That Plastics Guy

On today's episode, Kurt shares insight from his recent trip to New Zealand.  Specifically, how that country has adopted a citizen-level responsibility for protecting their delicate ecosystem.  

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In today's #TTF, Kurt suggests choosing sustainability over wasteful consumerism.  Consider gifting consumables, experiences, or high quality/long lasting items.

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In today's episode, Kurt talks about the importance of being an advocate for the plastics industry and the responsible use and management of plastics as a commodity.

And DON'T litter!!!

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Join Kurt as he welcomes back to the show, Justin Riney, the Sustainability Commercial Manager for the Americas, for INEOS Styrolution America, LLC.

Justin tells us about different projects the PSRA has worked on throughout North America in 2025 - including infrastructure investments to increase polystyrene recycling and new partnerships. We also discuss how legislation can positively impact the work of plastics recycling and what's in store for Justin at the PSRA in the coming year.

Tune in to learn why, and how we can all drive positive conversations about polystyrene!

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In today's episode, Kurt gives a summary of the podcast he recorded with Justin Riney of the Polystyrene Recycling Alliance.

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In today's TTF, Kurt shares what he thinks is the most important ingredient for success.  

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Join Kurt as he offers a few tips accumulated over the years to help build and develop relationships with your customers.  Kurt talks about what to budget, as well as the importance of spending time (rather than just dollars) to build trust, respect, and above all a decent working relationship with your important customers.

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In today's episode, Kurt talks about his decision to purchase Simcoe Plastics and "go it alone".  Entrepreneurship is rewarding, challenging, and exhilarating...but, full of responsibility, discipline, and intellect.  

If you believe being an entrepreneur is your chosen path, you really need to ask yourself if you have the skills, support, and industry knowledge to not only forge this path, but to succeed.

Reach out if you want to connect and talk about it! 

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In this "spooky" episode of Tech Tip Friday, Kurt covers some of the scary causes of molding defects.  Just a quick reminder of the basics of good molding and especially the good practices when changing between molds and/or colour.

Boo!

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On today's #TTF, Kurt asks the question "how are you going to leverage AI in your plastics business?"

Whether you are a processor, distributor, engineering consultant, sales team, or marketing to an end user...how will this revolutionary tool impact your business?  How will you safeguard, or "future proof" your business?  How will you leverage AI to make your business leaner and more efficient?

Take some time to reflect and leave a comment if you are so inclined.

Happy Friday and have a great weekend!

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In this episode , Kurt discusses what a let down ratio is, and what elements can effect the let down ratio of a colour concentrate.

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In today's TTF, Kurt shares some of the questions to ask yourself if you want to drive down the cost of your colourant.

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In this episode, Kurt revisits videos he created several years ago that addressed our increasing reliance on the family of commodities known as plastic.  

From cost to produce, to ease of processing, to custom tailored products...plastics are incredibly versatile...and pretty hard to beat.

Think about your own patterns of consumption.  How can you make educated decisions and have a positive impact?

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In today's #TTF, Kurt talks about the use of regrind to help improve colour appearance in a molded part.

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In today's #TTF, Kurt talks about the use of colour spaces to understand and measure colour.  Removing the subjectivity and introducing objectivity.

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Thinking about the #TTF episode "Don't Give Up" (which dealt with using a disciplined approach to handle technical issues), "Know When to Stop" talks about no wearing out the welcome mat.  

It's easy in sales or in interpersonal negotiations to want to take control and "keep pushing".  Realistically, we need to know when to look at an opportunity and if it's not working, park it.  In sales, like in comedy, timing is everything. 

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In today's episode, Kurt talks about the importance of reading AND understanding SDS sheets and warning labels.  Use your PPE and work carefully!  Know the risks of the materials you handle, so you can handle them appropriately.

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In today's episode, Kurt discusses the various types of additives that are used to alter the flow characteristics of resins.  Broadly speaking, they can be grouped into two types; those that mix mechanically with the resin to reduce friction when flowing, and those that directly target a key area of the material's chemistry to alter viscosity (resistance to flow).

Tune in to learn! 

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We could call this the "back to school pep-talk" episode!

Glad to have you back to #TTF and for today, let's remember that when we face challenges on the shop floor, don't give up.  Take a metered response to your problems, keep your cool, and isolate one variable at a time.

Slow and steady wins the race!

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In today's TTF, Kurt talks about the differences between FDA approved resins and those that are FDA compliant.  Save money where you can!

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Thermoplastic Urethane is an incredibly tough and versatile material.  But, it does have its quirks!  Don't let those put you off from running a truly amazing product.  Give a listen and find out how to deal with TPU and moisture.

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In today's episode, Kurt speaks with Darrel Fry, the CEO of ABC3D.  We discuss his company's conductive masterbatch technology and how it adapts so well to differing resins AND process environments.

Commercialized initially for the 3D printing space, Darrel's technology is well suited for scaling to large volume injection molding and profile extrusion applications as well.

If you are interested in learning more about this fascinating technology, please contact Kurt at info@simcoeplastics.com

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Today's TTF is a bit of a tease...new product tease that is.  Have a listen and find out about a new commercial development.  It's a niche product, and really cool!

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In today's #TTF, Kurt shares a few tips and tricks regarding the processing of the ECOrrect water soluble resin.

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In this episode, Kurt offers a mini retrospective of "That Plastics Guy", to mark the show's 100th episode.

Beginning in January of 2024, That Plastics Guy has grown and evolved to include the weekly "Tech Tip Friday" instalment.  Significant improvements in both audio and video production have been a welcome addition over the past 10 months.

Kurt highlights some the guests who have appeared on the show and the topics covered.  

Thank you for your continued support of the show.  Here's to the next 100 episodes!

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In today's Tech Tip Friday, or PSA (Plastic Service Announcement), Kurt talks about the importance of drying your materials...even the non-hydroscopic ones...when the weather is hot and humid.

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In today's TTF, Kurt talks about how the melt flow and relative viscosity are used to describe the flow characteristics of a material.

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Join host Kurt Stahle (That Plastics Guy) and Brett Minken of Andicor Specialty Chemicals as they have an in-depth conversation about the company and its product lines.

If you'd like to speak with Brett about any of the products discussed, his contact information is below.

Brett Minken 
Sales Representative/Product Manager - Plastics
Office: 905-795-0911
Mobile: 647-992-6119
Email: brett.minken@andicor.com
 
Andicor Specialty Chemicals 5 – 5865 McLaughlin Rd. | Mississauga, ON  L5R 1B8 www.andicor.com 

 ...

Today's TTF covers buying resin in our current (and uncertain) times.  Despite being what Kurt would call a buyer's market, please remember to allow the seller to cover their costs, so they can continue to provide their support and service.  It doesn't have to be a zero sum game.  Everyone can have a small win.

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In this episode, Kurt talks about the use of foil liners in plastics packaging to guard against moisture damaging the product.  Also discussed is a quick method of resealing the foil liners to ensure maximum product longevity. 

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In today's TTF, Kurt talks about the differences (and some similarities) between a water soluble resin and a biopolymer.  These resins are very different and have different and unique applications.

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In this episode, Kurt discusses the Sulapac product line from Helsinki, Finland that Simcoe Plastics will be selling across Canada.  Formulated for injection, extrusion, thermoforming, and 3D printing, these highly innovative polymers offer not just the processor, but the designer a new range of tools to express their brand in the marketplace.  Exciting and kind to the planet!

Give this a listed and contact us if you are interested and would like to learn more.

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In today's #TTF, Kurt shows samples from last week's Sulapac haul.  He's focusing on the wood fibre filled materials that offer a very attractive appearance and are truly in the spirit of biopolymers.

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A major product haul!  Courtesy of Sulapac in Helsinki, Finland, I received a large box of product made with Sulapac's biopolymer.  Simcoe Plastics will be tasked with finding new applications for this durable, but biodegradable polymer.  The sample products look good, feel good, and are good for the environment!

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Duration: 00:04:51

In today's episode, Kurt speaks with Jonathan Knott, the head of TBDC's Explore Skilled Trades program that aims to bring vetted, trained, and capable individuals to the construction industry.  Jonathan is engaging, articulate, and passionate about helping people to find their way to the skilled trades in the construction sector.

This is a great reminder to engage our youth and introduce them to the skilled trades as a viable, fulfilling, and rewarding career path.

To learn more about the program, check out their website: https://exploreskilledtrades.com/

Or contact Jonathan at jonathan@tbdc.c...

In this episode, Kurt discusses what to expect when you have aged inventory.  Which resins store well, which resins will need drying, and which resins may not survive.

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In today's TTF, Kurt discusses the differences between a mechanical and chemical purging compound.

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In today's TTF, Kurt talks about CFAs (chemical foaming agents).  When they could be used, what they do, the benefits, and the major classifications.

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In this episode, Kurt speaks with Mehdi Sheikhzadeh and Steve Reaume of the Canadian Extrusion Research Laboratory, located at Lambton College in Sarnia.

Medhi and Steve discuss the history of "CERL", as well as the massive scope of projects that they are capable of taking on.  From grant writing through to scaling for commercialization, the scope of CERL is truly amazing.

You won't want to miss this thoroughly enjoyable and informative conversation!

If you or your organization thinks they could benefit from CERL's expansive resources, please reach out to their business development manager, A...

In this episode, Kurt talks about what makes the long glass pellet so special.  From pellet specifics to applications, and finally to physical characteristics.  It's covered in a quick format.

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In today's episode, Kurt discusses "TPU".  The applications (including his personal history selling the material), the chemistry, and the pros and cons of this incredibly durable, flexible, and elastic polymer.

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Happy Friday!  In today's instalment, Kurt walks through the basics of good sprue design and how it applies to even a smaller scale sprue.  Cold slugs, sprue shape, and land size are discussed.

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In this non-plastics episode, Kurt encourages thoughtful consideration during Canada's federal election and to exercise your most important civil right.  Vote!

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In this episode, Kurt discusses the water soluble resin ECOrrect and potential applications for this type of resin technology.

If you have interest in this product, contact Kurt (info@simcoeplastics.com) for an in-depth conversation around your idea.  Let's collaborate!

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On today's episode, Kurt talks about what to do when you have a silo contamination issue and what precautions can be taken to prevent this occurrence.

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In today's TTF, Kurt talks about the water soluble ECOrrect product, showcasing sample bags and thin film made with this award winning resin technology.

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In this encore presentation from July of 2024, I interview Bindi Patel, creator of the award-winning ECOrrect water soluble resin.

This resin was created to offer a cost effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional resins used in the film and packaging sector.

ECOrrect will completely dissolve in water, landfill, or composting environment.

Production of ECOrrect will commence in Canada this spring.  Stay tuned for further announcements!

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Revisiting one of my original TTF clips, I discuss living hinges.  What are the best materials for them, and what MUST happen post-molding to ensure longevity of the living hinge.

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There's a reason that I discuss the basics frequently on this channel and on my podcasts.

Executing the basics, day in and day out, is how we can achieve success in our work goals, and our personal goals.  Practice and execute.  And then practice some more!

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**Warning - I'm fighting a flu and this isn't my best podcast.**

Keeping my voice going using a hot cup of tea, I talk about why you should use a purging compound in your plastic processing plant.  Fresh Start Polymer Solutions is a Canadian company that currently offers two formulations.  Both are compounded and warehoused in Canada.  The developers behind the product are Canadian, too!  And you know that I (the guy who sells it) is certainly Canadian.  

Why not give a solid Canadian product a try?  

Contact info@simcoeplastics.com to arrange your t...

Let's take a moment to remind ourselves of the tremendous economic potential that is Canada!  The plastics industry is a key component of that power.  We have skilled labour, world leading R&D and production, technology, and infrastructure to support our industry, manufacturing in general, and most importantly - Canada as a whole.

Be proud of who we are and let's expand our horizons!

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In this episode, Kurt revisits his first Tech Tip Friday from May 2024.  

Two considerations for draft angle are discussed - part depth and texture.

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Today's TTF is a quick overview of the article "Standard Solution" in the February 2025 issue of Canadian Plastics.  The CSA Group has created standard R117:24 to assist in defining what recycled plastics really are.

Credit to CP editor Mark Stephen and his guest Michael Leering of CSA Group.

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All links here https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle Duration: 00:02:52

Join Kurt as he interviews Chloe Linsmeier (Marketing Manager) and Brent Berquist (Senior VP of Sales and Marketing) of Advanced Blending Solutions in Wallace, MI.

ABS is a specialist engineering and fabrication company that builds conveyance and blending equipment.  "From the silo to the extruder".  We discuss the company's history, product offerings, gravimetric vs volumetric metering systems, and finally, ABS's green initiatives.

If you'd like to contact Chloe, she can be reached at clinsmeier@adv-blend.com

In Canada, please contact Paul Carter.  Paul can be reached at pcarter@adv-blend.com or via cell at...

This short PSA is simply about looking after yourself and making sure you take time to rest and recharge.

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In this episode, I offer my take on tariffs.  Their function, why a country would want to impose them, a brief history of tariff agreements and free trade agreements.  Most importantly, what's behind the current US administration's desire to implement punitive tariffs against their two biggest trading partners.

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In today's episode, Kurt discusses what material density is, and why it should matter to you and your molding operation. 

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In today's episode, Kurt discusses the implementation and use of check lists to support shop floor operations such as mold changes and PMs of tools or equipment.  The inspiration came from a book summary on the app Headway.

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In this "Encore Presentation", Kurt interviews Dharmendra Khanolkar of ExCista Corporation and they discuss the Silaplast molding additive.

Silaplast is more than just a mold release agent.  Use it to left med void and sinks in parts, too.  Dharmendra (or "DK") discusses the product range and the many applications for the Silaplast product.

Contact Simcoe Plastics (info@simcoeplastics.com) for more information on this innovative product.

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In today's TTF, Kurt starts to revisit previously recorded segments that discussed various physical property characteristics of polymers that you would find on the typical datasheet.  Better studio and A/V equipment this time around!

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In this episode, Kurt discusses UV inhibitor packages and what they protect and how to specify them.

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Join Kurt as he talks polystyrene recycling with Justin Riney, the Sustainability Commercial Manager for the Americas, for INEOS Styrolution America, LLC.

We talk about success in the US with major retailers and municipal recycling projects alike that cover not only polystyrene, but foamed polystyrene for packaging.  The recycling process is very straight forward and very effective!

For those who question the use of plastics in packaging, this episode will prove to be illuminating!   

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On today's episode, Kurt discusses the factors that can effect gloss level on your parts.

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In this video, I discuss a mold clamp sensor system, offered by Bill Hartwick of Filter Specialties that can measure the clamp force of your machine and help to pinpoint a possible failure in the tie bars.

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In this episode, Kurt discusses the many factors that will impact our economy for 2025.  This includes the incoming Trump administration and the possible threat of tariffs, interest rate predictions, Canadian dollar predictions, and the outcome of the Global Plastics Treaty. 

This podcast was recorded prior to the announcement of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigning today, January 6th, 2025.

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Duration: 00:24:14

Welcome to 2025!

Hope you had a great break and took some time to rest and recharge.  Now, let's get that machinery roaring back to life and earning its keep!

Today's tech tip talks about staggering the start up of your equipment to avoid hydro spikes.

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Duration: 00:02:30

Today's show talks about a topic that is crucial to the success of industry in Ontario and across Canada...the skilled trades.

Overlooked for decades, our province needs youth to consider the trades as a viable and fulfilling career opportunity.

We have an in depth discussion with Darryl Gratrix of Moulded Precision Components, who has adopted the promotion of the skilled trades as his passion. 

This is a truly important topic for our industry and our economy! 

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Getting ready for the holiday shutdown?  Use an appropriate purge compound to clean your screw and barrel before powering down.  Make sure the purge you use is suitable for staying in the barrel for a prolonged period of time.

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In this episode, Kurt discusses the unique characteristics of impact modified nylon.

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On today's episode, Kurt interviews the renowned author of “The Plastics Paradox”, keynote speaker, and advocate for the truth about plastics, Doctor Chris DeArmitt.

We discuss how Chris became involved in researching the real effects of plastics in the environment and the new hot topic of microplastics.  The truth is fascinating!

Chris has started a non-for-profit called "The Plastics Research Council" to stay abreast of thousands of peer-reviewed studies on materials, waste, litter, ocean plastics, degradation, microplastics and more.

Please visit the site and I ask that you consider supporting it.

https...

In this episode, Kurt discusses the basics of white commodity masterbatches and what impacts pricing and quality. 

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In today's #TTF, Kurt discusses what mineral fillers do, and when a mineral filled masterbatch would be used.

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In this episode, Kurt gives a high level overview of antimicrobial use in plastics.  Specifically talking about the various types of antimicrobials, how they work, applications, and pros and cons of their use.

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In this episode, Kurt discusses the importance of a planned maintenance schedule for your equipment and tools.

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In this episode, Kurt discusses what makes a "film grade" masterbatch different and special...and more costly.

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Join Kurt as he celebrates the 50th episode of "That Plastics Guy" by revisiting its creation (both the concept and the supporting technology), revisiting the guests that we have been on the show, and what will come in future episodes.

Kurt then offers his thoughts on what a Trump administration may mean to Canadian manufacturing and trade.  

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Duration: 00:33:23

Today, Kurt discusses the differences between a utility grade and general purpose black colour concentrate.

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Join Kurt as he offers a tech tip for utilizing black colourant effectively, focusing on carbon black loading level and quality.

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On today's episode, Kurt presents a case study involving a sample run for a new client.  The elements of successful sample production can be broken down into the following four "P Steps"

1. Planning
2. Purging
3. Processing
4. Packaging
 

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Kurt presents a mini case study on creating a purging "firewall" to prevent cross-contamination of materials and/or colours.

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Join Kurt as he discusses the final adjustment required to correct a cosmetic issue on a troublesome part.

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On today's show, Kurt discusses a case study involving a current project where cosmetic appearances of a part are compromised by several factors.  Kurt discusses each area of concern and how it's being addressed.

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Join Kurt as he gives a comparison of 2% letdown and 4% letdown in colourants and why you may want to chose one over the other.

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Join Kurt as he discusses four common reasons for flashing in an injection molding tool.

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Join Kurt for a deep dive discussion around the changes that occur to plastic resins when water is absorbed.  What resins are particularly sensitive and which ones are not.  How much water is absorbed by resins?  What properties change?

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Join Kurt for a quick discussion about using a purge compound that is safe for valve/pin gates and hot drops in a hot manifold tool.

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Today's Tech Tip discusses when to dry resins, even if they are not water absorbing by nature.

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On today's pod, Kurt talks about the origins of one of the most versatile and oldest polymers we have available - nylon.

We cover the development of nylon prior to the second world war, different types of nylon, and several applications.

This is a great summary of one of the "workhorse" polymers.

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A quick discussion of the fundamentals of drying hydroscopic resins prior to processing.

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Today's TTF is a quick discussion around moving from a 4% or 5% let down ratio (LDR) to a 2%, or even a 1% "LDR".  

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Today, we explore parting lines...how to position them, what complicates them, and how we can disguise and mitigate them.

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On today's #TTF, Kurt talks about the importance of your local material supplier and the wealth of knowledge that they bring to the table for you.

Give us a call - we're here to help!

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On today's Tech Tip Friday, Kurt discusses shrink rates of plastic and why providing an exact shrink rate for a part is not possible. 

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In today's episode, Kurt talks with Jim Pelot and Cher Cunningham of Podium Prosperity.  We dive into their Tradewinds program for business owners who want to maximize the returns from their business and perhaps position it for sale. 

The conversation is enlightening, enjoyable, and full of nuggets for you to use in your business.

If you are interested in working with Jim and Cher, here is their contact info.

https://podiumprosperity.com/

CHER CUNNINGHAM
705-915-0200 ext 203
Book a Zoom or In-person in Barrie.

Offices are located at...

Join Kurt as he discusses the difference between FDA approved resins and the more common FDA compliant resin designation.

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In today's episode, Kurt talks about the predominant European and Asian flammability test method, using a glow wire. 

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Join Kurt as he discusses UL flame ratings for plastics.

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Join Kurt as he discusses UL flammability testing and the three most common ratings that you will see on your datasheets.

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Join Kurt as he interviews Bindi Patel of ECOrrect.  This is Bindi's second appearance on the show.  We are pleased to announce our North American distribution agreement with Bindi and her ECOrrect product, as well as production expansion into Canada.

Our recording skills are significantly improved as well - thank you for your patience while we get things dialled in!

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Join Kurt today as he discusses what the Vicat Softening Point of plastic is all about.

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