Around the World in 48 Pages

As we edited the articles in this issue it dawned on us how seemingly small the world has become. This month we have feature articles and products with ties to Germany, England, Switzerland, Spain, Canada and of course the U.S. We explore the latest in thermoplastic welding and fusion processes, equipment and supplies, plus some emerging markets, materials and equipment for plastic pipe. Both markets have seen increased applications over the past decade and all projections are that that will continue.

We kick off with the first in a series of articles by Van Niser that will cover Real World Routing Solutions. Read how a change of tooling may solve your manufacturing or production problem.

Our feature coverage begins with three articles on thermoplastic welding from butt fusion to extrusion. Then go to Welding Products for pages of equipment and supplies for companies welding plastics.

The plastic pipe features address two very different product groups and fusion methods. The advancements in materials and joining technology have fueled the continued rise in the use of plastic pipe in the U.S. We also feature products and equipment for pipe fusion.

Finally, Jack is back! In Safety Solutions this month, “Your Hearing: Keep it for a Lifetime,” you may be surprised to learn that modern medicine can only offer moderate improvement for people who have hearing loss.

With the first quarter coming to an end and the busy summer months right around the corner, we are already hard at work on our next issue. In May/June we will bring you our 12th Annual Nylon & Acetal Shapes spotlight. Nylon and acetal continue to grow in popularity, lead by advancements in materials that open new end-use applications. We will also feature our AWFS® Fair Preview. This year, for the first time ever, the AWFS Fair will offer a SMART program dedicated to plastics. Presented by the SCM Group on the show floor prior to the opening of exhibits, it will address special machinery and relevant technology for cutting plastics. Watch for more information in our next issue or visit the AWFS Fair website at www.awfsfair.org.

As always, you can find more products and information for plastic fabricators from around the world on our website at www.plasticsmag.com where you can search our 2006 Buyer’s Guide and a nine year article archive.

Enjoy the issue,