WINONA, MN, USA – November 15, 2013 – PlastiComp, Inc., based in Winona, Minnesota, USA, has developed the next generation in long fiber reinforced nylon composite pellets (LFT-PA composites). The main attributes of these materials are the high flow characteristics and superior surface finish they exhibit even with high fiber loadings and without a reduction in thermal or mechanical properties.
PlastiComp’s proprietary high flow formulas enable molders to achieve cycle time reductions up to 25% along with injection pressure reductions of up to 40% in thin wall parts (less than 0.100”). Flow lengths in thin wall parts can also be increased by as much as 30% (based on spiral flow data). Cosmetics are improved due to a resin rich surface that contributes to the elimination of glass fiber on part surfaces.
The reduced viscosity of these formulas gives improved design flexibility by allowing wall thickness reduction of up to 25% in some parts. It also gives molders the ability to mold complex and large shapes with high filler contents. Reducing process temperature and pressure provides secondary benefits including longer mold life as well as reduced mold and molding machine maintenance costs.
“Through the use of this material one of our customers was able to reduce melt temperatures by 30°F,” said Eric Wollan, Business Development Manager. “This allowed them to reduce cycle times and energy costs during the molding process. The cycle times were reduced by 30% in this case and the molder had the added bonus of great part appearance with lower mold temperatures.”
About PlastiComp
The PlastiComp business focus is in long fiber reinforced composite thermoplastic technology: both LFT (long fiber reinforced thermoplastic pellets) and D-LFT (direct long fiber reinforced thermoplastic), and D-GMT (direct glass mat thermoplastic) direct in-line compounding technologies. Complēt® composite pellets, produced with LFT technology, are made for the injection molding market in standard as well as custom formulations.
PlastiComp manufactures and installs Pushtrusion machinery for direct in-line compounding as a D-LFT technology for injection molding as well as a D-GMT technology for compression molding. In addition, PlastiComp does advanced technology part molding and contract research and development including: material formulation, part testing, process development, and evaluation. PlastiComp also licenses LFT pellet manufacturing technology, with agreements in place at industry-leading companies in Europe and Asia. More information can be found at www.plasticomp.com
