The recent economic slowdowns which have negatively affected consumer spending and manufacturing on a global scale have also had a positive effect on the way manufacturers think. Hard financial times have taught us that innovation is an important key to survival. A mindset of being more efficient and finding new opportunities in existing products has started to prevail.
In 2015, the plastics manufacturing industry will be no exception to this new kind of thinking. Look out for these trends in the coming year, and beyond:
Organic Materials
Plastics are petroleum based, so what happens if/when the oil runs out? Although the U.S. has abundant resources of natural gas via shale – giving us an advantage over Europe and Asia who mainly use resins made from oil-based feedstock – long-term, sustainable alternatives need to be investigated.
Organic filler materials – such as flours made from wood, nuts, corncobs, cork and rice hulls – are already being used in the plastics manufacturing industry in polymer composites to extend the base resin. They are low cost, low density and create low wear on processing equipment.
3D Printing is Here to Stay
The practice of using 3D printing in plastics manufacturing is becoming more and more common. Objects can be made quickly, accurately and efficiently. 3D printing is already enjoying immense popularity in the healthcare industry, but is being used to create parts and components for just about every manufacturing sector.
It is user-friendly, highly versatile and incredibly precise.
Reverse Engineering is Moving Forward
This is an excellent way to improve an existing product, or design a new one, by breaking down a completed product, learning how it works and making improvements. It is common practice with parts that are out of production, or ones with design flaws that need to be corrected. It is a cost-effective way to find solutions and create better products.
A Decision for Precision
Experts predict that 2015 will see an increase in demand for precision parts. There will be greater focus on complex, intricate plastic components, and everything from bearings and clamps to customized plastic sprockets and gears will be highly sought after. Lightweight, sturdy plastics are also becoming more and more common in the electronics industry.
At PEP Connecticut Plastics, plastic is ALL we do. We produce highly complex, high quality components with smooth, burr-free surfaces. Visit us on Pepctplastics.com to see how we can help you.
