7 - ARMO

global rotomoulding community newsletter • www.armo-global.org
7
2010.10
en
Deifel Dei®Base Masterbatch samples
Photo: Anna Walorek-Iwanowska
Over the past 8 months, I’ve
had the pleasure of meeting
many molders at numerous
global conferences. I have been impressed with the new
spirit of cooperation I see among our respective global
associations. The most recent achievement is the adoption
of a global standard for determining powder flow using
the ARMO Funnel. An impressive achievement to be sure,
and only a glimpse of what we can achieve by working
together. Numerous initiatives are in development and
I look forward to sharing some
of the results when they
are completed.
The issue
is sponsored by
It’s also encouraging to see positive signs in world economies
with indications of a rebound in many sectors. We know that
business cycles are a fact of life. This most recent recession has
been persistent and challenging, but it is worth remembering
the positive elements of a depressed economy. In these
times, we are forced to look at our operations from a different
perspective, with a renewed focus on waste reduction and
production efficiency. A downturn is also a time re-evaluate
or retrain human resources, possibly acquire new capacity by
upgrading or purchasing new equipment, and stay connected
to trends and new technologies.
Many global conferences are reporting significant increases
in attendance; the ARMO Meeting this February in Goa
is just one such example as well as the most recent
conferences held by AFR, ARMSA and joint ARM-CECEE ARM. In addition, the ARM Fall meeting in Montreal
has been described as offering one of the strongest
programs in years, including presenters from many ARMO
associations and information about several leading edge
developments. The next global meeting for our industry
is Rotoplas 2011 being held in Chicago November 1-3,
2011—you will want to attend. This is the largest gathering
of industry molders and suppliers, with a large trade show
exhibition featuring equipment on display. The timing
could not be better as the industry continues to ramps up.
I am confident in the value provided by ARMO as we move
forward. I encourage you to contact the Alliance and
provide your feedback on how we can serve you better.
Sincerely,
Bill Spenceley
ARMO Chair
www.sat-thermique.com
Newsletter published by:
7
Photo:
Anna Walorek-Iwanowska
The Affiliation of Rotational Moulding
Organisations (ARMO)
PL 61-851 Poznań, ul. Zielona 8, Poland
tel. + 48-607-126-004, fax +48-61-858-8611
email: info@armo-global.org
www.armo-global.org
Content and design of this newsletter: © ARMO 2010. All rights reserved. All other logos and trademarks belong to their respective owners.
As the incoming Chair of ARMO,
I welcome you to the 5th 2010
Issue of the ARMO Newsletter.
I also want to personally thank
our newsletter sponsor, Walter
Jaconelli from SAT THERMIQUE
for the kind support especially
so soon after participating in
the K‑Show in Düsseldorf.
ARMO calendar - upcoming events
NAME
DATE
(dd.mm.yyyy)
PLACE
(city, country, details)
CONTACT
“Rotomoulding – A World of
Possibilities Possibilities”
AISR Seminar, Paul Nugent 19.11.2010
Rivalta Scrivia
(Alessandria), Italy
Matteo Martinenghi
info@aisr.it
StAR Half Day Roto Profits
Seminar & Chennai Regional Meet
19.11.2010
The Residency Towers,
Chennai, India
S.B. Zaman
arnacz@sify.com
VIIIth StAR Annual International
Rotomoulding Conference
23-25.01.2011
The Leela Kempenski, S.B. Zaman
Mumbai, India
arnacz@sify.com
4th Nordic ARM Conference
07-08.02.2010
Horsens, Denmark
Ronny Ervik
ronny@opd.no
ARM Spring Executive Forum
20-22.03.2011
Orlando, FL, USA
www.armmeetings.org
CEE ARM Technical Seminar
2nd quarter of 2011
Poznań, Poland
www.ceerotomoulding.org
Rotomould 2011
14-17.05.2011
Penang, Malaysia
www.rotationalmoulding.com
Rotoplas 2011
1-3.11.2011
Chicago, IL, USA
www.armmeetings.org
Association of Rotational Moulders Australasia
(ARMA)
ARMA announces Rotomould 2011 Penang
Set aside 14-17 May, 2011 and plan to visit Penang,
Malaysia for Rotomould 2011. Penang's history has
taken a beautiful tropical island through a long period
of British colonial rule combined with successive periods
of immigration from different parts of the world. The
end result is the amazing combination of cultures, a rich
heritage, and a fascinating location for a holiday. ARMA will
be offering a strong technical program and social events
open to the global industry (conditions may apply). Get
ready to learn, network and enjoy the sun with ARMA at
Rotomould 2011.
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
Association of Rotational Moulders Australasia (ARMA)
We have been working on several projects for our members
recently and some of that information is included below.
Finding the right engineer for your finite
element analysis
So you’ve made the decision to create a new design for a
rotationally moulded product. You have established the
shape of the product using an industrial designer and now
you must consider the engineering aspects of the design so
that ultimately the product will perform in an appropriate
way under associated applied loads.
At this stage one needs to consider using the services
of an engineer. Given the inherent complex shapes that
usually accompany rotationally moulded products, it is very
difficult for any engineer to calculate by traditional “hand
calculation” methods the performance of such a product.
Accordingly more sophisticated methods are employed usually those associated with Finite Element Analysis (FEA).
Getting the structural design of a rotationally moulded
product right is dependent on the skill and experience of
the engineer in the area of FEA. When considering using an
engineer for this purpose, we recommend that you ensure
that the engineer in question has the following attributes:
 A bachelor degree qualification in engineering from
a University, Institute of Technology or Polytechnic.
The qualification should ideally be in structural or
mechanical engineering. Qualifications in areas such
as chemical, electrical or process engineering would
not be considered appropriate. In addition, degree
qualifications in industrial design are not considered
appropriate either.
 Membership to the Institution of Engineers Australia,
Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand or
similar other affiliated overseas organisations. This is
important because professional bodies require their
members to constantly retrain and remain up to date
in their specific areas of expertise.
 Current Professional Indemnity Insurance.
 Minimum 5 years’ experience as an engineer since
graduation.
 Ensure that they have had some previous experience
in FEA work and in particular that related to rotationally moulded products.
 Ensure that the engineer will be supplying a structural
design certificate as a part of their service.
7
If possible, request the type of information that they will
provide in their report. The information which is considered
a minimum would generally be as follows:
1. A description of the FEA model as well as overall
dimensions of the product being examined.
2. The loading and boundary conditions adopted in the
FEA model.
3. The mechanical properties of the materials adopted
and identification of the laboratory testing reports from
which these properties were sourced.
4. The temperature rating of the tank. This identifies the
maximum average temperature to which the tank can
be exposed to during its design life.
5. The FEA software package used.
6. Minimum material thickness requirements.
7. Any limitations on the analysis and/or design.
It cannot be impressed upon manufacturers the
importance of obtaining appropriate engineering advice
during product development. Information provided by FEA
should be used as a guide for your application and is not
to be taken as a guarantee of ultimate field performance.
Every FEA analysis should be supported by verification,
prototyping and testing of the product. Hopefully the
information above will assist in helping you find the right
engineer to assist in the structural design of rotationally
moulded product. (Authored by David Beneke, DB
Consulting Pty Ltd on behalf of Association of Rotational
Moulders Australasia)
Open flame machiner y &
tank moulds
& 1,000
s & 5,000 litre, 3,000 litre
2 rotomoulding machine
Victoria,
ex
,
old
rs
yea
o
tw
n
less tha
litre moulds (rounds) all
5672
613
on + 64 433 474 878 or +
Australia. Contact Greta
om
arehouse@bigpond.c
4400 or email thetankw
Esky moulds wanted
nufacture
used esky moulds to ma
Member is looking for un
sale or
for
uld
mo
a
e
If you hav
as a promotional product.
n.
sa Donla
lease, please contact Lei
Association of Rotational Moulders Australasia (ARMA)
ARMA is helping you mind your own business
In any area of the world, there are people in the industry
with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Many of these
people are reaching semi or full retirement. For those business
owners that remain it can be difficult to enjoy any of the fruits
of their labours through either a break from the business or
vacation because their absence from the business can create
problems that even some senior staff cannot solve. ARM
Australasia is putting together a stable of highly experienced
and knowledgeable experts who have no current interest in
the rotational moulding industry but who are prepared to
assist the industry by offering their services and expertise as
business minders during times when the owners or senior
managers have to be absent. There is already a strong group
of professional people on board, who are willing to travel
anywhere in the world and work on either short or long term
basis. If you are interested in either joining our list of available
business minders, or you have been thinking about taking a
break and would like to access a list of experts to choose from
to mind your own business while you are away from it, please
contact Leisa Donlan on ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com
ARMA calls for nominations to the Water Tank
Committee
an application in the January round where it will once again
be subject to the specifications of the selection process
within Standards. If you are interested in the road barrier
industry and would like to discuss the latest news, please
contact Leisa Donlan.
Rotomarket
ARMA is often asked for information on equipment for sale
or wanted. If you are interested in any of the equipment
below, please contact the companies direct:
A second hand refurbished Open flame Rocker with a
24000 litre tank mould available
1,770 kgs of LLPDE Flame Red Rotothene in stock that we
do not have a use for. The product is in 25kg bags. Will sell
it for $2/kg.
Please contact mlorenzo@rotationalmoulding.com for
further information
Box & boat trailer moulds & machine for sale ex
Australia
Following recent changes in the industry, ARMA’s water
tank committee is looking for new volunteers to help
advise the important programs in the industry. Service
includes one teleconference per month and perhaps a
couple of hours to complete some project work or attend a
meeting with Government on behalf of the industry. If you
would like to be involved please contact Leisa Donlan.
7 x 4, 8 x 4 box trailer and boat trailers in 2 different sizes.
The boat trailers have a patent attached to them which has
just been renewed. Included with the trailer moulds are
the mudguards, skids and slides moulds. Also available a
rock n roll oven with internal dimensions of 6metres long
and 2.6metres wide. The trailers can be viewed on the
following web sites www.wftrailers.com.au and www.
gsfabrications.com.au. Contact: Don Moody PH +61(0)7
4154 3033 Or by Mobile: +61 (0)428 918 078(AH)
AS/NZS 2845 review delayed
Aluminium kayak mould for sale
Standards Australia have advised that the application to
review the standard for road barriers was not approved in
the first round of the process. The committee may resubmit
– produced by Wheeler Boyce in the USA
Water tank mo
uld
wanted
Member is look
ing for a slim lin
e 3,000 litre wat
mould to purcha
er tank
se. If you have
something, plea
Michelle Lorenz
se contact
o.
Wanted
1m – 2m machi
ne with oven w
anted in New Ze
have something
aland. If you
you are interest
ed in selling pl
ldonlan@rota
ease contact
tionalmouldin
g.com
UK patent for sa
le
Tumbler/Mulch
er Patent availa
ble for developm
UK Gardening
ent in the
Market. This pr
oduct is alread
in Australia. Co
y established
ntact Nelson H
addock, Haddo
Pty Ltd Ph: +61
ck Holdings
(0)3 9589 5386
or Fax +61 (0)3
9589 5400.
Mould specifications: produces a sit-on top touring kayak
with the following specs:
Based on the traditional Swede-form, it lends itself to speed
and directional stability, but it also incorporates a number
of features below the waterline, which enhance the slick
performance. The pronounced keel line, with an integrated
tracking skeg aft, gives the plastic hull strength and keeps
the craft on the desired track. The deep ‘V’ of the bow
becomes less acute as it approaches the cockpit, where
the underwater profile resembles a shallow ‘U’, and this,
coupled with her understated sponsons (boat-like chines)
is the very reason for the suburb stability. The lightly
pronounced rocker built into the hull, delivers good turning
ability and keeps the bow and stern slightly raised. The craft
is also low in volume which keeps it low in the water to
minimize the effects of wind.
Length: 495 cm Width: 57cm Weight: 25kg’s
Mould status: It has moulded about 500 boats to date.
Reason for selling: We outsource our manufacture of the
kayaks and have been unable to compete with other
manufacturers on price and availability.
Price: R200 000 ex Cape Town
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
Association Francophone du Rotomoulage
(AFR)
Make more and better using less!
On 6-7 October 2010, fifty
rotomoulders met in Lyon at the
Plastic Ecodesign Center (eco-concept
resource centre located in the same
building as the seat of AFR) at the
traditional Technology Days.
The theme of this edition perfectly
suited the chosen location, as it revolved
around the question of how to “Make
more and better using less”.
Comparison in order to expand into new markets
The theme was supplemented at the end of Day 2 with
a comparative study between rotomoulding and blow
moulding technologies. The purpose of the comparison
was to arm rotomoulders with the most convincing
arguments helping them enter new markets where they
had not been present to date.
Topics discussed on 6 & 7 October
Introduction to the eco-concept
The eco-concept appears in many statements the
sources and quality of which are often contradictory. Its
representatives are faced with an issue which is hard to pin
down and, consequently, apply in industry. The task was to
decipher the goals of the eco-concept policy in a pragmatic
manner, illustrated with specific examples from the plastics
processing sector.
Biomaterials vs. rotational moulding: what are we
talking about?
The basic processes using “biomaterials” at present are
extrusion, thermoforming, expansion extrusion, extrusion
blow moulding and injection blow moulding. Rotational
moulding processes currently do not use biomaterials. This
“lack of position” may be explained by a number of factors.
That is why the AFR implemented a study over a year ago
aimed at identifying the biomaterials which could be used
in rotational moulding, the necessary conditions and the
potential applications. The findings of the study were
presented.
>>>
7
Association Francophone du Rotomoulage (AFR)
PLA (biodegradable plant-based plastic / polylactide)
The basic parameters of the material were presented,
its recycling options, as well as those for using PLA in
“permanent” applications.
Thickness optimisation
How to use less material and obtain an equally satisfactory
result: it is optimisation through calculating the structure.
A demonstration illustrated with specific examples.
Energy efficiency of machines
How to reduce consumption, make more elements using
less energy. Design engineers have become interested in
the optimisation of energy consumption in the equipment
they design. Accomplishments in this field were presented.
Improving productivity by reducing apparatus
replacement time
Closing forms by permanent electromagnetic modules.
A solution that helps:
 Improve machine productivity
 Reduce cost of labour
 Increase the operator’s safety
Rotomoulding
Materiautech
exhibition held at
the Plastic Ecodesign
Center in Lyon
Technological and economic benchmarking between
rotational and injection moulding
Which parameters tip the scales in favour of one technique
over the other?
The presentation discussed the following questions:
 Materials used in respective techniques
 Design differences in respective techniques: shape/
size/design, as well as technologies (scrap, welds, etc.)
 Productivity
 Costs
 Investment.
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
Association of Rotational Moulding Central
Europe (ARM-CE)
Central & Eastern European Association
of Rotational Moulders (CEE ARM)
The Annual ARM-CE & CEE ARM Meeting
14-15.10.2010
For the first time in ARMO history, the association Annual
Meeting was prepared jointly by the sister and the adjacent
regional ARM-CE and CEE ARM. The meeting took place
on 14. and 15.10.2010, in Slubice and Frankfurt Oder in
the establishment of the International University Viadrina
and other facilities on both sides of the Oder River in
Poland and Germany. The meeting was attended by 107
participants representing 62 companies and institutions
related to the rotomoulding industry, associated in 7
organizations ARMO (ARM-CE, CEE ARM, AFR, AISR, BPF,
ARM, ARMA), from 15 countries (Poland, Germany, United
Kingdom, Italy, France, Netherlands, Austria, Belgium,
Switzerland, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus and also
Thailand and New Zealand) and dominated by German
members of ARM-CE. The proportions were as follows; 49
people represented delivery companies, 52 moulders and
the other participants represented the press, academic
institutions and associations.
Event sponsors:
7
The theme of the meeting was a very timely area - „Energy
Efficiency in rotomoulding.” The idea behind the conference
was to provide a comprehensive series of lectures
presented by international experts in rotational molding.
Presentations delivered by practitioners and specialists
were practical in nature and therefore suitable for all
people in the rotational molding industry.
List of presenters:
1. ARMO Presentation by Austin Campbell (CEE ARM) and
Oliver Wandres (ARM-CE)
2. “Dry-flow funnel system” by John Steele/ICO Polymers,
UK
3. “Situation on the rotomoulding market in Central and
Eastern Europe” by Dr Marek Szostak/Poznań Technical
University, PL
4. “Rotomoulding markets and global trends” by John
Steele/ ICO Polymers Europe, UK
5. “Saving Costs in Rotomoulding” by Dr. Nick Henwood
and Dr. Gareth McDowell/493 K, UK
6. “Energy Efficient Rotational Moulds” by Oliver Wandres/
Maus GmbH, DE
7. “What Proper Venting Can Do for You” by Rory Jones/ La
Plastecnica Ltd, NZ
Association of Rotational Moulding Central Europe (ARM-CE)
Central & Eastern European Association of Rotational Moulders (CEE ARM)
8. “How reduce costs without compromising
quality” by Aldo Quaratino/Matrix Polymers
9. “Complemental savings on flexibility &
logistics” by Peter Bekusch/ ACMOS CHEMIE
KG, DE
10.“Economical and Ecological Success with
Pulverizing” by Heike Schmidt/Pallmann, DE
11.“System RO-MO Control” by Jürgen Renner/
Institut für Polymertechnologien, DE
12.“Energy Savings through Advanced Moulding
Technologies” by Gaetano Donizetti/Persico,
IT
The presentations were translated into
three languages: English, Polish and
German. The conference program was more
interesting thanks to a panel discussion of
machine suppliers, where, for the first time
representatives of 5 competitors met on the
podium to answer the questions from active
listeners:
 Derek Cornils / Polivinil Rotomachinery SPA
 Walter Jaconelli / Sat Thermique,
 Gaetano Donizetti / Persico Spa,
 Dario Soncin / Rotoplastic International
 Eugen Reinhardt / Ernst Reinhardt
Machines.
The heated panel discussion was led by Mr. Michael Trebing
of ACO Passavant GmbH (Board member of ARM-CE)
together with Austin Campbell (President of the CEE ARM).
Another highlight of the conference was an accompanying
“TABLE TOP” exhibition, which was attended by 15
companies:
 Caccia Engineering Srl
 Basell Deutschland GmbH / UltraPolymers
 Persico Spa
 Deifel GmbH & Co. KG
 Matrix Polymers
 Modelmakerij Hengelo bv
 MAUS GmbH
 DRAM srl
 SCG Performance Chemicals Co. Ltd.
 Pallmann Maschinenfabrik GmbH CoKG
 Orbi-Tech GmbH
 ICO Polymers
 Rigerplast Polimeri S.r.l. (Gerbaldo Polimeri SRL)
 Polivinil Rotomachinery Spa
 SAT Thermique
A contest for the Innovation Leader in Energy Efficiency
added spice to the conference and was settled in three
categories:
1. among the conference presenters,
2. among the exhibitors TABLE TOP,
3. among the representatives of supplier companies,
engineering panel discussion.
Energy Efficiency
statuette won
by MAUS (DE).
Congratulations!
Three-person committee consisting of the organizers of the
event (Oliver Wandres, Austin Campbell and Anna WalorekIwanowska) took into account the opinions expressed by
the participants in the polls but additional points were
granted for the activity as well as participation in the
unofficial parts, i.e. presence at 2 dinners organized in the
restaurant Oderspeicher and Garbicz Palace. And so the
best – because indeed active – conference presenter was
Rory Jones of La Plastecnica Ltd, New Zealand, with the
presentation “What Proper Venting Can Do for You”, who
perhaps enchanted the international audience by greeting
them in the Mauri language. Other high notes were
obtained by Nick Henwood from 493 K, John Steele/ICO
Polymers and Oliver Wandres/Maus.
Statuette of Energy Efficiency Leader went to MAUS
GmbH, and was received by Mathias Maus. However, to
avoid further controversy and defuse tensions between
rival machinery suppliers, the prize for participation in the
panel discussion does not go into any of the companies’
representatives but.. the moderator of the panel – Mr.
Michael Trebing from ACO Passavant GmbH (Board
member of ARM-CE).
The organizers of the meeting gathered a lot of praise but
there were also words of criticism. Conference participants
who filled out the questionnaire awarded the most points
for the complex organization of the meeting. One criticism,
however, was about the logistics and location of the
conference in the small towns of the eastern border of
Germany and the western Poland, which was originally the
intention of the organizers, who thus wished to emphasize
its international character. At the end of the meeting, one
of the German participants dropped casually “See you at
the next conference in Krakow,” and this thought is left to
the reader until the next Annual Meeting.
>>>
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
Association of Rotational Moulding Central Europe (ARM-CE)
Central & Eastern European Association of Rotational Moulders (CEE ARM)
The Annual ARM-CE & CEE ARM Meeting
1. Welcome speech – Austin
Campbell and Oliver
Wandres
2. Dr Nick Henwood and the
audience
1
3. The ARM-CE & CEE ARM
Annual Meeting audience
and the best conference
presenter - Rory Jones
of La Plastecnica Ltd,
New Zealand, with the
presentation "What Proper
Venting Can Do for You"
4. Where is the MAUS? The
MAUS - The Innovation
Leader in Energy Efficiency
5. Hot panel machine
suppliers discussion
6. Deifel Table Top display
7. Orbi Tech Table Top display
8. Promens Międzyrzecz
team
9. Matrix Polymers Table Top
display
2
3
10
7
Association of Rotational Moulding Central Europe (ARM-CE)
Central & Eastern European Association of Rotational Moulders (CEE ARM)
4
5
6
7
8
9
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
11
Association of Rotational Moulders Southern
Africa (ARMSA)
Rotation 2010
International speakers make big contribution
at SA rotational moulding conference
Delegates got their money’s worth at Rotation 2010, thanks largely to the input of the
international specialists who have focused on developing roto technology further.
The Rotation 2010 conference and exhibition was held at the Euphoria golf estate near
Mookgophong (Naboomspruit) in Limpopo province, with over 80 delegates. Here we
see them totally intent following one of the technical presentations
ARMSA’s Rotation 2010 conference attracted a solid
attendance from the local and African markets – along with
top presentations from North American and Australian
speakers – as this highly technical sector of the industry
continued to grapple with the challenges of improving
cycle times.
As has been almost customary at Rotation conferences, a
number of new roto moulders were present at this year’s
event on 9-10 September at the Euphoria golf estate near
Mookhopong (Naboomspruit, in Limpopo province). This
suggests that rotational moulding continues to be seen as
a growth sector, and a market which is accessible for small
to medium sized as well as new businesses. However, it
also presents challenges as roto moulding – although it
may appear straightforward – is a difficult and technical
process. Yes, it is suited to the production of large plastic
items, but the real challenge is one of producing more
product in less time and with less reject.
The industry has also been particularly focused on the
water tank market, where there is obviously a vital need
with climate challenge and population pressure in the 21st
century, and the main challenge for the majority of roto
moulders today is to develop other markets.
With that in mind, most of the delegates, including the
seasoned players in the SA market, would have got their
money’s worth at Rotation 2010, thanks largely to the
input of the international speakers. Foreign speakers
outnumbered the local speakers for the first time at this
year’s event. These specialists have really focused on
developing roto technology further (it is, by the way, a
sector where opinions on what works best can differ a lot).
The international speakers at Rotation 2010 were:
 Bill Spenceley of Canada, chairman of ARMO
(Affiliation of Rotational Moulding Organisations);
12
7
 Leisa Donlan, director of the Australasian organisation
ARMA;
 Ian Hansen of Bushman Tanks of Australia (and also
current chairman of ARMA);
 Dru Laws of Rotonics of the USA, a specialist in roto
automation solutions; and
 Alongkoorn Kanokboriboon of material supplier SCG
Thailand.
And the local speakers included:
 Kees Schilperoort of XFacta, a design agency;
 Anton Hanekom of the Plastics Federation of SA; and
 Nick Aggett of Sasol Polymers.
Saving energy
Keynote speaker Bill Spenceley kicked proceedings off
topically with a presentation about ‘Energy Conservation’.
Bill’s company, Flexahopper Plastics of Alberta, Canada,
has been in operation since 1967 and has more recently
focused on reducing energy costs.
Before addressing any energy conservation
efforts, you need to know what you are
currently doing, suggested Bill, who has
developed a comprehensive energy audit for the purpose.
You need to assemble a team of employees
with a motivated leader for the process, and
step one is to compile a list of all the equipment in your plant which is using power. You will find it’s lot
longer than what you think, he added.
Besides using an energy management software programme,
he suggested it would also be useful to set a specific time
frame for the process. One area where a lot of energy is
wasted is at start-up, when the amperages are heightened,
which can be better managed. In roto plants, special attention
needs to be given to seals and areas of potential leaks.
Association of Rotational Moulders Southern Africa (ARMSA)
[ 1 ] Bill Spenceley of Flexahopper Plastics of
Canada, currently also chairman of the global
roto industry body ARMO (Association of
Rotational Moulding Organisations) was
at Rotation 2010. Here we see him with
Gary Lategan, former chairman of ARMSA
who, through his involvement with ARMO,
has managed to invite top international
roto experts to the South African
conference/exhibition over almost the
entire current decade. Besides his keynote
lecture, Spenceley also gave a number of
other presentations, notably on energy
conservation, about the experience of a
roto moulder during Canada’s staging of
the Winter Olympics earlier this year, and
about the global body ARMO (Affiliation
of Rotational Moulding Organisations),
including such relatively complex items as
golf cart components, ice boxes and park
benches.
www.armo-global.org
[ 2 ] Dru Laws of Rotonics of the USA was an
energized speaker at Rotation 2010
2
1
Surprising results were also found, one notably was an oven
which was drawing excessive current. Motors were swapped
and other tests conducted, only for an unnoticed dent in an
oven door to be detected eventually, as the culprit.
Fundamentally, the process requires a proactive attitude on
the part of a company’s management, added Bill.
www.flexahopper.com
Why a tank standard can save your business
Leisa Donlan, director of the Association of Rotational Moulders
of Australasia (ARMA), has been one of the pioneers of the tank
standards developed in Australia and New Zealand. Enormous
upheaval was generated in the tank market by extremely rapid
growth – due to a government subsidy for tanks for residential
properties (both urban and rural) – and then recently, a collapse
following the withdrawal of the subsidy. The subsidy of about
R8000 per tank was not that insignificant. Quite a number
of Australian roto businesses have since closed or exited the
market. The bulk of the original market (there are about 110
roto companies in Australia), however, survived, but Leisa
believes they did not benefit from the subsidy – the process
may in fact have negatively affected the industry.
Although the boom in the Aussie tank market may have been
short-lived, it did give impetus to the tank standards initiative,
and these standards are now firmly in place. According to Leisa,
the standards create a barrier to entry for newcomers. This is
not an understatement: the annual audit fee from ARMA costs
about AUS$4 000 and the testing equipment comes in at about
AUS$10 000 – a total cost of around R100 000.
[ 3 ] The Aussies – With similar weather
conditions, passion for sports and wide
open spaces, Australia has many similarities
to southern Africa. Australian speakers Leisa
Donlan, director of ARMA (the Australasian
association), and Ian Hansen of Bushman
Tanks (who is the current chairman of ARMA)
provided valuable input and delegates
learned much from the experience of
Australian roto manufacturers mentioned by
the speakers
3
Among the benefits of the standards are that they discourage
imports, reduce risk of consumer claims (due to possible tank
failure). ARMA, she says, has been proactive: it complained
to the government and agents about the importation of
sub-standard tanks from China, which resulted in a drop in the
number of containers entering the country.
Possibly the main benefit of the standards has been
improved liaison with the Australian government.
Our government loves industries that self police,
she added.
Importance of process control
Besides SA’s by now well-known TempLogger system from
Roto Solutions, a number of other roto process control
systems have been introduced globally over the years,
according to Dru Laws of Rotonics of the USA.
If it can’t be accurately measured, it can’t be
effectively improved, said Laws.
Although a variety of systems exist and the
process is generally understood, there appears to have
been a reluctance to implement the technology, even in
the USA. Laws finds this difficult to understand. Benefits of
competent process control systems include:
 Auto compensating cycle times;
 Cycle time optimization;
 Reduced scrap;
 Improved foaming; and
 Improved machine-to-machine communication.
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
13
Association of Rotational Moulders Southern Africa (ARMSA)
He suggests that machine and material suppliers include
process control data as standard. He also remarked that
process control suppliers should charge less for their systems.
Laws is a man who focusses on the positive and one of his
other pearls of wisdom was that you should:
.. find your successes and propagate them;
don’t find your losses and punish them!
Our industry is relatively small, and the smaller
the industry, the smaller the companies in it, said Laws, You
rarely find companies getting big in a small industry.
Laws also gave a presentation about ‘Foaming: An
Overview and Troubleshooting’.
www.rotonics.com
Product of the Year runners-up
Training
During his presentation, Laws also mentioned how,
ironically, training can be a liability… unless the skills
covered are implemented when the trainee returns to the
workplace. By implemented, he implied that this should be
done through personal interaction by management.
This in turn paved the way for the following presentation
by Anton Hanekom of the Plastics Federation of SA,
‘Training your Rotomoulders’. According to Anton, we can
only grow if we have the skills to do so.
Rather than focus on the Federation’s training structures,
Anton challenged us with views about skills development,
and what manufacturers can do to achieve a good result.
South Africa’s growth expectation over the
next five years is on average 4-5%, and the
plastics sector is expected to grow by 10 450
jobs during this time,” said Anton. “Most SA companies are
spending 1% (the legislated minimum) on training, whereas
the international average is seen as 4%.”
Putting it to the test – It’s not often that a winning design gets
put to the test right there and then, but that’s just what Nick
Swardt of Pioneer Plastics did with the company’s silver awardwinning mobile keg. Mind you, he had a lot of enthusiastic
support. The unit keeps the draft chilled too, and is suited for
markets and functions
In terms of the legislation, as an incentive, a company can
recover 50% of that 1%.
www.pioneerplastics.co.za
Design
www.plasticsinfo.co.za
Kees Schilperoort of XFacta, a design agency, then regaled
delegates about the vitally important but frequently
overlooked area of design. A winning design can be just
that, a poor design can be very expensive.
If you do not innovate you are endangering
yourself, said Kees, who, not surprisingly,
suggested moulders should be employing
industrial designers.
Understanding design is an inexact science,
and even trying to understand what people
need and desire is difficult for most in the
manufacturing industry, but if you want to come out on top
you will need to invest in research, said Kees.
Among the key areas of focus for designers is the need to:
 integrate complimentary functions;
 extend product life cycle; and
 be environmentally responsible.
www.xfacta.co.za
The XFacta man Kees Schilperoort
focused a lot on mainstream
design, such as epitomized by
Apple Computers and its gadgets,
but his perspectives on the design
process proved enlightening
14
7
Association of Rotational Moulders Southern Africa (ARMSA)
‘GoLine Turf Marker’ is ARMSA
Product of the Year
CHM, Castec triumph with product that created major
challenges
Winning the Product of the Year competition at the ARMSA
Rotation 2010 conference for a product which the manufacturer
at times thought was ‘unmouldable’ was just rewards for CHM
Plastics of Midrand.
The ‘Turf Marker’, a portable tank for marking sports field
outlines, is a development by Dura Paints. In August 2008, Mike
Lloyd, MD of Dura Paints, approached Castec of Johannesburg
to develop a new turf marking machine. Dura Paints had been
importing the machines from Europe and supplying the local
market. Its plan was to develop and produce a machine in SA
that would cater for both local and overseas markets. Lloyd
wanted to develop a more slimline, modern design which
would be easier to manufacture and keep in service.
The initial design shown to Castec would have been extremely
difficult to roto mould due to the large number of brass inserts.
The inserts were required for attaching various components
such as cover plate, batteries, pumps, axles and drainage and
suction outlets.
Castec MD Mike Herald came up with several solutions to give
a similar end product that could be roto moulded more easily.
The major innovation in the design was to mould the water
flushing tank (used to clean all the spray nozzles) inside the paint
carrier tank. The advantage of this was that there would be no
contamination of water used for flushing and the paint due to
the possibility of leaking sealing gaskets. It also eliminated all the
dimensional control problems associated with making separate
tank units which would have to fit perfectly into one another.
However, the perfect solution also provided the biggest
challenge, namely to provide sufficient heating of the inner
tank to allow it to have a consistent wall thickness for the
service life of the product. This was achieved by making the
mould wall thickness of the inner tank out of thin 1.2mm
steel sheet so that it would heat up faster than the 6mm
thick cast aluminum outer mould tank.
Once the mould had been cast and put together, it was
time to start the trials at CHM. During this process several
hurdles appeared:
 The wall thickness in the inner tank was not the
desired one, even with the different material used to
manufacture it. The hollow cavity did not heat up well
enough to match the thickness of the rest of the tank.
Nico Hickley of CHM redesigned one of the arms in the
machine to allow an ‘airmover’ to be fit on top of the
problem area to duct hot air into the walls of the inner
tank. This solved the first hurdle;
 The area around some of the bottom 6mm brass
inserts did not mould properly due to lack of space
for the powder to layer. The design had been too tight
and the inserts had been placed too close to sharp
edges. To solve this problem some of the inserts were
slightly moved to allow powder formation;
 The inner tank leaked in every sample that was
pressure-tested, always at the bottom. The connecting pipe between the main tank and the inner tank
created a sharp edge where powder was not layering
properly. A fixture (4mm thick washer with tapered
edges) was added to the pipe which resulted in rounding the problem area, thus providing a smoother area
for the powder to layer.
In general, this was not an easy product to
manufacture. In fact, there were many times in
which the project was almost put aside and
considered unmouldable. However, achieving Product of
the Year proves that determination when facing difficult
situations often bears fruit, said Hickley.
CHM Plastics / Protek cc: phone 082 303 7179; sales@
protekchm.co.za
Winner – Nico Hickley of CHM Plastics of Midrand received
the Product of the Year trophy from ARMSA chairman Clive
Robertson at the Rotation 2010 conference in the Waterberg on
9 September
Turf Marker – The winning entry, the Turf Marker unit for Dura
Paints, was a complex design with many inserts as well as a
number of chambers which also required extensive R + D; the
mould was designed and built by Mike Herald of Castec
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
15
Association of Rotational Moulders Southern Africa (ARMSA)
Roto industry in Thailand
Alongkorn Kanokboriboon of SCG Chemicals of Thailand
gave an outline of the industry in his country. SCG, one of
the largest petrochemical manufacturers in Thailand, has
become a main supplier of PE roto powders in the country
as well as globally. In South Africa, SCG’s roto powders are
supplied nationally by MBT.
With an annual capacity of about 65 000 tons, the Thai roto
industry is about double the size of South Africa’s, and it
has more moulders too, about 80.
The Thai market is also mainly based on water tank
manufacture, but the production of other technical items
is growing.
[1]
www.cementhaichemicals.com
The ARMSA Student Design Competition (described by Leisa
Donlan, director of the Australasian organisation ARMA, as the
best student design competition in the roto industry globally!)
again produced some enlightening surprises. The brief for 2010
was to design a water tank that doesn’t necessarily look like one
and which has other secondary uses, said Nick Aggett of Sasol
Polymers, which has been sponsoring the student programme
for several years. Entries were received from the University
of Johannesburg (UJ) and the Cape Peninsula University of
Technology, and all this year’s winners were from UJ.
Could this have been a result of the need to keep travel costs
to the Waterberg to a minimum? You be the judge, however,
there’s no arguing the fact that the entries submitted by the UJ
design students were of a high standard.
[ 1 ] The ‘Plonk’ – Nick Aggett was on hand to present the
ARMSA Student Design Competition first prize to Roland
Richartz of the University of Johannesburg. Roland’s ‘Plonk’
concept may have an unflattering name, but showed
considerable design flexibility. Several features are included,
which was a direct response to the earlier design presentation
at the conference which suggested it was vital to integrate
complimentary functions.
[ 2 ] Cyclone – Maritz Erasmus took the silver prize with his
‘Cyclone’ design: this rain water collection unit doubles up as
a home-scale ‘super tube’ water slide.
[ 3 ] Water Saving Shower – Neil Grantham of UJ’s ‘Eco Splash’
entry won 3rd prize: a rainwater collection device which, when
placed alongside a house, doubles up as a shower.
[2]
16
[3]
7
Alongkorn Kanokboriboon of SCG
Chemicals of Thailand showed some
interesting products manufactured
by Thai roto moulders
All articles in ARMSA section: courtesy of SA Plastics Composites + Rubber Magazine www.saplastics.co.za
Student Design competition
Aziende Italiane Stampaggio Rotazionale
(AISR)
Federazione Gomma Plastica
UNIONPLAST
Gruppo Aziende Italiane Stampaggio Rotazionale
 "Rotomoulding
– A World of Possibilities" Seminar by Paul Nugent
at Parco Scientifico Tecnologico di Valle Scrivia,
 Strada Comunale Savonesa 9 - 15057 Rivalta Scrivia (AL)
 Friday, November 19th 2010
AISR Seminar
In order to participate to the event is necessary complete
Fully conducted by Paul Nugent, the Seminar is directed to
“Rotomoulding
– A World
of Possibilities”
the registration
form, which can be requested to AISR
quality managers,
project managers, heads of departments
Paul Nugent
Secretariat whose references are given below.
and Company owners. It has the aim to show the news of the
Rotomoulding sector on worldwide
scale.
Nugent
will
deal
with
at PARCO SCIENTIFICO TECNOLOGICO di Valle Scrivia
technical aspects regarding theStrada
technological
innovations
and9 - 15057
Comunale
Savonesa
Rivalta
Scrivia (AL)
Further
information
with marketing issues, giving a wide wiew on the new products
How to reach the Seminar? The Seminar will take place
and possibilities that he could discover in his “famous” travels
the “Conference
Friday,
Novemberin19th
2010 room” of the “Parco Scientifico e
around the world, described by Rotoworld
Magazine.
Tecnologico”, Strada Comunale Savonesa 9, 15057 Rivalta
The Seminar will last all day long (from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm).
Scrivia - (AL)
This seminar will take a look at the markets for
rotomoulding around the world and how the
By car: Highway exit: TORTONA > follow the indications
communication of ideas is not only from
for Rivalta Scrivia > Provincial Road to Novi Ligure > follow
advanced countries to developing ones. The review will look
the indications for Parco Scientifico e Tecnologico (turn
at where rotomoulders typically focus and where they
right after the Q8 gas station) > go straight for 1 km till the
:
might be encouraged to look in the future and also at what
roundabout, then take the first exit > turn right after the
advances are taking place around the world in terms of
entrance of the Marco Scientifico Tecnologico”

materials, equipment and processing that might be applied
By train: Reach the station of Tortona > Take a taxi to “Parco
to both old and new products.
       Scientifico
 Tecnologico”
      
Paul Nugent
PROGRAM

Hotel accomodation
Agenda
 
Please find below a suggestion for a Hotel closed to the
8.45
Participants’ Registration
9.00
AISR President’s welcome
“Parco Scientifico e Tecnologico”

Hotel Ristorante “Il Carrettino”
Strada per Pozzolo 15 - 15057 Rivalta Scrivia (AL)
tel. +39 0131 860930, fax +39 0131 860955

10.45 Coffee break
www.ilcarrettino.it
11.00
Nugent’s
2°
Session


9.15
Nugent’s 1° Session
 12.30
References
Q&A - Discussion
AISR Secretariat
eng. Matteo Martinenghi

14.00 Nugent’s 3° Session
tel. +39 02 43928234, mobile +39 334 6175759

e-mail: info@aisr.it
15.30 Coffee break
Parco Scientifico e Tecnologico

15.45 Nugent’s 4° Session
Ms. Ilaria Cartasegna

     tel.
    
17.15 
Q&A
- Discussion
+39 0131
860115
13.00
Buffet Lunch
18.00 End of program
Federazione Gomma Plastica







20123 Milano - Via San Vittore, 36
 tel. 02439281,

 02435432

fax
Seminar presentation will be given in English. Simultaneous
 translation in Italian lanauaae will be provided.




e-mail: federazionegommaplastica@
federazionegommaplastica.it
web site: www.federazionegommaplastica.it
VAT number / Codice Fiscale 97412210151
20123 Milano - Via San Vittore, 36
Tel. 02439281 – Fax 02435432
Email: federazionegommaplastica@federazionegommaplastica.it
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
17
Association of Rotational Molders
(ARM)
ARM 2010 Annual Meeting
Thriving In The Global State Of Rotomolding
Hilton Montreal Bonaventure, October 2 - 5, 2010
The 2010 ARM Annual Meeting of the Association of
Rotational Molders (ARM), held October 2-5 in Montreal,
Quebec delivered on its promise to be an excellent
opportunity to learn and network with suppliers, molders,
consultants and educators from around the world.
The meeting was generously sponsored by: A. Schulman
Inc., Brunk Corporation, Exxon Mobil Chemical Company,
Entec Resins, Ferry Industries, Flexahopper Plastics, Ingenia
Polymers and NOVA Chemicals.
Rotomolding industry presentations heard by the
more than 300 representatives from over 120 member
companies addressed accountability, rotomolding industry
trends from around the world, case studies of breakthrough product, and much more.
New ARM officers for 2010 elected at the meeting were
President Dave Smith, Rotational Molding Technology Inc.;
Vice President Bill Spenceley, Flexahopper Plastics Ltd.;
Secretary-Treasurer Robert Porter, Inca Molded Products;
Immediate Past President Dave Claerbout, Dutchland
Plastics Corp.; and Directors Brian Olesen, Centro, Inc.; and
Brian Ramsey, NOVA Chemicals Inc.
2010 Awards
Hall of Fame Inductees
Joe Strzegowski, Hardigg Industries Inc.
Student Design Competition
First Place:
Djembe Hand Drum by Maxwell Morein, Milwaukee
Institute of Art and Design
Second Place:
Northern Escape (Ice Fishing House) by Riley Erickson,
Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design
Third Place:
LifePAC (IV Blood Bag) by Chang Hyeon Bang and Eon-Tae
Yoon, Dongseo University
Thanks to NOVA Chemicals for sponsoring the 2010 ARM
Student Design Competition.
2010 Safety Award
Meese Orbitron Dunne Co.
Thanks to the Exxon Mobil Chemical Company for
sponsoring the ARM Safety Award.
2010 Charles D. Frederick Distinguished Service Award
Harry Covington, Ferry Industries
18
7
Association of Rotational Molders (ARM)
1
2
3
4
1. Meeting Chairman Bill
Spenceley emcees the
Awards Dinner
2. Incoming President Dave
Smith emcees the Awards
Dinner
3. Networking during the
Table Top exhibits
4. ARM Hall of Famers
5. Board Members George
Winter and Corey Claussen
attend the Table Top
exhibits
5
6
6. Paul Nugent Presents
Global Rotomolding A
View from 30000 feet
7. ARM President Daven
Claerbout thanks
committee members at
opening reception
7
8
8. Michel Truax presents New
Roto Equipment Concepts
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
19
Association of Rotational Molders (ARM)
ARM 2010 Annual Meeting
9
10
9. ARMA Executive Director Leisa Donlan
presents Innovative Products Thinking in
New Ways
10.Committee Chair Bill Spenceley
welcomes ARM Volunteers
11.Networking
12.Gary Lategan presents Innovations Using
Tight Control Processes
13.Dru Laws presents Impact of Rotation
Speeds & Ratios on Finished Parts
11 12
14. Networking during the Table Top
exhibits
11 13
12 14 15.Joe Strzegowski joins the ARM Hall of Fame 13 14
16.Harry Covington is awarded the
Distinguished Serivce Award by Bill
Spenceley
17.Attendees networking and learning at
the Table Top Exhibits
18.Chris Lefas and Jon Ratzlaff talk during
the committee reception
19.Warren Ginn and John Steele attend the
Table Top exhibits
20.Standup comedian Andy Pitz
20
7
Association of Rotational Molders (ARM)
15 16
17 18
19 20
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
21
Society of Asian Rotomoulders
(StAR)
StAR happenings
Attendees at the Delhi
Regional Meet
It continues to be a busy time at StAR.
 The StAR Resource Booklets Series beginning with 3
booklets was launched at the Delhi Regional Meet on
Aug 28, 2010.
 The Delhi Regional Meet was well attended and
consisted of Presentations & Discussions which analysed and tried to address several issues of the Indian
rotomoulding industry.
 The well known 5-star hotel Leela Kempenski has been
finalised as the venue in Mumbai of the VIIIth StAR
Annual International Conference from Jan 23 to 25,
2011. This has set preparations rolling to organise yet
another successful StAR Annual event.
StAR Resource Booklets
Three Booklets have been released in the StAR Resource
Booklets Series which was launched at the Delhi Regional
Meet. The 3 are :
 Trouble Shooting in Rotational Moulding
 The Basic Process of Rotational Moulding
 The Glossary of Rotational Moulding Terms
The primary purpose of the booklets is to provide
rotomoulding knowledge and information in a handy and
user friendly format for help and reference in day to day
situations. All 3 booklets relate to norms, practices, and
conditions which are current in India and are established
internationally.
The Trouble Shooting booklet has chosen the most
common problems that are likely to be faced while
rotomoulding in Indian conditions. A StAR panel of experts
with considerable experience of Indian and international
22
7
Society of Asian Rotomoulders (StAR)
rotomoulding has then listed out
possible solutions. To ensure
maximum relevance to the
Indian context only problems
relating to those materials
which are in use in almost the
entire Indian Industry have been
considered.
The Basic Process Booklet contains
the most essential processing and
equipment information which are
necessary or encountered in Indian
conditions. Care has been taken to
ensure that the information is relevant
to applications which are largely
prevalent in India.
The Glossary Booklet has alphabetically listed all the terms
which were considered relevant while panning across all
the aspects of rotomoulding in India. Particular attention
has been paid to ensure that these terms are understood
as per terminology in practice in India.
More booklets are likely to ba added to the StAR Resource
Booklet Series. One set of the booklets is being given free
to every StAR member as a Membership Benefit. It is also a
priced publication. To order copies please contact mailto:
arnacz@satyam.net.in
Day 3 (Jan 25):
 Conference Presentations to be continued in the
morning
 3 Workshops will follow.
Further announcements & details of the conference will be
on the StAR website www.starasia.org
Mumbai – view from Sea link
Leela Kempenski : venue of the conference
Delhi Regional Meet
Speakers at the Delhi Meet took pains to focus on local
factors and conditions as they dealt with the Themes /
Topics of the half day programme. These were:
 Ready – to- use Powder
 Indian Standards Upgradation to Manufacture World
Class Products
 Developments in Water Tanks
 Growth Opportunities in Indian Rotomoulding
 Maintaining High Quality Standards on the Shop Floor
VIIIth StAR Annual International Rotomoulding
Conference, Mumbai, Jan 23-25 2011
The interesting 3-day Programme format is:
Day 1 (Jan 23):
 2 Full Day simultaneously held Seminars in the morning ( attendees will choose 1)
 Suppliers Dinner in the evening
Day 2 (Jan 24):
 Full Day Conference Presentations
 Evening Gala Dinner Nite with Entertainment
Programme & Awards
 Presentation
www.armo-global.org
|
info@armo-global.org
23
R
M
ory
rat
o
b
C
Ro
tati
ve Sh
uttle
Line
ar
S
ttle
hu
La
Rotational moulding machines
A real oven for real performances!
sel
ou
ar
With over 150 Roto-SAT
machines running
worldwide, SAT is the
guarantee of a better
productivity and energy
savings
1
2
et
Turr
The widest range at your disposal
The best accuracy in rotomoulding
through the SAT’s Mobile Oven!
Flexibility and boosted production
capacity!
3
4
• Energy savings
• Higher productivity
• Optimized flexibility
SAT machineries fitted out
for technical parts
www.sat-thermique.com
Lines stems from thermic bridge
Perfect insulation for thermal accuracy
e-mail:
sat@sat-thermique.com
Savoie Hexapôle – Rue Louis Armand – 73420 MERY – France