Chem-Trend, a global producer of purging compounds, mold maintenance products, and other process chemicals, has introduced the Ultra Purge 100X series. The product is touted as highly efficient for purging thin-wall-packaging single-face and stack tools.

Demand for thin-wall packaging continues to increase, as manufacturers strive to use fewer materials and create less waste, but it comes with challenges. Conventional purging of tools and molds typically is inefficient at removing residue and color from the hot runners. To remedy this, Chem-Trend designed Ultra Purge 100X for on-the-fly machine purging — machine settings do not need to be changed and no soak time is required during the purging process. As a result, Ultra Purge 100X reduces machine downtime when performing dark to light color changes for all polyolefin resins. Customers typically see a 50 to 75% reduction in downtime and associated scrap compared to purging machines with virgin resin or regrind, according to the company. Ultra Purge 100X also removes carbon buildup from hot runners and screws and barrels.

“Ultra Purge is a perfect representation of how Chem-Trend helps its customers,” said Andrew Reeder, Field Sales Manager – Thermoplastics, Chem-Trend North America. “It not only solves a frustrating, long-time challenge, it also creates more efficiency, more productivity, and a more consistent end product, all while reducing waste. It can fundamentally change a manufacturers’ capabilities without any additional capital expense.

“As an example, we helped a thin-wall-packaging injection molder quickly and efficiently change colors from blue to white on their line,” added Reeder. “Prior to making the switch, residual blue was creating downtime, delay, and waste. Ultra Purge 100X helped unleash their productivity.”

The manufacturer’s previous purging method resulted in unnecessary waste, as parts were molded in virgin resin until the blue color completely disappeared. This typically required four full hours using commercial purge compounds. In a trial using Ultra Purge 100X, the manufacturer was able to reduce downtime from four hours to one hour and 30 minutes, resulting in a 63% reduction. The customer was also able to reduce scrap by 68% as a result of the more efficient and complete cleanings.

Free samples of the purging compound are available on request.