Friday, January 21, 2011

Rubber Molding Methods Offer Essential Functionality



Plastics and Rubber Products have become a common feature in homes. For that matter even Industries have fallen hook, line and sinker for the two. Two major factors like credibility and versatility have been driving their demand. Considering the soaring demand for plastic and rubber products, we have come up with a common platform for all plastic and rubber manufacturers, suppliers, exporters and buyers, to trade with each other at the click of a mouse. A few years back, transactions used to take place ‘on –field’, with both parties sitting face-to-face, before closing the deal. Here, the major plus point is the transaction is taking place ‘on-line’ and you can strike a profitable deal right away. Sitting face-to-face can be done anytime.

The use of rubber has revolutionized much of the world. In fact, without rubber, many of the daily conveniences that most people take for granted would not even be possible, or if possible, they would not operate in the same way. Rubber cushions, isolates, eliminates unwanted vibration, noise, and even offers better traction for moving parts. Rubber is used for an incredibly diverse number of applications. However, there is one key to all of these diverse uses - rubber molding techniques.

Rubber molding is a science unto itself, with a number of different techniques and technologies involved. Through the process of specialized molding techniques, any type of rubber design can be created, from air inlet elbows to locomotive boots, voting machine parts, silicone rings for heart and lung machines, viton seals and much, much more. What sorts of molding techniques are used in the industry, and what does each technique have to offer? Here is a glimpse of the technology behind the functionality that most of us take for granted.

Compression Rubber Molding: This method uses a compression mold to create rubber parts and forms. In essence, this process simply requires that a mold be opened, an uncured slug of rubber be inserted and then sufficient compression be placed on the now-closed mold to shape the rubber into the desired shape. Molds can have a single cavity and two plates, or they can be configured in numerous different ways to create the desired form.

Transfer Rubber Molding: Transfer molding is quite a bit like compression molding, in that it uses a mold to create the final form. However, material is transferred from the "pot" by the force of a plunger and enters channels, or "sprue," and runners to fill the cavities within the mold. This is used to create a wide range of different parts, particularly those where a need for delicate rubber pieces or high-definition pieces is required.

Injection Rubber Molding: Injection molding is used with numerous different materials, including rubber and plastics. It results in pliable parts that are also durable, and is capable of high-speed mass production. Rubber is injected into a mold and the amount is metered to ensure the correct amount is used. This material is injected into a mold, which is secured with a clamp. An incredible diversity of products can be manufactured through the process of injection molding.

The key to having the high-quality rubber components that you need is to choose a company with the utmost experience and expertise in rubber molding techniques. The best option is to choose a firm that offers all three of the abovementioned techniques, as this will ensure that you can have any type of rubber component manufactured that you might require, from delicate rubber items to highly detailed, complex rubber boots. Of course, you should also make sure that the company has experience making similar products, as this will certainly play a role in your satisfaction with your finished rubber pieces.

Friday, January 7, 2011

The Different Types of Materials Used to Make Castors



Of course it's not hard to figure out that the very first castors made were most likely made out of cast iron, but would you believe that you can still buy brand new cast iron castors today? In fact the list of materials used to make castors now is quite extensive due to the incredible number of applications for them in homes and businesses.

Today there are several types of rubber that now go into making a wider assortment of castors to accommodate any number of industrial, and materials handling applications. This list is almost endless, but one special application that comes to mind is floor friendly, scuff free rubber castors that leave no marks on a floor in places like clinics and hospitals.

Then there is the huge variety of rubber, and plastic castors that are made from materials that have been specially formulated to resist oil, acid, and alkaline substances. You see not all plastics and rubber can tolerate being exposed to oil, and particularly petroleum based oil. It tends to in fact dissolve many common plastics and rubber over time. These are a great choice for castors in mechanics workshops and other engineering environments.

Still one more amazing development concerning materials that go into the production of today's modern castors involves mechanics. You see there are now castors that you can buy that actually have a built in lift component for raising or lowering whatever they are attached to. These lifting components are also available in electric or manual mode.

There is also a wide range of pneumatic castors available in an equally wide range of sizes. Pneumatic means that they are filled with air, just like a standard tyre and these are a great choice for transport mechanisms that need shock resistance. This means that they help to cushion the ride on platforms and containers that are to be used for transporting delicate objects via castors or even people.

Some of the most amazing developments involve heat resistant materials that go into the manufacture of castors that can in fact be rolled into, and left in incredibly hot environments. Commercial bakers for instance now use these castors on carts that can transport bakery products in and out of commercial ovens. This is a huge labor saver.

While of course the actual material that the castor wheels are made from must be heat resistant, what many people don't consider is that the lubricants that protect the bearings also must be able to resist the high temperatures as well. Without new developments in high temperature lubricants, these types of wheeled transport castor systems wouldn't be possible.

Along with all the latest developments in the different types of materials to used to make castors have come some very noteworthy developments in carts and platforms that can be purchased right along with them. For example the compact, manually operated elevating transport systems that can take the place of a forklift for a fraction of the cost.

Monday, January 3, 2011

Acrylic Plastic Products



Acrylic plastic sheets are considered as the nearest comparison to glass with more assets to go with. It has more uses and capacious clear plastic with 93% clearness with many more qualities that makes it more ideal to use.

Acrylic sheets were made out of acrylic acid. It was divided into four classes namely: Plexiglas, Lucite, Perspex, and Crystalite, all of which are of same variety as that of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

The superior quality acrylic plastics are sturdy, unbreakable and it can resist to ultraviolet radiations and deterioration. More so, it is highly transparent. Compared to thicker glass, it has a greener tint while acrylic sheet maintain its transparency even on high density level.

Acrylic plastic has been widely in demand in different usage in many industries in different forms like auto parts, bathroom tools, skylights, windows, signal lights, sign posts, aquariums and many other useful things. It is so light from far from breaking unlike glasses. Another feature is that can easily be recycled and molded into another shape. The disadvantage of acrylic sheet is that it easily gets scratched but it can easily be restored to its original form by polishing it again.

Acrylic plastic sheets is easy to find so it's not really a problem because it's widely used in the market and can be found anywhere and even in online stores. Pre-defined dimensions vary from 24" x 48" to 72" x 186" and a width from 1/16 "to 4". Different sizes and shapes are available in many showrooms with available service person to do the cutting.

The size and shape that you would want can be easily obtained either in cast, transparent, shaded, tinted, mirror or laser cut. Aside from its sheet form, you can also find various designs made out of acrylic plastic. This plastic maintain its shape and shades for a longer period compared to the ordinary plastic that will tend to turn brown or yellowish in color that will crack in shorter period.

Acrylic plastics don't need high maintenance too. All you have to do is look for a soft rug and spray it with mild soap or detergent and rub it dry. You can use it around your house in many ways.

Plastics and Rubber Products have become a common feature in homes. For that matter even Industries have fallen hook, line and sinker for the two. Two major factors like credibility and versatility have been driving their demand. Considering the soaring demand for plastic and rubber products, we have come up with a common platform for all plastic and rubber manufacturers, suppliers, exporters and buyers, to trade with each other at the click of a mouse.

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Why You Should Support Recycled Products



With a lot of discoveries and innovations nowadays, much end-products and other garbage are thrown into the environment. Some people are not aware of the long-term consequences of dumping garbage in the environment. Maybe they are not aware that one's actions always have a consequence. Whether we are aware of it or not, the effect will normally and rationally come into being. And the course of action may be, sometimes, difficult to pursue once the effect has spiraled into an uncontrollable level.

We cannot allow this to happen in the environment where we build our lives, family and future. This planet deserves the best protection we can give it since, of all living things, we are the ones gifted with intelligence and the heart to understand what is beneficial for the individual and the whole. Let us prove to ourselves that we can protect our home, the earth, so our generation for eternity will have the chance to enjoy our legacy. For a start, we could be at the other end of the line of environmental supporters. Be a supporter of recycled products. Recycled products may not have the designer names you desire yet you can do better than that. It's not a single shopping delight just for you, but when you support recycled products you do it for the total of humanity. The following are some reasons why you should give your support to recycled products:

1. Using recycled products like bags, decors, kitchen accessories, and others minimizes the garbage in your place. This will benefit you firsthand.

2. Aside from helping the environment, you're uplifting your morale by being a trendsetter by using these recycled products. How's that for fashion popularity?

3. It is good for your pocket. You save a lot since these products come in cheap prices yet has a distinct quality.

4. Remember, most of our materials are made of plastic. There is a slight probability they will deteriorate ahead of us in this planet. Hence, we can't let plastics rule our lands. Recycle them into now user-friendly products.

5. Many animals, fish, birds and fowls die because of swallowing plastics and other thrown materials where they mistake it for food. Love them and make the earth a safe habitat for them too, by recycling this garbage into useful products.

Who wants clogged sewers, dirty seas and rivers, and foul air? Then, recycle your unwanted materials into the most wanted fashionable product and household item. Try yourself to support the recycled products and see the statement you will make on others. One good example of a recycled product is the rubber mulch. It is very useful, of good quality and buying these types of products is also helping the environment.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Plastic Manufacturing: How Companies Create Household Products



Recently, I've begun to research the plastic manufacturing industry. Upon first starting out, I honestly thought it was going to be pretty simple, but I was in for a surprise! There's actually a lot that goes into shaping some of the simplest things, like a coke bottle. Really, the process has been made much easier by experts trying to improve the field. Without the work of several individuals, the mass amounts of plastic production that incur today would never have made it. From discovering different varieties of plastics to reshaping the machinery needed for it, plastic manufacturing has truly come along a way. However, for us to get an accurate understanding of the manufacturing process, we first have to understand plastic itself.

Plastic is basically a large molecule composed of repeating structural units, also referred to as a polymer. Many manufacturers of plastic add a mixture of other compounds in order to reduce the cost and make the product better. This is often very productive. Depending on the manufacturer you go to, composition of plastic may vary, but never too drastically.

Plastic comes from the Greek word plastikos. Plastikos translates to "able to be shaped or molded." This applies to plastic because during its manufacturing, it is easily manipulated in order to fit the shape of various plastic products. When you begin to look at what kind of products are created and used by these manufacturers, you really begin to see its versatility. For instance, the thousands of different types of bottles, tubes, boxes, and plates that are produced by plastic companies every day.

There are really only two types of usable plastic. These include thermoplastics and thermosetting polymers. The main difference between these two types of plastics is that thermoplastic has gone through a chemical change to become what it is. Thermosetting polymers, however, have not been chemically changed, which means that once they've heated and solidified, they can not be reheated as is the case with thermoplastic.

There are many different categories in which you can place plastics, depending on what quality a manufacturer is most interested. For example, it's very likely that plastics are categorized by quality or physical property. These deal with aspects of plastic such as strength, temperature of transition, and density. There is also a good chance that plastics will be grouped by chemical structure: polyesters, halogenated plastics, acrylics, or polyurethanes.

You may not know this, but there are quite a few different types of plastics, some may seem familiar to you. After WWI, the pressure was on to create cheap and durable materials in order to mass produce. Thus, two new plastics were created, PVC (or polyvinyl chloride) and polystyrene. These plastics were manufactured by IG Farben from Germany, and they rose quickly in popularity. These plastics, especially PVC, continues to be a huge member of the plastic community (for things such as housing, plumbing, etc.).

These plastics only scratched the surface, for there was much work to improve over the next several years, and many continued the plastics race. A new contender entering the field was polyamide, or more commonly known as nylon. What shocked everyone so much about nylon was it's ability to stretch without being damaged. Soon after the second World War, demands for nylon climbed to a record high, with women's nylon stockings as one of the best selling products!

Plastics and Rubber Products have become a common feature in homes. For that matter even Industries have fallen hook, line and sinker for the two. Two major factors like credibility and versatility have been driving their demand. Considering the soaring demand for plastic and rubber products, we have come up with a common platform for all plastic and rubber manufacturers, suppliers, exporters and buyers, to trade with each other at the click of a mouse. A few years back, transactions used to take place ‘on –field’, with both parties sitting face-to-face, before closing the deal. Here, the major plus point is the transaction is taking place ‘on-line’ and you can strike a profitable deal right away. Sitting face-to-face can be done anytime.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Injection Molding: Helping Increase The Production Of Plastic



Many don't exactly find injection molding interesting, let alone even know about. However, I've made it my personal goal to, at the very least, get people to begin started on the road towards finding out how things are made! One can easily forget that what they just bought at the store was in fact made by the inventions of people over several years as well as by the hands of specialists and people with a variety of expertise. In fact, this is so often overlooked that it can be pretty fascinating to learn all the ins and outs of plastic extrusion. Man and machine working together in order to make it easier on the population. It's really a beautiful thing to watch and while researching and working alongside specialists in the industry, I've grown to actually respect them for their hard work and dedication. They're responsible for so many plastic products and byproducts that have been in use for years, and will be in use for years to come.

It's extremely important that you understand the molding process. But to start you off, I think it's smarter to just describe it as simply as possible. What polymer molding actually does is to heat and shape thermoplastic and thermosetting plastic in order to manipulate it into a finished product. This is done with the help of a number of people (engineers, moldmakers, and a number of other specialists).

To really appreciate everything that goes into injection molding, it's a good idea to track its beginnings. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, contributions to the plastic manufacturing industry have been enormous. It all started with the beginning of synthetic plastic. A man by the name of Alexander Parkes, an inventive thinker from Britain discovered a material which he named Parkesine.

Parkesine, as might be expected for what is essentially the first of its kind, had several faults. First of all, and really most importantly, Parkesine was highly flammable. This led to an incredible amount of risk for all those working on it. Moreover, the finished products were expensive, but flimsy, and were widely known to crack and break. Thankfully, In 1868, American John Wesley Hyatt improved Parkesine.

Hyatt titled his invention celluloid, and this plastic material could be molded cheaper, easier, and more durably. This invention really paved the way for the industry to start manipulating injection molded products. Four years after the making of celluloid, John and his brother Isaiah Hyatt worked together to create the prototype of the very first plastic extrusion machine. This machine was actually quite simple (in comparison with the other extrusion machines used today).

Following the introduction of Hyatt's polymer extrusion machine, the industry rapidly grew. Now that the process of plastic profile extrusion was really being set into play, new ideas and innovators were stepping up to the plate, ready to improve. Different versions of Hyatts' machines were made in order to produce different products, including collar clips, hair combs, and even buttons.

During the 1940's, a spike in the demand of plastic products. Companies were forced to turn out huge numbers of products, but too many simply couldn't keep up with the orders! So, in 1945, James Watson Hendry took it upon himself to create a bigger and better plastic manufacturing machine. This particular machine was the first of its kind to employ the use of a screw, and specialists found that they were able to better control the speed of the injection, which in turn greatly increased the quality of the final products.

It was also found out that since the screw was now mixing the molten plastic products, other things could be mixed in with it. By adding different dyes, all sorts of new colorful products could be made, expanding the industry exponentially. Even now, most injection molding machines use a type of screw injection molding. Hendry also worked for thirty more years and release an injection molding machine that applied the use of gas, hugely reducing the use of important resources.

Plastics and Rubber Products have become a common feature in homes. For that matter even Industries have fallen hook, line and sinker for the two. Two major factors like credibility and versatility have been driving their demand. Considering the soaring demand for plastic and rubber products, we have come up with a common platform for all plastic and rubber manufacturers, suppliers, exporters and buyers, to trade with each other at the click of a mouse. A few years back, transactions used to take place ‘on –field’, with both parties sitting face-to-face, before closing the deal. Here, the major plus point is the transaction is taking place ‘on-line’ and you can strike a profitable deal right away. Sitting face-to-face can be done anytime.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Plastic Contract Manufacturing



Plastic contract manufacturing is the process of manufacturing plastic products on a contract basis. There are many contract manufacturers of plastic products, rubber products and other specialty chemical products. They produce fabricated and extruded plastic products. The plastic fabrication facility of most of the plastic contract manufacturers include the latest Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) routers, mills and lathes for top quality machining of plastic parts and products. Plastic contract manufacturers handle plastic fabrication, CNC machining and CNC turning projects. They usually make plastic products from both natural and synthetic materials. Contract manufacturing of plastic provides plastic products of high abrasion resistance, high tensile strength, high tear strength and good oil resistance.

Plastic contract manufacturers usually make plastic products, components and assemblies at the lowest possible prices. They work together with their customers to determine the materials needed, time taken, design specifications, production developments and certifications required. Contract manufacturers of plastics come up with plastic products in any size, design or quantity, according to the needs of the customer. Most contract manufacturers have a full range of services for design engineering and manufacturing of plastic products.

Plastic contract manufacturing mainly focuses on the quality, repeatability and performance of plastic products. Some contract manufacturers specialize in producing the plastic components for high precision electronic and electrical products, consumer products, automobile products and parts. Many of them also manufacture the press components and precision components of other engineering plastics. Plastic contract manufacturers usually manufacture containers, jars, jigs and fixtures. Generally, contract manufactures use advanced technologies in injection blow molding and compression molding to produce high precision components for electronics and electrical plastics. The materials used in plastic contract manufacturing include low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and high density polyethylene (HDPE).

Injection molding is widely used for thermoplastics. This process avoids the hardening of plastic in the machine. Injection molding helps to produce more accurate moldings having better control on the material usage. Many contract manufacturers of plastic specialize in the manufacturing dies for injection molded products such as plastic compounds, fan regulators, fan regulator switches, electrical rotary switches, fuse boxes and other special purpose machine parts.