This handbook provides a framework for understanding how to characterize plastic manufacturing processes for use in troubleshooting problems. The 21 chapters are authored by well-known and experienced engineers who have specialized knowledge about the processes covered in this practical guide.
From the Preface:
"In every chapter, the process is described and the most common problems are discussed along with the root causes and potential technical solutions. Numerous case studies are provided that illustrate the troubleshooting process. Mark A. Spalding, The Dow Chemical Company

Preface xvii

1. The Economics of Troubleshooting Polymer Processing Systems 1

2. Troubleshooting Philosophy 19

3. Statistical Tools for Trouble Shooting a Process 25

4. Single Screw Extrusion 45

5. Troubleshooting the Co-rotating Fully Intermeshing Twin-screw Compounding System 53

6. Troubleshooting for Injection Molding 65

7. Blown Film 85

8. Cast Film Troubleshooting 109

9. Oriented Films - Trouble Shooting and Characterization 129

10. Troubleshooting the Thermoforming Process 163

11. Proper Equipment Processing for Industrial/Technical Blow Molding 213

12. PET Stretch Blow Molding

13. Blow Molding - Problems and Solutions 275

14. Extrusion Coating Troubleshooting 293

15. Adhesive and Thermal Lamination 309

16. Troubleshooting for Retomolding 323

17. Plastics Calendering 355

18. Compression Molding 375

19. Transfer molding 389

20. Pultrusion Process Troubleshooting 399

21. Troubleshooting Static Problems in Plastics Processes 433

References 470

Recommended reading for further study 471

Index 473

About the Editor:

After gaining his MS in chemical engineering from the University of Notre Dame in 1964, John Wagner worked in the Films Division at Mobile Chemical Company for thirty years. He is now a consultant in plastics products and processes. He has twenty-three patents to his name and is the editor of Journal of Plastic Film and Sheeting and editor or co-editor of four books on extrusion and packaging. John is a Fellow of the Society of Plastics Engineers and serves on the Extrusion Division and Flexible Plastics Packaging Division boards.