For plastic manufacturers, what is the cost of purchasing a bimetallic barrel? Additionally, what is its lifetime usage cost? The lifespan of a machine barrel can be very short, depending on its manufacturing process, how it was handled before reaching the processor, and how the plastic processor uses it. Even seemingly minor defects on a new barrel can lead to premature wear of the barrel and screw, adversely affecting the quality of the final product, increasing the rejection rate, and even causing production stoppages. Due to these issues, purchasing barrels solely based on price may ultimately result in higher costs than other more expensive alternatives. Next, let's take a look at the factors that may affect the true cost of the cartridge, starting with its basic components, and then considering potentially overlooked factors such as transportation and handling. Inlay Combination In most parts of the Americas and Europe, gun barrels are usually made of bimetal materials—that is, an alloy is lined or embedded on a base metal (or backing) to resist wear or corrosion. In Asia, integrated barrels are still quite common, but the production of bimetal barrels is also increasing to meet local use and export demands. The process of producing bimetallic barrel liners is called centrifugal casting. This process uses heat to coat alloy powder onto the inner wall of a pre-drilled barrel, and then rotates the barrel to force the molten alloy powder to adhere tightly to the inner wall. The traditional heating method is to use a gas furnace, but many suppliers are now using induction furnaces, which have a shorter lining time, more stable barrel quality, and can produce extra-large barrels. If special metallurgical techniques are not used, most manufacturers find it difficult to verify the quality of the cylinder linings. However, the composition, uniform thickness, and porosity of the linings are key factors determining the quality and lifespan of the cylinder. Their quality depends on the reliability and repeatability of the centrifugal casting process. The composition of the backing and linings should be supported by traceable metallurgical data records provided by the supplier. The centrifugal casting process is used to produce the inserts for bimetallic cylinders. This process utilizes heat to apply alloy powder to the interior of a pre-drilled cylinder, and then rotates the cylinder to force the molten alloy against the inner wall of the cylinder. With the increasing use of highly abrasive fillers (especially glass fiber reinforced materials), embedded materials containing metal carbides have also emerged. These carbides (based on tungsten, titanium, or tantalum) are suspended in a matrix of nickel, cobalt, chromium, boron, or a combination of these corrosion-resistant materials, resulting in embedded products that are more corrosion-resistant than general-purpose cylinders. Note: Choosing the right screw material is crucial; certain hard-faced materials for screws used in combination with carbide-lined cylinders may lead to catastrophic wear. For corrosive materials such as fluorinated compounds, another type of insert primarily composed of nickel, chromium, boron, and cobalt can be used, which provides chemical resistance but sacrifices some wear resistance. This insert should be used in conjunction with nickel-based substrates or a three-metal combination of nickel-based and carbon-based substrate steel. The ideal thickness of the inlay is 1.6 millimeters or 0.063 inches. When the thickness exceeds this point, diminishing returns will occur. Backing components The control and repeatability of the centrifugal casting process not only affect the quality of the core but also impact the performance of the backing material, as the backing material is also annealed in a high-temperature rotating furnace and then slowly cooled. The quality of the backing is particularly important for the injection-molded barrel, as the pressure at the end of the injection stroke can reach 20,000 psi (138 MPa) or even higher, subjecting the entire plasticizing unit to tension. Poorly manufactured barrels may fracture, leading to damage to the screw, tip, end cap, and feed housing. In order to cope with this pressure, the cylinder suppliers use high-pressure sleeves made of high-strength heat-treated alloy steel, which are fitted over the centrifugally cast cylinders. Alternatively, special alloy steel can be used to increase the pressure-bearing capacity by 50%, thereby eliminating the need for a sleeve and adopting a one-piece structure. Transportation and handling Even well-manufactured barrels may have flaws or damages during transportation. The more times the barrels are handled between the original manufacturer and the extrusion or molding workshop, the greater the likelihood of damage. These intermediate "handlers" may include truck drivers, shippers, dealers, and warehouses. There is a risk of continuous vibration during maritime transport because the cylinder is placed on the ship's deck. The cylinder itself is made of steel and has significant internal stress; continuous vibration can release this stress, affecting the dimensions and straightness of the cylinder. In addition, due to the corrosive effects of seawater, maritime transport also faces special challenges. The cylinder should be properly protected with rust inhibitors and wrapped in film or paper to prevent corrosion. If the cylinder becomes severely rusted, it will be unusable. Unless properly supported in sturdy shipping packaging, the cylinder may move internally during transportation and handling, leading to damage. Improper packaging or handling is another risk. Unless properly supported within sturdy shipping packaging, the drum may move during transportation and handling, causing damage. Even small drums can be heavy enough to damage poorly made shipping containers and may fall out during handling. Examples of potential damage include wear on concrete floors, scratches from forklifts, and cantilevering at lifting points when lifted with chain hoists. Straightness and concentricity After-the-fact correction of linearity deviations in new machine cylinders is very difficult, and the workshop's temporary solutions can only be said to do more harm than good. However, severe deviations can make it difficult to install the cylinder onto the machine, let alone screw it into the screw rod. Even seemingly insignificant deviations can adversely affect performance and the quality of the final product, and may even lead to catastrophic failures. Consider the critical gap between the screw and the barrel. For an 80mm (3.15 inches) barrel, the gap on both sides of the screw needs to be maintained within the range of 0.076 to 0.102mm (0.003 to 0.004 inches). If this gap exceeds the tolerance range, the friction between the screw and the barrel can not only cause wear on both components but also generate metal particles, contaminating the final product—this is a serious issue in high-spec applications such as medical devices, cable coatings, and others. The heat generated by friction can also affect the polymer, causing it to degrade and leading to wear, and in the worst case, it can result in the failure of the plasticizing system. The longer the barrel, the wider the tolerance range for straightness. Since the inner and outer diameters of the barrel are usually out of alignment, it is difficult to determine its straightness in the extrusion or forming workshop without specialized equipment. Laser systems can provide the highest precision, but in most cases, processors need to seek qualified external services. Surface treatment and process The barrel should be smoothly polished, including the inner diameter, outer surface, and fastening areas. Aesthetics are not the key; a smooth and uniform surface is crucial for effective performance. For example, the contact with the heating ring must be tight and uniform. Manual polishing to remove rust or defects that cause surface waves on the cylinder will hinder effective heat transfer. Surface uniformity is also crucial for metal-to-metal seals, such as the flanges connecting the material cylinder and end cap or nozzle joints in injection molding, as well as the flanges connecting the machine barrel to the feed inlet and die head joints during extrusion. Surface irregularities can lead to polymer leakage and may cause metal corrosion, while poor surface quality of counterbores can also result in leaks. Repairing these issues requires disassembly and reprocessing, or it may be necessary to send the barrel back to the supplier for reworking. Poor drilling quality also requires reprocessing, such as holes for installing components or thermocouples. The holes may not be drilled deep enough, or there may be burrs.

Mechanical recycler Grannex has invested around EUR 20 mn in expanding its recycling capacity at its Osnabrück site. After testing its proprietary recycling process at a pilot plant, Grannex has now scaled up the technology, the company said. At the beginning of 2025, the first full-scale facility based on this process was completed and has recently entered regular operation with a capacity of 16,000 t/y. The new method can also be used to mechanically process engineering plastics from unsorted waste streams (Photo: Grannex) “With the new production line, we’re investing in the future of mechanical plastics recycling,” said Grannex managing director Markus Börger. The patented process – developed primarily by Börger – combines shredding, washing, and sorting in a modular system. According to the company, this setup also allows for the processing of unsorted, heavily contaminated, complex plastics waste mixtures.“This enables Grannex not only to recycle polyolefin-based mixtures with varying proportions of 2D and 3D materials – such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and films – but also to extract engineering plastics like ABS from heterogeneous waste streams and return them to the product cycle,” added Hendrik Scheuschner, who was appointed as an additional managing director in 2023.The total processing capacity at the Osnabrück site now stands at 20,000 t/y.

Highlights of International News: Raw Materials: Sulzer Launches Polystyrene(PS) Recycling Technology Automotive: Renault Records a €9.5 Billion Loss Due to Accounting Method Adjustments. Electronics: Envalior and Partners Develop Gearbox Concept for Robot Arms with Engineering Plastics Packaging: AMERICHEM Consolidation of European Activities Under US Brand / Streamlining Advances Company's 2030 Sustainability Goals Medical: Sekisui Chemical to Construct New Injection-Molding Plant in Pune, India Macro Economy: Thailand's Constitutional Court decides to suspend Prime Minister Paetongtarn from office. Price Info: Homopolymer PP: $935–980/ton (CFR Huangpu). Details of International News: Envalior and partners develop gearbox concept for robot arms with engineering plastic Envalior, SENTImotion and Frencken Group have developed a new gearbox concept for robot arms based on advanced engineering plastic.Unlike previous designs based on metal or plastic, it enables the entry into the cost-effective large-scale production of lightweight and energy-efficient robots. The development partners are presenting the new concept to the general public for the first time at the automatica robotics trade fair in Munich, Germany.   2. Sulzer launches polystyrene recycling technology SulzerLtd. (Winterthur, Switzerland) is proud to announce the launch of its licensed EcoStyrene polystyrene recycling technology, a groundbreaking solution for the chemical recycling of contaminated polystyrene materials. The EcoStyrene process addresses one of the chemical recycling industry’s most significant challenges: effectively processing waste polystyrene materials that contain multiple types of contaminants. Unlike conventional recycling methods that require pristine feedstock, our technology efficiently processes polystyrene waste containing flame retardant components and food residue, transforming these previously unrecyclable materials into valuable resources that can be reintroduced into the production cycle, including food contact applications. 3. PRET Expands Global Footprint with New Mexico Plant Pret Composites Mexico Co., Ltd. marked a historic milestone: the successful trial production at PRT Mexico Plant, inaugurating a new chapter in North American intelligent manufacturing. This milestone signifies a key step in the group's global strategy, laying a solid foundation for deepening its presence in the North American market. In the future, it will become a composite materials intelligent manufacturing hub radiating across the Americas.   4. Sekisui Chemical to construct new injection-molding plant in Pune, India Sekisui Chemical Co. Ltd. (Tokyo, Japan) has decided to establish sixth injection-molding plant in India for Sekisui DLJM Molding Pvt. Ltd., which manufactures and sells injection molded products for automobiles in Pune, Maharashtra in western India. The investment for establishing the new injection-molding plant is approximately $3 million, and it is expected to go into operation in January 2026.   5. AMERICHEM：Consolidation of European activities under US brand / Streamlining advances company's 2030 sustainability goals US masterbatch and compounds specialist Americhem has announced plans to consolidate its European activities under the Americhem brand as it moves to align operations across global quality and manufacturing standards. 6.Renault Records €9.5 Billion Loss Due to Accounting AdjustmentsOn July 1, French automaker Renault announced that it would record an approximately €9.5 billion loss in its first-half results due to a change in the accounting method for its equity investment in Nissan. The move comes as the two companies adjust their 20-year partnership, with Renault gradually reducing its stake in Nissan, which is facing sales declines and financial pressures.   7. Key Process Improvements Save Energy and Cut Costs for Recycling Polyester With Enzymes A successful collaboration involving a trio of research institutions has yielded a road map toward an economically viable process for using enzymes to recycle plastics.The researchers, from NREL, the University of Massachusetts Lowell, and the University of Portsmouth in England, previously partnered on the biological engineering of improved PETase enzymes that can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET). With its low manufacturing cost and excellent material properties, PET is used extensively in single-use packaging, soda bottles, and textiles.   8.Sharp Sells Camera Module Business for ¥2.4 Billion; Foxconn Subsidiary Takes Over On June 30, Sharp announced the transfer of 51% equity in its subsidiary SSTC-held SAIGON STEC CO., LTD (SSTEC) and part of its fixed assets to a subsidiary of Foxconn Technology Group for approximately ¥2.4 billion (approximately ¥119 million). The equity transaction was completed on the same day for ¥533 million (approximately ¥26.479 million), and the remaining asset transfer is expected to be finalized by the end of September 2025. Sharp stated that the sale of the camera module business will bring a ¥2.426 billion special profit, further optimizing the group's asset structure. This move signals Sharp's gradual divestment from non-core businesses, while Foxconn strengthens its industrial chain layout through its subsidiary Fullertain.   Overseas Macro Market Information:   Thailand's Constitutional Court Suspends Prime Minister Paetongtarn from OfficeOn July 1 local time, Thailand's Constitutional Court decided to accept a petition to impeach Prime Minister Paetongtarn and suspend her from office. On June 20 local time, the Speaker of Thailand's House of Lords submitted a petition to the Constitutional Court to impeach Prime Minister Paetongtarn, alleging that her phone call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen violated the constitution and ethical norms.   Musk Responds to Trump's Comments on Reviewing Subsidies: 'Cut Them All, Now!'Earlier, Trump claimed that Musk may have received more subsidies than anyone in history, and without subsidies, he might have to close down and return to his native South Africa. "Maybe we should let the Department of Efficiency take a good, hard look at this? It could save a fortune!" Musk replied in a user comment, "Cut them all, now." Tesla's stock price fell more than 7% at one point.   Japan's 10-Year Government Bond Auction Demand Stronger Than 12-Month AverageDemand for Japan's 10-year government bond auction was stronger than the 12-month average, as expectations of the central bank raising interest rates weakened, easing upward pressure on longer-term bond yields. The bid-to-cover ratio for the auction was 3.51, higher than 3.66 in the previous auction last month and the 12-month average of 3.14. Another sign of strong demand was the 0.03 gap between the average price and the minimum accepted price, compared with 0.01 in the previous auction. Since the end of May, Japan's sovereign bond auctions have been in the spotlight after a poor response to Japan's 20-year bond auction, leading to record highs in ultra-long bond yields. The surge in Japanese government bond yields has impacted global bond markets, with investors remaining vigilant about the expanding government deficit.   Canalys: U.S. Desktop and Laptop Shipments Grew 15% YoY in Q1 to 16.9 Million UnitsData from Canalys shows that U.S. desktop and laptop shipments grew 15% year-on-year to 16.9 million units in the first quarter of 2025. Due to manufacturers increasing shipments in response to tariff policy adjustments, channel inventory has increased significantly, facing subsequent pressure to clear inventory. At the same time, weakened consumer spending will slow annual growth. Full-year PC shipments are expected to grow by only 2% in 2025. With a large number of Windows system upgrades set to begin after Windows 10 ends service in October 2025, shipment growth is expected to rebound to 4% in 2026.   Price Information:   USD/CNY Central Parity Rate The central parity rate of the yuan against the U.S. dollar was set at 7.1534, up 52 pips; the previous trading day's central parity rate was 7.1586, the previous trading day's official closing price was 7.1656, and the overnight trading close was 7.1636.   Raw Material Prices in USD Ethylene Asia: CFR Northeast Asia $850/ton; CFR Southeast Asia $860/ton. Propylene Northeast Asia: FOB South Korea average $745/ton; CFR China average $795/ton. North Asia frozen cargo CIF price: Propane $532.5–534.5/ton; Butane $502.5–504.5/ton. South China frozen cargo August arrival CIF price: Propane $564–574/ton; Butane $529–539/ton. Taiwan frozen cargo CIF price: Propane $532.5–534.5/ton; Butane $502.5–504.5/ton.   LLDPE Prices in USD Film: $880–930/ton (CFR Huangpu); Injection molding: $940/ton (CFR Dongguan).   HDPE Prices in USD Film: $910–930/ton (CFR Huangpu); Hollow: $860–870/ton (CFR Huangpu).   LDPE Prices in USD Film: $1,090–1,100/ton (CFR Huangpu); Coating: $1,350/ton (CFR Huangpu).   PP Prices in USD Homopolymer: $935–980/ton (CFR Huangpu); Random copolymer: $965–995/ton (CFR Huangpu); Film material: $1,000/ton (CFR Huangpu); Transparent: $1,085/ton (CFR Huangpu); Pipe material: $1,160/ton (CFR Shanghai).  

Plastixs, a supplier of injection molding and material handling equipment, has introduced Mouldpro HiTemp EPDM push-on hoses designed specifically for high-temperature water applications up to 250°F. The hoses work with push-on fittings, eliminating the need for hose clamps while providing superior performance in elevated temperature environments. The design prevents cracking and hardening common in traditional water hoses.Plastixs Advanced features for demanding applications Unlike traditional hoses rated only for 180°F, the Mouldpro HiTemp EPDM push-on hoses resist cracking and hardening at higher temperatures. This allows processors to use convenient push-on hoses and fittings in high-temperature applications, significantly reducing mold setup and changeover times compared to conventional braided hose solutions. The company noted that processors have long struggled with the limitations of standard hoses in high-temperature applications. Its new Mouldpro HiTemp line addresses this challenge directly, offering the convenience of push-on connections without sacrificing performance at elevated temperatures. The hoses feature: Smooth antistatic EPDM nitrosamine-free rubber compound for enhanced safety and durability; reinforcement with synthetic textile yarns providing superior burst resistance; special cover design that prevents blistering and bubbling even under sustained high-temperature operation; enhanced resistance to abrasion, ozone, heat, and weather for extended service life; consistent performance across varying temperature ranges from ambient to 250°F. Technical specifications The Mouldpro HiTemp hoses are available in three inner diameter sizes: 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) for smaller cooling circuits; 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) for standard cooling applications; 3/4-inch (19 mm) for high-flow requirements. All sizes are rated for working pressures up to 400 PSI (28 bar), making them suitable for the most demanding industrial applications. The hoses maintain their flexibility and integrity even after prolonged exposure to high temperatures, significantly reducing maintenance requirements and downtime associated with hose failure. The compatibility with Mouldpro Quick Connect Safety Couplings creates a complete system solution that ensures leak-free connections and rapid installation. This system approach can reduce mold changeover times by up to 50% compared to traditional braided hose installations that require wrenches and other tools, according to the company. Industry applications The new hoses are particularly valuable for injection molders working with engineering-grade resins, including polycarbonate, polyetherimide, high-temperature nylons, and specialty thermoplastics, that require higher mold temperatures. Processors in automotive, medical, and aerospace sectors will find these hoses especially beneficial for maintaining precise temperature control in critical applications. Availability and packaging The Mouldpro HiTemp EPDM push-on hoses are available immediately in rolls of 164 feet (50 meters), allowing processors to customize lengths according to their specific requirements. Custom pre-cut lengths with installed fittings are also available upon request. Plastixs, based in Shrewsbury, MA, specializes in helping customers overcome production obstacles and optimize equipment efficiency with more than 35 years of industry experience. The company provides solutions for injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, and extrusion processes, focusing on reducing downtime and improving throughput. As part of its approach to customer support, Plastixs, a Globeius company, offers technical consultation to help processors determine the optimal hose configuration for their specific applications, including temperature requirements, flow rates, and space constraints.

3D Systems announced that its 3D bioprinting technologies have enabled FDA approval for the regenerative repair of peripheral nerve damage. For the last several years, 3D Systems has partnered with TISSIUM, a French MedTech company that is a pioneer in the development of biomorphic programmable polymers for tissue reconstruction, to develop a bespoke 3D printing solution for the repair of damaged peripheral nerves. Combining TISSIUM’s expertise and proprietary biomorphic programable polymers with 3D Systems’ ground-breaking regenerative medicine bioprinting technologies has resulted in the successful development of a fully bioabsorbable 3D-printed medical device for nerve repair utilising a unique photopolymer. This device, called COAPTIUM CONNECT with TISSIUM Light, is a first-of-its-kind, atraumatic, sutureless solution for the repair of peripheral nerves. Earlier this week, TISSIUM announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted De Novo marketing authorisation for this solution. This milestone validates the polymer’s clinical potential and paves the way for its use across a broad spectrum of transformative applications. Its unique polymer characteristics enable the production of high-resolution, elastomeric biodegradable implants that are unique in the industry.    “This is a significant advancement in patient care,” said Scott Turner, vice president, advanced systems, 3D Systems. “It has been tremendously rewarding to work alongside the talented team at TISSIUM to design a complete 3D bioprinted solution that offers the potential for patients to recover from peripheral nerve damage. I truly believe this will redefine treatment paradigms and offer hope to individuals that have suffered from the effects of nerve damage in regaining their quality of life.” This milestone is yet another proof point of 3D Systems’ nearly decade-long leadership position in bioprinting. In 2017, 3D Systems entered into a joint development program with United Therapeutics Corporation, the goal of which is to establish an unlimited supply of human lungs, requiring no immunosuppression, allowing all patients with end-stage lung disease to receive transplants which will enable them to enjoy long and active lives. 3D Systems has focused primarily on establishing the 3D printing technology to produce scaffolds meeting the extreme precision and resolution requirements for a functional human lung and to do so in a manner that yields the physical, mechanical, and biocompatibility performance to influence cell behavior and reproduction required for extended use in the human body. Its Print to Perfusion™ process enables 3D printing of high-resolution scaffolds, which can be perfused with living cells to create tissues. Through the combination of bioprinting technology, biocompatible 3D printing materials, and a broad range of cell types including patient-derived cells, the Company’s biomedical engineers can construct patient-specific living tissues. “Over the past several years, we have made phenomenal progress building upon Chuck Hull’s invention of 3D printing, and pushing its capabilities into new frontiers,” said Dr. Jeffrey Graves, President & CEO, 3D Systems. “Whether in our medical device business through the production of patient-specific implants and surgical solutions, or through the work our regenerative medicine team is doing, 3D Systems is making a profound impact not only on how healthcare is delivered, but on the quality of patients’ lives, and continues to solidify what I believe is an unparalleled role we play in advancing medicine with additive manufacturing applications. “This latest accomplishment by TISSIUM, enabled by our unique 3D printing technology, is one more example of how 3D Systems is transforming patient care for a better future.” According to Markets and Markets, the global 3D bioprinting market was valued at 1.3 billion USD in 2024, and is expected to reach 2.4 billion USD in 2029. Nearly 40 years ago, 3D Systems created the innovation of 3D printing and reimagined the approaches and processes for product development, parts manufacturing, and personalised healthcare through additive manufacturing solutions. The Company’s additive manufacturing solutions are transforming how healthcare is delivered. As a pioneer in personalised healthcare solutions, 3D Systems has worked with surgeons for over a decade to plan more than 150,000 patient-specific cases and additively manufacture more than two million implants and instruments for 100+ CE-marked and FDA-cleared devices from its world-class, FDA-registered, ISO 13485-certified facilities in Littleton, Colorado, and Leuven, Belgium. 3D Systems is leveraging this experience to innovate bioprinting technologies to transform patient care. By enabling the fabrication of living tissues, the Company believes its bioprinting technology will unlock the promise and potential — to develop new therapeutics, and to improve patient lives.

Packaging manufacturer Coveris has installed a five-layer cast stretch film extrusion line of the type ALLrollEX 1500 mm from Colines at its Winsford extrusion hub in the UK. The system includes the Mastermind virtual assistant for process automation and was commissioned with full system integration, including downstream palletising. Latest generation ALLrollEX by Colines running at Coveris‘ flagship facility in Winsford (UK). The installed ALLrollEX line operates with a nominal web width of 1500 mm and is designed for the production of high-performance stretch film. The line supports five-layer co-extrusion with a focus on consistency, mechanical performance, and process stability under industrial-scale conditions. The system is equipped with Mastermind, Colines’ proprietary AI-based virtual assistant. The software module monitors and optimises process parameters in real time, enabling fast changeovers and minimised downtime. Key functions include predictive control, automated recipe management, and self-adjusting process loops. In addition to the state-of-the-art extrusion line and automation system, a palletising unit was also delivered. Colines states that it was able to provide a complete system solution tailored to the customer’s requirements. According to Coveris, the commissioning process went smoothly. Contractual deadlines were not only met but completed ahead of schedule. The comprehensive support provided by the Colines team during delivery and start-up was positively highlighted.

International News Digest: Raw Materials News -Brenntag Specialties and ExxonMobil extend distribution agreement for White Oils in EMEA Packaging News - Balcan Innovations makes $200-million investment in Quebec, U.S.Auto News - Volvo May Initiate Large-scale Layoffs in China Medical News - TekniPlex Healthcare opens flagship barrier protection systems plant in Wisconsin Macro News - Israel Attacked Area Near Iran's Heavy Water Reactor Price Information - The central parity rate of the RMB against the US dollar was quoted at 7.1729, up 32 points. The following are the details of international news: 1.Brenntag Specialties and ExxonMobil extend distribution agreement for White Oils in EMEA Brenntag announced the extension of the distribution agreement with ExxonMobil on White Oils. After decades of cooperation in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, CEE and the Baltics, the agreement now also includes Iberia, the Netherlands and Israel. ExxonMobil's white oil products are manufactured in accordance with the European Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and processed in the clean room at Brenntag's Hamburg site. This ensures high product quality, competitive delivery cycles, and reliable supply security in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region. 2. FEAD: Ambition must not be compromised FEAD welcomes the Council’s adoption of a General Approach on the proposed End-of-Life Vehicles Regulation (ELVR), but underlines several problematic clauses that need to be remedied during the Trilogue. While acknowledging the importance of progress in the legislative process, FEAD warns that diluting minimum recycled content targets and timelines undermines the Regulation’s ability to deliver true circularity in the automotive sector. 3. Balcan Innovations makes $200-million investment in Quebec, U.S. Saint-Léonard, Que.based film and flexible packaging maker Balcan Innovations has completed installation of their new Windmoller & Hoelscher (W&H) printing press in Terrebonne, Que., in what’s being described as the first in a series of major investments in new extrusion, printing, and bag-making machinery for their Wisconsin and Quebec-based facilities. 4. Volvo May Initiate Large-scale Layoffs in ChinaOn the morning of June 19th, GAC learned from multiple sources that Volvo has recently carried out large-scale layoffs across China, with a ratio as high as 50%, affecting multiple positions in engineering research and development and supply chain. The specific list is expected to be announced and all operations completed by the end of this month. GAC immediately sought verification from Volvo China's official channel. The relevant person in charge responded, "We haven't heard of it yet." However, perhaps this rumor is not groundless; it's just that the scale and scope of the layoffs may be different. It's worth noting that this rumor emerged only three weeks after Volvo globally announced the layoff of 3,000 employees. Looking back to May 26th, this Swedish automaker officially announced a global restructuring plan, involving 1,200 employees in Sweden and 1,800 positions in other regions around the world. 5.TekniPlex Healthcare opens flagship barrier protection systems plant in Wisconsin Healthcare product maker TekniPlex Healthcare has opened a new 200,000-square-foot facility in Madison, Wis., that will serve as the flagship location for the company’s Barrier Protection Systems business. First announced in June 2023, the site will strengthen Tekni-Plex’s ability to support medical device and pharmaceutical companies along with their downstream partners, including hospitals, outpatient surgery centres, laboratories and patients, with reliable access to sterile barrier packaging that protects life-saving medical technologies, the company said in a June 12 statement. 6. 27th International Waste Plastics Day set to take place on 24-25 June in Germany The 27th International Waste Plastics Day is set to take place in Dresden, Germany, on 24 and 25 June. Organised by the German association for secondary raw materials and waste disposal bvse, this year’s congress is to focus on the theme of Plastics Recycling: Out of the Crisis and Into the Future. More than 300 participants are expected to take part. 7. UPM Raflatac business area to be renamed as UPM Adhesive Materials UPM Raflatac business area and reporting segment will be renamed UPM Adhesive Materials as of June 12, 2025. The new reporting segment name will be in use from the Interim Report Q2 2025 onwards.   Macro Market Information: 【Israel attacks area near Iran's heavy water reactor】 Xinhua News Agency quoted Iran's Mehr News Agency as reporting on the 19th that Israel launched attacks on areas near Iran's Khondab heavy water reactor facility. According to relevant officials, personnel at the facility had been evacuated previously, and there is no radiation risk at the facility. Israel had previously warned of launching attacks on this facility. 【IDC: China's floor cleaning robot market shipment volume grew 21.4% year-on-year in Q1】 The latest report released by the International Data Corporation (IDC) shows that in the first quarter of 2025, China's floor cleaning robot market shipped 1.188 million units, a year-on-year increase of 21.4%, with the shipment growth rate exceeding 20% for two consecutive quarters. Affected by the "national subsidy policy", the trend of deepened concentration among leading manufacturers is more obvious than in the global market, accelerating market reshuffle, and the market share gap between the Top 5 manufacturers is continuously narrowing. While the cost-effectiveness of new products is accelerating upgrading, it brings hidden inventory concerns, and some old models face greater inventory pressure. Since 2025, the technological upgrading directions have focused on bionic robotic arms and AI interaction, but the average shipment unit price has declined, further squeezing manufacturers' profit margins. 【US-Mexico presidents hold phone call, Mexican economy minister to visit US to promote trade consultations】 On the local time of June 18, Mexican President Ximbaum stated that she had a phone conversation with US President Trump. It is reported that during the conversation, Ximbaum proposed to Trump to promote a "comprehensive agreement" to jointly address security, immigration, and trade issues. Ximbaum also revealed that Mexican Economy Minister Ebrard will visit the US to promote trade issue consultations, while focusing on security and immigration issues with the US side.   Price Information:   【RMB to USD Central Parity Rate】 The central parity rate of RMB against USD was set at 7.1729, up 32 pips; the previous trading day's parity was 7.1761, the official closing price was 7.1868, and the night session close was 7.1900. 【Raw Materials USD Market Prices】 Ethylene Asia: CFR Northeast Asia $820/ton (up $10/ton); CFR Southeast Asia $850/ton. Propylene Northeast Asia: FOB South Korea average $720/ton; CFR China average $760/ton. North Asia LPG CIF price: Propane $580-582/ton; Butane $550-552/ton. South China LPG late July CIF price: Propane $612-622/ton; Butane $554-564/ton. Taiwan region LPG CIF price: Propane $580-582/ton; Butane $550-552/ton. 【LLDPE USD Market Prices】 Film: $915/ton (CFR Huangpu); Injection molding: $960/ton (CFR Dongguan). 【HDPE USD Market Prices】 Film: $900-915/ton (CFR Huangpu, down $10/ton); Hollow: $865/ton (CFR Huangpu, up $5/ton). 【LDPE USD Market Prices】 Film: $1035/ton (CFR Xiamen). 【PP USD Market Prices】 Homopolymer: $890-970/ton (CFR Huangpu); Copolymer: $965-990/ton (CFR Huangpu); Film material: $1025-1090/ton (CFR Huangpu); Transparent: $1100/ton (CFR Huangpu, up $35/ton); Pipes: $1160/ton (CFR Shanghai).

Saint-Léonard, Que.-based film and flexible packaging maker Balcan Innovations has completed installation of their new Windmoller & Hoelscher (W&H) printing press in Terrebonne, Que., in what’s being described as the first in a series of major investments in new extrusion, printing, and bag-making machinery for their Wisconsin and Quebec-based facilities. Artist’s rendering of the 15,250-square-foot expansion at Balcan’s factory in Pleasant Prairie, Wis. Image Credit: Balcan Innovations In a June 2 news release, Balcan officials said the company’s newly launched capital expenditure plan represents a $200-million commitment aimed at significantly expanding their U.S. operations with eight co-extrusion lines, one printing press, one tuber, and two bag-making machines, set to be installed in Pleasant Prairie, Wis., in 2025 through 2027 – an investment that will increase the plant’s film capacity by more than 700 per cent to meet the growing demands of their U.S. customers. Balcan has also received municipal government approval to expand their 215,000 square-foot factory in Pleasant Prairie by 15,250-square-feet to accommodate the incoming assets. Additional infrastructure investments include the installation of exterior rail spurs for direct resin delivery, electrical upgrades, companywide training tools, and an expansion of their engineering and maintenance workforce across all sites. To complement their planned U.S. growth, the now-operational 10-colour Miraflex II press in Terrebonne “represents a portion of Balcan’s commitment to reinforcing their expansive Canadian roots,” the statement said. The press will be followed by a five-layer W&H co-extrusion line in Terrebonne, set to be operational in early 2026, along with numerous machinery optimization projects already underway across their Montreal and Laval plants. “We’re continuing to invest in the best equipment and the best processes to serve our customers where they want to be served, whether that be in Canada or the U.S.,” said André Desroches, Balcan’s chief operating officer. “This is about creating manufacturing redundancies and positioning ourselves for what’s next, both for our company and the future of the flexible packaging industry.” Balcan manufactures high-performance polyethylene films, flexible packaging, and reflective insulation with five brands at their core: Balcan Packaging, Plastixx FFS Technologies, NELMAR Security Packaging Systems, rFoil, and Reflectix.

Packaging manufacturer Constantia Flexibles (Vienna; www.cflex.com) said it has put a new 5-layer blown film plant onstream at its German site in Pirk. The film production unit made by German manufacturer Hosokawa Alpine (Augsburg; www.hosokawa-alpine.com) works with inline machine direction orientation (MDO) technology.Constantia did not provide any details on the sum invested or the planned production capacity.With the MDO technology – which is based on monoaxially stretching – barrier properties, optical characteristics, and the thickness of the packing material can be modified during the production process. This enables the production of recyclable mono-polyethylene films, which the company markets under the EcoLam HighPlus brand.The research and development department is also based at the Constantia’s Pirk site, where it has a workforce of around 800.The Austrian packaging manufacturer has been majority owned by US private equity firm One Rock Capital Partners (New York, New York; www.onerockcapital.com) since 2023.With around 9,580 employees at 36 sites in 16 countries, Constantia Flexibles reported sales in 2023 of around EUR 2 bn.At the beginning of 2024, the company acquired a majority of the shares of Swiss competitor Aluflexpack (Reinach; www.aluflexpack.com).

The alliance, according to the partners, promises OEMs a faster path to market.THIERRY DOSOGNE/ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES   In a strategic move to streamline fragmented supply chains and accelerate production timelines, digital manufacturing platform Fictiv has partnered with Evco Plastics, a global custom injection molder and contract manufacturer. The collaboration aims to create a fully managed, resilient supply chain solution that spans the entire product lifecycle — from concept to high-volume production. The partnership, announced this week, combines Fictiv's AI-driven platform and global logistics expertise with Evco's extensive manufacturing footprint, which includes more than 1 million square feet of production space and 270 injection molding machines, including presses up to 4,400 tons. The alliance, according to the partners, promises OEMs a faster path to market and reduced bill-of-materials (BOM) costs through enhanced material sourcing and design-for-manufacturability (DFM) services. Helping customers The partnership is about helping customers do more with less, according to Fictiv, and by integrating its technology with Evco's operations, Fictiv will be addressing key pain points such as tariff mitigation, secondary processing gaps, and Mexico's still-developing supply base. The partnership is particularly focused on supporting complex, highly engineered products in regions where the supply chain remains fragmented — especially in Mexico. Fictiv's GlobalFlex program, according to the company, blends cost-effective Chinese tooling inserts with localized production in next-generation facilities in the US and Mexico, improving gross margins and cutting lead times. Related:Fictiv Announces GlobalFlex Solution for Injection Molding in North America Capabilities span a range of advanced molding processes, including overmolding, gas-assist molding, in-mold decorating, and liquid silicone rubber (LSR) molding, the partners noted. Beyond molding, the alliance also supports 3D printing, assembly, testing, and packaging. The companies hold multiple certifications — including ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, IATF 16949, and FDA compliance — ensuring customers in industries like medical, automotive, and consumer products can count on quality, traceability, and regulatory readiness. "Our partnership with Evco marks a crucial step in simplifying global manufacturing supply chains," said Dave Evans, co-founder and CEO of Fictiv. "Together, we can reduce the overall number of suppliers and 'papercuts' involved in managing multiple suppliers to deliver efficiency and predictability in an unpredictable world." Carlos Gonzales, head of Evco Plastics de Mexico, noted that Fictiv's capabilities allow the company to concentrate on manufacturing excellence while Fictiv tackles the complex workflow and supply chain challenges that impact OEM margins. "It's the best of both worlds coming together," he said. Moreover, the Fictiv-Evco collaboration aims to provide scalable, tailored solutions, underscoring a shared commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability in the manufacturing sector, according to the partners. Evco was founded in 1964, employs over 2,100 people, and is headquartered in DeForest, WI. The company also has three plants in Wisconsin, two in Georgia, three in Mexico, and one in China. Fictiv, a global manufacturing and supply chain company, has four global manufacturing centers in India, Mexico, China, and the US. GlobalFlex's debut GlobalFlex was rolled out by Fictiv earlier this year as an injection molding solution the company has engineered to mitigate global supply chain disruptions and optimize costs. According to the company, GlobalFlex integrates tooling inserts produced in China with Fictiv's mold frames, assembled across next-generation manufacturing facilities in China, the United States, and Mexico. The company said its new offering leverages the speed and cost efficiencies of overseas production while enabling manufacturers to rapidly pivot to domestic production in response to shifts in demand or tariffs. "Now more than ever, agility and regional flexibility are critical for maintaining resilient supply chains," Robbie Long, a product marketing manager at Fictiv, said in February. "Our expanded suite of injection molding offerings exemplifies our commitment to innovation, seamlessly streamlining operations and empowering manufacturers to navigate today's volatile global trade market." Additionally, Fictiv's injection molding import program enables full production molds to be built in China and deployed into its US or Mexico manufacturing partner network, according to the company.

At this year's Chinaplas International Rubber and Plastics Exhibition (April 15-18, 2025 | Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center, Bao'an, China), Coperion will showcase core technologies for the entire process chain of plastics processing and recycling at booth K25 in Hall 10. Coperion will showcase two extruders that are very suitable for the current challenges of plastic compounding and recycling. The fourth generation...STS 75 Mc PLUTwin-screw ExtruderIts 13.6 Nm/cm³ specific torque has increased the capacity of the STS extruder by 20%, and the product quality has also significantly improved. A productZSK 58 Mc18Twin-screw extruderThe equipment will also be exhibited at this event, featuring exceptional torque to meet high production demands, particularly suitable for products requiring high torque, such as engineering plastics. In addition, Coperion will highlight its reliable and high-precision feeding solutions, including a...Ktronic T35 Loss-in-Weight Feeder Pair with a replenishment unit for2415 Vacuum Feeder, as well as aCalmaThe C/S-LW-NS 60 single-screw feeder systemA machine.ProRate PLUS-M FeederCVH 550 High-Pressure Rotary Valveand one for granular materialsWEK 265 double-acting directional valve。 In the field of plastic recycling, Coperion andHerbold MeckesheimCollaborating to provide manufacturers with rich technical expertise and process solutions, we will showcase a virtual 3D recycling system at this international plasturgy exhibition. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the inner core components of the recycling system and observe the process technology details and efficient component processing at each step. STS Mc PLUS extruder: An economical and efficient solution suitable for various applications. Over the years, the STS extruder series has established itself in the market as a high-quality product for a variety of extrusion and compounding tasks, such as engineering plastics and masterbatches, as well as cable materials, recycling of regrind plastics, powder coatings, etc. This extruder is produced in Coperion Nanjing and meets CE standards as well as Coperion's high quality standards. They are known for their attractive price-to-performance ratio. Coperion's 10K25 booth showcased the STS 75 Mc PLUS, which represents the fourth generation of STS technology, achieving a screw speed of 900 min.-1At that time, its specific torque can reach 13.6 Nm/cm³. This improvement enables mixing manufacturers to deliver higher quality products, and compared to earlier models, each application can increase production capacity by 20%. The key to achieving this performance level and technological improvements lies in optimizing the core components of the drive segment. This STS 75 Mc PLUS extruder is equipped with a more powerful motor and a transmission designed specifically for its high torque. The core shaft uses high-performance materials to ensure sufficient torque output from the transmission to the processing section. The high fill level in the processing section is crucial for the STS 75 Mc PLUS to achieve excellent mixing quality. It simultaneously reduces shear stress and lowers the melting temperature while improving mixing performance. The result is high output with very gentle material handling. This will also be...KalmykC/S-LW-NT38 twin-screw feederExhibited together. The torque of the Coperion STS 75 Mc PLUS twin-screw extruder has been increased to 13.6 Nm/cm³, boosting production capacity by 20% while also enhancing product quality.。 ZSK Mc18Extruder: Manufactured for Higher Demands Visitors can also learn more about the advantages of the well-known ZSK series extruders. These high-performance extruders, such as the exhibited ZSK 58 Mc¹⁸, achieve high output and great economic benefits. This extruder with a specific torque of 18 Nm/cm³ is characterized by consistent high output and top-notch product quality. By assembling in China, Coperion can respond to customer needs as quickly as possible. Customers can enjoy local value-added services, reduce transportation and tax costs, and shorter delivery times. This time, it will be paired withK-ML-SFS-KT20 twin screw feeder by Coperion K-TronExhibit. A complete system for recycling plastic from a single source KraussMaffei and Herbold Meckesheim have jointly realized a plant for various plastic recycling applications, demonstrating excellence in reliability and high product quality. From mechanical processing - shredding, washing, separation, drying, and pelletizing of plastics - to bulk material handling, feeding, and extrusion, to compounding and granulation, the entire process chain of recycled plastics is covered. At the same time, KraussMaffei and Herbold Meckesheim provide solutions for various recycling processes such as mechanical recycling of industrial and post-consumer waste, chemical recycling, PET recycling, or solvent recycling. Especially for the recycling of post-consumer waste (PCR) or any highly contaminated polymers, Coperion offers the innovative ZSK FilCo filter compounding extruder, which can perform filtration and compounding in a single production step. Compared to the two-step production line that has been used to date, Coperion's ZSK FilCo is known for its more streamlined equipment configuration. Energy consumption and emissions in the compounding process have been reduced by more than 50%. The reliability of plastic recycling equipment from Coperion and Herbold Meckesheim is outstanding, and the quality of the recycled products is very high. Powerful, flexible and accurate feeding solution: ProRate PLUS ProRate PLUSThe feeder integrates cutting-edge European feeding technology and control systems, ensuring high precision and reliability during the loss-in-weight feeding process. This production line meets the growing demand in the plastics industry for robust and efficient feeding solutions.ProRate PLUSThe continuous weighing feeder production line is an economical solution that can quickly yield a return on investment due to its cost-effectiveness and rapid delivery. The ProRate PLUS feeder line features a space-saving trapezoidal design, allowing up to six feeders to easily group around the extruder feed throat within a 1.5-meter [5-foot] radius. Three single-screw feeder models—PLUS-S, PLUS-M, and PLUS-L—along with the PLUS-MT twin-screw model, cover a wide range of throughput requirements and bulk materials. Depending on the material, the ProRate PLUS feeder can handle feeding rates from 3.3 to 4800 dm.3/h[0.12 to 400 ft3 /h]. Theoretically, a feeding system equipped with six ProRate PLUS-L feeders can achieve up to 28.8 m on a footprint of just 7 square meters [75 square feet].3/h[1017 ft3Feeding capacity of /h]. The ProRate PLUS feeder features a space-saving trapezoidal design, allowing up to six feeders to be easily grouped around the extruder's feed port within a 1.5-meter [5-foot] radius. Intelligent Feeding Solution In addition, at this year's international rubber and plastic exhibition, Coperion will also highlight the high precision of Coperion K-TronK2-ML-D5-T35Feeding machine, equipped with intelligent material vibration fluidizer.ActiFlow™Pressure Compensation System（EPC）To demonstrate its professional skills in all feeding tasks, the feeder is also equipped with a 2415 vacuum loader for material replenishment. ActiFlow™ Intelligent Material Vibrating Fluidizer is a revolutionary design that, for materials with poor flowability, especially sticky materials, eliminates the need for stainless steel. The mixer used inside the steel material hopper can effectively prevent the formation of arching and rat holes. This intelligent fluidizer applies slight vibrations to the hopper walls, carefully providing fluidization power to the materials inside the hopper with an ideal amplitude and frequency, automatically adjusted by the controller based on the material flow. It is specifically designed for the Schenck Process loss-in-weight feeder. Comprehensive worry-free service Coperion has conducted intensive research and development work for the construction of new plants and the integration of existing systems. To this end, Coperion offers comprehensive maintenance and upgrade packages for all its products and technologies, significantly enhancing the productivity, flexibility, and reliability of the equipment. This service allows equipment operators to fully exploit the potential functions of the equipment in a short time. Kebylon Group Kebron (www.coperion.com) The above content is already in English. It seems there might have been a misunderstanding. The provided sentence "****************" is in Chinese and translates to English as: "It is a compounding and extrusion system."Crushing, cleaning, sorting, drying, and pelletizing system solutionsOne of the global industry and technology leaders in feeding and metering systems, material and pneumatic conveying systems, as well as grinding, mixing, heat treatment, dust removal, and other services. KABELON researches, manufactures, and maintains systems, equipment, and components for the plastics and plastic recycling industry, as well as for the chemical, battery, mining, food, and pharmaceutical industries. In the three major divisions of performance materials, food, health and nutrition, and aftermarket sales and services, KABELON has5,000Name of employee and50A sales and service company. Coperion isHillenbrand(New York Stock Exchange code:HIThe operating company of **.HillenbrandIt is a global industrial company that provides highly integrated core process processing equipment and solutions for customers in various industries around the world. www.hillenbrand.com  

April 15-18Shenzhen World Exhibition Convention Center (Bao'an) Asia's largest-scale rubber and plastics industry eventCHINAPLAS 2025 International Rubber Plastics Exhibition is gearing up.High-power permanent magnet servo motor expertBojie Electric made its debut with a large exhibition booth of over 200 square meters.Booth number: 12A41Please stay tuned! Visitor pre-registration is very important!Please scan the QR code to enter the official registration channel, fill in the relevant information, and after submission, on the "Pay the entrance fee or use the free admission code" page, enter the Bojie free admission code.【XYGP7RHUX】 Register now for free and save 80 yuan instantly!(If the free admission code is invalid, please contact the Bojie salesperson to get a new admission code) The deadline for audience pre-registration is:April 9, 2025, 17:00 (GMT+8:00) Please register as soon as possible!How to enter the venue?According to the relevant regulationsThe exhibition adopts a real-name system and accepts facial recognition for entry. Audience holding the Resident Identity Card of the People's Republic of China, look here!After completing the pre-registration, the electronic visitor pass will be sent to you via SMS and email. You can also obtain the electronic visitor pass by logging into your MyChinaplas account or through the official WeChat account of CHINAPLAS. The electronic visitor pass looks like this ↓Audiences who have received the electronic admission pass may enter with it.Chinese Resident Identity Card (original)Scan to enter for the visit, and present simultaneously.Electronic Visitor Pass。 Non-residents of the People's Republic of China holding other forms of identification, please proceed here!For overseas visitors who have received the "Pre-Registration Confirmation Letter", please bring it along.Confirmation letter；"Go to"Overseas Audience Counter", byBusiness cardandOriginal identity documentFor example, by using a passport/Macau residents' Mainland Travel Permit/Taiwan residents' Mainland Travel Permit to obtain a visit pass, you can enter and visit. April 15-18Shenzhen International Exhibition CenterBogee booth12A41We will meet again for sure!

Recently, China Kunlun Engineering Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Kunlun Engineering") announced that the ZCP13 cationic polyester unit of Xin Fengming Group Zhonghong has been successfully in operation for more than a month since its commissioning on March 30th. During this period, the unit has operated steadily, and all product indicators have met the standards.The ZCP13 cationic polyester project of Xin Fengming Group, undertaken by the headquarters of China Kunlun Engineering Co., Ltd., with the participation of three branch companies in Shenyang, Liaoyang, and Liaojin. The successful commissioning of this facility marks another 'national heavy weapon' in China's high-end fiber materials field.As a benchmark project for the domestic production of 250,000 tons of fiber-grade cationic modified polyester annually, the Zhonghong ZCP13 facility bears the strategic mission of promoting the upgrade of new textile materials. The production process of cationic polyester is complex and requires precise control of reactions such as esterification and polycondensation under high temperature and pressure conditions. The facility includes 5 reactors and over 200 dynamic and static equipment pieces, with a pipeline system that crisscrosses throughout, making the design challenging.Facing the extremely tight overall project schedule requirements, the Shenyang branch team met the challenge with a "starting at full speed" attitude. They had to complete the design of the entire 23,000-meter high-pressure piping system for the facility during the design phase from February to September 2024, covering three core sections: esterification, pre-polycondensation, and final polycondensation. This is equivalent to completing 120% of the work in only 60% of the time typically required for a regular project.In early spring February 2024, a race against time has quietly begun in Shenyang. The Shenyang branch has formed a cross-departmental task force, breaking down the design tasks into three major battles: optimizing process pipelines, building 3D models, and accurately reporting materials. The design team creatively adopted a "rolling delivery" model, dividing the 23,000 meters of pressure pipelines into five layers for simultaneous advancement, and dynamically matching the 3D model with the construction progress through PDMS software.The project has entered "wartime mode": The equipment pipeline system is divided into three sections: process main flow, utility engineering, and thermal media engineering. Using a "modular design + phased delivery" strategy, it achieves efficient collaboration through batch submission of drawings, segmented material procurement, and interspersed construction progress.With the "5+2" and "white plus black" fighting spirit, the project team completed all 2,800 drawings on schedule and delivered them in batches. The materials list for 23,000 meters of piping was also submitted for procurement on time and in batches, securing valuable time for on-site construction.At the construction site, the "Kunlun speed" is also being demonstrated. In response to the challenges of limited space within the building and frequent cross-operation tasks, the design team has deployed one key member to be stationed on-site constantly, while other members provide timely support. They carry out daily clearance and settlement-style对接with the construction team, assisting in solving technical issues such as pipeline collision and support positioning to ensure the project is implemented with zero errors.As a model project of CNPC's "integration" strategy, the ZCP13 facility fully demonstrates the efficiency and advantages of group operations. The Shenyang Branch Pipe Specialty collaborated closely with relevant specialties such as process, structure, equipment, automation control, and electrical at the headquarters, as well as LiaoYang and LiaoJin branches, timely resolving key issues such as interface demarcation. In optimizing the layout of the facility core area, experts from the headquarters personally guided the project team on-site, ensuring the core issues were addressed.More notably, the project全程 applied the digital delivery platform independently developed by Kunlun Engineering, achieving project cycle management for the pipeline component library and stress calculation models. This not only ensured the project schedule but also established replicable standardized operating procedures, saving at least 30% of design hours for subsequent similar projects.The successful commissioning of the ZCP13 facility is another milestone in Kunlun Engineering's mission to serve the country through technology, pulsating with the strong heartbeat of the ethnic fiber industry's upward advancement. In the future, this team, which excels in tough battles and dares to forge new paths, will continue to compose new chapters of glory on new "battlefields" with their craftsmanship and wisdom.The High-End Polyester New Materials Industry Chain Forum will be held in Hangzhou on April 25, 2025. The conference is hosted by Asia Chemical Consulting and will explore various high-end polyester new materials and their key raw materials' industrial policies and market trends, the latest technologies and commercialization progress, the cost and environmental competitiveness of different route technologies using chemical methods and bio-based methods, investment in new projects, upstream and downstream integration, performance and competitiveness comparison of high-end polyester new material products, and development of high-end downstream applications. Leaders and experts from China Kunlun Engineering Co., Ltd. will attend and give keynote reports.

April 15-18, TopstarThe theme is "A leading one-stop injection molding solution"”，Carrying the first high-speed packaging industry intelligent injection molding automation production line solution,Debut at CHINAPLAS 2025 International Rubber and Plastics Exhibition.The plan integrates multiple processes.Injection Molding—Pick and Stack—Bag Packaging—Labeling—Unpacking—Sealing—Intelligent Palletizing WorkstationTo achieve a fully closed-loop for high-speed packaging productionShowcase the highlights of the plan and give a "sneak peek" in advance. SmartAssisting customers in production line automation upgradesAutomatically adjust the trajectory of mechanical arms and robots.Ensure uninterrupted continuous production。SupportRemote Intelligent Operations and MaintenanceReal-time monitoring of device status.The average fault response time has been reduced to within 2 hours.。FlexibilityEquipment maintenance costs have been reduced by 25%.Integrated module design, reducing floor space by 50%;No large-scale renovation of the factory is required, saving time and budget.。The modular structure makes later maintenance more convenient, significantly reducing downtime.EfficientProduction capacity increased by 15%High-speed electric injection molding machine for milk tea cup production: one mold with eight cavities, 7.2-second cycle.An additional 14,400 pieces can be produced daily, increasing capacity by 15%.Above.If multiple devices of this kind are configured, the production capacity will increase linearly. , quickly scale up production, and easily handle peak orders during the busy season.Immediate results upon investment, significantly shortened payback period. Free entry with registrationPre-registration is now open! Scan the QR code to complete.Registration deadline: 17:00 on April 9, 2025 Contact the assistant (WeChat: 13528647543)Get free registration codeDuring the exhibition, carrying the original ID card allows direct entry to the venue. The First Smart Device Headquarters Base Open DayTOPSTAR On April 17th, Topstar will host an event for overseas customers."First Smart Device Headquarters Base Open Day"During the event, customers will visit the research, manufacturing, and testing processes of industrial robots, CNC machines, and injection molding machines along with their peripheral equipment. This will provide an in-depth understanding of Topstar's technical strength and innovative achievements in the field of intelligent manufacturing, allowing participants to experience the charm and value of smart manufacturing. 

 CHINAPLAS 2025The 37th China International Plastics Rubber Industry ExhibitionThe 37th China International Plastics and Rubber Industry Exhibition (CHINAPLAS 2025) will be held at the Shenzhen World Exhibition Convention Center from April 15 to 18, 2025. At this exhibition, Liansheng Precision will present intelligent and eco-friendly overall injection molding production solutions, showcasing Liansheng's approach to innovation and development in the industry. We warmly welcome friends and customers to visit and share in this grand event!Booth number: Hall 12 R31Exhibition PlanElectric Precision Injection Molding MachineMedical Consumables Production SolutionsThe GE-LS120 all-electric precision injection molding machine, equipped with medical consumables precision molds and peripheral auxiliary equipment, showcases a complete set of forming solutions at the booth. The performance features of the GE series all-electric precision injection molding machine, including precision, stability, and efficiency, are prominently displayed.Exhibited Model: GE-LS120 Fully Electric Precision Injection Molding Machine1The device has strong performance.The GE series all-electric precision injection molding machine features a stable solid-state heating control system, with a temperature control accuracy of ±1℃ and a mechanical repeatability of ±0.01mm. The equipment operates with agility and smoothness, meeting the precision requirements of the products.2High-precision control systemEquipped with an excellent all-electric injection molding machine control system and high-response high-precision servo motors, it can accurately control the end point of injection. With precise injection pressure sensors forming a closed-loop control, the outstanding injection pressure loop control ensures the stability of the product.3High production efficiencyThe all-electric injection molding machine shortens the molding cycle by 3 to 5 seconds compared to traditional hydraulic injection molding machines under the same production conditions. It can also achieve synchronous ejection and synchronous melting functions.GT5 single-cylinder precision injection molding machine:Special Application Scheme for Electric Melting Glue Injection PlatformThis solution employs the Liansheng fifth-generation single-cylinder precision injection molding machine equipped with the ES series electric melt glue-specific injection unit. This injection unit is specifically developed for injection molding machines with a clamping force of 260 tons or below, compatible with Liansheng's GT3 and GT5 series models. It maintains the performance advantages of the single-cylinder structure while achieving energy efficiency and high productivity.Exhibited Model: GT5-LS200ES Specialized Injection Unit Application Solution for Hot Melt Adhesive Maintaining the performance advantages of the single-cylinder structure and injection parameters, increase the screw rotation speed by 11%.Electric melting glue can save about 15% to 30% energy consumption in the melting process compared with traditional hydraulic motor melting glue.It can achieve synchronous plasticizing function, shorten the plasticizing cycle, and improve production efficiency by more than 20%.GT5-BT Thin-Wall High-Speed Injection Molding Machine:Small bucket packaging production solutionThe GT5-BT high-speed injection molding machine features a brand-new control system, combined with a dedicated servo drive system, ensuring smoother machine operation. To meet the requirements of thin-wall packaging molds, the rigidity of the clamping mechanism has been further enhanced.In addition, it is equipped with a brand new launch platform structure, high-response servo motors, with a speed response of less than 25ms. The entire system is equipped with a dual power system, with a shooting speed of 350-450mm/s. It adopts a new pump control technology, achieving more precise control accuracy.Exhibited Model: GT5-LS280BT High-Speed Injection Molding Machine1High rigidity frameThe framework is widened, the machine frame weight is increased, and the clamping system is strengthened, with an improvement of 15%-20% in strength, rigidity, and clamping force. The pressure piping uses flared steel pipes to avoid welding, making the layout more convenient for maintenance.2High-precision control systemThe new shooting platform structure adopts a high-response servo motor paired with a dedicated servo drive system for control, achieving a speed response of less than 25ms, ensuring smoother operation.Equipped with a dual power system across all models, firing rate of 350-450 mm/s. Utilizes new pump control technology for more precise control accuracy.3Equipped with direct-drive hot melt glueAfter implementing the electric melting glue solution on the Liansheng Precision high-speed machine, the electricity consumption during the glue melting process is reduced by approximately 36% compared to using a hydraulic motor, achieving an overall machine energy saving of 12%. The electricity-saving effect is significant. The larger the product glue volume and the longer the melting time, the more pronounced the electricity-saving effect becomes.A mold equipped with a needle valve can achieve simultaneous melt flow, which saves electricity and increases production efficiency, reducing the molding cycle by about 20%. Booth Location

With the acceleration of urbanization, the issue of mixed waste generated from decoration activities has become increasingly prominent. This waste is vast in quantity and complex in composition, and improper handling can have severe environmental impacts. However, the emergence of screening and resource sorting production lines for renovation mixed waste provides an innovative solution to this problem, leading a green revolution.The mixed construction waste contains various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic. Traditional landfill or incineration methods not only waste resources but may also pollute the soil, groundwater, and atmosphere. The goal of the resource recycling sorting line is to transform this waste into valuable resources that can be reused.On this highly efficient production line, construction waste first goes through a pre-treatment stage, where large crushers break down bulky waste into smaller particles, facilitating subsequent processing. Then, magnetic separation equipment isolates ferromagnetic metals, which directly enter the steel production cycle. According to the Color Masterbatch Industry Network, this process not only increases the resource recovery rate but also reduces the difficulty of waste handling.Next is the screening process, where garbage is separated into components of different sizes using screens with varying apertures. Coarse materials such as bricks and ceramic fragments can be further processed into recycled bricks and recycled aggregates; fine materials such as plastics and paper are further separated through methods like air classification and density separation. Air classification technology can lift lightweight plastic particles and paper, and then electrostatic separation is used to sort plastics with different conductivity levels, ensuring precise resource recovery.The separated plastic is cleaned and crushed to produce recycled plastic pellets, which are used to manufacture various plastic products; paper and fabric are compressed and baled, serving as raw materials for papermaking or industrial wiping cloths. The entire production line employs an automated control system, using intelligent sensors and data analysis to monitor the operational status in real-time, ensuring optimal sorting efficiency and effectiveness.This production line has not only brought significant environmental benefits, reducing landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions, and improving air quality, but also generated economic benefits for the enterprise. The recycling of metals, plastics, and other resources has lowered raw material procurement costs, and government support policies have provided the enterprise with subsidies and tax incentives.Meanwhile, the promotion and application of this production line have also raised public awareness of environmental protection. Communities and construction sites are more actively cooperating in the sorting, collection, and transportation of waste, fostering a positive environmental atmosphere. The screening, processing, and resource-sorting production line for mixed renovation waste has become a crucial pillar for urban green development, guiding us toward a more sustainable future.

 WishCongratulationsWe, Donghua Machinery, have actively applied for the "Classification and Grading Assessment of Intelligent Manufacturing System Solution Providers (Third Batch)." After rigorous evaluation, we are pleased to announce that Donghua Machinery's service processes comply with the national standard GB/T 43554-2023 "General Requirements for Intelligent Manufacturing Services," and our integration and implementation capabilities have reachedLevel A！ iSee4.0: The Core Engine of Intelligent ManufacturingISEE 4.0 system interface screenshot demonstrationiSee4.0 Intelligent Management Cloud PlatformAs the star product of Donghua Machinery, it is a key force in helping enterprises move towards Industry 4.0. Based on the Internet of Things for industrial equipment, it integrates cutting-edge technologies such as cloud computing and big data to create a data-driven intelligent production management platform for enterprises.Core advantages of iSee 4.001Visualizing Data and Scientific Decision MakingThrough a comprehensive and intelligent IoT cloud platform, iSee4.0 can collect and analyze production data in real-time, providing enterprises with precise decision-making support.02Intelligent Scheduling and Lean ProductionConvenient and efficient production planning management functions help enterprises optimize production processes and improve production efficiency.03Global monitoring and real-time pushMacroscopic equipment visualization management enables enterprises to monitor the overall production process in real time and promptly respond to various production issues. Empowering intelligent manufacturing, iSee4.0 is in action. iSee4.0Not only is it a management platform, but it is also a powerful tool for driving the intelligent transformation of the manufacturing industry. It provides strong support for enterprises in multiple aspects.Resource Allocation OptimizationIntegrate production equipment, molds, auxiliary machines, and other resources into unified management to provide support for efficient production.Process optimization supportBy collecting data from the production process, provide the basis for process managers to optimize the process.   Strengthening Quality ControlProvide information on operational specifications, quality inspection standards, etc., and combine data analysis to achieve quick tracing and resolution of quality issues.Future OutlookThis evaluation recognizes Donghua Machinery's efforts and achievements in the field of intelligent manufacturing.iSee4.0 systemWe will take this opportunity to further deepen the research and application of intelligent manufacturing technologies, continuously optimizing and advancing our efforts.iSee 4.0 systemTo provide more enterprises with high-quality intelligent manufacturing solutions, assist the manufacturing industry in transforming towards intelligence and digitalization, and move towards a more brilliant future!  

Injection molder Pittsfield Plastics Engineering (PPE) announced the installation of a new 1,600-ton Jupiter 14000 injection molding machine from Absolute Haitian Corp. for large-part molding. The press, along with associated robots and auxiliary equipment, will enable PPE to meet the needs of its newest customer, a manufacturer of septic tank products and services for the residential and commercial sanitation waste industry.PPE stated that investing in large-part injection molding is an integral part of its growth strategy, which has led to steady business growth over the past few years.CEO and CFO Bruce Dixon stated, "We are excited about this new large-part production capacity, which will not only meet the production needs of our new customers but also fill the redundancy of existing clients, potentially addressing future growth opportunities." "This investment also opens the door to new opportunities for large-part molding for other existing and potential clients in the industrial, electrical, and construction markets," Dixon added.The largest press in the PPE stableThis new press is the largest of the 25 injection molding machines at PPE. The Jupiter 14000 has an injection size capacity of up to 22 pounds and will be used to manufacture a 14-pound cover for a sewage grinder pump. The cover is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), with a diameter of 2 feet and a height of approximately 10 inches.PPE indicates that as it focuses more on more complex and demanding applications, it is seeking to hire new employees with advanced engineering and technical expertise. The company, headquartered in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, expects the workforce in technical/engineering, supervisory, and administrative positions to increase by up to 10% next year.The machine will also be used for molding 18 to 20-inch long electronic insulating covers, 28-inch long electrical covers, as well as canoe and kayak seats weighing 7.5 to 9 pounds.The 10-ton bridge crane installed in the workshopPPE recently installed a new 10-ton bridge crane from Konecranes for handling large molds. This crane complements the existing 5-ton crane and now enables the lifting and positioning of high-tonnage molds for efficient and safe operation.PPE is also equipped with a tool room staffed by experienced tool technicians. The company states that customers may need the tool room to repair their custom molds, thereby re-allocating their existing molds back into the press with minimal production delays.Automated work units include robots and vision systems.The new equipment also includes an advanced automation system driven by Sepro three-axis robots. The automated work unit contains end-of-arm tools and a Keyence vision system, which will perform insert molding, de-gating, and quality inspection.PPE indicates that as it focuses more on more complex and demanding applications, it is seeking to hire new employees with advanced engineering and technical expertise. The company, headquartered in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, expects the workforce in technical/engineering, supervisory, and administrative positions to increase by up to 10% next year.

SHL Medical, a manufacturer of auto-injection systems headquartered in Switzerland, officially opened its most advanced new manufacturing facility in North Charleston, South Carolina. SHL Medical stated that the expansion, first announced in summer 2022 with an investment of $220 million, contributed to the local economy and created hundreds of new jobs in the region.South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, North Charleston Mayor Reginald L. Burgess, and Swiss Consul General Urs Broennimann attended the grand opening ceremony last week.Ulrich Faessler, CEO of SHL Medical, welcomed Governor Henry McMaster to the grand opening ceremony of the company's new factory in North Charleston, South Carolina.Reliable domestic drug delivery device supplyThe factory, spanning 360,000 square feet, will produce SHL Medical's advanced auto-injectors for high-demand conditions such as obesity, autoimmune diseases, and rare disorders. SHL Medical stated that with the increasing demand for Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) therapies to treat conditions like type 2 diabetes and obesity, the new facility will ensure reliable supply of related drug delivery devices to U.S. patients, while reducing lead times and transportation costs.According to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 38 million Americans (1 in 10 adults) have been diagnosed with diabetes, and most of them have type 2 diabetes.Global market value 120 billion dollars"The facility marks a key step in our global expansion and enhances our ability to meet the growing demand for autoinjectors," said Ulrich Faessler, CEO of SHL Medical. In fact, according to data from Fortune Business Insights, the global autoinjector market was valued at $120 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 11.4% by 2032.SHL Medical is headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, with operations in Deerfield Beach, Florida; Sweden; and Taiwan. The company chose South Carolina as its U.S. flagship base because of the "strong skilled workforce pipeline and favorable business environment," CEO Ulrich Faessler said in a prepared statement. He added that the new facility will enable the company to "scale up production while contributing to the growth of the region."The new facility, equipped with advanced injection molding technology and fully automated assembly lines, complements SHL Medical’s established production site in Taiwan and its upcoming facility in Zug, Switzerland.The Swiss manufacturing plant is scheduled to open in 2026.Chugger Factory first announced in November 2020 that it is expected to be completed next year. The new global headquarters will cover 226,000 square feet and will seamlessly integrate office space with state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. SHL Medical expects an annual production capacity of approximately 80 million automatic injection devices, with nearly 350 employees. Once completed, it will make the company one of the few manufacturers of automatic injectors operating on three continents.By leveraging its existing operations in Florida and the recent acquisition of shares in SHL Advantec, the North Charleston facility has strengthened SHL Medical's presence in the United States, supporting large-scale production and advancing its mission to deliver world-class drug delivery devices. The company stated that it is on track to deliver 1.5 billion devices to customers by 2025."We are proud to expand our operations in the United States and support local communities," said Kimberlee Steele, Managing Director of North America. "One of the most trusted auto-injector brands is now made in the USA, ensuring patients have the essential equipment they need to manage their health independently."

Recently, Changzhou Jinyong Technology Materials Co., Ltd. has made a new breakthrough in the field of masterbatch production technology, successfully obtaining a utility model patent named "Intelligent Adding Device for Antioxidant Masterbatch Auxiliary Materials," with authorization announcement number CN 222694649 U, and the application date dated back to June 2024.According to the patent abstract, this innovative technology proposes a completely new antioxidant color masterbatch feeding mechanism. The core design of this mechanism involves ingeniously fixing the motor inside the material输送管道内，其输出轴上装配有螺旋送料杆，该杆左端通过轴承与输送管道左内壁相连，从而实现旋转功能。此外，添料管内设有固定筒，筒内通过轴承旋转连接有一个转动筒，其进料口与出料口采用错位式设计，有效提高了加料过程的精度。According to the patent abstract, this innovative technology proposes a completely new antioxidant color masterbatch feeding mechanism. The core design of this mechanism involves ingeniously fixing the motor inside the material conveying pipe, with its output shaft equipped with a spiral feeder rod that is connected to the left inner wall of the conveying pipe via a bearing on its left end, thereby achieving rotational functionality. Additionally, a fixed cylinder is set inside the feeding pipe, within which a rotating cylinder is connected through a bearing, featuring an offset design for its feed inlet and discharge outlet, effectively enhancing the accuracy of the feeding process.It is understood that the device also specifically sets a fixed frame inside the material feeding pipe, with the right end of the spiral feeding rod passing through the fixed frame via a bearing and connected to it for rotation. Even more innovatively, the fixed frame is equipped with a synchronous drive dispersion mechanism. This design not only ensures that the processing equipment can maintain a sealed state throughout the entire process of adding masterbatch additives, effectively isolating external air and preventing the oxidation of processing materials, but also fully disperses the masterbatch additives, avoiding issues related to the adhesion of additives that could affect processing quality, thereby further enhancing the efficiency and quality of masterbatch production.