SPE Product Design and Development Division

Injection Molding Troubleshooting
2025-08-20 08:00 - 2025-08-22 17:00 (America/New_York)
Course Description
Instructor: Brian Young
Fee: $1,600
Educational Goals
Specifically designed for the practicing molder, this workshop focuses on developing new and enhancing existing shop floor troubleshooting skills for solving molded-part defects and improving part quality problems. Each day, participants will rotate through six to eight microprocessor-controlled machines that have been set up with special, case-study molds. These molds have been modified over time to produce a specific molded part defect under a given set of less-than-optimal molding conditions. Participants will analyze and attempt to solve real molding problems.
Who Should Attend
This two-and-one-half-day workshop is geared to those who wish to improve their knowledge of thermoplastic injection molding. It is designed to provide the greatest value possible to injection molding practitioners who troubleshoot problem parts to increase molding efficiency and decrease part defects/rejects. Beyond machine operators, a variety of others can benefit from the workshop, including process and project engineers, manufacturing engineers, and team leaders.
Course Outline

Surface Defects

Flow lines and jetting
Splay (moisture or trapped air)
Haze, blush, and poor gloss
Orange peel and surface ripples
Gate blush and gate splay

Burning and Contamination Problems

Burn marks and black specks
Burn streaks
Contamination
Discoloration or poor color match

Physical Problems

Flash and short shots
Sink marks
Vacuum voids and bubbles
Blisters and delamination

Geometry Maintenance Problems

Under- or over-sized dimensions
Poor dimensional repeatability (poor Cpk)
Warpage and bowing

Structural Defects

Cracking, crazing, and brittleness
Weld lines
Stuck parts and pin push marks
Long gates and plugged gates
Drag marks and mold damage

Troubleshooting Procedures and Logic

How to effectively approach, analyze, and implement troubleshooting procedures.

Exploring Root Causes

Explore the root causes of the various defects from the perspective of the plastic material as it fills, compresses, and cools within the cavity.

Part Defectives and Potential Solutions

Some attention will be given to potential design-related problems, but the emphasis will be on how to optimize the part quality with process-related solutions.

Troubleshooting Guides (The Good, The Bad, The Efficient)

A comparison of the different troubleshooting guide formats, including which tend to be most effective for solving molded part problems.

Interpreting Velocity and Pressure Shot Traces

The graphical outputs of the injection pressure and injection velocity traces provide a window into the mold that was not previously available on older machines. Proper interpretation of these shot traces can simplify and speed up the troubleshooting process.

Applying Designed Experiments for Advanced Troubleshooting

Insight into how and when to implement designed experiments (DOEs) for difficult-to-solve defects or quality problems with poor repeatability.

Evaluating Attendees’ Molded Part Samples

Defective part samples brought in by the participants will be discussed in a group format. An understanding by the participants of the processing conditions or a current process set-up sheet will greatly facilitate this discussion.

WEBINAR SERIES – Beyond Prototyping: Innovative AM Applications & Materials
2025-09-03 09:30 - 10:00, 2025-09-17 09:30 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | Online
From September 3rd to 24th, 2025, the 3Dnatives team, in collaboration with Stratasys, invites you to join the free “Beyond Prototyping: Innovative AM Applications & Materials” webinar series. Each Wednesday of the month from 16:30 CEST / 10:30 EDT (30 minutes per session), a different expert will guide you through real-world insights into additive technologies.

Webinar #1 – Pushing the Limits of Prototyping: Precision, Performance, and New Polymer Materials

Prototyping continues to be a core additive manufacturing application—but the tools and materials available today enable much more than concept modeling. This webinar explores how advanced polymers and multi-material printing capabilities are enabling micron-level accuracy, functional strength, and aesthetic realism in a single build. We’ll also dive into the next frontier of prototyping innovation, like direct 3D printing on fabrics. Capabilities such as Smart Insert placement and Print-on-Objects are expanding what’s possible—from embedded components to seamless integration with textiles—redefining how prototypes are built and what they can do.

Webinar #2 – Carbon Fiber Composites: Boosting Tooling with AM

Additive tooling is transforming how manufacturers approach jigs, fixtures, and production aids. In this webinar, we’ll explore how carbon fiber-reinforced polymers are replacing metal in high-load applications—offering comparable performance at reduced weight and cost. Real-world case studies from automotive, aerospace, and heavy industry illustrate how teams are accelerating tooling lead times from weeks to hours. We’ll also discuss new software workflows that enable easy adoption without extensive AM experience, streamlining the path from design to factory floor.
Webinar #3 – From Prototypes to Production: AM Materials for Aerospace and Defense Innovation
Additive manufacturing is becoming increasingly viable for production, proving its value for low volumes and customization, as well as high-performance applications. This session focuses on the aerospace and defense sectors, where material and process innovations are enabling production-ready parts with high thermal, mechanical, and chemical resistance. We’ll explore high-accuracy silicon-based AM for sealing, FST or ESD compliant tooling and parts, connector components, and rapid tooling. Discover how engineers are achieving technical specs and business ROI for real-world deployment.
Webinar #4 – Maximizing AM Performance with Advanced Software Workflows
Additive manufacturing success depends not just on hardware and materials—but on software that enables precision, repeatability, and efficiency at scale. In this webinar we’ll explore how Stratasys advanced software platforms like GrabCAD Print™, GrabCAD Print Pro™, and OpenAM™ are optimizing AM workflows across industries. Learn how engineers are leveraging features like model-aware slicing, traceability, automated support generation, and open material parameter tuning to streamline operations and unlock new use cases—from prototyping to production.

Speakers

Gulay Bozoklu
Application Development Technical Service Manager

Naftali Eder
Manager Application Engineering

Anirudh “Kumar” Krishnakumar
Senior Product Manager

Niccolò Giannelli
FDM Enablement Director

WEBINAR SERIES – Beyond Prototyping: Innovative AM Applications & Materials
2025-09-10 09:30 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | Online
https://www.3dnatives.com/en/webinar-series-beyond-prototyping-innovative-am-applications-materials-11082025/#!
From September 3rd to 24th, 2025, the 3Dnatives team, in collaboration with Stratasys, invites you to join the free “Beyond Prototyping: Innovative AM Applications & Materials” webinar series. Each Wednesday of the month from 16:30 CEST / 10:30 EDT (30 minutes per session), a different expert will guide you through real-world insights into additive technologies.

Webinar #1 – Pushing the Limits of Prototyping: Precision, Performance, and New Polymer Materials

Prototyping continues to be a core additive manufacturing application—but the tools and materials available today enable much more than concept modeling. This webinar explores how advanced polymers and multi-material printing capabilities are enabling micron-level accuracy, functional strength, and aesthetic realism in a single build. We’ll also dive into the next frontier of prototyping innovation, like direct 3D printing on fabrics. Capabilities such as Smart Insert placement and Print-on-Objects are expanding what’s possible—from embedded components to seamless integration with textiles—redefining how prototypes are built and what they can do.

Webinar #2 – Carbon Fiber Composites: Boosting Tooling with AM

Additive tooling is transforming how manufacturers approach jigs, fixtures, and production aids. In this webinar, we’ll explore how carbon fiber-reinforced polymers are replacing metal in high-load applications—offering comparable performance at reduced weight and cost. Real-world case studies from automotive, aerospace, and heavy industry illustrate how teams are accelerating tooling lead times from weeks to hours. We’ll also discuss new software workflows that enable easy adoption without extensive AM experience, streamlining the path from design to factory floor.
Webinar #3 – From Prototypes to Production: AM Materials for Aerospace and Defense Innovation
Additive manufacturing is becoming increasingly viable for production, proving its value for low volumes and customization, as well as high-performance applications. This session focuses on the aerospace and defense sectors, where material and process innovations are enabling production-ready parts with high thermal, mechanical, and chemical resistance. We’ll explore high-accuracy silicon-based AM for sealing, FST or ESD compliant tooling and parts, connector components, and rapid tooling. Discover how engineers are achieving technical specs and business ROI for real-world deployment.
Webinar #4 – Maximizing AM Performance with Advanced Software Workflows
Additive manufacturing success depends not just on hardware and materials—but on software that enables precision, repeatability, and efficiency at scale. In this webinar we’ll explore how Stratasys advanced software platforms like GrabCAD Print™, GrabCAD Print Pro™, and OpenAM™ are optimizing AM workflows across industries. Learn how engineers are leveraging features like model-aware slicing, traceability, automated support generation, and open material parameter tuning to streamline operations and unlock new use cases—from prototyping to production.

Speakers

Gulay Bozoklu
Application Development Technical Service Manager

Naftali Eder
Manager Application Engineering

Anirudh “Kumar” Krishnakumar
Senior Product Manager

Niccolò Giannelli
FDM Enablement Director

Extruded Profile Part Design
2025-09-11 - 2025-09-15 | Online
Master the complexities of extruded profile design, thermoplastic behavior, and extrusion line requirements in this intensive workshop series. Designed for engineers, designers, and extrusion professionals, these sessions provide practical solutions to common processing challenges, helping you improve efficiency, product quality, and troubleshooting skills.
Profile Extrusion: From “Black Art” to Proven Science
Often considered a “black art,” profile extrusion is, in reality, a well-defined science—one that has long been closely held and rarely shared. This workshop opens the door to critical design, material, and processing principles that can elevate your expertise and optimize production outcomes.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to learn from an industry expert and unlock the full potential of profile extrusion. Take your expertise to the next level!

"Designing with Color: Strategies for Consistent and Impactful Color in Plastics" Webinar
2025-09-11 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
Color is more than just aesthetics — it’s a critical factor in product success, brand recognition, and user experience. Yet, specifying and achieving the right color in plastics can be challenging, especially when working with multiple converters and materials. In this dynamic, hour-long webinar, you’ll learn how to navigate the complexities of color in product design.

Glenn Beall Celebration of Life
2025-09-13 12:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Lake Forest Place, 1100 Pembridge Drive, Lake Forest, IL, 60045, United States
There will be a Celebration of Life for Glenn Beall on Saturday, September 13th, at Noon. It will be held at Lake Forest Place.
Lake Forest Place
1100 Pembridge Drive
Lake Forest, IL 60045

Responsible Plastics 2025
2025-09-23 - 2025-09-24 | DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Pittsburgh Downtown, One Bigelow Sq, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219
Responsible Plastics 2025 is designed for professionals committed to developing impactful solutions to environmental challenges while promoting innovation, sustainability, and responsible practices across the plastics value chain.
This conference includes two tracks that focus on tackling the pressing challenges of PFAS and Microplastics in the plastics industry.

WEBINAR SERIES – Beyond Prototyping: Innovative AM Applications & Materials
2025-09-24 09:30 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | Online
From September 3rd to 24th, 2025, the 3Dnatives team, in collaboration with Stratasys, invites you to join the free “Beyond Prototyping: Innovative AM Applications & Materials” webinar series. Each Wednesday of the month from 16:30 CEST / 10:30 EDT (30 minutes per session), a different expert will guide you through real-world insights into additive technologies. Register for any or all of these webinars here: Webinars | Beyond Prototyping: Innovative AM Applications & Materials – 3Dnatives

Webinar #1 – Pushing the Limits of Prototyping: Precision, Performance, and New Polymer Materials

Prototyping continues to be a core additive manufacturing application—but the tools and materials available today enable much more than concept modeling. This webinar explores how advanced polymers and multi-material printing capabilities are enabling micron-level accuracy, functional strength, and aesthetic realism in a single build. We’ll also dive into the next frontier of prototyping innovation, like direct 3D printing on fabrics. Capabilities such as Smart Insert placement and Print-on-Objects are expanding what’s possible—from embedded components to seamless integration with textiles—redefining how prototypes are built and what they can do.

Webinar #2 – Carbon Fiber Composites: Boosting Tooling with AM

Additive tooling is transforming how manufacturers approach jigs, fixtures, and production aids. In this webinar, we’ll explore how carbon fiber-reinforced polymers are replacing metal in high-load applications—offering comparable performance at reduced weight and cost. Real-world case studies from automotive, aerospace, and heavy industry illustrate how teams are accelerating tooling lead times from weeks to hours. We’ll also discuss new software workflows that enable easy adoption without extensive AM experience, streamlining the path from design to factory floor.
Webinar #3 – From Prototypes to Production: AM Materials for Aerospace and Defense Innovation
Additive manufacturing is becoming increasingly viable for production, proving its value for low volumes and customization, as well as high-performance applications. This session focuses on the aerospace and defense sectors, where material and process innovations are enabling production-ready parts with high thermal, mechanical, and chemical resistance. We’ll explore high-accuracy silicon-based AM for sealing, FST or ESD compliant tooling and parts, connector components, and rapid tooling. Discover how engineers are achieving technical specs and business ROI for real-world deployment.
Webinar #4 – Maximizing AM Performance with Advanced Software Workflows
Additive manufacturing success depends not just on hardware and materials—but on software that enables precision, repeatability, and efficiency at scale. In this webinar we’ll explore how Stratasys advanced software platforms like GrabCAD Print™, GrabCAD Print Pro™, and OpenAM™ are optimizing AM workflows across industries. Learn how engineers are leveraging features like model-aware slicing, traceability, automated support generation, and open material parameter tuning to streamline operations and unlock new use cases—from prototyping to production.

Speakers

Gulay Bozoklu
Application Development Technical Service Manager

Naftali Eder
Manager Application Engineering

Anirudh “Kumar” Krishnakumar
Senior Product Manager

Niccolò Giannelli
FDM Enablement Director

What's Next: A Recap on UNEP 5.2 and a Look Ahead
2025-09-25 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Online
What’s Next: A Recap on UNEP 5.2 and a Look Ahead
The recent talks to negotiate an internationally binding treaty on plastic pollution ended without a global consensus. Now what? Join SPE’s online roundtable discussion on Sept. 25 from 10-11:15 a.m. Eastern Time for an exclusive debrief from participants who were inside the room at the United Nations Environment Programme’s Fifth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) in Geneva, Switzerland.
Hear firsthand what actually happened at INC-5.2. Panelists include: Fiorella Danjoy Acosta, Regional Director, Recicla Latam; Tania Ferlin, Director of Sustainability Advocacy, Husky Technologies™; Hodayah Finman, Senior Director, Regulatory Affairs, Plastics Industry; and Julie Peters, EU Policy Affairs Manager, European Bioplastics e.V. Discussion will be moderated by Conor Carlin, SPE’s representative to UNEP. This panel discussion is free to attend but requires registration.
https://www.4spe.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=9694#gsc.tab=0

Global Women in STEM Leadership Summit
2025-09-29 - 2025-09-30 | The Westin Buckhead Atlanta, 3391 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanda, GA, 30326, United States
The Global Women in STEM Leadership Summit is an initiative founded and led by Engineering Professor Takoi K. Hamrita. This is the only one of its kind two-day summit held in the world that is dedicated to giving women in scientific and technological fields from all career paths access to powerful tools, strategies, and connections to advance their careers and their lives. Join our movement!

Harnessing FEA to Enhance Weld Line Strength Prediction for Unfilled Materials
2025-10-01 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Online
Register now and engage in an online Q&A session with our technical experts.
Can’t make it to the live webinar? Register anyway, and we’ll send you the recording
2:00 PM EDT | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | Check Your Time
This webinar explores the advantages of simulating low-pressure molding techniques, such as iMFLUX and Decoupled 3. By leveraging real-time adjustments through simulation, the molding process becomes significantly more efficient, resulting in shorter cycle times and a reduction in defects.
Low-pressure molding enables manufacturers to produce larger parts using relatively smaller machines, requiring less clamp tonnage and lower pressure. This approach also supports sustainability initiatives by lowering energy consumption and promoting the use of recycled materials.
What Attendees Will Learn?

Benefits of low-pressure molding and how simulation enhances these processes to maximize their potential.
Using virtual sensors to dynamically regulate and maintain consistent low-pressure conditions throughout the cycle.
Create a solid starting point for process setup, reducing time and effort by accurately determining the minimum required injection pressure and identifying optimal process windows.

Nature’s Untapped Treasure: Lignin’s Potential in Achieving a Carbon-Neutral Economy
2025-10-03 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Online
The path to carbon neutrality—and even carbon negativity—runs through renewable raw materials. Enter lignin: the world’s second most abundant natural polymer and an untapped powerhouse for sustainable innovation.
Produced as a byproduct of pulp, paper, and biofuel industries, lignin makes up about one-third of plant mass and carries over 60% biobased carbon content. That means it can lock in the CO₂ captured by plants and extend it in products for years—while replacing petroleum-based raw materials.
In this course, you’ll:✨ Discover the fundamentals of lignin—its chemistry, types, and properties✨ Learn how lignin enhances flame retardancy, UV stability, antioxidant activity & antimicrobial performance✨ Explore breakthrough applications like:

Replacing petroleum-derived phenol in resins

Substituting polyols in polyurethane adhesives, coatings & foams

Replacing BPA in fully biobased epoxy resins

Lignin isn’t just a byproduct—it’s a game-changer. Join us and see how this natural polymer is reshaping materials science and fueling the shift to a greener future.

SPE Vinyltec 2025
2025-10-20 - 2025-10-22 | The Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection by Hilton, 1000 MAGAZINE ST., NEW ORLEANS, LA, 70130
Join Us at Vinyltec® 2025 – The Premier Vinyl Plastics Conference
The SPE Vinyl Plastics Division is excited to announce that Vinyltec® 2025 will be held in person in New Orleans, LA, from October 20–22, 2025. This annual conference serves as a key platform for professionals across the vinyl industry, focusing on cutting-edge technologies, regulatory updates, sustainability initiatives, and market trends that shape the future of vinyl plastics. Building on the success of previous editions, this year’s event will feature expert-led discussions, technical presentations, and networking opportunities designed to foster innovation and collaboration in the industry. Whether you’re a manufacturer, researcher, or industry leader, Vinyltec® 2025 is your opportunity to stay ahead in the evolving world of vinyl plastics. Mark your calendar and join us for an informative and engaging experience in the heart of New Orleans!

Global Polymer Sustainability & Innovation Summit
2025-10-29 - 2025-10-31 | Technical University of the Shannon (TUS), Ireland
About the Summit

TUS Athlone, Ireland, will host GPSIS 2025, featuring over 30 speakers, exhibitors, and posters, along with an optional training day. In addition, up to 60 early-stage researchers will present peer-reviewed research papers, and all technical papers will be published. This event will empower and advance Global Polymer Sustainability and Innovation for the future.
The Global Polymer Sustainability & Innovation Summit (GPSIS) 2025 is a leading international event dedicated to advancing polymer science, sustainable manufacturing, and cutting-edge material innovations. Hosted by the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) Athlone, this premier summit brings together global researchers, industry experts, and policymakers to explore breakthroughs in advanced composites, nanomaterials, medical plastics, AI-driven manufacturing, and circular economy solutions.
The summit will feature:
• Keynote addresses from world-leading experts in polymer engineering, sustainability, and high-value manufacturing.
• Practical technical training at First Polymer Training Ltd., focusing on AI in injection moulding, advanced processing, and sustainable materials.
• Thematic conference sessions covering medical plastics, sustainable polymers, smart manufacturing, digitalisation, and regulatory affairs.
• Extensive networking opportunities, connecting delegates with influential decision-makers, researchers, and industry pioneers shaping the future of polymer technology.
• In addition to the technical program from the podium, this conference offers opportunities for poster presentations. These posters will be on display in the atriums and exhibition areas throughout the GPSIS 2025 conference on the 30 & 31 Oct from 09:00 to 17:00.
The GPSIS 2025 is a must-attend event for those looking to drive innovation, collaborate with industry leaders, and gain strategic insights into the future of sustainable materials and advanced manufacturing.
Join us in Athlone, Ireland — a global centre for polymer education and research — to be part of the conversation defining the future of the industry!

AMI Plastics World Expos: North America
2025-11-12 08:00 - 2025-11-13 17:00 (America/New_York)
This 2-day FREE expo is packed with networking opportunities, invaluable knowledge sharing, and groundbreaking innovations – all aimed at driving your business forward.
Stop by the SPE Cleveland booth R2812 to connect with us and explore how membership can enhance your career.
🔵 November 12-13, 2025
🟠 9:30 – 5:00 PM ET
🟣 Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland
🟢 300 Lakeside Ave E, Cleveland, OH 44113
🟡 FREE

Design for... Optimize Product Design for Successful Thermoforming
2025-11-13 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Online
Come listen to Profile Plastics, Inc.’s Dan Cruz talk about the unique opportunities in thermoforming! Discover how design choices can unlock the potential of thermoforming for successful product launches. Explore this cost-effective process and see how it compares to other plastic manufacturing methods. Our discussion will provide you with practical insights and proven strategies that touch on material selection, tooling, and other design considerations.
Speaker Bio: Dan Cruz is a manufacturing engineer with 10+ years of plastics tooling and product design experience. His work spans thin-gauge packaging, injection molding, and heavy-gauge thermoforming. Dan earned his Manufacturing Engineering degree from Northern Illinois University in 2014. He applies practical expertise to advance efficient thermoform design.

Plastics in Packaging 2025: Innovations, Sustainability & Compliance for a Circular Future Call for Speakers
2025-11-17 - 2025-11-19 | Online
We invite proposals from professionals with strong expertise and hands-on experience in the evolving landscape of plastics in packaging. This event will explore innovations, regulatory frameworks, and sustainability strategies shaping the future of flexible and rigid packaging applications. We are especially interested in case studies, breakthrough research, collaborative initiatives, and presentations that offer actionable insights to packaging professionals across the value chain.
Abstract Submission Deadline: September 30, 2025
Paper/Presentation Submission Deadline: October 30, 2025
Submitting Abstracts
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Ideal speaker profiles include:

Materials scientists, packaging engineers, or R&D leaders with in-depth experience in developing advanced barrier materials, smart packaging solutions, and recyclable multilayer structures.
Professionals working with bioplastics, compostable materials, or biodegradable packaging who can present real-world data, pilot experiences, or commercial case studies.
Sustainability experts and LCA practitioners with strong knowledge in Design for Recyclability (DfR), carbon footprint reduction, or PCR integration in packaging systems.
Circular economy strategists and packaging designers who can speak on reuse models, refillable packaging, and the balance between functionality and end-of-life recovery.
Regulatory and policy experts with insights into global packaging legislation, additive regulation, EPR implementation, or corporate ESG reporting in packaging.
Brand owners or industry innovators who are leading packaging transformation projects and can share practical lessons, challenges, and measurable outcomes.

NOTE: All accepted speakers will receive complimentary registration for the event.

Contacts:

For questions about submissions, contact:
Iván D. López, SPE Director, Technical Programs
