Smart Molding International 3-2022

37 molding technologies www.smart-molding.com microcellular material structure gained through physical foaming with Trexel’s MuCell process has the potential for larger density reductions by utilizing more uniform cell morphology with reduced cell size. The nature of these improvements enhances mechanical properties. This allows larger bottles withmore complex shapes to bemade. Trexel’s MuCell foamed parts can also be recycled and incorporated with ease back into the regular polymer stream. Parts made with the MuCell process are not hindered by waxes and stearates that often cause mold build-up and other problems. How the system works: The Trexel MuCell B-Series SCF (Supercritical fluid) deliv- ery system is a state-of-the-art CE marked dosing unit designed specifically for blow molding ap- plications. A self-adjusting fea- ture of the SCF system assures consistency and precise dosing shot to shot. It is designed to convert indus- trial grade nitrogen into supercriti- cal fluid. The supercritical fluid (N 2 ) ensures that there is the solubility of a liquid and diffusivity of a gas. This maximizes the efficiency and promotes the low amounts of N 2 in the parison which allow for the largest processing window and best efficiency. The SCF system precisely meters the supercritical fluid using Trexel’s proprietary protocols. It takes some basic outputs from the blow mold- ing machine and provides a metered dose each shot thus to keep the ex- pansion rate accurate shot to shot. The system will learn the behavior of the blow molding machine and make required corrections in a matter of shots. There is an onboard statistical process control and monitoring sys- tem which reports back the results of the learning sequence as the shots are performed. The B-Series SCF delivery system is available in two different configura- tions and two sizes depending on the size of the parison and the accumula- tor head. • B-120 or B-320- For continuous screw rotation, Accumulator head and extrusion blow-molding. • B-100 or B-300- For intermittent screw rotation, Accumulator head blow molding. “We are excited about the interest we have received so far. Trexel’s know- how, our specialized gas delivery sys- tem, and our proprietary process package combine to deliver results which were not previously attainable to these markets,” said David Bern- stein, Interim CEO of Trexel, Inc. “We are bringing an efficient sustainability solution to markets that are eagerly searching for ways to reduce their en- vironmental impact.” About Trexel, Inc. Trexel, Inc., headquartered in Wilmington, MA, has led the devel- opment of the MuCell® microcel- lular foaming injection molding technology and has pioneered many pl asti c processi ng solutions. The MuCell® technology provides unique design flexibility and cost savings opportunities by al- lowing plastic part design with material wall thickness optimized for functional- ity and not for the injection molding process. The combi- nation of density reduction and design for functionality often results in material and weight savings of more than 20%. The numerous cost and processing advantages have led to rapid global deployment of the MuCell® process in automo- tive, consumer electronics, medi- cal, packaging and consumer goods applications. Process deployment as well as equipment is supported by teams of highly qualified engineers through Trexel subsidiaries in North America, Europe, and Asia. Trexel extended its product offering with the TecoCell® system. TecoCell is a unique chemical foaming and nucleat- ing agent technology that provides uni- formmicrocellular structure to molded parts. ® MuCell is a registered trademark of Trexel, Inc ® TecoCell is a registered trademark of Trexel, Inc. Trexel www.trexel.com Example bottle with 50% PCR in the core layer made with the MuCell process. The bottle has significant light-weighting of the package while meeting impact strength and topload requirements