Two new polyethylene (PE) resins from Nova Chemicals Corp. for rotational molding are designed to accelerate production, lower cost, and improve flexibility. The Novapol TRx0338-U and TRx0535-U hexene co-monomer resins reportedly can reduce cycle times by up to 30% and provide a processing window at least 15% broader than traditional hexene roto-molding resins, said Nova Chemicals. The findings are based on extensive internal and customer testing, said the company.

A reduction in cycle time enables manufacturers to produce more parts in less time at lower oven temperatures, noted Nova Chemicals, while a broader processing window allows them to run different part sizes and thicknesses on the same arm under identical conditions without sacrificing part quality. Processability characteristics support consolidation of traditional 3.5 and 5.0 melt index or 5.0 and 7.0 melt index grades to a single resin, added the Calgary-based chemicals company.

“Converters are always looking to enhance their efficiency,” said Eugene Tabone, Rotational Molding Market Manager. “Our new Novapol TRx0338 and TRx0535 grades will help roto-molders leverage the fast sintering properties of these new resins to improve their molding operations.”

With a melt index of 3.5 and a density of 0.938, Novapol TRx0338 resin is suited for molding small tanks, intermediate bulk containers, roll-out waste carts, and material-handling containers for laundry and dry bulk goods. The 5.0 melt index, 0.935 density Novapol TRx 0535 resin is suited for manufacturing toys, recreational vehicle components, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and custom parts.