Technical Articles

Hot Runner Truths, Myths and Overlooked Areas

With advances in technology, hot runners have many more uses today than they did years ago. They are used to eliminate the cold sprue and runner, which can save you money on scrap when regrind is not an option. Hot runners enable direct gating onto the part with a low-vestige tip or valve gate and eliminate the need for three-plate runner systems. They also allow you to gate on the outside edge of the part when it is centered on the mold….

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Designing Successful Products with Plastics with Sustainability as a Design Consideration

By: Mark MacLean-Blevins

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2023 Plastics Industry Association Customs & Practices of the Moldmaking Industry Guide

Follow the link here: https://www.plasticsindustry.org/newsroom/plastics-industry-association-releases-updated-customs-practices-moldmaking-industry-guide/



Should You Use Re-Grind?

By Eric Larson


What is Additive Manufacturing?

Additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing is a process that builds functional components by adding material, in contrast to subtractive manufacturing, which removes material. It can use various materials, including metals, plastics, and composites, and has applications in aerospace, medical, automotive, and other industries. AM offers greater design flexibility, reduced material usage, and is cost-effective for complex, low-volume production. It is a digital process that involves design, preparation, printing, and post-processing. While 3D printing is a core element of AM, AM encompasses a broader workflow. It is not just for prototyping but is increasingly used for tooling and full-scale production, enabling innovative and complex designs.

If you’re interested in reading the full article on Additive Manufacturing, visit: https://www.additivemanufacturing.media/kc/what-is-additive-manufacturing