Plastic components continue to serve the automotive, electrical appliance, and medical device industries, among others. Injection molding in particular assist organizations with developing innovative products that continue to enhance the modern economy. This also requires the use of resins and other chemical additives to mold products according to the exact specifications required. The use of purging compounds, however, can improve the processes that operators use within the plastic manufacturing industry.
Purging Compounds versus Resins in the Plastics Manufacturing Industry
The injection molding and manufacturing industry will grow by 5.7% CAGR into 2025. With this positive outlook, companies need to maximize their production capabilities for improved returns. Emerging markets will drive product demands, and manufacturers need to capitalize on this trend. For example, one way manufacturers can improve their process is by improving their purging techniques.
Resin Purging is Outdated
Companies that still use production resins mixed with acrylics to purge and clean their machines aren’t operating at maximum efficiency. As production resins are the primary compound used in molding new products, any amount assigned for purging purposes is wasteful. As the material is better suited for manufacturing, using it during the purging process negatively influences the company’s bottom line without it being an effective purging agent.
Compared to compounds, virgin resins provide very little benefits during the changeover process. It requires extended downtimes of equipment or the regrind of materials and is less effective in removing carbon or color contamination.
Use Purging Compounds for Process Efficiency
There are many reasons to opt for using a Chemical Purging Compound (CPC) instead of virgin resins. As chemical manufacturers didn’t intend for the resins to clean machines, it could lead to machine failures or quality issues with products. Virgin or regrind resins build up over time and deposits another layer of resin in the barrel.
These layers of resin become additional sources of contamination and make the cleaning process more difficult. For the best changeover results, companies should use a CPC designed specifically for cleaning purposes.
The benefits of purging compounds include:
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- Effective cleaning of barrels and screws
- Improved changeover times
- Removal of carbon and color contaminants
- Prevents unnecessary screw-pulls
- Reduces material waste
Not all compounds are suitable for every situation. Companies need to engage with suppliers to find the best product for their purposes. Depending on the type of injection molding or extrusion process involved, manufacturers should select a CPC based on the resins they use.
Let Phoenix Plastics Help You Find the Right Compound
Phoenix Plastics has more than two-hundred products that help plastic manufacturers ensure the quality of their products. As a chemical additive supplier who remains focused on the customer’s needs, Phoenix Plastics will work with your team to find the right purging compound to improve your process efficiencies.
To discuss your machine requirements and reduce wasteful practices in your manufacturing processes, contact Phoenix Plastics today. For immediate assistance, call us toll-free at 866-760-2311.
