Semifinished goods: composite sheet offers pultrusion alternative

A proprietary, oversized FRP (fiberglass-reinforced plastic) composite sheet measures 1.5 inches larger than the industry standard of 48 by 96 inches, with the larger size allowing for a more secure CNC machining. The sheet was the result of a customer request and resulted in a larger tool as well as lower glass loading in the polyester resin, which makes it easier to fabricate compared to pultruded composite panels. Intended for hoods, the panels are chemical, fume, and smoke resistant, meeting or exceeding industry standards such as SEFA (Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association) for chemical spills as well as UL for Flame Spread Rating (20) and Smoke Index (250). MFG Composite Systems Co., Ashtabula, OH, U.S.A.; +1-440-997-5851; www.moldedfiberglass.com.

Thermoforming: Plug materials developed for pharma applications

In cooperation with Montesino Associates LLC, a pharmaceutical packaging consulting firm, CMT Materials Inc. has developed HYTAC-Rx, a syntactic plug-assist material developed solely for pharmaceutical blister packaging. HYTAC-Rx syntactic materials are food contact grade and listed in CMT Materials’ Drug Master File (DMF) as number 21370. Plug-assist tooling results in more uniform material distribution and improved barrier performance.

The new plug material is available in both a high-slip and a high-stick formulation. These material options provide the manufacturer with greater control over the thermoforming process, and the ability to optimize plug-assist tooling for better material distribution and performance. This improvement may result in the ability to down-gage film thickness, providing substantial cost savings, especially with some of the new, higher-priced multilayer films. CMT previewed the HYTAC-Rx product line at the Interpack trade show in Düsseldorf, Germany in late April. CMT Materials Inc., Attleboro, MA, U.S.A.; +1-508-226-3901; [email protected]; www.cmtmaterials.com.