Aplix and Nypro are allies for molded-in hook fasteners

Nypro Inc., the global contract plastics manufacturer based in Clinton, MA, and Aplix Inc. (Charlotte, NC) have joined in an extended global alliance that allows Nypro to offer hook fasteners as an integral feature of molded plastic parts by using the patented Aplix inter-mold technology.

“The inter-mold process allows our designers to create new fastening solutions for applications,” says Greg Adams, corporate VP of engineering and technology at Nypro. “Innovation is paramount to our company and this process reinforces our commitment to provide manufacturing solutions that create value.”

Aplix inter-mold technology, formerly named IMH, is a proven reality, with millions of parts molded for fastening applications from automotive interior panels to cleaning devices and cervical collars. Key advantages of inter-mold over tape-based hook-and-loop fastening result directly from its being a molded-in feature of the part.

Material and labor costs associated with tape and its application are eliminated. Aesthetics are improved since the hook surface is the same material as the part, and performance properties are the same for the hooks as for the rest of the part. Water and chemical resistance are not factors when the hooks are molded in, nor is there any adhesive to deal with.

The inter-mold system consists of mold inserts that conform to the design and surface of the molded part to create one or more areas of hook fasteners on the part’s surface. Anything, for example a panel or décor surface, with corresponding loops can then be attached to the molded part. Applications needing easy assembly are obvious targets.

The inter-mold process is compatible with a wide range of moldable thermoplastics, says Aplix, including PA6, PA6.6, HDPE, LDPE, PP, POM, and TPEs. Aplix has been a hook and loop fastening specialist since its founding in 1958 and is active in Europe and Asia, in addition to its U.S. base. Nypro now has 50 manufacturing and sales offices in 16 countries and over $1.1 billion in annual sales.

Aplix will be exhibiting at NPE2009 in Chicago from June 22-26, at Booth 94043 in the West Hall of McCormick Place Exhibition Center. —[email protected]