The Basics of Troubleshooting in Plastics Processing is a condensed practical guide that gives the reader a broad introduction to properties of thermoplastics plastics, additives, the major processes (extrusion, injection molding, rotational molding, blow molding, and thermoforming), as well as troubleshooting. The main goal is to provide the plastics processor with an improved understanding of the basics by explaining the science behind the technology. Machine details are minimized as the emphasis is on processing problems and the defects in an effort to focus on basic root causes to problems and how to solve them. The book’s framework is troubleshooting in plastics processing because of the importance it has to the eventual production of high quality end products. Each chapter contains both practical and detailed technical information. This basic guide provides state-of-the-art information on: Processing problems and defects during manufacturing Plastics materials, their properties and characterization The plastics processing techniques Plastics additives Troubleshooting of the 5 main plastics processes References for further reading

This handbook provides a framework for understanding how to characterize plastic manufacturing processes for use in troubleshooting problems. The 21 chapters are authored by well-known and experienced engineers who have specialized knowledge about the processes covered in this practical guide. From the Preface: “In every chapter, the process is described and the most common problems are discussed along with the root causes and potential technical solutions. Numerous case studies are provided that illustrate the troubleshooting process. Mark A. Spalding, The Dow Chemical Company

This comprehensive book on troubleshooting PVC extrusion contains information on a wide range of topics with the emphasis on compounding, additives and also giving the knowledge about the combination of woody materials with PVC to wood polymer composites (WPC) is gaining more and more attraction in USA and Europe and a wide range of commercial products are already available on the market, but the troubleshooting areas are not covered well.

This highly practical troubleshooting guide solves problems at the machine systematically and quickly. Drawing on a wealth of hands-on experience from the authors, who have built strong reputations in the field, the book is structured by type of problem/solution. Thus, it is an ideal reference to be consulted at the machine. Included is valuable information on robust process windows, cycle time evaluations, scrap savings, and runners/gates with no existing standard in the industry. No other book provides the unique insights found here.

This comprehensive book provides guidelines for maximizing plastics proc essing efficiency in the manufacture of all types of products, using all types of plastics. A practical approach is employed to present fundamental, yet comprehensive, coverage of processing concepts. The information and data presented by the many tables and figures interrelate the different variables that affect injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, thermoforming, compression molding, reinforced plastics molding, rotational molding, re action injection molding, coining, casting, and other processes. The text presents a great number of problems pertaining to different phases of processing. Solutions are provided that will meet product per formance requirements at the lowest cost. Many of the processing variables and their behaviors in the different processes are the same, as they all in volve basic conditions of temperature, time, and pressure. The book begins with information applicable to all processes, on topics such as melt soft ening flow and controls; all processes fit into an overall scheme that re quires the interaction and proper control of systems. Individual processes are reviewed to show the effects of changing different variables to meet the goal of zero defects. The content is arranged to provide a natural progres sion from simple to complex situations, which range from control of a sin gle manual machine to simulation of sophisticated computerized processes that interface with many different processing functions.

This highly practical troubleshooting guide solves injection molding problems systematically and quickly. The rigorous but user-friendly approach employs the authors’ proven »STOP« methodology, considering molding process, mold, machine, and material (4M’s) as possible sources of part defects. Importantly, the interaction between tooling, processing, and material is emphasized, allowing successful resolution of difficult problems where »by-the-books« approaches fail. Starting from troubleshooting methodology and tools, there is a focused discussion of key areas impacting troubleshooting, in particular the 4M’s, followed by an in-depth troubleshooting guide for various molding defects, structured logically by type of problem / solution. Insightful case studies throughout show the strengths of the STOP method to get real processes to run smoothly and reliably, producing quality parts with optimal cycle time and cost. Drawing on a wealth of hands-on experience, this book serves as an ideal reference to be consulted at the machine, or as a learning and training manual, suitable for both beginners and experienced molders. With valuable information on robust process windows, cycle time evaluations, scrap savings, and runners / gates with no existing standard in the industry, no other book provides the unique insights found here. The 2nd edition is updated with new discussion and case studies on topics including additive manufactured inserts, unmelts, buildup, burns, cycle time, gloss variation, and read-through.

The Toolbox includes practical materials and aides the technician will use daily on-the-job, such as charts, tables and problem solving skills. The intent of the Toolbox is to provide technicians with the technical foundation they need to identify and logically troubleshoot root causes of problems. It contains both the depth and breadth needed for a thorough, practical knowledge base.

The second edition of Extrusion is designed to aid operators, engineers, and managers in extrusion processing in quickly answering practical day-to-day questions. The first part of the book provides the fundamental principles, for operators and engineers, of polymeric materials extrusion processing in single and twin screw extruders. The next section covers advanced topics including troubleshooting, auxiliary equipment, and coextrusion for operators, engineers, and managers. The final part provides applications case studies in key areas for engineers such as compounding, blown film, extrusion blow molding, coating, foam, and reprocessing. This practical guide to extrusion brings together both equipment and materials processing aspects. It covers basic and advanced topics, for reference and training, in thermoplastics processing in the extruder. Detailed reference data are provided on such important operating conditions as temperatures, start-up procedures, shear rates, pressure drops, and safety. - A practical guide to the selection, design and optimization of extrusion processes and equipment - Designed to improve production efficiency and product quality - Focuses on practical fault analysis and troubleshooting techniques

An outstanding and thorough presentation of the complete field of plastics processing Handbook of Plastic Processes is the only comprehensive reference covering not just one, but all major processes used to produce plastic products-helping designers and manufacturers in selecting the best process for a given product while enabling users to better understand the performance characteristics of each process. The authors, all experts in their fields, explain in clear, concise, and practical terms the advantages, uses, and limitations of each process, as well as the most modern and up-to-date technologies available in their application. Coverage includes chapters on: Injection molding Compression and transfer molding Sheet extrusion Blow molding Calendering Foam processing Reinforced plastics processing Liquid resin processing Rotational molding Thermoforming Reaction injection molding Compounding, mixing, and blending Machining and mechanical fabrication Assembly, finishing, and decorating Each chapter details a particular process, its variations, the equipment used, the range of materials utilized in the process, and its advantages and limitations. Because of its increasing impact on the industry, the editor has also added a chapter on nanotechnology in plastics processing.

Why is it important to get to equilibrium and how long does it take? Are there problems running polypropylene profiles on a single screw extruder? Does the job involve compounding color concentrates on a corotating twin screw extruder? This unique reference work is designed to aid operators, engineers, and managers in quickly answering such practical day-to-day questions in extrusion processing. This comprehensive volume is divided into 7 Parts. It contains detailed reference data on such important operating conditions as temperatures, start-up procedures, shear rates, pressure drops, and safety. This reference is a practical guide to extrusion bringing together both the equipment and materials processing aspects. It provides basic and advanced topics about the thermoplastics processing in the extruder, for reference and training. Parts 1 û 3, emphasize the fundamentals, for operators and engineers, of polymeric materials extrusion processing in single and twin screw extruders. Parts 4 û 7 treat advanced topics including troubleshooting, auxiliary equipment, and coextrusion for operators, engineers, and managers. Extensive applications in Part 7 cover such contemporary areas as compounding, blown film, extrusion blow molding, coating, foam, and reprocessing. Each chapter includes review topics.