Cooling-Off or Heating-Up

Well the weather is finally cooling off in the Midwest but business continues to heat-up in the plastics fabrication industry. Many of the companies we talked to at IWF last month said that 2018 has been a good year and 2019 looks promising.

Fabricated and formed plastic parts and assemblies continue to find inventive ways to replace other materials, due in part to the machinery, tooling and materials you’ll find in this issue.

We kick off with what’s new in High Performance Plastics (HPPs). When you have a demanding application, these materials provide engineers and fabricators an increasing number of options from which to choose. HPPs have characteristics that make them ideal for challenging environments, and when high strength or high service temperatures are required. Turn to our Spotlight to see what’s new to meet your customer’s high performance requirements.

Next find out what's hot in the cut sheet thermoforming market. Everyone is looking for an edge – a way to lower costs, increase productivity and add value for their clients. Our Thermoforming Spotlight features machinery for forming and trimming, and cutting tools that will make your company more efficient, more competitive and more profitable.

Finally in ”Safety Solutions”, Jack Podojil takes a look at what might be causing your aching back with “Safe Lifting Techniques.” Back injuries lead to more lost days of work than any other kind of injury or illness. Of the 1.3 million reported lost-time injuries and illnesses in 2017, sprains and strains were by far the largest category, 43 percent according the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Of these, most were back related.

Looking ahead, our 2019 editorial calendar has been announced. Turn to page 23 to see what is in-store for next year. Our goal is to provide you with the news, new products and information you need to stay current and competitive in our global economy.

We would love to hear from you. Let us know if there are topics you would like us to cover in the upcoming year and we’ll do our best to incorporate them into our schedule. Jack Podojil also welcomes your input regarding Safety Solutions topics for the coming year and is available for private consultation with PD&F Magazine subscribers to address your specific safety needs.

You can find additional resources throughout our website to heat things up at your company. Or search our updated 2018 Buyer’s Guide, manage your subscription or contact our advertisers.

Enjoy the issue,