer to our ‘Product Index’ or write to us at [email protected] or call us at +91-22-3003 4685 or fax us at +91-22-3003 4499

and we will send your enquiries to the advertisers directly to help you source better.

COC - Cover On Cover, FGF - Front Gate Fold, FIC - Front Inside Cover, BIC - Back Inside Cover, BGF - Back Gate Fold, BC - Back Cover

P R O D U C T I N D E X


135 Mould sweat protector........................ 12

136 Mould temperature controller.............. 14

137 Moulding........................................... 35

138 Moulding automation........................... 8

139 Moulding automation system ............ 102

140 MTC ................................................ FIC

141 Multi component mould ..................... 35

142 Multilayer blown film line....................BC

143 Multilayer blown film plant ................. 57

144 Multilayer co-extrusion sheet line .. 25, 71

145 Multi-station ...................................... 29

146 Natural polymer............................. 97

147 Neat resin ........................................... 6

148 Nylon product.................................... 78

149 Oil cooler....................................... 53

150 Online B2B marketplace ............ 11, 103

151 On-line digital printing technology ...... 97

152 Optic sheet extrusion line ............. 25, 71

153 Optical brightner ........................... COC

154 Panel cooler ................................... 53

155 Paper chemical .................................... 6

156 Paperless recorder.............................. 10

157 Parallel & right angle axes gearbox....... 7

158 Pelletiser ........................................... BIC

159 PET box strapping plant...................... 57

160 PET masterbatch ................................ 16

161 PET sheet extrusion ...................... 25, 71

162 Photoelectric sensor.............................. 5

163 Pipe extrusion line ............................. 79

164 Pipe making ...................................... 29

165 Plastic brightner ................................. 97

166 Plastic brightner/shiner ....................... 96

167 Plastic compound............................... 95

168 Plastic conveyor belt........................... 13

169 Plastic tinopol .................................... 97

170 Plastic whitener .................................. 97

171 Plate heat exchanger.......................... 23

172 Plug valve.......................................... 23

173 Pneumatic valve ................................. 23

174 Portable chiller ................................... 99

175 PP glass filled compound.................... 16

176 PP mineral filled compound................ 16

177 PP TQ plant ...................................... 57

178 PP/HDPE semi-automatic strapping plant ..... 57

179 PP/HDPE tape line ............................. 57

180 PPR pipe plant ................................... 33

181 PPRP powder ..................................... 97

182 Precision programmable control system ... 84

183 Process chiller .................................... 99

184 Process controller ............................... 10

185 Process tank ...................................... 23

186 Production solution............................. 84

187 Profile controller................................. 39

188 Programmable logic controller ......... 5,39

189 Programmable terminal ........................ 5

190 Proximity sensor ................................... 5

191 Pull action clamp ............................... 83

192 Pulveriser ..................................... 13, 37

193 Pulverising system............................. 107

194 PVC pipe plant .................................. 33

195 Quick connector............................. 67

196 Quick die change system ................... 87

197 Quick mould change system......... 67, 87

198 Rail milk tanker barrel.................... 23

199 Recycle/reclaim machine system.......... 79

200 Refrigerant pump ............................... 23

201 Refrigeration ...................................... 23

202 Resin dehumidifier.............................. 61

203 RFID.................................................... 5

204 Right angled helical bevel geared

motor/reducer.................................. 105

205 Right angled helical worm geared

motor/reducer.................................. 105

206 Robot ............................................... FIC

207 Robotic.............................................. 97

208 Robots for plastic injection.................. 85

209 Rock n roll machine ..................... 13, 37

210 Rotary automatic hot colour marking

machine ............................................ 32

211 Rotational mould ............................. 107

212 Rotational moulding machine ........... 107

213 Rotogravure printing machine ............. 78

214 Rotomoulding machine..................... 107

215 Round cable nail clip ......................... 99

216 Round table carrousel ........................ 13

217 Safety light curtain ........................... 5

218 Screw compressor .............................. 23

219 Screw extruder ................................... 79

220 Secon & dull polymer......................... 97

221 Servo driven robot ............................. 86

222 Servo motor....................................... 21

223 Shut off nozzel .................................. BIC

224 Shuttle rotomoulding machine .......... 107

225 Shuttle series plant ........................... 107

226 Silicon compound .............................. 95

227 Single mill pulveriser .................... 13, 37

228 Single-screw extruder gearbox............... 7

229 SME finance ...................................... 83

230 Software for central monitoring ........... 61

231 Solid granulator ............................... 107

232 Stack mould ...................................... 35

233 Straight line action ............................. 83

234 Switching relay..................................... 5

235 System solution .................................. 41

236 Tanks & silos .................................. 23

237 Technical mould................................. 35

238 Temperature controller.......5, 10, 39,100

239 Thermoplastic elastomer ..................... 80

240 Thermoformer ....................................BC

241 Thermoforming & PS foam .................BC

242 Thermoplastic alloy .............................. 6

243 Thermoplastic compound ..................... 6

244 Thermoplastic elastomer ..................... 77

245 Thermoplastic rubber.......................... 77

246 Thick & wide plastic sheet

extrusion line ............................... 25, 71

247 Three-arm bi-axial rotomoulding

machine ...................................... 13, 37

248 Timer .................................................. 5

249 Toggle action clamp........................... 83

250 Toggle press ...................................... 83

251 TPE ................................................... 77

252 TPE/TPU compound ........................... 16

253 TPE foaming material ......................... 80

254 TPR ................................................... 77

255 TPU masterbatch................................ 31

256 Twin mill pulveriser ....................... 13, 37

257 Twin-screw extruder gearbox ................. 7

258 Ultrasonic flowmeter ...................... 10

259 Universal controller ............................ 39

260 Universal masterbatch ........................ 16

261 UV stabiliser .................................. COC

262 UV& PU masterbatch.......................... 16

263 Vaccum dehumidifying dryer .......... 87

264 Vacuum forming machine...................BC

265 Ventilator ........................................... 79

266 Vertical handle clamp......................... 83

267 Vertical injection moulding

machine ...................................... 29, 86

268 Vibratory screening system................ 107

269 Vibro screen ................................ 13, 37

270 Virgin polymer ................................... 97

271 Vision sensor ....................................... 5

272 Volumetric dosing unit ........................ 61

273 Water chiller................................... 61

274 WFR................................................. FIC

275 White masterbatch .............16, 95, COC

276 Wire-EDM ......................................... 55

Sl No Product Pg No Sl No Product Pg No Sl No Product Pg No

SOURCE PROCESS PLANT MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT @www.engg-expo.com

COC - Cover On Cover, FGF - Front Gate Fold, FIC - Front Inside Cover, BIC - Back Inside Cover, BGF - Back Gate Fold, BC - Back Cover

A DV E R T I S E R S ’ L I S T


Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Pg No Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Pg No Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Pg No

Our consistent advertisers

Aeromec Marketing Co Pvt Ltd 32

T : +91-250-2454915

E : [email protected]

W : www.aeromec.in

Alok Masterbatches Ltd 31

T : +91-11-41612244


W : www.alokmasterbatches.com

Ash Win Engineers 107

T : +91-79-22811879


W : www,ashwinengineersindia.com

Avi Additives Pvt Ltd 95

T : +91-40-23550551/2/3/4


W : www.aviadditives.com

Bharat Bijlee Ltd 21

T : +91-22-24306237


W : www.bharatbijlee.com

Blend Colours Pvt Ltd 16

T : +91-40-2436 1499 / 2436 0887


W : www.blendcolours.com

Chamunda Equipments 83

T : +91-79-27522437


W : www.chamundaequip.com

Dongguan Alfa Automation Machinery Ltd 97

T : +86-769-8318-0326


W : www.alfarobot.com

Dongguan Guan Yu Industrial Co., Ltd 77

T : +86-769-2225-8668


W : www.dg-guanyu.com

Electronica Plastic Machiners Ltd 69

T : +91-22-32531959


Engineering Expo 102

T : +91-09920401226


W : www.engg-expo.com

Forwell Precision Machinery Co., Ltd. 87

T : +886-4-834-5196

E : [email protected];

[email protected]

W : www.forwell.com

Freeze Tech Equipments Pvt Ltd 53

T : +91-44-42152387


W : www.freezetechequip.com

Hindustan Plastic And Machine Corporation 33

T : +91-11-25471114


W : www.hindustanplastics.com

IC Ice Make Refrigeration Pvt Ltd 85

T : +91-2764-291022


W : www.icemakeindia.com

IDMC Limited 23

T : +91-2692-225399


W : www.idmc.coop

IndiaMART InterMESH Ltd 11, 103

T : +1800-200-4444 / 91-120-3911000


W : www.indiamart.com

Jon Wai Machinery Works Co., Ltd. 29

T : +886-2-2595-4867


W : www.jonwai.com.tw

Kabra Extrusion Technik Ltd 19

T : +91-22-26734822


W : www.kolsite.com

Konark Plastomech Pvt Ltd 57

T : +91-79-22891670


W : www.konarkplastomech.com

Livewire18 85

T : +91-22-30245000


Loxim Industries Limited 6

T : +91-2717-308000


W : www.loxim.com

Madhu Machines & Systems Pvt Ltd 12

T : +91-265-2353886


W : www.madhu-group.com

Mifa Systems 39

T : +91-79-26870825


W : www.mifasystems.com

Mold - Masters Technologies Pvt Ltd 27

T : +91-422-4502171


W : www.moldmasters.com

N.A. Corporation 37

T : +91-79-25840374


W : www.naroto.com

A DV E R T I S E R S ’ L I S T


Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Pg No Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Pg No Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Pg No

Our consistent advertisers

Neejtech India (Braunform) 35

T : +91-79-26561312


W : www.neejtech.com

Neejtech India (Hekuma) 8

T : +91-79-26561312


W : www.neejtech.com

Neejtech India (Niigata) 9

T : +91-9909974224


Network 18 93

T : +1800-103-5311

W : ita.moneycontrol.com

Nu-Vu Conair Pvt. Ltd 14

T : +91-79-25841181


W : www.conairgroup.com

Omron Automation Pvt. Ltd. 5

T : +91-80-40726400


W : www.omron-ap.com

Perkinelmer India Ltd 51

T : +91-22-67601786


W : www.perkinelmer.in

Piovan India Pvt Ltd 61

T : +91-22-28560450


W : www.piovan.com

Plast Fine Polymers 97

T : +91-79-65242332


W : www.plastfine.com

Plastiblends India Ltd COC

T : +91-22-67205200


W : www.plastiblendsindia.com

Power Build Ltd 105

T : +91-2692-231070


W : www.pbl.co.in

Prasad Gwk Cooltech Pvt Ltd 13

T : +91-79-25830112


W : www.prasadgroup.com

Procon Technologies Pvt Ltd 10

T : +91-79-27492566


W : www.procon.co.in

Qingdao Friend Plastic Extrusion

Technology Co.,Ltd 79

T : +86-532-8662-2399


W : www.fet66.com

R R Plast Extrusions Pvt Ltd 25, 71

T : +91-22-42461500


W : www.rrplast.com

Rajoo Engineers Ltd BC

T : +91-2827-252701


W : www.rajoo.com

S&T Engineers 55

T : +91-422-2590810


W : www.stengineers.com

Shini Plastics Technologies I Pvt Ltd 41

T : +91-250-3021166


W : www.shini.com

Sreelakshmi Traders 79

T : +91-44-24343343


W : www.sreelakshmitraders.com

Standard Chartered Bank 83

T : +91-22-39401616


W : www.standardchartered.co.in

Toshiba Machine (India) Pvt. Ltd. 49

T : +91-11-43291111


W : www.toshiba-machine.co.jp

Unimark (Maguire) 15

T : +91-22-25506712


W : www.unimark.in

Unimark (Staubli Faverges Sca) 67

T : +91-22-25506712


W : www.unimark.in

Wittmann Battenfeld India Pvt Ltd FIC

T : +91-44-42077009


W : www.wittmann-group.com

Xaloy Asia (Thailand)Ltd. BIC

T : +91-79-27541971


W : www.xaloy.com

Zambello Riduttori Group 7

T : +39-0331-307-616


W : www.zambello.it

Reg No: MH / MR / WEST / 234 // 2009 – 2011 RNI No: MAHENG / 2008 / 25265 WPP Licence No: MR / Tech / WPP – 357 / West / 2009- 2011

Licence to Post Without Pre-Payment at Mumbai Patrika Channel Sorting Office, Mumbai GPO., Mumbai 400 001. Date Of Posting 1st & 2nd Of Every Month / English & Monthly.

Date Of Publication: 28th Of Every Month.

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