NEWS
Sirmax launches GAPP for improving weld line strength
Sirmax, the Italian-headquar- tered compounder, is commer- cialising a new injection moulding technology de- signed to increase the strength of weld lines, particularly in fibre-reinforced thermoplastic compounds. Its new Smart Mold division is working with Prof Giovanni Lucchetta of the University of Padua on the process, which has been named Gas-Assisted Push-Pull (GAPP). The technology allows for the dynamic packing of weld lines using a single injection unit. Miniaturised gas injectors manipulate the molten polymer in the cavity and generate a flow through the weld surface. The technique is designed to
overcome the weakness of weld lines, which can exhibit incomplete welding between the flow fronts and the presence of undesirable inclusions or porosity. In addition, reinforcing fibres
Newell Brands shake-up
Newell Brands in the US has launched a restructur- ing program dubbed Project Phoenix which involves wholescale changes at boardroom level, moving from seven business units to three segments, and laying off around 13% of office employees. Newell owns domestic and industrial plastic goods manufacturer Rubbermaid. �
www.newellbrands.com
www.injectionworld.com
to promote one flow front to penetrate the other. However, this typically requires two separate injection units. The GAPP process is designed to achieve the same effect with a single injection unit, while the use of small gas injectors means that it can used on existing moulds without expensive modifications. The equipment used in GAPP is similar to that used for gas-assisted injection moulding with a compressor
on the weld line can be unfavourably arranged due to the fountain-like flow patterns where the flow fronts meet. The relative reduction in strength at the weld line increases with higher fibre loadings – for 50% filled com- pounds, the strength reduction at the weld line can be more than 80%, according to Prof Lucchetta. The mechanical properties at a weld line can be improved by dynamic packing to create a pressure imbalance
and booster. Prof Lucchetta cites a case study using Sirmax Isoglass LFT compounds where the retention of strength at the weld line was as low as 22% using conventional injection moulding. The addition of GAPP technology achieved a 74% retention of strength and 85% retention of stiffness. Smart Mold is currently working on
a pilot project for the technology. �
www.sirmax.com
Rosti partners with Sky TV in UK
Sky UK has partnered with injection moulding company and contract manufacturer Rosti to make components for its Sky Glass TV sets. The aim of the new
partnership, beginning with a collaboration on the production of TV rear covers, is primarily to reduce lead times and make supply chain sustainability improve- ments within the UK and European markets. The Sky team also sought to partner with a European supplier to localise the production of their products and be nearer to their main market, all of
Above: A dedicated production and warehousing area has been created at the Rosti Poland facility
which cuts costs for the media group. The project is commenc- ing with a significant investment from Rosti to cre- ate a dedicated production
and warehousing area within the Rosti Poland facility, which includes four high tonnage moulding machines. �
www.rosti.com
January/February 2023 | INJECTION WORLD 11
IMAGE: ROSTI
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