Why should plastics processors and equipment makers care about recyclers' troubles?

Extrusion innovations from K 2025

On this episode of PMM Insight, Editor Ron Shinn and Managing Editor Lynne Sherwin discuss new extrusion machinery introduced at the K Show. * Labor shortage solutions take center stage: New extrusion systems focus on automation, guided workflows and smarter controls to support less-experienced operators. * Reifenhäuser Everex flat film line: Automated PAM (Precise, Autonomous Mechatronic) die and adapter adjustment for time savings, improved safety and reduced operator intervention * KraussMaffei Pioneer ProcessControl (ppC): Dashboard- and widget-based data visualization; role-based interfaces for all skill levels; smart guided workflows to simplify complex production steps * Milacron MosaicX control system: Faster processing and expanded data reporting; controls multiple extruders and auxiliary systems; enhanced self-diagnostics and fault detection * Coperion Lifecycle Manager (C-Beyond platform): Predictive maintenance based on real operating hours; automated service notifications; improved OEE through bundled, scheduled maintenance * Breakthrough degassing technology from Battenfeld-Cincinnati: The BC-120-40 DVT, the first single-screw extruder with dual, independent degassing zones for Superior moisture and volatile removal, minimized bubble formation, reduced pre-drying * Recycling-ready extrusion: Coperion STS 35 Mc 11 optimized for recycled resin, with nitride-hardened steel process section, brass heater shells with water flash cooling * Industrial AI enters extrusion operations: Reifenhäuser NEXT system includes AI chatbot for real-time troubleshooting (NEXT.AI), digital and on-site training platform (NEXT.Learning), production dashboards and data aggregation (NEXT.Data) Listen now to hear PMM’s Ron Shinn break down the most impactful extrusion innovations from K 2025 — and what they mean for your plant floor.

Changes at Husky, glass fiber dosing, rocking out with Glenn Frohring: Machinery Minutes

On this episode of Machinery Minutes, our weekly roundup of news and features with PMM Editor Ron Shinn: * Three top executives are departing Husky Technologies [https://plasticsmachinerymanufacturing.com/55358624] in the wake of its acquisition.  * KraussMaffei has developed a process [https://plasticsmachinerymanufacturing.com/55352448] to dose glass fibers directly into a molding machine.  * Absolute Haitian co-owner Glenn Frohring [https://plasticsmachinerymanufacturing.com/55352793] talks about his love for rock ‘n’ roll, birds, his career and what comes next.

Wilmington Machinery expanding, robot orders for plastics lag: Machinery Minutes

On this episode of Machinery Minutes, our weekly roundup of news and features with PMM Editor Ron Shinn:  * Linda and Yousry Sayed, new owners of Wilmington Machinery, are planning to expand [https://plasticsmachinerymanufacturing.com/55356561] the business.  * North American robot orders increased [https://plasticsmachinerymanufacturing.com/55356963] in 2025, but orders in the plastics and rubber sector declined.  * German Machinery manufacturer Reifenhäuser rolled out new lines [https://plasticsmachinerymanufacturing.com/55352722] for flat film and blown film at K 2025, as well as an upgraded automation system and AI-powered chatbot.

Why should plastics processors and equipment makers care about recyclers' troubles?

On this episode of PMM Insight, a commentary with Editor Ron Shinn: Business seems to be in a downward spiral for plastics recyclers. There is no national support or incentives for collection or recycling infrastructure, and state-of-the-art plants are closing. Why should processors and machinery manufacturers care? Because recyclers are a foundational building block for plastics circularity, which is essential for the industry's future.

Wages and benefits on the rise; new thermoformers from WM and Gabler: Machinery Minutes

On this episode of PMM’s Machinery Minutes, our weekly look at significant stories from the past week, with Editor Ron Shinn:  * Total cost of wages and benefits are likely to go up this year for plastics processors, according to a report [https://plasticsmachinerymanufacturing.com/55355121] from The Plastics Industry Association.  * WM Thermoforming unveiled two new machines [https://plasticsmachinerymanufacturing.com/55341567] designed for energy efficiency, quick set-up and easy maintenance, at the recent K Show.  * Gabler Thermoform demonstrated the M100 Evo [https://plasticsmachinerymanufacturing.com/55341548], capable of up to 43 cycles per minute and production of 250,000 items per hour.