Services and consulting on plastics
:format(avif))
:format(avif))
We support you in developing closed-loop material cycles, as well as in take-back, sorting and recycling processes for plastics.
Creating closed material loops
There is an increasing trend towards taking back plastic products at the end of their life cycle. If material cycles are closed and plastics are recycled, the demand for new materials can be reduced.
Together with you, we develop processes for collecting, sorting and processing the returned materials according to their end-of-life, so that cycles can be closed and you can reuse your recycled plastics.
Consulting on plastic selection
There are a wide variety of ways to design components with a focus on their application and the material cycle. In some applications, biodegradation may be a suitable option at the end of the life cycle, whilst in others, recycled materials may be a suitable choice. Biobased materials can also offer an alternative to naphtha-based plastics when specific requirements are met.
We help you to develop a structured requirements profile for the respective application and to select the right material. Our research and development department with its own in-house laboratory enables us to develop and test materials specifically for your requirements.
:format(avif))
We are happy to support you with component design, simulations and the optimisation of process parameters.
Consultation on component design and mould design
Due to a changed material profile and broader specifications when using recyclates, the design of assemblies, components and moulds often needs to be adapted. Topics such as 'Design for Repairability' and 'Design for Recycling' are also becoming increasingly important due to changing regulations. On request, we can support or take over the entire design process for you – from concept development to the simulatively validated design of the component and mould through to the start of production.
Optimising process engineering for bioplastics or recyclates
Even if processing on conventional machines is possible without any problems, the processing of bioplastics and recyclates sometimes differs and recyclates differs from the processing of conventional plastics. Narrower processing windows, wider fluctuations in flow behaviour or different crystallisation behaviour require processing parameters to be adjusted, potentially even at regular intervals. Our specialists optimise our customers' process technology and adapt the processing parameters to the use of new materials.
:format(avif))
Filling simulations offer precise predictions of the shrinkage and warping behaviour of plastic components. They are indispensable for reliable tool and process design when using sustainable plastics (image: filling behaviour of a lamp base).
Simulations for the processing of bioplastics or recyclates
Our engineering department has been carrying out simulations for a large number of well-known international companies from various industries for over 30 years. Our spectrum ranges from functional and load simulations to process simulations (e.g. mould flow analyses and mould temperature control) and state-of-the-art, AI-supported component and process optimisations. Switching to recycled materials often involves particular complexities, such as more fluctuating material properties. Our simulation expertise identifies potential risks, e.g. with regard to the functional fulfilment of the component or manufacturability, at an early stage. In this way, we support you in avoiding often costly errors.
We would be happy to advise you on all aspects of process engineering!
:format(avif))
There are many complex requirements and guidelines that must be adhered to during the production of plastic components.
Regulatory requirements for plastics
We find ourselves in times of changing regulation in the area of sustainability and circularity of materials and applications. Just two examples of many are the PPWR (Plastic and Plastic Waste Regulation) or the ELV (End-of-life vehicles Regulation), which are likely to lead to major changes in the plastics industry. New requirements include quotas for the use of recycled materials and bioplastics as well as for the recycling of products at the end of their life cycle. We can help you to future-proof your products and comply with regulatory requirements.
Prohibited ingredients in plastics
Other constantly changing regulations concern banned substances (e.g. PFAS, halogens, bisphenol A and similar), compliance with which must also be ensured when using recycled materials. We define material flows and analyse materials to help you manage risks associated with banned ingredients.
:format(avif))
Life cycle assessment (LCA) analyses the various stages of a product’s life cycle and provides a data basis for assessing environmental impacts.
Optimising product carbon footprint and life cycle assessment
The calculation of the carbon footprint (CO2-Footprint) and the life cycle assessment analysis (LCA) of products help companies to identify and evaluate the environmental impacts of their products throughout their life cycle. We analyse all relevant phases of the product life cycle – from raw material extraction to production, transport, disposal and recycling.
With our support, you can also calculate the carbon footprint of your products. On request, we can document the analysis for you. Working alongside you, we develop data-driven approaches for assessing and prioritising measures. In doing so, we show you which material-, process- and transport-related factors are included in the analysis and which potential measures can be derived from them. Our experts will support you not only with the analysis, but also with the technical assessment, implementation and documentation of measures.
Questions about our services?
We look forward to receiving your enquiry about our services relating to plastics and their processing.
:format(avif))