Generated by All in One SEO Pro v4.9.6, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # AdvanTech Plastics, LLC Full Service Plastic Injection Molder ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://advantechplastics.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/) - [Case Study: Scaling High-Volume Production with High-Cavitation Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/case-study-scaling-high-volume-production-with-high-cavitation-injection-molding/) - The Challenge A manufacturer with a growing plastic component program needed to increase production capacity without sacrificing consistency, quality, or delivery performance. The part itself was relatively small, but annual demand was increasing quickly. Producing the component in a low-cavity mold required too many molding cycles, extended machine time, and created concerns about whether the - [Case Study: Transferring an Injection Mold to Improve Production Reliability and Supply Chain Control](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/case-study-transferring-an-injection-mold-to-improve-production-reliability-and-supply-chain-contro/) - See how AdvanTech Plastics helps manufacturers transfer existing injection molds, stabilize production, improve quality control and reduce supply chain risk. - [Case Study: Reshoring Plastic Injection Molding to Reduce Lead Times, Inventory Risk and Quality Concern](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/case-study-reshoring-plastic-injection-molding-to-reduce-lead-times-inventory-risk-and-quality-concern/) - The Challenge For manufacturers sourcing injection-molded plastic components offshore, the lowest quoted piece price does not always translate into the lowest total cost. One AdvanTech Plastics customer had been dealing with the challenges that often accompany an extended international supply chain: long and unpredictable lead times, high inventory requirements, increased logistics costs, material availability concerns - [Micro Plastic Injection Molding "Wears Well" with Wearable Medical Devices!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/micro-plastic-injection-molding-wears-well-with-wearable-medical-devices/) - In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare technology, wearable medical devices have emerged as a game-changer, empowering patients and healthcare providers alike with real-time data and remote monitoring capabilities. One key technology that has paved the way for the production of innovative and cost-effective wearable medical devices is micro plastic injection molding. In this blog post, - [Polypropylene: A Healthy Polymer for Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/polypropylene-a-healthy-polymer-for-medical-devices/) - Polypropylene is a versatile and widely used plastic polymer that has found its way into numerous industries. One of its most significant applications is in the medical field, where it has become the material of choice for various medical devices. Its popularity stems from a combination of unique properties that make it exceptionally well-suited for - [How AI and Automation Are Revolutionizing Plastic Injection Molding in 2025](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/how-ai-and-automation-are-revolutionizing-plastic-injection-molding-in-2025/) - Discover how AI and automation are improving speed, quality, and efficiency in the plastic injection molding industry, and AdvanTech Plastics specifically, in 2025. - [Medical-Grade Plastic Injection Molding: What OEMs Need to Know in 2025](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/medical-grade-plastic-injection-molding-what-oems-need-to-know-in-2025/) - Learn how medical OEMs can benefit from ISO 13485-certified plastic injection molding for critical healthcare components in 2025. - [What to Look for in a U.S.-Based Injection Molding Partner](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/what-to-look-for-in-a-u-s-based-injection-molding-partner/) - Discover what to look for in a U.S.-based injection molding partner, from engineering support to quality and scalability. See why AdvanTech Plastics excels... - [The Growing Case for Tethered Plastic Bottle Caps](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-growing-case-for-tethered-plastic-bottle-caps/) - Tethered plastic bottle caps are becoming the global standard. Discover why regulators, consumers, and brands are embracing this sustainable packaging solution. - [Why U.S. Companies Are Still Reshoring Plastic Parts from China in 2025](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/why-u-s-companies-are-still-reshoring-plastic-parts-from-china-in-2025/) - Learn why companies are reshoring plastic injection molding to the U.S. in 2025—and how AdvanTech Plastics leads the way with speed, security, and precision. - [How AI Is Revolutionizing Quality Control in Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/how-ai-is-revolutionizing-quality-control-in-plastic-injection-molding/) - Discover how AI-powered quality control is transforming plastic injection molding—reducing defects, waste, and downtime at AdvanTech Plastics. - [Understanding Mold Flow Analysis: Why It’s Critical in Injection Molding Success](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/understanding-mold-flow-analysis-why-its-critical-in-injection-molding-success/) - n the world of plastic injection molding, precision and predictability are everything. That’s why Mold Flow Analysis (MFA) has become an essential part of the product development and tooling design process. This computer-aided engineering (CAE) technique simulates how molten plastic flows into a mold cavity, allowing engineers to visualize and optimize key aspects of the - [Unlocking Innovation: Engineering Services Offered by AdvanTech Plastics](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/unlocking-innovation-engineering-services-offered-by-advantech-plastics/) - In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, product success hinges not only on functionality and aesthetics, but also on smart engineering that enhances performance, reduces production costs, and shortens time to market. That’s where AdvanTech Plastics excels. Based in Woodstock, Illinois, AdvanTech Plastics offers a comprehensive suite of engineering services to both new and existing customers that - [Why Reshoring Plastic Injection Molding Still Makes Sense Amid Shifting Tariffs](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/why-reshoring-plastic-injection-molding-still-makes-sense-amid-shifting-tariffs/) - In 2025, the global trade landscape remains volatile, particularly for manufacturers relying on Chinese suppliers. Despite recent tariff adjustments, the long-term trend toward reshoring—especially in plastic injection molding—continues to gain momentum. For companies seeking stability, quality, and supply chain control, partnering with U.S.-based firms like AdvanTech Plastics offers compelling advantages. The Tariff Landscape: A Moving - [Reshoring from China? Here’s How AdvanTech Plastics Can Help You Bring Plastic Production Home](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/reshoring-from-china-heres-how-advantech-plastics-can-help-you-bring-plastic-production-home/) - Why U.S. Companies Are Reshoring Plastic Injection Molding from China Many manufacturers that once depended on Chinese suppliers are now shifting to domestic production. The reasons are clear: Tariffs and trade tensions have increased the cost of importing plastic parts. Shipping delays and supply chain disruptions create long lead times and production setbacks. Inconsistent quality - [Reshoring Plastic Storage Containers: How U.S. Manufacturing Can Help You Avoid Costly Tariffs](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/reshoring-plastic-storage-containers-how-u-s-manufacturing-can-help-you-avoid-costly-tariffs/) - Avoid costly China tariffs on plastic storage containers. Discover how AdvanTech Plastics can help you reshore production with U.S. injection molding. - [Why Now is the Right Time to Onshore Your Plastic Manufacturing](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/why-now-is-the-right-time-to-onshore-your-plastic-manufacturing/) - For years, offshore plastic manufacturing was a default strategy for cutting costs. Many companies moved injection molding operations to China, Vietnam, and other low-wage regions where labor and overhead were cheaper. Ocean freight was slow but reliable, but the cost advantages outweighed any delays. The Previous Model No Longer Works Labor costs have risen steadily - [Reshoring Success: How AdvanTech Plastics Became the New Home for "Company A’s" Production](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/reshoring-success-how-advantech-plastics-became-the-new-home-for-company-as-production/) - In a strategic move to reduce costs and increase efficiency, a prominent company (referred to as "Company A" for privacy reasons) recently decided to re-shore its production operations from China to the United States. The decision was primarily driven by the rising tariff costs associated with overseas manufacturing. After thorough research and consideration, Company A - [Reshoring Success: How AdvanTech Plastics Streamlined Production for Company](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/reshoring-success-how-advantech-plastics-streamlined-production-for-company/) - Reshoring has become an increasingly viable option for companies looking to mitigate supply chain disruptions and reduce lead times. One such success story involves Company B (whose name is withheld for privacy reasons), which recently partnered with AdvanTech Plastics to bring its injection molding operations back to the United States from China. Leading this initiative - [Mold Transfer Success: AdvanTech Plastics Takes on a Challenging Project](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/mold-transfer-success-advantech-plastics-takes-on-a-challenging-projec/) - In 2024, AdvanTech Plastics took on a significant mold transfer project from a new customer facing quality issues with their previous two suppliers. The customer, whose name is withheld for privacy reasons, had been experiencing ongoing problems and needed fresh insights to optimize their molding process. After reshoring the molds from China due to extended - [AdvanTech Plastics "Re-Shores" New Customer Using Shorter Lead Time](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advantech-plastics-re-shores-new-customer-using-shorter-lead-time/) - AdvanTech Plastics is "leading" the way in the re-shoring phenomenon that is prompting many companies to bring back manufacturing from overseas. Or should we say "leading" in the drastic reduction of lead-times our customers experience in the production of their components. Recently, AdvanTech began production of a plastic housing unit for a battery charger that - [AdvanTech Plastics is Eating Up Stack Molds!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advantech-plastics-is-eating-up-stack-molds/) - Since it was invented in 1872, plastic injection molding has played an increasingly vital role in manufacturing various products that we encounter in our daily lives. From consumer goods to automotive components to medical devices, plastic injection molding enables the production of high-quality and cost-effective parts. In recent years, stack molds have emerged as a - [Advanced Materials & Composites: Injecting New Life into Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advanced-materials-composites-injecting-new-life-into-plastic-injection-molding/) - The plastic injection molding industry has always been at the forefront of innovation, driving progress in various sectors, from automotive and aerospace to electronics and consumer goods. One of the key pillars of this innovation is the constant exploration and integration of advanced materials and composites. In recent years, the injection molding landscape has - [A Tip of the 'Cap' to AdvanTech Plastics 1881 Automated Cell!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/a-tip-of-the-cap-to-advantech-plastics-1881-automated-cell/) - AdvanTech Plastics has the "pop" needed to satisfy our carbonated soft drink customers thirst for vast quantities of bottle caps. For example, our 1881 automated cell includes a 96-cavity mold that takes less than 4-seconds to produce 96 caps. Do the math and you'll see we can produce 12,000 caps every eight hours. The caps - [Growing Wave: Reshoring Manufacturing Jobs From Overseas](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/growing-wave-reshoring-lost-manufacturing-from-overseas/) - Maybe it's something in the water. Or something about the vast expanse of water between the US and Asia. Because there has been a significant trend of companies reshoring manufacturing operations to the United States. Between 2010 and 2022, approximately 1,600,000 jobs were announced as returning to the U.S. through reshoring and foreign direct investment - [Enhancing Customer Satisfaction with Sumitomo's All-Electric Press](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/enhancing-customer-satisfaction-with-sumitomos-all-electric-press/) - Is an all-electric plastic injection molding press right for your product? Call AdvanTech Plastics at 815-338-8383 to find out! - [Why U.S. Manufacturers Are Re-shoring Plastic Food Packaging Production](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/why-u-s-manufacturers-are-re-shoring-plastic-food-packaging-production/) - Over the past few decades, offshoring manufacturing to countries with lower labor costs was the go-to strategy for many U.S. companies. However, in recent years, a growing number of manufacturers, particularly in the plastic food packaging industry, are bringing production back to the United States. This shift, known as re-shoring, is driven by several economic, - [Choosing the Right Material for a Medical Device Injection Molded Part](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/choosing-the-right-material-for-a-medical-device-injection-molded-part/) - The U.S. medical injection molding market is a significant segment of the healthcare industry. This market was valued at approximately $3.4 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around $4.8 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5% from 2024 to 2030. One factor driving this trend is the - [From Sharpies to Shoes, US Manufacturers' Re-shoring Trend Heating Up](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/from-sharpies-to-shoes-us-manufacturers-re-shoring-trend-heating-up/) - Several companies across various industries have recently re-shored portions of their production back to the United States. Notable examples include: American Giant: This apparel company collaborated with Walmart to produce $12.98 American-made T-shirts, demonstrating the viability of domestic apparel manufacturing. The Wall Street Journal Jones Plastic & Engineering: Facing increased demand due to nearshoring trends, - [Reshoring Plastic Medical Parts: Weighing the Pros and Cons](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/reshoring-plastic-medical-parts-weighing-the-pros-and-cons/) - In recent years, reshoring—the process of bringing manufacturing operations back to the United States from overseas—has gained traction as a strategic decision for many industries. And now, with President Trump threatening tariffs against many of our major trading partners, the option of avoiding those tariffs via re=shoring seems even more attractive. For AdvanTech, the re-shoring - [AdvanTech Is The Leader in Quality and Compliance in Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advantech-is-the-leader-in-quality-and-compliance-in-plastic-injection-molding/) - For many industries, delivering quality products isn’t optional; it’s a necessity. This is why quality is not a buzzword at AdvanTech Plastics. Quality is a core value that drives every aspect of our operations. Leading with a quality commitment and following through with action ensures we consistently deliver products that meet industry standards and customer - [The Value Of Insert Molding for Medical Products](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-value-of-insert-molding-for-medical-products/) - When metal and plastic are used together in a single medical component, insert molding offers significant advantages. Call AdvanTech Plastics to learn more! 815-338-8383 - [ISO 13485: The Essential Standard for Medical Device Manufacturers](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/iso-13485-the-essential-standard-for-medical-device-manufacturers/) - In the world of medical device manufacturing, quality and safety are non-negotiable. Medical devices—from simple bandages to complex surgical implants—must consistently meet strict regulatory requirements. One key tool that manufacturers rely on to achieve these standards is ISO 13485. This international standard sets out the requirements for a quality management system (QMS) specific to the - [Steps To Achieving ISO 13485 Certification: A Practical Guide](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/iso-13485/) - Achieving ISO 13485 certification is crucial for companies involved in the design, manufacture, or distribution of medical devices, as it demonstrates compliance with international quality standards. This standard specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS) in the medical device industry to ensure products meet regulatory requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the ISO 13485 - [Understanding Post-Consumer Recyclables in the Plastics Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/understanding-post-consumer-recyclables-in-the-plastics-industry/) - The global concern for environmental sustainability has put the spotlight on the need for effective waste management, particularly for plastics. One solution the plastics industry has focused on is increasing the use of post-consumer recyclables (PCRs) in production. PCRs are materials that have completed their lifecycle as consumer items and have been collected, sorted, and - [Mastering Complexity in Plastic Injection Molding for Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/mastering-complexity-in-plastic-injection-molding-for-medical-devices/) - Plastic injection molding is the backbone of the modern plastic medical device industry, enabling the mass production of highly precise and reliable components. However, as medical devices become increasingly intricate, so too does the injection molding process. The development of complex plastic injection molded medical devices, such as multi-component surgical instruments, intricate diagnostic equipment, or - [Plastic Caps and Closures: A Primer](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-caps-and-closures-a-primer/) - The manufacturing of plastic caps and closures, despite appearing simple, involves numerous technical, logistical, and environmental challenges. Caps and closures serve critical functions across industries, particularly in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and household products. Manufacturers must balance functional, aesthetic, and sustainability requirements to meet industry standards and consumer demands. 1. Material Selection One of - [ECLIPSE Technology: The New Standard for Sustainable, Bio-Assimilation Plastic](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/eclipse-technology-the-new-standard-for-sustainable-bio-assimilation-plastic/) - Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century. Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste are generated, much of which ends up in landfills, oceans, and ecosystems where it can persist for centuries. In response to this growing crisis, a range of innovative solutions have been proposed, from - [Rail Spurs and Resin Silos Contribute to Globally Competitive Pricing](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/rail-spurs-and-resin-silos-contribute-to-globally-competitive-pricing/) - If you're like most manufacturers, the cost is a significant concern when choosing a plastic injection molder, particularly in times of economic uncertainty and high inflation. Many manufacturers are searching for ways to reduce operational expenses without compromising the quality of their products. Fortunately, tightening your belt doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. AdvanTech - [The Advantages and Challenges of Post Consumer Recycled Plastics](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-advantages-and-challenges-of-post-consumer-recycled-plastics/) - As global awareness of environmental sustainability continues to grow, industries are increasingly turning to Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) materials to reduce their carbon footprint and promote a circular economy. PCR involves recycling plastic waste from consumer products and reprocessing it into new materials that can be used for various applications, including packaging. While the adoption of - [The Importance of Mold Transfers in Plastic Injection Molding: Re-shoring and Quality Enhancement](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-importance-of-mold-transfers-in-plastic-injection-molding-re-shoring-and-quality-enhancement/) - In the world of plastic injection molding, the molds, or tooling, used to create parts are among the most critical assets a company possesses. These molds are often the result of significant investment in design, engineering, and manufacturing. However, as global market conditions change, or as companies seek to improve the quality of their products, - [The Complex World of Manufacturing Plastic Injection Molded Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-complex-world-of-manufacturing-plastic-injection-molded-medical-devices/) - The medical device industry is a highly regulated sector where precision, quality, and reliability are paramount. Among the various manufacturing processes used, plastic injection molding stands out for its ability to produce complex, high-volume parts with tight tolerances. However, the process of manufacturing certain plastic injection molded medical devices presents unique challenges that require specialized - [Three Advantages of Two-Shot Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/three-advantages-of-two-shot-injection-molding/) - Gaining market share in crowded spaces requires more than making products people can use. They must be better than what is available, less expensive, or completely different from what is available (first to market). When it comes to having successful products that are plastic or have plastic components, there are many manufacturing methods available. One - [Good Shapes: The Design of Plastic Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/good-shapes-the-design-of-plastic-medical-devices/) - Design Considerations in the Manufacturing of Medical Devices by Plastic Injection Molding The medical device industry relies heavily on precision, reliability, and compliance with strict regulatory standards. Among the various manufacturing techniques, plastic injection molding stands out due to its ability to produce complex, high-quality components with tight tolerances at scale. This process involves injecting - [Micro-Injection Molding Has Big Impact on the Plastic Injection Molding Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/micro-injection-molding-has-big-impact-on-the-plastic-injection-molding-industry/) - In the dynamic landscape of the plastic injection molding industry, micro-injection molding has emerged as a groundbreaking technology, offering unparalleled precision and efficiency. This innovative process, designed for producing miniature and micro-scale components, is increasingly becoming a cornerstone in various high-tech fields, including medical devices, electronics, and automotive industries. As the demand for smaller, more - [Challenges and Solutions to Scaling Plastic Injection Molding Production at a Life Sciences Company](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/challenges-and-solutions-to-scaling-plastic-injection-molding-production-at-a-life-sciences-company/) - Scaling plastic injection molding production in a life sciences company involves several challenges and requires specific solutions to ensure efficiency, quality, and compliance with industry standards. Here are the key challenges and potential solutions: Challenges Quality Control and Consistency: Challenge: Maintaining consistent product quality is crucial in life sciences due to stringent regulatory requirements. Variations - [Why Choose Insert Molding?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/why-choose-insert-molding/) - Why Choose Insert Molding? Insert molding is a manufacturing process for molding thermoplastic over a prefabricated component called an insert to create a single component. Inserts are generally metal but can be made from any material that can withstand the temperature and pressure of injection molding. The resulting single unified part has improved strength and - [Medically necessary: AdvanTech's new IS0 13485 Certification](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/medically-necessary-advantechs-new-is0-13485-certification/) - AdvanTech Plastics is proud to announce our new ISO 13485 certification, an international standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS) specific to the medical devices industry. It ensures that organizations involved in the design, production, installation, and servicing of medical devices consistently meet regulatory and customer requirements. Here's an overview of what - [The Advantages and Disadvantages of Biosciences Companies Purchasing Equipment from Medical Supply Companies](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-biosciences-companies-purchasing-equipment-from-medical-supply-companies/) - The bio sciences industry relies heavily on sophisticated equipment to conduct research, diagnose diseases, and develop new treatments. Companies in this field face a critical decision when acquiring equipment: should they buy from medical supply companies or directly from individual bio-sciences manufacturers? Each option comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a - [Key Trends in Plastic Injection Molding for 2024](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/key-trends-in-plastic-injection-molding-for-2024/) - The plastic injection molding industry is experiencing a period of rapid innovation and transformation in 2024. Several key trends are shaping the landscape, driven by advancements in technology, materials, and sustainability initiatives. Here are some of the most important trends in plastic injection molding this year: 1. Advanced Materials The use of advanced materials is - [3D printing: A macro-sized advance for micro-molded plastic medical parts](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/3d-printing-a-macro-sized-advance-for-micro-molded-plastic-medical-parts/) - There's little doubt 3D-printing is adding a whole new dimension to the plastic injection molding industry. But what you may not know is how 3D printing can complement and enhance micro injection molding in the production of plastic medical parts. Here's how: Prototyping and Design Validation 3D printing is highly beneficial for creating prototypes and - [Med-Tech Expo '24: A Must-Attend Event for Medical Technology Innovator](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/med-tech-expo-24-a-must-attend-event-for-medical-technology-innovator/) - The Med-Tech Expo '24 is set to take place on June 5-6 in Birmingham, UK, promising to be a landmark event for professionals in the medical technology industry. As one of the most significant gatherings of its kind, the expo will bring together innovators, manufacturers, suppliers, and thought leaders from around the globe to explore - [Industry 4.0 Integration in the Plastic Injection Molding Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/industry-4-0-integration-in-the-plastic-injection-molding-industry/) - The fourth industrial revolution, commonly known as Industry 4.0, is transforming manufacturing industries across the globe. This paradigm shift leverages advanced digital technologies to create smart factories that are more efficient, flexible, and interconnected. The plastic injection molding industry, a cornerstone of modern manufacturing, is experiencing significant changes due to Industry 4.0 integration. This post - [Meet Steve Kieffer: The New Tooling Engineer at AdvanTech Plastics](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/meet-steve-kieffer-the-new-tooling-engineer-at-advantech-plastics/) - AdvanTech Plastics, is excited to announce the newest addition to their team, Steve Kieffer, who joins as the Tooling Engineer. With his vast experience in the industry and his passion for innovation, Kieffer is set to play a crucial role in furthering the company's mission to provide top-quality plastic products to their clients. Kieffer brings - [3D Printing: The New Dimension in Plastic Injection Molded Medical Parts](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/3d-printing-the-new-dimension-in-plastic-injection-molded-medical-parts/) - In the medical device manufacturing industry, precision, efficiency, and adaptability are paramount. Plastic injection molding is a key process used in the production of plastic medical devices, offering a cost-effective and scalable solution. However, traditional mold design can be time-consuming and costly, limiting flexibility in the production process. This is where 3D printing, also known - [How Clean is Clean? ISO Knows, On A Scale of 1-9](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/how-clean-is-clean-iso-knows-on-a-scale-of-1-9/) - In the realm of plastic injection molding, especially in the production of plastic medical devices, cleanliness is of utmost importance. Maintaining a clean environment during the manufacturing process helps ensure that the final products meet stringent quality and safety standards. To achieve this, facilities often use clean rooms that adhere to various levels of ISO - [Revolutionizing Prototyping: Advantages of 3D Printing for Plastic Injection Molded Parts](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/revolutionizing-prototyping-advantages-of-3d-printing-for-plastic-injection-molded-parts/) - In the realm of product development, prototyping plays a pivotal role in bringing ideas to life. Traditionally, plastic injection molding has been the go-to method for creating prototypes due to its scalability and cost-effectiveness. However, the emergence of 3D printing technology has revolutionized the prototyping process, offering a myriad of advantages over conventional methods. In - ["Electrifying Development": Integrating Electronics with Plastic Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/electrifying-development-integrating-electronics-with-plastic-medical-devices/) - In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare technology, the integration of electronics with plastic medical devices represents a significant leap forward. This convergence has paved the way for innovative solutions that enhance patient care, improve treatment outcomes, and streamline medical processes. Let's delve into how this integration is revolutionizing the healthcare industry. Enhanced Functionality and Precision - [Revolutionizing Minimally Invasive Surgery with Miniaturized Plastic Injection Molded Part](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/revolutionizing-minimally-invasive-surgery-with-miniaturized-plastic-injection-molded-part/) - Innovations in medical technology have transformed the landscape of healthcare, particularly in the realm of surgery. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has emerged as a preferred approach due to its reduced trauma, shorter recovery times, and improved patient outcomes. A key enabler of MIS is the development of miniaturized plastic injection molded medical parts, which play - [AdvanTech's Westward Adventure: A Recap of Informa Markets Engineering West Convention](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advantechs-westward-adventure-a-recap-of-informa-markets-engineering-west-convention/) - In the bustling heart of Anaheim, California, from February 6th to 8th, the Informa Markets Engineering West Convention provided a platform for innovation and collaboration in the realm of engineering and plastics. Among the myriad of companies showcasing their advancements, AdvanTech Plastics stood out, leaving an indelible mark with their innovative solutions and forward-thinking approach. - [Top Trends Shaping Plastic Injection Molding for Medical Applications in 2024](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/top-trends-shaping-plastic-injection-molding-for-medical-applications-in-2024/) - In the fast-evolving landscape of medical device manufacturing, plastic injection molding stands as a cornerstone technology, driving innovation and progress. As we delve into 2024, several key trends are emerging, reshaping the way plastic injection molding is utilized in medical applications. From advancements in materials to the integration of digital technologies, let's explore the top - [The Crucial Role of Prototyping in Perfecting Medical Device Designs](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-crucial-role-of-prototyping-in-perfecting-medical-device-designs/) - In the dynamic landscape of medical device manufacturing, precision and reliability are paramount. With the advent of plastic injection molding, the industry has witnessed remarkable advancements in both design flexibility and production efficiency. However, achieving perfection in plastic medical device designs requires a meticulous approach, and prototyping plays a pivotal role in this pursuit. Prototyping - [The Role of Kitting in Streamlining Plastic Medical Devices Market Operations](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-role-of-kitting-in-streamlining-plastic-medical-devices-market-operations/) - In the dynamic landscape of the medical devices market, efficiency, precision, and reliability are paramount. As the demand for plastic medical devices continues to surge, manufacturers are exploring innovative strategies to optimize production processes. One such method making significant waves in the industry is "kitting." Understanding Kitting in the Plastic Medical Devices Market What is - [What Are The Most Common Plastic Medical Device Sterilization Methods?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/what-are-the-most-common-plastic-medical-device-sterilization-methods/) - Several sterilization methods are employed to ensure plastic medical devices are free from microorganisms or contaminants before they reach patients. The choice of sterilization method often depends on the device's material, complexity, and the need to maintain its integrity. Some common sterilization methods for plastic medical devices include: Ethylene Oxide (EtO) Sterilization: This method is - [The Vital Role of Clean Room Manufacturing in Plastic Medical Device Production](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-vital-role-of-clean-room-manufacturing-in-plastic-medical-device-producti/) - In the realm of medical devices, precision and purity are non-negotiable. As technology advances, the production of plastic medical devices has become more intricate, demanding environments that ensure utmost cleanliness and precision. This is where Clean Room Manufacturing takes center stage, playing a pivotal role in guaranteeing the safety and reliability of these life-saving tools. - [Don't Underestimate It: Cost Estimation in Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/dont-underestimate-it-cost-estimation-in-plastic-injection-molding/) - Unveiling the Complexity of Cost Estimation in Plastic Injection Molding Cost estimation is a critical aspect of the plastic injection molding industry, influencing decisions at every stage of product development. Accurately predicting the costs associated with the manufacturing process is essential for effective budgeting, pricing strategies, and overall business success. This blog post will delve - [Exploring Plastic Molding Processes: A Primer](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/primer/) - Plastic molding processes offer a range of methods for creating intricate and durable plastic products. Among these processes, plastic injection molding stands out as a popular and versatile technique. However, there are other plastic molding methods, each with its own advantages and applications. This blog post will compare plastic injection molding to other prominent plastic - [The Qualities of Good Quality Control in Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-qualities-of-good-quality-control/) - Quality control is an essential aspect of the plastic injection molding process. It ensures that the final products meet the desired specifications and adhere to industry standards. In an industry where precision and consistency are paramount, impeccable quality control is not just a desirable feature but a fundamental requirement. This blog post explores the importance - [Healthy Numbers: Multi-Material and Multi-Component Plastic Injection Molding in Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/healthy-numbers-multi-material-and-multi-component-plastic-injection-molding-in-medical-devices/) - The healthcare industry is no stranger to innovation. It constantly seeks ways to enhance patient care, improve device functionality, and reduce costs. One technological advancement making significant waves in healthcare is multi-material and multi-component plastic injection molding. This cutting-edge manufacturing technique is reshaping medical device design and production, offering a multitude of benefits that have - [Shaping a Sustainable Future: Energy Efficiency in Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/shaping-a-sustainable-future-energy-efficiency-in-plastic-injection-molding/) - The plastic injection molding industry, just like any other industry, is facing unprecedented environmental challenges. However, the industry has been making significant strides in recent years towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of energy efficiency and sustainability in plastic injection molding and the innovative solutions that - [Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing: Another Industrial Revolution!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/industry-4-0-and-smart-manufacturing-another-industrial-revolution/) - The Plastic Injection Molding Industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, thanks to the advent of Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing technologies. This dynamic duo has not only improved the efficiency and precision of the manufacturing process but has also opened up new possibilities for customization, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. In this article, we - [Transforming Healthcare: Latest Trends in Plastic Injection Molding Techniques](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/transforming-healthcare-latest-trends-in-plastic-injection-molding-technique/) - The healthcare industry is no stranger to technological advancements. Among the many innovations shaping this sector, plastic injection molding techniques have played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the design, production, and quality of medical devices and components. In recent years, several trends have emerged that showcase how these techniques are enabling breakthroughs in healthcare. 1. - [AdvanTech Passes Food Safety Inspection With Flying Colors](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advantech-passes-food-safety-inspection-with-flying-colors/) - Because AdvanTech Plastics is involved in what's known as "food-contact" packaging, our facility must regularly undergo inspections by officials at AIB International, the world's leading organization advocating for food safety in manufacturing and packaging. Among its many contributions to the food industry, AIB International's "Consolidated Standards for Food Contact Packaging Manufacturing Facilities" stand as the - [Burp! Blatt! Caps and Closures in the Food and Beverage Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/burp-blatt-caps-and-closures-in-the-food-and-beverage-industry/) - The food and beverage industry relies on a smorgasbord of packaging solutions to ensure product safety, extend shelf life, and maintain product quality. Plastic injection-molded caps and closures play a crucial role in this sector, providing effective sealing and tamper-evident features. This blog post explores the diverse range of plastic injection-molded caps and closures used - [Sonic Welding Gives Plastic Injection Molders "Good Vibes"!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/sonic-welding-gives-plastic-injection-molders-good-vibes/) - The plastic injection molding industry has witnessed significant advancements in manufacturing processes over the years, leading to improved efficiency, precision, and cost-effectiveness. One such innovation that has revolutionized the industry is sonic welding. This technique utilizes high-frequency vibrations to join plastic components together, eliminating the need for adhesives or mechanical fasteners. In this blog post, - [Plastic Injection Molded Medical Parts: The "Heart" of the Matter!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molded-medical-parts-the-heart-of-the-matter/) - Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, necessitating constant advancements in cardiac care and treatment options. Among these advancements, plastic injection molded heart valves have emerged as a groundbreaking innovation, revolutionizing the field of cardiology. These valves offer numerous benefits over traditional valve replacements, providing improved durability, biocompatibility, and customization possibilities. In this - [The Plastics that "Resin-ate" Through Our Industry!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-plastics-that-resin-ate-through-our-industry/) - Plastic injection molding has revolutionized the manufacturing industry, enabling the production of intricate and precise plastic parts at scale. A key aspect of this process is the selection of the appropriate resin, as it directly impacts the end product's quality, functionality, and performance. In this article, we delve into the world of resins used in - [At AdvanTech Plastics, We're Hungry For Food Packaging!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/at-advantech-plastics-were-hungry-for-food-packaging/) - In today's fast-paced world, food packaging plays a crucial role in preserving the quality and safety of our food. Plastic injection molding has emerged as a highly efficient and versatile manufacturing process for producing food packaging solutions that meet the demands of modern consumers. This article explores the benefits of plastic injection molding in food - ["Insert Here": Plastic Injection Insert Molding For Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/insert-here-plastic-injection-insert-molding-for-medical-devices/) - The world of medical device manufacturing has witnessed remarkable advancements in recent years, with insert molding through plastic injection molding emerging as a game-changer. This innovative technique combines the benefits of both plastic injection molding and insert placement, enabling the production of complex medical devices with enhanced functionality, improved precision, and reduced costs. In this - [UL-94 Fire Resistance Ratings Are A Hot Topic In The Plastics Industry!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/ul-94-fire-resistance-ratings-are-a-hot-topic-in-the-plastics-industry/) - You see their ubiquitous "UL" label on products ranging from vacuum cleaners to laptops: Underwriters Solutions (formerly Underwriters Laboratories) is such a well-known logo, many people mistake it for a government seal-of-approval. But Underwriters Solutions is a private company, albeit one that works closely with OSHA (Occupational Health & Safety Administration), a federal agency. And - [AdvenTech's Plastic Injection Molded Nasal Syringes Win By A Nose!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/adventechs-plastic-injection-molded-nasal-syringes-win-by-a-nose/) - AdvanTech Plastics "nose" plastic injection molded nasal syringes! After all, we have the capability to manufacture them with zero defects! So what exactly are nasal syringes? Well, nasal syringes are a crucial medical tool used for various applications, including administering medications, cleaning nasal passages, and relieving congestion. Among the different types of nasal syringes available, - [Plastic Medical Obturators: A Primer](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-obturators-a-primer/) - The field of medical technology has seen remarkable advancements in recent years, with plastic injection molding playing a significant role in the development of various medical devices. One such device that has gained prominence in the field of dentistry and maxillofacial surgery is the medical obturator. In this article, we will delve into the manufacturing - ["Shore Makes Sense": Re-Shoring the Plastic Injection Molding Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/shore-makes-sense-re-shoring-the-plastic-injection-molding-industry/) - "Off-Shoring"... Once upon a time, that was a magical incantation for American manufacturers. Beginning in the '70s, then accelerating into a crescendo in the '90s, off-shoring became a mantra for manufacturers, big and small. The lure of lowering costs and maximizing profits by moving manufacturing to countries with lower labor costs and material sourcing, like - [Plastic Medical Devices: A Healthy Combination](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-medical-devices-a-primer/) - Plastics are so ideal for medical devices, it's "sick"! Why? Just look at the history: plastics have played a crucial role in the development of medical devices, and their use has revolutionized the field of medicine. From disposable syringes to implantable devices, plastics have made medical treatments safer, more efficient, and cost-effective. And that's quite - [Here Come The All-Electric Plastic Injection Molding Machines!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/a-tsunami-of-sumitomo-all-electric-plastic-injection-molding-machines/) - In alignment with the AdvanTech Plastics Sustainability Mission Statement, “we are committed to manufacturing products through economically-sound processes that minimize negative environment impacts”. To help achieve that mission, AdvanTech has proudly moved towards “greener” plastic injection molding machines with the latest commissioning of a Sumitomo 112 ton and a larger Sumitomo 320 ton. Even though - [Reshoring Is Good For Business AND America!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/reshoring-is-good-for-business-and-america/) - There was a time in the late 90's and early '00s when it seemed like nothing would ever be manufactured in the USA again. It appeared that China and other low-cost labor nations would snap up every last manufactured widget from plastic medical devices to plastic car parts, from every last higher labor-cost nation in - [Announcing AdvanTech's E-Mac 465/175 All-Electric Molding Machine](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/announcing-advantechs-e-mac-465-175-all-electric-molding-machine/) - AdvanTech Plastics has taken a huge step toward a green new future with the purchase and installation of the E-Mac 465/175 all-electric plastic injection molding machine. Made in Europe, the E-Mac 465/175 is a 175-ton manufacturing marvel, which puts it precisely in the middle of Engel's E-Mac series in terms of size. Engels machines are - [Plastic Medical Devices: Thermoplastics vs. Thermoset](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-medical-devices-thermoplastics-vs-thermoset/) - Spoiler alert: when comparing polymer plastics suitable for plastic medical devices, thermoplastics are the Mayo Clinic, if you will, while thermosets are a very competent regional health center. In other words, thermosets aren't nearly as ubiquitous as thermoplastics but they do have a place in the universe of plastic medical devices. For example, thermosetting plastics like silicone, - [K 2013 is history... and history making for plastic injection molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-trade-fair/) - The elite of the world's plastic and rubber industry descended on Dusseldorf October 16-23, as the K 2013 International Trade Fair drew more than 230,000 attendees to this European business and fashion capital. The continuing recovery of the plastic injection and rubber-injection molding industries foretold a successful trade show, and those expectations were indeed - [Small parts, high tech!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/small-parts-high-tech/) - Advantech Plastics is always researching the latest advances in plastic injection molding. That's why we are interested in the M3 High Volume Micro Molding Machine will make its first public appearance later this month at the K 2013 exhibition in Düsseldorf, Germany. This is the first complete molding system offered by MHS-Mold Hotrunner Solutions, Georgetown, Ont., - [Plastic Dental Devices: Open Up And Say Ahh-Mazing!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-dental-devices-open-up-and-say-ahh-mazing/) - Not many people are thrilled about a trip to the dentist. It depends on the procedure, of course. A simple cleaning is tolerable, but a root canal? Well, let's just say it's not something most people can sink their teeth into. But, as unappealing as it is, a trip to the dentist the last decade - [Bio-Plastics and Recycled Plastics Driving Major Machinery Purchases](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/bio-plastics-and-recycled-plastics-driving-major-machinery-purchases/) - While some in our industry decry growing consumer and business demand for recycled and bio-degradable plastics, there is at least one group of folks who are happy about it: plastic injection molding machinery manufacturers. Could be because global market demand for plastics processing machinery is expected to reach $24.3 billion by 2025. Of course, the - [Capital Property Inspection](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/capital-property-inspection/) - Our Capstone Guarantees Our Capstone Guarantees represent our highest business ideals at Capital Property Inspection. They are part of our mission to provide thorough, high quality and honest, home inspection services to our clients that exceed expectations. Capstone Guarantee #1: 90-Day “Money Back If We Missed Something” Guarantee We are - [Simple Hacks For Better Plastic Injection Mold Design](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/simple-hack-better-plastic-injection-mold-design/) - The global market for plastic injection molded parts is estimated conservatively at $325 billion, and this number is expected to grow by 5.7% through at least 2025. Super-charged by dozens of exploding Asian economies, while leveraging process efficiencies as well as new resin varieties, the utilization of plastic components in increasingly more sophisticated applications present - [Rapid Injection Molding: It's All By Design](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/rapid-injection-molding-design/) - Plastic injection molding, as a process, has many parameters but none so important as the right design. Design is particularly important for rapid plastic injection molding, (RIM) where speed is of the essence, as is quality. This post is a top-level examination of many of the vital design considerations that must be taken into account - [Don't Break the Mold: Tips for Improving Mold Design](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/dont-break-the-mold-tips-for-improving-mold-design/) - At the risk of mixing metaphors (or, at least, materials), it's a "golden" age for plastic. Let's do the math: the market for plastic injection molded parts stands at $325 billion and is expected to surge 5.7% by 2025, with more to come after that. The hyper-developing economies of Asia, as well as improved processes - [Moldable: Using the R & D Tax Credit To Your Advantage](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/moldable-using-the-r-d-tax-credit-to-your-advantage/) - It pays to innovate. More specifically, innovation can save you millions on your taxes, if your plastic injection molding company leverages the Research and Development Tax Credit. Each year, the RDTC saves U.S. businesses $10 billion every year and has helped thousands of plastic injection molding companies become more competitive in the global marketplace at - [20 Minutes To More Efficient Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/20-minutes-efficient-plastic-injection-molding/) - Too good to be true, you say? Believe it: the latest production monitoring systems are increasingly internet-based (usually wi-fi) and can be installed by even the most non-techie executive. The goal? Saving money, of course, by utilizing real-time data from the plastic injection molding process, then turning around and making that process more efficient. And - [Resin App "Injects" Molding Processing Details Onto Your Phone](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/resin-app-puts-injection-molding-processing-details-on-your-smart-phone/) - It's a familiar scenario: You've just received a shipment of a mystery resin about which you know very little. Have you ever worked with it before? Not sure. What are the processing parameters? Without any accompanying information, you don't have a clue. So you start a production run after "guestimating" the processing parameters. Not a - [Toshiba All-Electric Injection Molding Machines](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/toshiba-all-electric-injection-molding-machines/) - Advantech Plastics is proud to offer the high performance line of electric plastic injection molding machines manufactured by Toshiba Inc. The company's watch words -- "precise and steady molding" and "high productivity" are reflected in these highly efficient machines which boast leading-edge mold clamping technology. New mold clamping unit (Solid Clamp) This device transforms uniform - [Recycling Plastic Injection Molded Products](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/recycling-plastic-injection-molded-products/) - Recycling plastic is a hot topic these days: after all, more than 80% of Americans have access to a plastics recycling program. Interest is especially high among plastic injection molders, who would be the first to suffer from onerous governmental regulations if a sledge hammer rather than a scalpel were brought to bear on plastic - [The Application of Thermoplastic Resin in Dentistry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-application-of-thermoplastic-resin-in-dentistry/) - Thermoplastic resins are materials that convert to a liquid state when exposed to high temperatures. As the temperature is reduced the plastic cools and hardens. The properties of thermoplastic resins allow the material to be molded into various structures and shapes. Thermoplastic resin offers excellent performance as an injection molded plastic and is used throughout - [Plastic Injection Molding: An Abridged History](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-an-abridged-history/) - PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING INVENTED IN 19TH CENTURY? YEP! 1868, to be precise. American inventor John W. Hyatt patented a process that produced a product he called "celluloid" (not what later would eventually become movie film) which he used as a replacement for ivory in billiard balls and piano keys, among other things. Although an Englishman - [Medical Device Prescription: Two-Shot Plastic Injection Molding Is Twice As Nice](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/medical-device-prescription-two-shot-plastic-injection-molding-is-twice-as-nice/) - Sometimes two-steps are better than one. Take medical device plastic injection molding, for example: sometimes you need both strength and ergonomics, as you do with surgical instruments which might a need a super-hard plastic "business end," and a more "soft touch" plastic handle for the surgeon's sensitive hands. The answer for manufacturing such medical instruments - [Plastic Injection Molding Ways and Means](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-ways-and-means/) - Here are some fun facts regarding the global plastic injection molding market: $360.6 billion in 2019 Forecasted to expand to $498.98 billion by 2027 Now let's "inject" some common sense as to the reasons this market is growing so rapidly! 1. Wide Spectrum of Custom Plastic Resins Some manufacturers may think only in terms - [Plastic Has The "Mettle" For Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-has-the-mettle-for-medical-devices/) - Glass. Rubber. Metal. For hundreds of years, these materials were the only options open for medical device manufacturers. Look at an old medical supply catalog and you'll see glass IV bottles, rubber tubing, metal surgical instruments, metal carts, etc. That all began to change in 1940s when the first plastics entered the scene. Slowly, then - [The Top Five Advantages of Plastic Injection Molded Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-top-five-advantages-of-plastic-injection-medical-devices/) - Plastics have literally broken the mold in the healthcare world, no pun intended. In fact, plastic has easily kept up with the dizzying pace of medical science. With the advancements in the healthcare industry, plastic has proved to be one of the few materials that has been able to adapt along with the dynamic nature - [Energy conservation saves our customers money!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/energy-conservation-saves-our-customers-money/) - At Advantech Plastics, we believe that energy conservation isn't just good for the environment, it's smart business. After all, if we can provide the highest level of plastic injection molding quality at a lower price, we can pass along the savings to our customers. That's why we're always eager to lower energy costs through a - [Plastic Injection Molding Caps and Closures](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-caps-and-closures/) - No Cap on the Demand For Plastic Caps & Closures! Take a moment and examine the top of the next beverage bottle, drug vial or tooth paste tube you pick up. Odds are it's topped off with a plastic cap or other kind of plastic seal. That's no accident: plastic caps and closures, formed - [Husky: One of our partners](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/husky-one-of-our-partners/) - Founded in 1953, Husky started as a small machine shop in a Toronto garage. The company quickly specialized in mold-making and grew into a leader in producing innovative, high speed injection molding systems for thinwall containers. Today Husky Injection Molding Systems is one of the world's leading suppliers of injection molding equipment and services to - [Caps and Closures in Europe](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/caps-and-closures-in-europe/) - On the continent that made the cork closure famous (think wine bottle), plastic beverage caps and closures account for 40% of the European closure industry revenue, but nearly 60% of the market by number of units. While carbonated soft drinks (CSDs) are no longer a growing category, the sheer size of this market will result - [Closing Comments: $10.4 Billion Caps And Closure Market By 2016](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/closing-comments-10-4-billion-caps-and-closure-market-by-2016/) - Boring. Banal. And worth a bundle. We're talking about the U.S. caps and closures market, which is projected to reach $10.4 billion in 2016, representing 280 billion units. Do the math: that's about a thousand plastic caps per American that year! Why such a huge increase? More Americans will be living then, of course. But - [Blend the dots?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/blend-the-dots/) - Every plastic injection molding company has a choice in how to feed material to their process in order to produce a marketable product with the properties they need. Heretofore, most processors purchased materials that were prefabricated into specialized pellets to produce the specific color and properties that they needed. It was a very simple process - [A Healthy Business: Plastic Injection Molded Medical Supplies](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/a-healthy-business-plastic-injection-molded-medical-supplies/) - Producing plastic parts for the medical industry is an exacting task. But it's a business which gives our company tremendous satisfaction because we know the parts we supply are helping to improve or save lives. While healthcare is constantly changing, one fact remains constant: plastic-injection molded medical parts will be an increasingly important aspect of - [Plastic Injection Molding... or Moulding?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-or-moulding/) - Do a quick Google search of "plastic injection molding". Then do another for "plastic injection moulding" and you will come up with two very different results. "Moulding" is the European/world spelling of molding and thus generates more YouTube video results and links to off-shore plastic injection molding facilities, primarily in China and Asia. What's the - [Organic Personal Care Market Is Looking Pretty Good!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/organic-personal-care-market-is-looking-pretty-good/) - Organic food was a 23-billion-dollar-plus business in 2012. That probably doesn't shock you. But did you know the global demand for organic personal care products was over 7.6 billion in 2012 and is expected to reach 13.2 billion by 2018?! According to market research, the global organic personal care products market has experienced steady growth in - [New iPhone5 is 'unapologetically plastic', says Apple](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/new-iphone5-is-unapologetically-plastic-says-apple/) - The big news out of Apple this week is that the iconic company is introducing a newer, less expensive iPhone in tandem with its revised version of iPhone 5. Why is the new iPhone 5c ($99) more economical than the new iPhone 5s ($199)? The big reason is the material used to create the body - [All-electric injection molding is powering growth](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/all-electric-injection-molding-is-powering-growth/) - It's no wonder all-electric plastic injection molding equipment is growing in popularity. Why? Unlike traditional hydraulic injection molding machines, which use energy even when not producing anything, all-electric injection molding machines consume energy only when required for a specified product, and motor output is matched to load requirements. Instead of being driven by liquid, all-electric - [New process for molding airbag covers not just a lot of hot air](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/new-process-for-molding-airbag-covers-not-just-a-lot-of-hot-air/) - Airbag covers have long been a growing market for plastic injection molders who want to make inroads (pun intended!) into the plastic automotive parts business. However, heretofore, manufacturing these covers resulted in a lot of waste and striations -- long blemishes that thankfully were mostly obscured because of the covers' textured finish. Still, the striations - [The Robots Are Coming!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-robots/) - From phone voice mail systems to vacuum cleaners, robots are now an essential part of our lives. It's the same with plastic injection molding; increasingly, plastic injection molding companies are "employing" robots to remove finished parts and feed secondaries for quality inspection. Robots can also collect parts, fill boxes, load inserts or actually produce - [Need some closure? Try plastic!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-caps-and-closures/) - Just for fun, stop and examine the top of the next beverage bottle, drug vial or tooth paste tube you buy. Chances are good that it is topped off with a plastic cap or other kind of plastic enclosure. And no wonder: plastic caps and closures dominate the market. U.S. demand for plastic caps and - [Husky Presses: Plastic Injection Molding Masters!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/husky-presses-plastic-injection-molding-masters/) - Advantech is proud to offer our clients the superb plastic injection molding capabilities of the Hylectric 330 machine from Husky Injection Molding Systems. The 330-ton Hylectric machine - an expanded version of earlier models that can accommodate stack molds - features a grease-free design that is ideal for many specialized, high-cavity molds for medical parts, closures - [Auto Industry Drives Plastic Injection Molding Machinery Sales](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/auto-industry-drives-plastic-injection-molding-machinery-sales/) - The U.S. market for plastic injection molding presses slowed down just a bit in 2013 but is far from hitting the brakes. In fact, industry executives see solid growth ahead in 2014 from the plastics-hungry auto industry, and from a steadily rebounding North American manufacturing sector. Approximately 3,500 plastic injection molding machines could be sold - [No 'waffling' on this new plastic injection molding method!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/new-plastic-injection-molding-method/) - Ever try to make a waffle with a balky waffle iron? Well, then, you know the Goldilocks problem with temperature: if the iron is too hot, you'll have a char-broiled brick; too cool, and you'll be left with a gooey, sticky mess. To produce a perfect, golden waffle, you need the "just right" temperature inside - [Entrepreneur invents new plastic suppository applicator... in her kitchen!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/new-injection-plastic-suppository-applicator/) - Almost everybody has dreamed of inventing something sexy like a fusion-powered engine -- or even something funky like the next hula hoop. But it's safe to say not many have dreamed of inventing something so, well, personal, as a disposable suppository applicator. Yet that's exactly what Jennifer Davagian Ensign did a few years ago. In her - [The Next Dimension in Plastic Injection Molds: 3-D printing](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-next-dimension-in-plastic-injection-molds-3-d-printing/) - By now you’ve undoubtedly heard about 3-D printers, the apparently magical devices which seem to be able to produce everything from screws to human body parts. But what effect will 3-D printers have on plastic injection molding companies in Illinois? Is it true they can even “print” plastic injection molds that are the equal of - [Toshiba Machine Hoping To Mold Next Generation For Our Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/toshiba-machine-hoping-to-mold-next-generation-for-our-industry/) - Attention all Illinois high school and college students: Toshiba Machine America, the North American arm of one of the world's leading manufacturers of electric and hydraulic injection molding machines, and an AdvanTech Plastics supplier, wants to excite you about the plastic injection molding industry right here in Illinois. As part of a national effort, the - [Plastic injection molding machines to be made by Foxconn](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/electronics-giant-begins-making-plastic-injection-molding-machines/) - Foxconn Technology Group, a Taiwan-based electronics behemoth with 2013 sales of $131.8 billion, has begun manufacturing and selling all-electric injection molding machines. The company's FAE series includes all-electric machines ranging from 50 tons to 450 tons clamping force, with injection speeds of up to 350 millimeters per second. The target market includes precision manufacturing needs - [Circuit Breaker Cases Breaking The Thermosetting Mold](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/circuit-breaker-cases-breaking-thermosetting-mold/) - Plastic injection molding companies in Illinois are getting a real charge out of a new trend: electrical equipment makers who are utilizing high-performance polyamides, which are thermoplastics, instead of plastic thermosetting polyesters in the manufacture of circuit breaker boxes. The reason? Thermoplastics are both recyclable and cheaper to work with than thermosets, which are plastics that experience an irreversible - [Is Plastic Injection Molding an Art or a Science?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-art-science/) - The process of forming a plastic part by shooting hot, molten plastic resin into the cavity of a mold may seem like a scientific exercise. However, many industry veterans will tell you it's more of an art. In fact, the injection molding process and tooling design practices have evolved over the years through trial and - [3D Printers No Threat To High-Volume Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/3d-printers-vs-high-plastic-injection-molding/) - The hype over 3D printers has been as relentless as it has been ubiquitous: you can't turn on a TV, radio or computer without hearing yet another breathless story on the new manufacturing technology. But is it unwarranted? Will 3D printing be the next Internet, the uber-technology that will take over the world, flattening entire - [Don't Stress-Out Your Parts!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/dont-stress-parts/) - Today's plastic injection molders are pushing the envelope -- or the mold, if you will -- to produce parts which are lighter and more complex than ever before. And while that effort is laudable, pushing the limits can a be a risky proposition from a design and production stand-point. Why? Because the complex plastic parts - [Get Into Training: Grow Your Own Employees](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/get-training-grow-employees/) - As plastic injection molding continues to increase in popularity, (and despite what you may have heard, 3-D printing will not replace it any time soon), there is a growing shortage of employees skilled enough to add value to companies. On-the-job training has always been the go-to method for training your employees but it is expensive - [Choosing the Right Plastic for Your Next Medical Device](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/healthy-choice-choose-right-plastic-next-medical-device/) - AdvanTech manufactures a wide range of medical devices but no two are quite alike. Probably the only common denominator is their need to pass through a gauntlet of FDA approvals and clinical trials, any one of which can either delay or even kill a new product. This cumbersome approval process necessitates a sequence of - [New Dimension in Plastic Medical Parts Production](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/new-dimension-in-plastic-medical-parts-production/) - A new dimension is coming to medical device manufacturing -- a third dimension, if you will. It's the marriage of 3D printing and plastic injection-molded medical devices, and it's revolutionizing the entire med-tech industry. The reason is simple: production time. Now engineers can design a medical part in an application like SolidWorks one day, 3D print - [Additive Manufacturing is Taking Over Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/additive-manufacturing-faster-dimension-plastic-injection-molding/) - Just when you thought it was safe to use the term "3D printing", along comes "additive manufacturing", which seems to be the current buzzword of choice among academic researchers around the world, including the UK. But really, we're talking about the same technology, which heretofore has mostly been applied to building prototypes and turning out - [The Climate is Right For Bioplastics](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/climate-right-bioplastics/) - With more and more attention focused on the effects of climate change, interest in bioplastics -- which are produced from renewable biomass materials such as plant starch and vegetable fat -- has grown considerably. Bioplastics can also be produced from recycled traditional plastics, which although based on petroleum, don't add to climate change. Why? Because - [Thermosets, Thermoplastics and Elastomers: A Primer](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/thermosets-thermoplastics-elastomers-primer/) - Okay, let's start out with a few basic concepts... Thermoplastics are formed into products when they are molten: their ultimate shape and internal structure is determined by cooling. If a malformation occurs, they can be re-heated, then reshaped, if need be. The polymer chains of thermoplastics, whether branched or linear, will stay separated and distinct - [Plastic Bikinis? You Bet Your PET!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-bikinis-you-bet-your-pet/) - Plastic as art? You'd get a lot of guffaws from the general public, which is more familiar with artistic materials such as oil paint and metal sculpture, even glass. But plastic? Puh-leeze! But the answer is "yes," plastic can be the raw material for art, and we can prove it, as more and more designers - [Brave New Shop Floor: Artificially Intelligent](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/brave-new-shop-floor-artificially-intelligent/) - Twenty years is a long time in the plastic injection molding industry. Even thought the internet age had already dawned in the '90s, a shop floor manager working in that era would most likely have been still twisting knobs and staring at analog dials. Operators still consulted printed instructions to set up equipment by hand. Pneumatically driven - [Can you dig a plastic can?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/can-you-dig-a-plastic-can/) - Tin can. Aluminum can. Steel can. Plastic can. Say what? Plastic can? Why not? Plastic cans are compatible with standard metal canning manufacturing systems and offer several significant advantages. Namely: No need for overriding pressure Plastic cans are capable of being double-seamed and sterilized in traditional retort systems without any overriding pressure. No need to - [Fiber Optic Solution Will Melt The Heart Of Your Thermocouple!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/fiber-optic-solution-will-melt-the-heart-of-your-thermocouple/) - It had to happen sooner or later. We're talking about fiber optics vs. thermocouples: which sensor is better at monitoring melt-temperature during the injection molding process? For years, the all-important melt-temperature monitoring process was strictly a thermocouple thing. But leave it to a Chicagoland vendor (Okay, Futaba of Japan ... but they've been in Schaumburg - [Plastics Business as usual in Turkey](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/business-as-usual-in-turkey/) - Although you hear about Turkey a lot these days, the news is almost always bad: terrorism, civil wars in neighboring countries, migrant crises... the list goes on and on. Overlooked in all this is Turkey's burgeoning plastic injection molding industry, which is doing quite well, thank you. Exhibit A: plastics processor and mold maker MTN - [Plastic Injection or Blow Molding For Food Packaging?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-or-blow-molding-for-food-packaging/) - Plastic packaging for food and beverage products comes in all shapes, sizes and colors. But which standard plastic parts-forming process -- blow-molding or plastic injection molding -- is the right one for your product? The answer is, of course, "it depends". On what, you ask? On a multitude of variables that include (but are not - [Internet Injects New Urgency Into Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/internet-injects-new-urgency-into-plastic-injection-molding-industry/) - The internet has greatly sped up the pace of business, and the plastic injection molding industry is no exception. For example, it wasn't that long ago when it took designers weeks or even months to obtain a quote for a custom plastic injection molding job. These days, the quotation processing time has been reduced to - [Without Plastic Injection Molding, Halloween Would Be A Nightmare!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/without-plastic-injection-molding-halloween-nightmare/) - I don't mean to scare you but I personally prefer lighting systems supported by plastic injection molding technology. These wonderful LED systems are available for purchase in three-dimensional styles, usually manifesting in long strands available in all colors of the spectrum. Some come as single bulbs, and are embedded in crazy objects like black candelabras - [New Prescription For Plastic Medical Devices: Sustainability](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/new-prescription-plastic-medical-devices-sustainability/) - That's right: sustainability. There's another buzz word that's becoming increasingly associated with plastics: recycling. Those are definitely two concepts the average consumer -- or plastic injection molded medical device manufacturer -- wouldn't normally associate with plastics. Not all manufacturers are thinking about saving the planet; some are undoubtedly jumping on the bandwagon to curry favor - [Advantech Plastics is a Member of the Plastics Industry Association](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advantech-plastics-member-plastics-industry-association/) - Advantech Plastics, Inc. is member #3466573 of the PLASTICS Industry Association. http://www.plasticsindustry.org . What does the PLASTICS Industry Association do? The organization, in existence since 1937, provides advocacy endeavors that champion for the support of the plastic supply chain. This backing centers around topics like international trade, codes and standards, environment, health and safety, plastic - [Plastic Injection Molding Rx: Single-Piece Pharmaceutical Caps](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-rx-single-piece-pharmaceutical-caps/) - Perhaps the most important part of any plastic drug container is the cap -- if it isn't secure, the integrity of the pharmaceutical inside could be compromised. And that could be a matter of life or death. Or, at the very least, a compromised closure could lead to government regulatory sanctions and legal liability. Often - [Post-Consumer Recycled Content Injecting Itself into Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/post-consumer-recycled-content-injecting-injection-molding/) - During the last decade or so, consumer packaged goods companies have done a good job on improving the recycle-ability of paper packaging. The same really can't be said for using recycled content in plastic packaging. However, this "post-consumer recycled (PCR) content," as it is technically knows, is making serious inroads in our industry, especially in - [Gearing Up For Plastic Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/gearing-plastic-molding/) - Steel yourself: plastic is becoming increasingly more popular as a material for machine gears. In fact, in some gearing applications, plastic is even superior to metal! Advances in polymers have made this all possible. Industrial designers have a better grasp of their benefits and limitations. Today, plastic gears can be manufactured by hobbing or stamping - [Process Standardization: History is Prologue](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/process-standardization-history-prologue/) - A good working definition of process standardization in plastic injection molding: Creating a repeatable process with 100% efficiency that results in standardized products with little or zero scrap. Any real process requires consistent variables. These include — but are not limited t0 fill time, peak pressure, barrel temperature and fill temperature. Paying attention to such - [Taking Your Temperature(s): A Degree of Difference](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/taking-your-temperatures-a-degree-of-difference/) - Melt Temperature. Of all the hundreds of processing variables to control in injection molding, the temperature of the plastic, especially its melt temperature, is paramount, no doubt. After all, temperature control is critical, and you should duplicate the plastic melt temperature as much as possible, from one run to another. But molders forget about barrel - [The Robots Are Coming! (Wait a second... they're here!)](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-robots-are-coming-wait-a-second-theyre-here/) - They are the perfect employee: fast, productive and salary-free. And they never need to take a break (unless they break!) Of course, we're talking robots. And, while they aren't new to plastic injection molding, they’re certainly getting more and more ink. For good reason. But first, a little robotic history... Cartesian or linear robots, sometimes - [New Foxconn Plant in Kenosha Game Changer for Plastic Molders](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/new-foxconn-plant-kenosha-game-changer-for-plastic-molders/) - Plastic injection molding companies throughout the region are licking their lips at the news of Foxconn's decision to build a massive new manufacturing facility in Kenosha, WI. The reason is simple: the new plant will require equally massive amounts of plastic digital device cases, TV housings and other plastic items to support their operation. Because - [An All-Plastic Car? It's nearer than you think!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/an-all-plastic-car-its-nearer-than-you-think/) - Long, long ago, in a galaxy far, far away, cars were made out of three materials: metal, metal and more metal. OK, that's something of a hyperbole but not much -- automobiles of the 20's, 30's, 40's and 50's were renowned for their lavish use of sheet metal --- "acres and acres" of it, as - [You Don't Have To Put A Label On It!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/dont-put-label/) - Manufacturing is all about reducing complexity. After all, if you can remove a step from the process, wouldn't that save time and (of course) money? The big question is, (also, of course)"how"? Enter "in-mold labeling," which is the process of applying labels to plastic-injection molded products like containers or bottles during the manufacturing process. In-mold labeling, - [Bottled Water: Not 'Green' but making Green!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/water-water-everywhere-really/) - Believe it or not, sales of bottled water is set to overtake sales of carbonated soft drinks by late this year, or early next year, industry observers say. This despite the fact that bottled water is about as "un-green" as you can get.Why, you ask? Oh, don't get us started... but OK, let's get started: - [Plastics Technology Tips Its 'Cap' To Our New Beverage 'Cap-ability'!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastics-technology-tips-its-cap-to-our-new-beverage-cap-ability/) - In its May 2016 issue, Plastics Technology turns the spotlight on our CEO, Al Zoller, and our new liner-less one-piece injection molded cap for carbonated soft drinks, bottled water and other beverages! The article quotes Al at length as it highlights the coming explosive growth of this revolutionary new beverage bottle cap, which was invented - [New Report on Plastic Injection Molding World Market](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/new-report-plastic-injection-molding-world-market/) - It's so obvious, we sometimes take it for granted: injection molded plastics are used in automated processes to reduce the manufacturing cost -- it's as simple as that. But, of course, it's not that simple -- there are other benefits, a whole host of them. Chief among them is the fact that Plastic Injection Molding - [Who's Powering Plastic Injection Molding?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/automotive-appliance-manufacturing-powering-plastic-injection-molding-2016/) - The U.S. plastic injection press market is pressing forward in 2016. What's driving it? Well, automotive is certainly fueling some of the growth— the industry’s robust U.S. sales of 16 million to 18 million vehicles has powered the overall injection molding machinery business, but especially plastic injection molding, which produces everything from interior door panels - [Wake Up and Smell the (Plastic Injection Molded) Coffee Pods](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/wake-smell-plastic-injection-molded-coffee-cups/) - Coffee fashionistas probably don't even think about it but they should: their precious, oh-so-trendy, and yes, expensive, single-use coffee pods are decidedly not green. In fact, they're landfill-bait. How so? They're made of polystyrene, which isn't recyclable for a number of reasons, chiefly because of cost and food-safety concerns. That's bad news for the environment - [When molds run hot and cold...](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/molds-run-hot-cold/) - You water your lawn, you put water in your radiator and you drink water (probably not enough!) Did you know you should water your plastic injection mold, too? Yep, that's right. If you want to establish true process control in plastic injection, "watering the tool" should be as important a step as coming up with - [Like Lake Wobegon, Our Industry Is Above Average](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/like-lake-wobegon-industry-average/) - Although Garrison Keillor retired from Prairie Home Companion in 2016, his sardonic tagline lives on: "and that's the news from Lake Wobegon, where all the women are strong, all the men are good-looking, and all the children are above average." While not true for every last plastic injection molder in the US, the "above average" appellation - [Make Your Bottom Line Come Alive With Living Hinges](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/make-bottom-line-come-alive-living-hinges/) - Many people have heard of "living wills." And everybody knows what a "living room" is. But how many people, outside the plastic injection molding industry, have heard of a "living hinge"? Unlike the aforementioned "living" examples, a living hinge is a thin flexible hinge fabricated from the same material as the two rigid pieces it - [Take the Guesswork Out of Plastic Injection Molding Warpage](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/take-guesswork-plastic-injection-molding-warpage/) - Plastic injection mold manufacturers have a nemesis when it comes to resolving warpage. The culprit is the gap between the conventional assumptions, i.e. guesswork, of mold temperature warpage and actual warpage of parts that occur in real time. Because of advances in software technology, including software simulation packages, trial and error experiments at the production - [Best Business Practice: "It's Nice to Meet You!"](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/best-business-practice-its-nice-to-meet-you/) - Please don’t be offended by the recent addition of the CONTACT US page that you are redirected to when you click on the link of the Equipment tab of the Advantech Plastic Injection Molding website https:/: If you are in the habit of perusing the internet looking for information, have you noticed that - ['Ooho': The 'Dippin Dots' of the Plastic Bottle Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/ooho-dippin-dots-plastic-bottle-industry/) - In the late '80s, visitors to county fairs, amusement parks and other mega-outdoor venues began seeing a new kind of frozen treat which was billed as the evolutionary descendant of ice cream. Marketed as "Dippin' Dots: The Ice Cream of the Future," this new "revolutionary" dessert was touted by its founders as a disruptive entry - [Plastics: Whether 3-D or Injection Molded, They're Cool, eh 'Lit'!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastics-3-d-injection-molded/) - There's a famous scene in "The Graduate", the iconic 60's movie that made a star out of Dustin Hoffman, and which besmirched a material that 50 years later has made a stunning comeback. It comes at a graduation party for Hoffman's character: one of the adult party-goers corrals "Ben", the Hoffman character, leads him outside - [It May Be Summer, But 'Frost' Is In The Forecast For Some Injection Molders](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/may-summer-frost-forecast-injection-molders/) - Marketers are always looking for the next cool look in personal care product packaging. This fall, that look could take on a decidedly "frosty" appearance, thanks to a ground-breaking new iteration of DuPont Surlyn ionomer resins. Produced by DuPont Performance Materials, these resins were designed for a one-step plastic injection molding process which produces - [Firecrackers, Flags, Family and ... Plastic Injection Molding??](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/firecrackers-and-plastic-injection-molding/) - Here in the “good ole USA,” once again, and for the three-hundred and seventeenth time, we approach celebrating the birth of our nation. Most of us, especially in the small town of this population 20,000, where this author lives, signs of the next American holiday appear: every other house hosts red, white and blue bunting - [The Beauty of Plastic Injection Molded Cosmetic Cases](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/beauty-plastic-injection-molded-cosmetic-cases/) - While designing cool stuff like cars, furniture and housewares is the dream job of almost every design school graduate, creating personal care packaging usually isn't even on their career radar. But it should be, designers in the beauty industry say, because the same sense of aesthetics needed for those cooler items can be applied (no - [Dollars and Sense: The ROI of Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/dollars-sense-roi-plastic-injection-molding/) - So you say you want to make and market a plastic injected molded product? Any business major can tell you the basic ROI calculation: Revenue from investment - cost of investment cost of investment Think about it: if this formula doesn't yield a positive number, you're losing money! So how does - [Molding Today's Students For Plastics](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/molding-students-plastics/) - As summer ends and fall approaches, university students prepare to return to leaf-littered lawns. How many students are on track for a career in plastic injection molding? If you are an engineering major, an industrial designer, engineer, computer software programmers, and yes, even the student who wants to earn extra money selling Tupperware or Mary - [Advantech Plastics Is Hiring!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advantech-plastics-hiring/) - Eight jobs at Advantech Plastic Injection Molding, in Woodstock, Illinois, popped up serendipitously into my email inbox yesterday morning. If you want a job, they’re out there--in plentiful abundance. Not only are corporations hiring, they’re rewarding hard work with the observance of the Labor Day holiday. This year’s impending labor day holiday is scheduled for - [A Plastic-Injected 2017 Solar Eclipse?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injected-2017-solar-eclipse/) - Imagine viewing the 2017 Great American Solar Eclipse without the technology to do so! Telescopes, cameras, glasses--are all optical products that dominated this historic event the past week. But, without plastic injection molding techniques used to create these products -- burn, baby, burn--retinas on fire! Arylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic is used to create the - [How a Danish Plastic Injection Molder Built An Empire - Brick by Brick!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/danish-plastic-injection-molder/) - The process of plastic injection molding can be used to create many things - everything from soda bottles to heart valves. But plastic can also be used to create toys - fantastic, mythical, iconic toys - as one Danish company discovered not long after World War II, when it became the first company in that - [Big Opportunities In Big Machines For Plastic Injection Molders](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/big-opportunities-big-machines-plastic-injection-molders/) - Large tonnage injection molding machines (>500 tons) were not much beloved by plastic injection molders for many years. They were just so, well, unwieldy for lack of a better term. Then there were the shipping costs. In a word, they were understandably high because of the sheer weight of the plastic parts which were being - [Almonds in Plastic Packaging? Are You Nuts?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/almonds-plastic-packaging-nuts/) - Almonds taste great in cakes, breads, cereal, candy bars, even liquors. Now there's research going on that call for a plastics recipe which includes the tasty nut as filler. Well, not the almond itself; more specifically, its shell. Almond shells enhance the strength of plastic more than most conventional materials and are being tested as - [Tariffs Could Affect Plastic Injection Molded Packaging From China](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tariffs-affect-plastic-injection-molded-packaging-china/) - You don't normally associate the words "tariffs" and "plastic packaging" but that's exactly what many US plastic injection molding companies want President Trump to do in order to retaliate against China's aggressive intellectual theft and government subsidies of their home-grown plastics companies. In fact, Pactiv LLC, one of the biggest U.S. plastics companies, is making - [The Big Five: The Most Important Factors In Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/big-five-important-factors-plastic-injection-molding/) - Let's cut to the chase... here are the "Big Five": Part design. Material. Mold design. Construction. Molding machine. Those are the five most vital factors in the plastic injection molding process, according to experts. They all have to be optimized vis-a'-vis each other, or you can run into big problems. In many cases, these experts - [How One Mega Brand Broke The Plastic Ceiling](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/one-mega-brand-broke-plastic-ceiling/) - Consumers can get very, very attached to the packaging of their favorite products, and nowhere as intensely as beverages. Trifle with the material, color or label at your own risk, marketing experts say. So when the makers of Snapple decided to move to plastic bottles from glass, there was tremendous trepidation at Dr. Pepper Snapple - [Plastic Parts That Need To Have Some Nice Threads](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-parts-need-nice-threads/) - On this blog, we love plastics -- all sorts of plastic, especially the plastic-injected molded kind. But there comes a time when plastic doesn't have the metal, eh, mettle, to get the job done right. Plastic parts that have to be assembled and re-assembled multiple times, for example. Plastic threads just won't cut it, in those - [Medical Plastics: Custom Design Equals Custom Products](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/medical-plastics-custom-design-equals-custom-products/) - The medical device manufacturing industry has gone through tremendous upheaval the last few years, prompted by many factors including the Great Recession, the Affordable Care Act, the Protecting Access to Medicare Act, Clinical Lab Fee Schedule reforms and even changing consumer sentiment. These factors forced many device manufacturers, including much of the In Vitro Diagnostics - [Plastic Molders Say Hemp Bioplastic Is No Joke!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-molders-say-hemp-bioplastic-no-joke/) - Let the jokes begin: plastic injection molders are "high" on hemp bioplastic... They don't want any byproducts of the crop to go to "pot" ... they would like to "smoke" their competition by transitioning away from non-sustainable, un-"green" polymers to sustainable, very-green hemp bioplastic. But this is no joke: many plastic injection molders think bioplastics, - [Size Matters In Particulate Additives](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/size-matters-particulate-additives/) - Yep, it's true: size matters. But in the case of particulate additives, (unlike, ahem, other instances) smaller is definitely more beautiful. In fact, nano-sized or even particles measured in micrometers are much less problematic for fabricated plastic products than adding pure organic polymers. The smaller particulate additives not only can lower the cost of plastic - [Bumper-To-Bumper: Market Demand For Bumper Covers Is Piling Up!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/bumper-bumper-market-demand-bumper-covers-piling/) - Bumper covers: you see them every day but probably don't give them much thought. Made of either plastic or fiberglass, they have two primary jobs: protect the bumper, and by extension, the entire automobile and its occupants. Their second job is simply to give a very utilitarian object (i.e. the bumper) a certain elan, thus - [NPE 2018: The Smart Factory is Now!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/npe-2018-smart-factory-now/) - Smart Factory... Artificial Intelligence... Machine Learning... whatever you call it, it's coming to a plastic injection molding plant near you, and soon. (Maybe it's your plastic injection molding plant!) At NPE 2018 in Orlando (May 7 - 11), exhibitors will say they're not there to sell you something which will simply incrementally improve the status quo. Instead, - [Metal - To - Plastic Bonding May Have Lost A Step!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/metal-plastic-bonding-may-lost-step/) - Ah, the marriage of plastic and metal -- it's always a challenge, not the least because of the need to pre-treat the metal part in order for it to bond with the plastic part. But marrying these two materials is almost always necessary at some point in the manufacture of plastic automotive parts and plastic - [When cooling a plastic part, the fastest way is not a straight line!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/cooling-plastic-part-fastest-way-not-straight-line/) - The general public might be forgiven if they thought the plastic injection molding process is all about heat. After all, you need a lot of heat to melt plastic resign, so it can be molded into any size or shape part you need, right? What the GP doesn't often think about is cooling, which is - [Taking Your Machinery's Temperature Should Be A Non-Contact Sport](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/taking-machinerys-temperature-non-contact-sport/) - Temperature is arguably the most critical measurement parameter in the plastic injection molding process. In fact, consistently high-quality production can only be attained through precise temperature control. But traditional measurement techniques involved actual contact between the sensor and the part whose temperature was to be taken. There were a number of drawbacks to this method, - [Way Cool: How Hot Plastic Takes Shape](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/way-cool-hot-plastic-takes-shape/) - We take it for granted in our industry: molten plastic cools and crystallizes into some preordained shape in a mold under a predetermined pressure in a process called plastic injection molding. If only it were that easy. The story begins with melted or "molten" plastics. All these polymer molecules look relatively the same at the - [Plastic Optics Looking Good For Our Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-optics-looking-good-industry/) - It's no optical illusion: increasingly, plastic lenses for optical applications are seen as a superior choice to traditional glass. There are many reasons but it comes down to this: polymers enable optical surfaces to join with other features of the product, chiefly mounting features, are lighter in weight, can be molded into an infinite variety - [Salute the Market Power of Plastic Caps and Closures!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/take-cap-off-market-power-plastic-caps-closures/) - That's right: doff your fedora to the global plastic caps and closures market! Want numbers? The global market for the ubiquitous plastic doohickies was valued at more than 38 Billion in 2017, and projected to reach more than 51 Billion by 2023, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of almost 5% during the forecast - [Watch Out, Short Shots: Machine Vision Can See Your Flaws!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/watch-short-shots-machine-vision-can-see-flaws/) - Let's face it, automated quality assurance systems such as machine vision are are not very sexy. In fact, they often fall into the same no-nonsense category as risk management, IT security, and maintenance — a necessary expense, of course, but an expense nonetheless and a drag on the bottom line. Manufacturers of plastic injection-molded parts for - [Inject Some Safety Into Your Plastic Molding Protocols](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/inject-safety-plastic-molding-protocols/) - Safety first. But there is a way to balance safety and production. Below are some checklists to make sure any plastic injection molding facility is safe for both workers and anyone else on the plant floor. But let’s begin with the basic idea of what's happening within the equipment you work on or walk by - [Plastic Automotive Ducts Driving Our Rubber & Metal](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-automotive-ducts-driving-rubber-metal/) - Plastic Automotive Ducts Driving Out Rubber & Metal Time was when cars were made of three materials: Steel, Glass & Rubber. Period. Today the list of materials that go into cars is lengthy. And while carbon composites get all the hype and headlines, there is another material that is poised to become THE most prevalent - [Back To Basics: The A-B-Cs of Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/back-basics-b-cs-plastic-injection-molding/) - Every once in a while it can be a good idea to get back to the basics of what the plastic injection molding industry does. At its most basic level, PIM (plastic injection molding) is the ultimate truly mass-production process on the planet, one that is the most economical and efficient when the goal is - [Plastic Injection Molding Is A Big Part of the Auto Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-big-part-auto-industry/) - There was a time -- a long time ago -- where car enthusiasts eschewed anything remotely resembling plastic in their automobiles. It just looked and felt, well, cheap. But that was then... this is now, for plastic injection molding companies who make plastic car parts. There are several reasons why about 20% of the components - [The Most Popular Plastic in Injection Molding is spelled P-E-T](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/popular-plastic-injection-molding-spelled-p-e-t/) - The world's most popular PET isn't a Maine Coon cat or a Labrador Retriever... it's a type of thermoplastic polymer which goes by its trade name of polyester in the textile industry, and polyethylene terephthalate in the plastic packaging industry. PET resin is the most commonly used polymer in the world -- a naturally transparent - [The Big 5: The Most Popular Plastic Resins](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/big-5-popular-plastic-resins/) - The ubiquity of plastic injection molding has produced a plethora of resins to choose from. That said, there are five which are consistently at the top of any molder's list when it comes to utility. Forthwith, a handy comparison chart: Materials Tensile Strength (73° F) (Units: psi) Flexural Modulus of Elasticity (73° F) (Units: psi) - [Injecting Some Safety Into Plastic Molding Equipment](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/injecting-safety-plastic-molding-equipment/) - There's a lot that can go wrong during the plastic injection molding process -- molds can break, tubes can spring leaks, etc. -- but one of the more common hazards is also one of the most pedestrian: mold halves separating during transportation and handling. But if the hazard is very low-tech, so is the solution: - [Why Plastic Injection Molding is like An Ecosystem](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/everythings-connected-plastic-injection-molding-like-ecosystem/) - As any high school biology can tell you, an ecosystem is "a complex network or interconnected system," according to one definition. The inescapable conclusion from this is that no one creature or natural process is more important than any other. In effect, plastic injection molding is its own ecosystem because, like in a natural ecosystem, - [Why Polypropylene is the Second Most Popular Plastic](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/polypropylene-number-2-popular-plastic-coming-strong/) - Have you ever wondered why personal care products made of plastic are so darn indestructible? There's a good chance it’s made from PP (Polypropylene). PP is easily sourced and economical. It's an ideal material for everything-resistant products and durable goods -- items like housewares, utensils, sportswear and toys. PP is also highly suitable for medical - [Medical Devices Have Zero Tolerance For Plastic Injection Molded Error](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/medical-devices-have-zero-tolerance-for-plastic-injection-molded-error/) - High tolerance may be desirable when someone cuts you off in traffic (and you don't want to fly into road rage) but it's something that, well, plastic injection molders just can't tolerate. Especially plastic molders of medical devices, such as hip replacement sockets or heart valves. The answer for many plastic injection molding companies is - [Plastic Driving Automotive Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-driving-automotive-industry/) - There was a time not long ago when the idea of all-plastic car would have provoked howls of laughter from car enthusiasts. Plastic? Ha! Everybody knows plastic isn't as tough as metal, right? Plastic is for toys, food packaging, knick-knacks, what-have-you. Metal, ahh, that was the stuff real cars were made of. So much for - [School Daze: The Importance of Keeping Up With Plastic Injection Molding Trends](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-trends/) - As much as we think we have learned about plastic injection molding over the course of our company history, there is always more to discover. That's why we're pleased to partner with companies like Nissei Plastic Industrial Company, which established a continuing education program for their plastic injection molding partners (vendors and customers) in 1968. - [Plastic Injection Molding Machinery Sales Jump in 3Q 2013](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-machinery-sales-jump-in-3q-2013/) - New life has been injected into the primary plastics machinery industry: the numbers show sales of injection molding, extrusion, blowmolding and thermoforming equipment took off in the third quarter of 2013. Shipments of primary plastics equipment totaled an estimated $3,276 million in Q3, according to the Committee on Equipment Statistics of the Society of the Plastics - [Plastics Industry Featured in State of the Union](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastics-industry-featured-in-state-of-the-union/) - Andra Rush, founder and CEO of Detroit Manufacturing Systems, was a guest of Michelle Obama’s in the First Lady's box at last month's State of the Union Address. President Obama, noting Rush in the gallery, asked Congress to do more to “speed up growth and create more jobs” by encouraging programs that emphasize training and - [The "Little" News about Plastic Injection Molded Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-little-news-about-plastic-injection-molded-medical-devices/) - So what exactly is "micro injection molding"? Well, as the term would lead you to believe, micro injection molding (MIM) is a process which requires a highly-specialized molding machine with high-injection pressure and speed, precise shot control and ultra-fine resolution for molding tiny tools and parts. MIM is used for the manufacture of small products - [AdvanTech Plastics Shakes Hands With Pepsico Bottlers](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advantech-plastics-inks-deal-to-produce-pco-1881-caps-for-pepsico-bottlers/) - (May 29, 2014) AdvanTech Plastics has entered into agreements with several Pepsico bottlers to produce the industry standard PCO 1881 caps for their CSD lines, reports AdvanTech president Al Zoller. Developed in 2011 by the International Society of Beverage Technologists (ISBT), which represents more than 800 beverage industry professionals in over 21 countries, PCO - [Strong Sales Seen For Rigid Plastic](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/strong-sales-seen-rigid-plastic/) - You've probably seen them dozens, if not hundreds of times, in your refrigerator or elsewhere around the house: those stiff, usually dark-colored plastic trays and bulk packaging containers, holding food or beverages, toys or other consumer goods. These items are made of the aptly-named Rigid Plastic, usually high-density polyethylene, which has become one of the - [Cool it! Reducing Heat Increases Productivity](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/cool-reducing-cooling-increase-productivity/) - Cooling time: is there any plastic injection molding company that wouldn't like to reduce it, and thus reduce cycle time? After all, a typical production cycle for a plastic part is 30 seconds to a minute, but cooling takes more than half of that cycle time. Time is money, so lowering cooling time directly impacts the bottom - [How To Make Prototypes That Are Just Your Type!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/make-prototypes-just-type/) - Even if 3D printing eventually usurps plastic injection molding -- and that's a BIG if -- prototypes will continue to play an indispensable role in the production of plastic parts. Why? Simply put, prototypes are crucial to several steps which precede the actual production of parts. These include communications, engineering studies, market studies (to evaluate - [Feed Rate: A Primer](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/feed-rate-a-primer/) - It's simple, really: the primary purpose of feed rate control in regard to plastic injection molding is to achieve consistently accurate proportions of recipe components (resin and required additives) prior to pelletization (in compounding) or end-product manufacturing. Enter feeders: feeders produce a precise and controllable discharge rate for the material they are designed to work - [The Skinny on Thin-Walled Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-skinny-on-thin-walled-plastic-injection-molding/) - Smaller... Lighter...Faster: Such is the mantra for many plastic injection molders these days, especially in the area of "thin wall" parts-manufacturing. "Thin-wall" in relation to portable electronics parts are those with a wall thickness less than 1 millimeter. For larger automotive parts, "thin" may mean 2 mm. Whatever the specification, thinner walls call for modifications - [Putting Closure on AdvanTech's History -- and Future](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/csd-closure-advantechs-history-future/) - A long, long time ago (OK, not that long ago, really -- 2001), our CEO, Al Zoller, bought the company that he would eventually rename AdvanTech four years later. The company’s original building, home to the former Plasticraft tool shop, covers 27,000 ft. and is more than 70 years old. Over the years, it's been upgraded - [The $4.86B Plastic Injection Molding Machine Market by 2021](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/heavy-metal-4-86-b-plastic-injection-molding-machine-market-2021/) - Let's "inject" some reality over the economic downturn in China: the world's second largest economy is still hungry for automobiles and plastic-packaged goods, period. Ditto for India and Japan, all of which is driving the growth of the injection molding machine market in Asia. In fact, if current trends continue, the overall plastic injection molding - [Biodegradable plastic a growing trend in Europe](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/biodegradable-plastic/) - Europe has always been a trend-setter when it comes to all things "green," environmentally-speaking. So news that the consumption of biodegradable and compost-able plastic products in Europe is expected to increase 300% from 2015 to 2020 should be taken very seriously indeed by the plastic powers-that-be stateside. While plastic recycling is regarded as the height - ['Reshoring' in Plastic Injection Molding is Restoring Manufacturing](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/reshoring-plastic-injection-molding-restoring-manufacturing/) - The trend seemed as inexorable as it was depressing: for the past 20 years, China had dominated the manufacture of injection-molded plastic products in the medical technical field, mainly because of lower labor costs. But there are signs that the trend is not as inexorable as we once thought. In fact, many companies are returning their - [The Stimulating News About Plastic Injection Molding Simulation](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/stimulating-news-plastic-injection-molding-simulation/) - You would think "they" (read: industry scientists) would have thought of this long ago: use computer software to simulate the plastic injection molding process, consigning "trial-and-error" testing to the plastic slag heap, and saving enormous amounts of time and money. At the risk of stating the obvious, plastic injection mold simulation utilizes software to simulate - [How to keep your molding machines happy (and profitable!)](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/keep-molding-machines-happy-profitable/) - Like cats and dogs, the production manager and the maintenance manager constantly feud for machine time in many plastic injection molding plants. Unfortunately, production usually wins because it generates revenue and maintenance is considered overhead. Routine maintenance on molding machines is sacrificed on the altar of profit. Of course, if maintenance is delayed too long... well, you know - [Two-shot molding is a shot in the arm for profits](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/two-shot-molding-shot-arm-profits/) - When you think about it, two-shot molding is actually a misnomer. How so? Well, for one thing, this plastic injection molding process utilizes a four-cavity mold, which is mounted on a rotary platen. This allows a 180° rotation of the core side of the mold which positions the first-shot core into alignment with the second - [In Medical Device Manufacturing, Small is Increasingly Beautiful](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/medical-device-manufacturing-small-increasingly-beautiful/) - There's big profit in small plastic medical parts, which is prompting leading medical molders to make big changes of their own. How small are these parts? Try tenths-of-a-millimeter small. This is a quantum leap forward -- or downward, if you will -- for these plastic injection molders. And the medical devices that they are manufacturing - [Truths of Plastic Injection Molding Re-shoring & Automation](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-re-shoring-automation-myths-vs-reality/) - It's hard to drill down to the facts these days -- on any topic. The surfeit of information precipitated by digital media (read: the internet) has confused and distracted almost everyone from the truth about everything. Manufacturing is no exception. Just mentioning the words off-shoring, re-shoring and automation is to beg an instant argument. But - [Surface Textures Are Not Just Superficial!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/surface-textures-not-just-superficial/) - All plastic injection molders know that the surface texture of the mold cavity and core will transfer a texture to the molded part. But even experienced molders can be unclear about the exact technical language used to classify these finishes, how they’re engineered by toolmakers and how to measure them accurately in a production environment. - [The Right Rx for Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/right-rx-medical-equipment-products-plastic-injection-molding/) - As a manufacturing technique, plastic injection molding is showing healthy growth in the medical equipment and components sector. Despite conventional wisdom about the superiority of metal or other materials in medical applications, plastic resin offers a superior solution for many designs because of its malleability and price. What's more, it has met and surpassed the - [Call It Our Film Industry: FIM Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/call-film-industry-fim-plastic-injection-molding/) - It sounds like a plastic-injected dream-come-true: produce finished (or nearly finished) products in one shot, with all the color, decorations and other elements already "baked in," if you will. Roll Cameras! Film Insert Molding (FIM) produces finished decorated components by inserting semi-finished film items into the mold as part of the injection molding process. There - [In-Mold Decoration and PUR: They Don't Break The Mold!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/mold-decoration-pur-dont-break-mold/) - It's a match made in plastic injection molding heaven: IMD (In-Mold Decoration) and PUR technology. That's right; in this process called IMD PUR, plastic parts are decorated during injection molding through in-mold decorating and then covered with PUR (polyurethane) within the same clamping unit. This produces beautifully complex designs under a crystal clear, high-gloss surface. - [What The Doctor Ordered: Best Plastics For Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/what-the-doctor-ordered-best-plastics-for-medical-devices/) - Choosing the correct medical-grade plastic for a medical device or component can be literally a "life or death" decision. Even if not that dire, selecting, then plastic-injection-molding a device that is often surgically-implanted in a human body, is qualitatively different than manufacturing a plastic toy or soda bottle cap! Why are plastic polymers regarded so - [Automotive Plastics: On The Road To Another Great Year](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/automotive-plastics-on-the-road-to-another-great-year/) - Despite a few detours in the automotive market, the future for plastic injection molded car parts is quite rosy, according to industry analysts. Here are the "signs" that plastic automotive components are moving into the fast lane: Overall, the global plastic injection molding market is expected to grow to $345 billion by 2024. And the - [Looking Down The Barrel: Things That Can Go Wrong](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/looking-down-the-barrel-things-that-can-go-wrong/) - Like true romance, there's a whole host of variables that have to be just-so in the plastic injection molding process if the marriage of resin to mold is going to birth a new plastic part. It's oh-so-easy for something - anything - to go awry and ruin the part. But again, just like in romance, - [World's Appetite For Rigid Plastic Food Packaging Is Growing](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/worlds-appetite-for-rigid-plastic-food-packaging-is-growing/) - Hungry for good news about the growth of the rigid plastic food packaging market? The global rigid plastic packaging market (which includes food packaging) was valued at $216 billion in 2018, and is projected to reach $340 billion by 2026. That translates to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2019 to 2026. - [Plastic Injection Molded Surgical Devices Becoming The "Go-To"](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molded-surgical-devices-taking-a-larger-slice-of-the-market/) - Let's cut to the chase: medical-quality polymers are increasingly becoming the "go-to" material for a broad range of surgical devices. In some cases, the innate mechanical attributes of medical-grade polymers completely supplant metal from the surgical device design. In other applications, plastic and metal components are used together to create a device with the best - [Plastic Injection Molding Companies Making COVID-19 Equipment](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-companies-making-covid-19-test-kits-equipment/) - The entire industrial base of this country is stepping up to meet the corona virus pandemic: car companies are making medical ventilators, clothing manufacturers are turning out surgical masks, and multinational beer companies are brewing hand sanitizer. Now the plastic injection molding medical parts industry is stepping up, although a lot of the prototyping is - [The “Big 3" Industries That Benefitted From Plastic Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-big-3-plastic-injection-molding-for-medical-automotive-electronics-industries/) - Practically from its inception as a manufacturing process in the late 19th century, plastic injection molding has been utilized to produce an ever-widening array of products, in a myriad of industries. For the purposes of this blog post, we're just going to look at three industries which have benefited greatly from this most malleable of - [Bio-Resins: "Green Plastics" No Longer An Oxymoron](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/bio-resins-green-plastics-no-longer-an-oxymoro/) - Time was when the word "plastics" conjured up images of islands of floating polyurethane plastic bottles in an otherwise beautiful blue placid sea. Worse yet, were actual photographs of bird and sea life chocking to death from plastic ring carriers. That was then. Today, many industry resin producers, as well as plastic injection molders, are - [AdvanTech Plastics: Molding A Healthier Future In These Uncertain Times](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advantech-plastics-molding-pandemic/) - Car manufacturers making ICU ventilators. E-commerce giants delivering testing kits. And plastic injection molding companies in Illinois and elsewhere making a variety of items to aid in the battle against COVID-19. Wherever you look, American industry is rolling up its sleeves to do its part in fighting this pandemic. AdvanTech Plastics is part of that - [Plastic Injection Molded Nasal Swabs: How Many Lives Will They Save?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molded-nasal-swabs-who-nose-how-many-lives-theyll-save/) - It's a familiar, if unfortunate, scene that is burned on the retinas of millions around the world: hazmat-suited medical personnel inserting nasal swabs into the noses of drivers or pedestrians, collecting specimens to be tested for COVID-19. These nasopharyngeal swabs/syringes, which have been used in hospitals for more than 50 years consist of two pieces: - [How Plastic Medical Devices is Redefining ‘Plastic Surgery’](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molded-medical-parts-giving-plastic-surgery-a-whole-new-meaning/) - Although it's an out-dated term, "plastic surgery" is still commonly used by the public to describe common procedures in "cosmetic surgery" (the correct, modern term): rhinoplasty, liposuction and the like. But while plastic surgery may no longer be an operative term (pun intended), it may have acquired a completely new meaning because of the prevalence - [Plastic Medical Components: It's The Right Prescription in Illinois!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-medical-components-we-are-your-prescription-in-illinois/) - Quick -- what material comes to mind when you think of medical parts? If you're like most people, the answer is bright and shiny stainless steel. From scalpels to needles, trays to operating tables, stainless steel just seems so, so medical, right? The operative term here is "seems". Because when it comes to medical devices and - [Plastic injection Molding Is Conducive To Electrical Equipment](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-is-conducive-to-electrical-equipment/) - You usually don't think of "plastic" when you think of electrical equipment. Copper, brass, steel, even rubber comes to mind, but plastic? Wouldn't it be likely to break, melt or stop the current in some way? The answer to the first two concerns is an emphatic "no." High-temperature precision thermoplastics, as their name implies, have - [Take Your Cap Off To A Surging Plastic Caps & Closures Market!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/take-your-cap-off-to-a-surging-plastic-caps-closures-market/) - Looks like the future is wide-open for plastic caps and closures in the US the next four years! The numbers don't lie: the United States caps and closures market was almost $12.5 billion in 2019, and it's expected to reach over $15 billion by 2025. For the numbers crunchers out there, that's a Compound Annual - [Advantech Plastics Is A Medical Device 'Class' Act](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/class-act-the-three-different-medical-device-classes/) - Manufacturing any plastic device or part through injection molding is an exact science with little tolerance of defects. Manufacturing plastic medical devices or components takes tolerance down a notch -- to zero. The reason is obvious: any device that impacts the health of the user has to be perfect in every way. Advantech is proud - [Healthy Market For Pad Printing in Medical Device Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/pad-printing-plastic-injection-molded-medical-device/) - The medical industry is notoriously difficult to enter for manufacturers. If a product or process already exists, there is little reason for customers to switch to a new one. Any change in providers, materials, inks or processes can result in devices that are required to be requalified with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which - [AdvanTech Plastics To 'Sustain' Sustainability Efforts in 2021](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/advantech-plastics-to-sustain-sustainability-in-2021/) - Sustainability. You've heard the term batted around in every industrial sector. But, until recently, the general public didn't hear the term associated with the plastics industry, which was viewed in a less than favorable light by environmentally-conscious folks. Well, maybe the press didn't report it, but that hasn't stopped plastic injection molding companies in Illinois - [Plastics Instrumental For COVID-19 Test Kits](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastics-instrumental-for-covid-19-test-kits/) - While everyone knows coronavirus test kits are vital to the "war effort" against COVID-19, not many people consider the many hands, hearts and minds that go into their invention and fabrication. And many don't appreciate the sheer speed of the entire production process, from initial research to finished, packaged product sitting on the doorstep of - [A Marriage of Necessity: Two-Shot Molded Plastic Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/a-marriage-of-necessity-two-shot-molded-plastic-medical-devices/) - Medical devices, perhaps more than any other products made from plastic injection molding, are inherently complex. There are the stringent low-tolerances, for one thing. But there's also the design of many of the devices themselves. Often times, these designs call for two-shot injection molding, which can make items comprised of two different pieces, in one - [Pumping It Out: AdvanTech Plastics' Powerful Hand Sanitizer Pumps](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/pumping-it-out-advantech-plastics-powerful-hand-sanitizer-pumps/) - They're practically ubiquitous in "these uncertain times". They're in restaurants, shops, train stations and airports. They're in offices, classrooms and, of course, bathrooms -- public and private. They're even in purses and coat pockets. Hand sanitizers, that is. Perhaps, along with nasal swabs, they're iconic of the entire pandemic. While many have electronic actuators, the - [Polycarbonate: The 'Clear' Choice For Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/polycarbonate-the-clear-choice-for-medical-devices/) - Until the 1960's, medical device manufacturers were often limited to two materials for their products: glass and metal. But, as with so many other manufacturers in that decade, medical device makers began turning to plastic polymers for four chief reasons: cost (compared to metal) strength (comparable to metal, and sometimes greater) shatter-proof properties (especially compared - [Plastic Injection Molding: Just What The Doctor Ordered For Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-injection-molding-just-what-the-doctor-ordered-for-medical-devices/) - For centuries, medical equipment was manufactured from one particular substance. Metal. The reason? Metal was often cheap, plentiful and could be molded into the various shapes required by healthcare providers of the day. Plus, you could wash and sterilized them. (When that became a thing in the 20th century.) But then a process called "plastic - [One Referral Can Be VERY Healthy For A Plastic Injection Molding Company!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/our-excellence-your-savings/) - They say the best advertising is a happy, satisfied customer. At AdvanTech Plastics, we know that's true: In 2007, one of our customers recommended us to a pharmaceutical company looking for an injection molder to make its 40 mm closure for a nutritional supplement drink. That simple referral would have a profound impact on our - [Trust: The Most Important Part of Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/trust-the-most-important-part-of-plastic-injection-molding/) - Trust. One little word with tremendous meaning. At AdvanTech Plastics, we feel trust is the most important part of plastic injection molding. Our customers trust us to solve their plastic injection molding challenges. True story: A neurology plastic medical device company needed to manufacture a multi-component nasal syringe that could deliver medicine to the uppermost - [Get "Hip" to Polyethylene: The Plastic Resin of Choice For Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/get-hip-to-polyethylene-the-plastic-resin-of-choice-for-medical-devices/) - While most people associate plastics with consumer items such as plastic food packaging or personal care products, they play a vital role in the medical field. Like "life or death" vital. But plastics (also known as polymers) used in the medical device industry must meet higher standards than plastics used in other applications. The properties - [Plastic Surgical Device Market Cutting Wide Swath Globally](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-surgical-device-market-cutting-wide-swath-globally/) - Seems like there's a healthy market for plastic surgical devices, especially those manufactured by plastic injection molding. Whether they be plastic surgical instruments, plastic consumables (specimen cups, surgical trays, etc.) or plastic body implants, the global plastic surgical devices market is expected to increase over 10% from 2021 to 2028, reaching more than $22 billion - [Biodegradable Plastics On The Horizon For AdvanTech Plastics](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/biodegradable-plastics-on-the-horizon-for-advantech-plastics/) - AdvanTech Plastics is currently experimenting with a variety of biodegradable plastics, which it sees as the "green" new future for the plastic injection molding industry. First some background: Plastics, unlike other materials like paper or glass, are difficult and/or expensive to recycle. While many plastic items contain the word "recyclable" or include the familiar "triangular - [Insert Molding For Plastic Medical Devices Is Often The Right Prescription](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/insert-molding-for-medical-devices-is-often-the-right-prescription/) - Overmolding or insert molding? That's the question for many medical device manufacturers who utilize plastic injection molding. While similar, these two processes have a crucial difference: Overmolding creates two plastic components that are then molded together to form the final product. Insert molding takes a pre-fabricated component, often made of metal, then joins it to - [Toothsome: A Primer on the Most Common Plastic Dental Equipment](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/toothsome-a-primer-on-the-most-common-plastic-dental-equipment/) - Here's a fact you can sink your teeth into: the dental industry has historically been one of the leading customers of plastic. Why? The answer is easy: because they go through such huge amounts of supplies, most of which quickly becomes contaminated with blood, saliva and other bodily fluids, dental offices are forced to rely - [Plastic Obturators: "Guiding" Plastic Medical Devices For Years](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/plastic-obturators-guiding-plastic-medical-devices-for-years/) - Tracheotomies have been used by doctors for over a hundred years for patients that have trouble breathing normally, have blocked airways or to remove fluid from the lungs. There are four major pieces of this vital plastic medical device: the tracheostomy (trach) tube itself the outer cannula the inner cannula the obturator The fact that - [The Lowly Plastic Specimen Container](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/the-lowly-plastic-specimen-container/) - It's really hard to get excited about plastic specimen containers -- or cups as they are often called. At first glance they are a simple, utilitarian object designed to do one thing, and only one thing: safely collect, then seal urine, stool or tissue samples for later testing. Easy peasy, right? Not so quick. Manufacturing - [Medical Plastics: Let's Leave Them To Their Own Devices!](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/medical-plastics-lets-leave-them-to-their-own-devices/) - Medical plastics are a hot topic these days. The reason is obvious: they're the right perscription for a wide range of plastic medical devices. The last few years have been particularly productive for plastic medical device designers, who have explored the benefits of using specialty plastic compounds in medical applications. Taking their cue from other - [Get the Skinny On Plastic Injection Micro-Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/get-the-skinny-on-micro-molded-medical-parts/) - Plastic injection micro-molding, as its name would imply, is an extremely specialized manufacturing process for producing astonishingly small, high-precision thermoplastic components and parts with micron tolerances. It's become something of a buzzword in plastic injection molding because it pushes the boundries of that manufacturing process to an extreme -- a very tiny extreme. The micro-molding - [Silicone: Is It Right For Plastic Injection Molding Medical Devices?](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/silicone-is-it-right-for-plastic-injection-molding-medical-devices/) - Let's cut to the chase: yes. In fact, silicone may even be ideal. Blasephemy, right? Not really. Because, like carbon-based polymers, silicones, which have a backbone of silicon, offer temperature resistance, flexibility, clarity, malleability and water resistance. And also just like plastics, they can be formed, shaped, then softened or hardened into practically anything -- but - [Medical Plastic Injection Molding: The AdvanTech Way](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/medical-plastic-injection-molding-the-advantech-way/) - While the skill and dedication of healthcare professionals is undoubtedly vital to the succesful delivery of medical services, the design and manufacture of the medical devices themselves also play a decisive role. As a plastic medical device manufacturer, AdvanTech Plastics is absolutely dedicated to the "zero-defect" quality of each plastic-injection molded product we deliver to - [Bio-Assimilation: One More Step Toward Greener Plastics](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/bio-assimilation-one-more-step-toward-greener-plastics/) - Are "green" plastics about to get greener? The short-answer is "yes," but not through recycling alone. (More on that later.) Plastic injection molding companies in Illinois and elsewhere are experimenting with "bio-assimilation," a process by which plastics which are not recycled can safely breakdown and disappear over a period of 6-42 months in landfills, compost - [Bio-Assimilation: The 'Holy Grail' That Could Save The Planet](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/bio-assimilation-the-holy-grail-that-could-save-the-planet/) - Let's face it: plastic pollution -- in the form of litter on land and in the sea or other marine environments -- is a serious problem. And while recycling has been part of the solution, it's complex, time-consuming and, most importantly, costly. Recent estimates show that perhaps only about 10% of plastic is actually recycled. ## Pages - [Home](https://advantechplastics.com/) - Located in Woodstock, Illinois, AdvanTech Plastics, doesn't simply make plastic injection molded parts; we craft plastic injection molding solutions. - [Case Studies](https://advantechplastics.com/case-studies/) - AdvanTech Plastics partners with manufacturers across medical, industrial, packaging, and consumer markets to solve complex plastic injection molding challenges. The representative case studies below illustrate how our engineering, tooling, molding, automation, cleanroom manufacturing, and assembly capabilities help customers bring products to market efficiently and reliably. https://advantechplastics.com/blog/case-study-scaling-high-volume-production-with-high-cavitation-injection-molding/ https://advantechplastics.com/blog/case-study-reshoring-plastic-injection-molding-to-reduce-lead-times-inventory-risk-and-quality-concern/ https://advantechplastics.com/blog/case-study-transferring-an-injection-mold-to-improve-production-reliability-and-supply-chain-contro/ https://advantechplastics.com/case-studies-cleanroom-medical-injection-molding/ - [Case Study: Medical Device Mold Transfer & Production Ramp-Up](https://advantechplastics.com/medical-device-mold-transfer-production-ramp-up/) - Challenge: A medical device manufacturer relied on an overseas supplier to produce a critical molded component used in a disposable diagnostic device. Long lead times, inconsistent communication, and growing concerns about supply chain disruptions created risk for the customer. The company needed a domestic manufacturing partner capable of handling a mold transfer while maintaining regulatory - [Case Study: Cleanroom Medical Injection Molding for a Regulated Medical Component](https://advantechplastics.com/case-studies-cleanroom-medical-injection-molding/) - AdvanTech Plastics supports regulated medical-device production with ISO Class 7 and 8 cleanroom molding, ISO 13485 quality systems, IQ/OQ/PQ validation and lot traceability. - [Case Study: 96-Cavity Production Tool Delivers High-Volume Closure Manufacturing](https://advantechplastics.com/case-study-96-cavity-production-tool-delivers-high-volume-closure-manufacturing/) - See how AdvanTech Plastics used a 96-cavity injection mold, automation and 100% vision inspection to produce more than 1,500 plastic closures per minute. - [ High-Volume Packaging Closure Production](https://advantechplastics.com/high-volume-packaging-closure-production/) - Challenge: A consumer packaging company needed a manufacturing partner capable of producing millions of plastic closures annually while maintaining strict dimensional consistency and minimizing production costs. The customer was facing increasing demand and required a supplier with automation capabilities and experience managing high-cavitation tooling. Solution: AdvanTech Plastics developed a manufacturing program utilizing automated production equipment, - [Micro-Molded Component for Wearable Medical Device](https://advantechplastics.com/representative-case-study-micro-molded-component-for-wearable-medical-device/) - Challenge: A medical technology company was developing a next-generation wearable health monitoring device that required a highly precise micro-molded plastic component. The part featured extremely small geometric features, tight dimensional requirements, and a complex design that would be difficult to manufacture consistently at production volumes. The customer needed a manufacturing partner capable of supporting both - [Injection Mold Transfer Checklist](https://advantechplastics.com/injection-mold-transfer-checklist/) - Use this injection mold transfer checklist to plan tooling documentation, shipping, inspection, sampling, validation, and production launch for plastic injection molding transfers. - [Mold Transfers](https://advantechplastics.com/mold-transfers/) - AdvanTech Plastics provides mold transfer services for medical, packaging, and industrial injection molding applications. Support for reshoring, validation, tooling optimization, cleanroom molding, and high cavitation production. - [Top Plastic Injection Molding Companies in the U.S. (2026 Guide)](https://advantechplastics.com/top-plastic-injection-molding-companies-in-the-u-s-2026-guide/) - Top Plastic Injection Molding Companies in the U.S. The U.S. plastic injection molding industry includes a diverse mix of global manufacturers, mid-sized specialists, and highly specialized companies serving regulated industries such as medical devices, pharmaceutical packaging, and industrial applications. This guide highlights leading U.S. injection molding companies based on key criteria including ISO certifications, cleanroom - [Top Plastic Injection Molding Companies in Illinois (2026 Guide)](https://advantechplastics.com/top-plastic-injection-molding-companies-in-illinois-2026-guide/) - Illinois is a major hub for plastic injection molding, with companies serving industries such as medical devices, industrial manufacturing, consumer products, and packaging. Its central location and access to major transportation networks make it a strategic base for manufacturers serving the Midwest and nationwide markets. This guide is based on industry criteria including ISO certifications, - [High Cavitation Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/high-cavitation-plastic-injection-molding/) - What is high cavitation injection molding? High cavitation injection molding uses molds with multiple cavities—often 16, 32, 64, or even 96 cavities—to produce large volumes of identical plastic parts in a single production cycle. This approach significantly increases output while reducing cost per unit, making it ideal for high-volume manufacturing. Executive Summary For manufacturers producing - [ISO 13485 Injection Molding: What It Means for Medical Manufacturers](https://advantechplastics.com/iso-13485-injection-molding-what-it-means-for-medical-manufacturers/) - What is ISO 13485 injection molding?ISO 13485 injection molding refers to the manufacturing of plastic components under a certified quality management system specifically designed for medical devices, ensuring traceability, consistency, and regulatory compliance. 🔷 Introduction For medical device manufacturers, quality is not optional—it’s regulatory. ISO 13485 certification ensures that every part produced meets strict standards - [Custom Plastic Injection Molding for Packaging Applications](https://advantechplastics.com/custom-plastic-injection-molding-for-packaging-applications/) - Packaging manufacturers require plastic components that combine precision, durability, and high-volume production efficiency. AdvanTech Plastics provides custom plastic injection molding solutions for packaging applications, producing components used in consumer packaging, protective packaging systems, caps and closures, dispensers, and specialty packaging assemblies. Our team collaborates with customers to develop efficiently manufactured packaging components that balance material - [Medical Device & Pharmaceutical Packaging Injection Molding (ISO 13485 | ISO Class 7 & 8 Cleanrooms)](https://advantechplastics.com/medical-pharma-packaging/) - AdvanTech Plastics provides ISO 13485–compliant medical device and pharmaceutical injection molding from controlled manufacturing environments, including ISO Class 7 and ISO Class 8 cleanrooms. We support regulated programs with documented quality systems, lot traceability, controlled handling procedures, and validation support for IQ/OQ/PQ protocols. From diagnostic components and drug-delivery parts to medical packaging and precision fluid-path - [Custom Plastic Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/custom-plastic-injection-molding/) - AdvanTech Plastics offers custom injection molding services from a variety of plastics from low to high-volume production of a broad range of molded components. Custom Injection Molding Injection molding involves the high-pressure injection of melted plastics and resins into custom molds. These molds are typically made of steel and may have cooling or heating lines - [Plastic Medical Devices](https://advantechplastics.com/plastic-medical-devices/) - AdvanTech Plastics is at the forefront of healthcare innovation, specializing in top-tier plastic injection molding services for the production of high-quality medical devices. Located in Northern Illinois, our state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to delivering cost-effective precision-engineered solutions that cater to the stringent demands of the medical industry. About Us With a legacy spanning over three - [Medical Device Injection Molding – FAQs (AdvanTech Plastics)](https://advantechplastics.com/medical-device-injection-molding-faqs-advantech-plastics/) - Looking for our full medical device injection molding capabilities? Visit our Medical Device Injection Molding page --https://advantechplastics.com/medical-pharma-packaging/ We mold plastic components for medical products under an ISO 13485–driven quality system, from DFM and material selection through IQ/OQ/PQ validation, traceability, and packaging. We support new tools and mold transfers, coordinate sterilization readiness (EtO, gamma, e-beam, steam) - [Contact Us](https://advantechplastics.com/contact-us/) - Contact Advantech, your plastic injection molding company - [Facility](https://advantechplastics.com/facility/) - New Plastic Injection Molding Facility AdvanTech Plastics LLC announces opening of a second molding facility in Woodstock, IL with high capacity material handling capabilities including multiple rail spurs and silos. Facility will focus on long run 24/7 automated molding operations for packaging markets. Future clean room molding capabilities for medical markets are also planned for - [About Us](https://advantechplastics.com/about-us/) - About AdvanTech Plastics: Your Plastic Injection Molding Partner AdvanTech maintains the highest quality standards, period. In the Woodstock Il. area? Visit us at 2500 S. Eastwood Drive Woodstock, IL 60098 Tel: 815.338.8383 Fax: 815.338.8763 sales@advantechplastics.com 2041 Dillard Court Woodstock IL 60098 Google Business Profile LinkedIn Profile Thomasnet.com Profile Facebook ISO 13485:2016 ISO 9001:2015 Mission Statement To meet - [Reshoring](https://advantechplastics.com/reshoring-a-trend-whose-ship-has-come-in/) - Although reshoring in the plastic injection molding industry first arose in the early 2000's, it really picked up steam in 2018 with the burgeoning trade war between the U.S. and China during the first Trump administration. When the Covid pandemic hit like a gale force wind in 2020, reshoring - at least the idea of - [Chicago Medical Device Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/chicago-medical-device-injection-molding/) - Chicago Medical Device Injection Molding Precision • Compliance • Innovation — Made in Illinois Trusted Medical Injection Molding in the Chicago Area AdvanTech Plastics, headquartered in Woodstock, IL, is a leader in plastic injection molding for medical devices and components. With ISO 13485 certification and a growing cleanroom program, we provide Chicago-area OEMs with the - [Plastic Injection Molding FAQs](https://advantechplastics.com/plastic-injection-molding-faqs/) - TL;DR: We handle prototype-to-production injection molding (including micro-molding, overmolding, and mold transfers) with ISO-driven quality (incl. ISO 13485 for medical). Typical tooling lead times run weeks, not months, and quotes move fastest when you send CAD, annual volume, target material, and cosmetic class. What do you need to quote my part? Send 3D CAD (STEP/IGES) - [AdvanTech Plastics: Your Trusted Partner for Re-shoring Plastic Injection Molded Food Packaging](https://advantechplastics.com/advantech-plastics-your-trusted-partner-for-re-shoring-plastic-injection-molded-food-packaging/) - As the manufacturing landscape shifts and more companies seek to re-shore their plastic packaging production, AdvanTech Plastics stands at the forefront as a premier provider of high-quality plastic injection molded packaging. With advanced manufacturing capabilities, a commitment to sustainability, and a deep understanding of food safety regulations, we offer a reliable and cost-effective solution for - [Newsletters](https://advantechplastics.com/newsletters-2/) - [Newsletters](https://advantechplastics.com/newsletters/) - July, 2024 Why Choose Insert Molding? Insert molding is a manufacturing process for molding thermoplastic over a prefabricated component called an insert to create a single component. Inserts are generally metal but can be made from any material that can withstand the temperature and pressure of injection molding. The resulting single unified part has improved - [Clean Rooms](https://advantechplastics.com/clean-rooms-the/) - Clean Rooms in Plastic Injection Molding: Ensuring Precision and Quality at AdvanTech Plastics AdvanTech Plastics has committed itself to delivering top-notch products that will require state-of-the-art clean rooms, ensuring a controlled environment that meets the highest industry standards. In this guide, we'll explore the significance of clean rooms in plastic injection molding and the various - [Sonic Welding](https://advantechplastics.com/sonic-welding/) - Sonic welding, also known as ultrasonic welding, is another of AdvanTech Plastics specialties. A widely used joining technique in the plastic injection molding industry, sonic welding utilizes high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations to create a molecular bond between two plastic components. This method is particularly effective for thermoplastic materials, making it a popular choice in various industries, - [Sitemap](https://advantechplastics.com/sitemap/) - [Privacy Policy](https://advantechplastics.com/privacy-policy/) - Last updated: February 21, 2022 AdvanTech Plastics, LLC (“us”, “we”, or “our”) operates the AdvanTech Plastics, LLC website (the “Service”). This page informs you of our policies regarding the collection, use and disclosure of Personal Information when you use our Service. We will not use or share your information with anyone except as described in - [Resources](https://advantechplastics.com/resources/) - At AdvanTech, we’re committed to providing our customers with the resources and expertise they need for more efficient designs, lower costs and higher quality parts. Below are some resources we’ve developed over the years to help our partners get the best value out of every plastic injection molding project. eBooks - [Request a Quote](https://advantechplastics.com/request-a-quote/) - Let AdvanTech quote your plastic injection molding project! - [Quality](https://advantechplastics.com/quality/) - Our quality system utilizes the latest technology in the hands of highly-trained professionals to provide an unmatched level of reliability and customer satisfaction. AdvanTech Plastics utilizes the following QA tools: 1. PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) The Production Part Approval Process, commonly referred to as PPAP, is a widely recognized quality control tool in the - [Pad Printing Services](https://advantechplastics.com/pad-printing-services/) - Pad printing uses an indirect printing process to transfer a 2-D image onto a 3-D object. During this printing process, a silicone pad is used to pick up the image from the cliché and transfer it onto the substrate. The three key components of a pad printing machine are the printing plate (cliché), the ink cup, - [Neurological Syringe](https://advantechplastics.com/neurological-syringe/) - Nasal Syringe Case Study When our client needed a nasal syringe, they relied on the skilled team and technological capabilities at AdvanTech Plastics to deliver a medical device that would meet their specifications. This nasal applicator provides a means to administer fluid to the innermost regions of the nasal pathway. The design called for a - [Illinois Plastic Packaging Caps & Closures](https://advantechplastics.com/packaging-caps-closure/) - Caps and closures are an essential packaging element used for products in a broad range of markets, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, health and wellness, cosmetics, and many others. As packaging solutions continually shift toward plastics, it is important to consider cap and closure performance as part of the overall packaging value proposition. The - [How to Reduce Costs for Plastic Caps, Closures & Other Packaging Products](https://advantechplastics.com/lp-how-to-reduce-costs-for-caps/) - [Equipment List](https://advantechplastics.com/equipment-list/) - Injection Molding machines - 55 to 400 ton [table id=3 /] - [Design](https://advantechplastics.com/design/) - AdvanTech will manage your project from concept through prototyping and into production. Early supplier involvement allows us to provide efficient part and development input. Value Added Services Assembly | Sonic Welding | Pad Printing | Packaging Our production system is designed to provide simple-to-complex assembly and other high-value added secondary services, including complete packaging and - [Capabilities](https://advantechplastics.com/capabilities/) - #Custom Plastic Injection Molding... Engineering... Micro Injection Molding...Insert Molding...Pad Printing Services...Two-Shot Injection Molding...Quality Control.... Sonic #Welding... and more! - [Bio Assimilation: Working Toward A Sustainable Future](https://advantechplastics.com/bio-assimilation/) - AdvanTech Plastics is at the forefront of the move toward bio-assimilation, the last and final stage of biodegradation, when plastic polymers are consumed by microorganisms and simply cease to exist. Bio-assimilation is vital in a world full of plastic waste that is not being recycled because of cost and is sometimes simply incinerated, warming the - [Keys to a Sustainable Future for the Plastic Injection Molding Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/lp-plastic-injection-molding-industry/) - [Insert Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/insert-molding/) - At AdvanTech Plastics, we are a premier provider of plastic injection molding solutions. One of our core areas of specialization is insert molding, a one-step process that involves over molding thermoplastic resin around preformed components. This service allows us to produce parts and products for a wide range of industries. What Is Insert Molding, and - [Industries We Serve](https://advantechplastics.com/industries/) - [Industrial/Electronic](https://advantechplastics.com/industrial-electronic/) - #Custom Plastic Injection-Molded Industrial & Electronic Products AdvanTech produces a broad range of components and assemblies for the industrial market, often utilizing insert molding and secondary operations. Industrial Products This segment of AdvanTech Plastics is the most diverse in applications. Products include: Handles & Latches Gauge Lens & Housings Thermostat Housings & Controls Bobbins & - [TY - Keys to a Sustainable Future for the Plastic Injection Molding Industry](https://advantechplastics.com/ty-keys-to-a-sustainable-future-for-the-plastic-injection-molding-industry/) - Thank you for filling out the form. Click on the link below to download the eBook! Download - [TY - How to Reduce Costs for Plastic Caps](https://advantechplastics.com/ty-how-to-reduce-costs-for-plastic-caps/) - Thank you for filling out the form. Click on the link below to download the eBook! Download - [Blog Modules](https://advantechplastics.com/blog-modules/) - [Micro Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/micro-injection-molding/) - At AdvanTech Plastics, we provide plastic injection molding solutions to meet and exceed the needs of various applications. Customer satisfaction is our primary motivator, so we constantly improve our processes and develop lean manufacturing practices for excellent product quality and cost-effectiveness. Along with our general custom injection molding solutions, we also specialize in micro injection - [Two Shot Injection Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/two-shot-injection-molding/) - Two-shot injection molding offers many advantages over single-shot injection molding, allowing manufacturers to produce multiple complex products using a single process. AdvanTech Plastics is proud to offer full-service custom plastic injection molding services, including Two-shot injection molding. Our Two-shot injection molding capabilities are designed to provide cost-effective solutions that meet customer specifications with reduced lead - [Thank You](https://advantechplastics.com/thank-you/) - Thanks for contacting us! We will get in touch with you shortly. - [Terms of Service](https://advantechplastics.com/terms-of-service/) - Last updated: February 10, 2022 Please read these Terms of Use (“Terms”, “Terms of Use”) carefully before using the advantechplastics.com/ website (the “Service”) operated by AdvanTech Plastics, LLC (“us”, “we”, or “our”). Your access to and use of the Service is conditioned on your acceptance of and compliance with these Terms. These Terms apply to ## News - [AdvanTech in the May 2016 edition of Plastics Technology!](https://advantechplastics.com/news/advantech-in-the-may-2016-edition-of-plastics-technology/) - AdvanTech in the May 2016 edition of Plastics Technology! - [Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident sunt in culpa](https://advantechplastics.com/news/excepteur-sint-occaecat-cupidatat-non-proident-sunt-in-culpa-2/) - Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into - [Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident sunt in culpa](https://advantechplastics.com/news/excepteur-sint-occaecat-cupidatat-non-proident-sunt-in-culpa/) - Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/uncategorized/) - [Plastic Injection Molding Methods](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/plastic-injection-molding-methods/) - [medical dental plastic supplies](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/medical-dental-plastic-supplies/) - [personal care product packaging](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/personal-care-product-packaging/) - [plastic injection molded electronic parts](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/plastic-injection-molded-electronic-parts/) - [Plastic Injection Molding for Small Parts](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/plastic-injection-molding-for-small-parts/) - [All-Electric Molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/all-electric-molding/) - [Automotive Plastic Injection Molded Parts](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/automotive-plastic-injection-molded-parts/) - [Plastic Injection Molding Equipment](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/plastic-injection-molding-equipment/) - [Plastic Injection Molding News](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/plastic-injection-molding-news/) - [Plastic Caps and Closures](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/plastic-caps-and-closures/) - [Plastic Injection Molding Medical Parts](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/plastic-injection-molding-medical-parts/) - [Plastic food packaging & beverage packaging](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/plastic-food-packaging/) - Plastic injection molding for food and beverage products. - [Plastic Injection Molding Electrical Equipment](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/plastic-injection-molding-electrical-equipment/) - [plastic dental devices](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/medical-dental-plastic-supplies/plastic-dental-devices/) - [Reshoring US Manufacturing](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/category/reshoring-us-manufacturing/) - Reshoring plastic injection molding production back to the United States from Asia and elsewhere. ## Tags - [plastic injection molded medical parts](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/plastic-injection-molded-medical-parts/) - [plastic medical and dental supplies](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/plastic-medical-and-dental-supplies/) - [plastic pharmaceutical packaging](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/plastic-pharmaceutical-packaging/) - [plastic injection molded personal care packaging](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/plastic-injection-molded-personal-care-packaging/) - [plastic personal care products](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/plastic-personal-care-products/) - [plastic injection molded electronic components](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/plastic-injection-molded-electronic-components/) - [plastic injection molding Illinois](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/plastic-injection-molding-illinois/) - [plastic automotive parts](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/plastic-automotive-parts/) - [plastic injection molding](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/plastic-injection-molding/) - [3D printing](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/3d-printing/) - [plastic injection molds](https://advantechplastics.com/blog/tag/plastic-injection-molds/)