Plastics Make the Modern-Day Semiconductor Possible

February 1, 2024  |  , , ,

Precision and purity are vital to semiconductor production.  Plastics assist in maintaining the standards necessary in production, ensuring that less time and resources are spent and that the items function properly.

Unlike traditional materials like metal or ceramic, plastics such as FEP, PEEK, and PTFE are more impermeable to corrosive acids, which are key to the production of microchips.

High-performance plastics such as Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP), Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK), and Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), are characterized by their exceptional properties in different areas. High-performance plastics are largely used where the highest demands are placed on thermal or chemical resistance or product mechanics.

Microchips are primarily made from semiconducting materials such as silicon, not plastics. Silicon wafers undergo a complex series of processes including photolithography, etching, doping, and layering to create the intricate circuitry that forms the basis of microchips.

However, plastics do play a role in certain aspects of microchip manufacturing, and Performance Plastics, A Pexco Company, produces many of the necessary components.

  1. Components: Resins are used in various components used to manufacture microchips. This includes components of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, such as chambers, tubing, and fittings, which often utilize specialized plastic materials resistant to high temperatures and chemicals.
  2. Cleanroom Materials: In semiconductor fabrication facilities or cleanrooms, where microchips are produced, stringent cleanliness standards must be maintained to prevent contamination of the delicate semiconductor materials. Plastics are used extensively in cleanroom construction and furnishings due to their ease of cleaning, resistance to chemicals, and ability to meet cleanliness requirements.
  3. Chemical Handling: During the fabrication process, various chemicals are used for etching, doping, and cleaning semiconductor wafers. Plastics are often used for the storage, transport, and handling of these chemicals due to their chemical inertness and resistance to corrosion.
  4. Consumables: Plastics are used in the production of consumable items such as gloves, face masks, and packaging materials used in the handling and transportation of microchips and semiconductor wafers within the fabrication facility.

Overall, while plastics may not be directly visible in the final product of a microchip, they are indispensable in various stages of the microchip manufacturing process, contributing to its efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

For more information on high-performance plastics such as FEP, PEEK, and/or PTFE, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Rich Reed, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at [email protected], or visit our website at www.performance plastics.com

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Injection Molding Advances with Biocompatible Fluoropolymers

January 26, 2024  |  ,

Injection molding has advanced significantly with the use of biocompatible fluoropolymers. Fluoropolymers are a type of synthetic polymer that contains fluorine atoms, providing unique properties such as high thermal stability, chemical resistance, and low friction. When these fluoropolymers are made biocompatible, they become suitable for various medical and healthcare applications.

The use of biocompatible fluoropolymers in injection molding offers several advantages:

  1. Biocompatibility: These materials are designed to be compatible with living tissues and can be safely used in medical devices and implants. This makes them ideal for applications where direct contact with the human body is necessary.
  2. Chemical Resistance: Fluoropolymers are known for their excellent chemical resistance. In medical environments, where exposure to various chemicals is possible, these materials provide a protective barrier against corrosion and degradation.
  3. High Thermal Stability: Fluoropolymers can withstand high temperatures without losing their structural integrity. This property is crucial in medical applications where sterilization processes involve elevated temperatures.
  4. Low Friction: The low coefficient of friction of fluoropolymers makes them suitable for applications where smooth surfaces and minimal friction are essential, such as in medical devices that come into contact with bodily fluids.
  5. Precision Molding: Injection molding allows for the production of complex and precise shapes. This is particularly beneficial in medical device manufacturing where intricate designs are often required for optimal performance.
  6. Cost-Effectiveness: Injection molding is a cost-effective manufacturing process, especially for high-volume production. This makes it an attractive option for producing medical components and devices on a large scale.

Applications of biocompatible fluoropolymers in injection molding include the manufacturing of components for medical devices such as catheters, connectors, seals, and implantable devices.

It’s important to note that the adoption of these materials in medical applications requires compliance with regulatory standards and guidelines to ensure the safety and efficacy of the produced devices. Manufacturers must adhere to strict quality control measures to meet the stringent requirements of the healthcare industry.

Expertise in custom plastic injection applications not only ensures the technical accuracy of the manufactured parts but also builds trust and fosters long-term partnerships between manufacturers and clients.

For more information on the top of Biocompatible Fluoropolymer Advances, please see our white paper at:

https://performanceplastics.com/blog/biocompatible-fluoropolymers/

Performance Plastics is a world-class complex injection molding company.  We work with our customers to leverage the capabilities of ultra and high-performance materials such as PEEK, Torlon®, Ultem®, PFA, FEP, PVDF, and ETFE and can achieve extreme dimension or tight tolerance injection molded parts.

For more information on Performance Plastics’ capabilities, please contact Rich Reed, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at [email protected], or visit our website at www.performanceplastics.com.

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Injection Molding Advances with Biocompatible Fluoropolymers

January 25, 2024  |  , ,

Injection molding has advanced significantly with the use of biocompatible fluoropolymers. Fluoropolymers are a type of synthetic polymer that contains fluorine atoms, providing unique properties such as high thermal stability, chemical resistance, and low friction. When these fluoropolymers are made biocompatible, they become suitable for various medical and healthcare applications.

The use of biocompatible fluoropolymers in injection molding offers several advantages:

  1. Biocompatibility: These materials are designed to be compatible with living tissues and can be safely used in medical devices and implants. This makes them ideal for applications where direct contact with the human body is necessary.
  2. Chemical Resistance: Fluoropolymers are known for their excellent chemical resistance. In medical environments, where exposure to various chemicals is possible, these materials provide a protective barrier against corrosion and degradation.
  3. High Thermal Stability: Fluoropolymers can withstand high temperatures without losing their structural integrity. This property is crucial in medical applications where sterilization processes involve elevated temperatures.
  4. Low Friction: The low coefficient of friction of fluoropolymers makes them suitable for applications where smooth surfaces and minimal friction are essential, such as in medical devices that come into contact with bodily fluids.
  5. Precision Molding: Injection molding allows for the production of complex and precise shapes. This is particularly beneficial in medical device manufacturing where intricate designs are often required for optimal performance.
  6. Cost-Effectiveness: Injection molding is a cost-effective manufacturing process, especially for high-volume production. This makes it an attractive option for producing medical components and devices on a large scale.

Applications of biocompatible fluoropolymers in injection molding include the manufacturing of components for medical devices such as catheters, connectors, seals, and implantable devices.

It’s important to note that the adoption of these materials in medical applications requires compliance with regulatory standards and guidelines to ensure the safety and efficacy of the produced devices. Manufacturers must adhere to strict quality control measures to meet the stringent requirements of the healthcare industry.

Expertise in custom plastic injection applications not only ensures the technical accuracy of the manufactured parts but also builds trust and fosters long-term partnerships between manufacturers and clients.

For more information on the top of Biocompatible Fluoropolymer Advances, please see our white paper at:

https://performanceplastics.com/blog/biocompatible-fluoropolymers/

Performance Plastics is a world-class complex injection molding company.  We work with our customers to leverage the capabilities of ultra and high-performance materials such as PEEK, Torlon®, Ultem®, PFA, FEP, PVDF, and ETFE and can achieve extreme dimension or tight tolerance injection molded parts.

For more information on Performance Plastics’ capabilities, please contact Rich Reed, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at [email protected], or visit our website at www.performanceplastics.com.

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Expertise is Vital in Custom Plastic Injection Applications

December 14, 2023  |  ,
Ultem PEI Polyetherimide thermoplastic component

Ultem PEI Polyetherimide thermoplastic component

Expertise is incredibly important in custom plastic injection applications. These applications often involve precise specifications and unique requirements, where even slight variations can significantly impact the final product. Close collaboration between the manufacturer and the client is essential to ensure that the design, material selection, tooling, and production processes align perfectly with the desired outcome.

Expertise in this context involves:

  1. Understanding Specific Needs: Engaging with clients to thoroughly comprehend their exact requirements, tolerances, and desired outcomes for the injection-molded parts.
  2. Tailoring Solutions: Customizing the manufacturing process, including mold design, material selection, and production methods, to meet the precise needs of the client.
  3. Material Knowledge:  Knowing material options and access to material suppliers is essential in developing unique custom resin formulations to meet production needs.
  4. Clear Communication: Maintaining open lines of communication throughout the entire process to address any concerns, discuss progress, and make necessary adjustments promptly.
  5. Quality Assurance: Ensuring stringent quality checks and inspections at every stage to guarantee that the final product meets the client’s specifications and standards.
  6. Flexibility and Adaptability: Being able to adapt to changes or refine the process based on client feedback or evolving requirements to deliver the best possible outcome.

Expertise in custom plastic injection applications not only ensures the technical accuracy of the manufactured parts but also builds trust and fosters long-term partnerships between manufacturers and clients.

Performance Plastics is a world-class complex injection molding company.  We work with our customers to leverage the capabilities of ultra and high-performance materials such as PEEK, Torlon®, Ultem®, PFA, FEP, PVDF, and ETFE and can achieve extreme dimension or tight tolerance injection molded parts.

For more information on Performance Plastics’ capabilities, please contact Rich Reed, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at [email protected], or visit our website at www.performanceplastics.com.

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Performance Plastics leverages Industrial CT Scanning for Optimal Results

November 17, 2023  |  , ,

As you’re designing and manufacturing your next project, wouldn’t it be ideal if you could analyze all the existing parts, compare them to the original drawings, and get results quickly, without damage? At Performance Plastics, we have the ability to do this through industrial computed tomography (CT) scans. This gives us the ability to measure all aspects of your part, without having to damage it.

Performance Plastics specializes in tight tolerance, high-performance polymers such as Peek, Torlon, FEP & PFA, and Ultem.  We leverage CT Industrial scanning to replicate parts made of other materials and improve their performance.

Industrial computed tomography (CT) scanning is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method that uses X-ray technology to produce detailed 3D images of the internal structure of objects. This technology is widely used across various industries due to its numerous benefits. Here are some key advantages of industrial CT scanning:

  1. Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): One of the primary benefits of industrial CT scanning is that it allows for non-destructive testing of objects. This means that the internal structures of components or products can be examined without causing any damage to the tested item. This is particularly important in industries where preserving the integrity of the object is crucial.
  2. High Resolution and Accuracy: Industrial CT scanners can produce high-resolution images with fine details, allowing for precise analysis of internal structures. This level of accuracy is especially valuable in industries where the quality and precision of components are critical, such as aerospace and automotive.
  3. Visualization of Internal Structures: CT scanning provides a three-dimensional visualization of the internal features of an object. This is particularly useful for inspecting complex geometries, assemblies, and multi-material components, allowing engineers and researchers to examine the internal structures in a comprehensive manner.
  4. Identification of Defects and Anomalies: Industrial CT scanning is highly effective in identifying defects, voids, cracks, and other anomalies within an object. This can be crucial for quality control and ensuring that products meet industry standards and safety requirements.
  5. Reduced Inspection Time: Compared to traditional methods of inspection, industrial CT scanning can significantly reduce inspection time. This is especially beneficial for industries where efficiency and rapid inspection are essential.
  6. Versatility: Industrial CT scanning can be applied to a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, composites, and more. This versatility makes it a valuable tool across various industries, from manufacturing to medical research.
  7. Reverse Engineering: CT scanning can be used for reverse engineering applications, where the internal and external geometries of a component are captured digitally. This is useful for replicating or modifying existing components.
  8. Regulatory Compliance: In industries where compliance with safety and quality standards is essential, industrial CT scanning can help meet regulatory requirements by providing thorough and accurate inspections. In summary, industrial CT scanning offers a non-destructive, highly accurate, and versatile method for inspecting internal structures of objects, making it a valuable tool in various industries for quality control, research, and product development.

At Performance Plastics, we are experts in injection molding, specializing in high-performance plastics such as PEEK, Torlon, FEP & PFA, and Torlon for medical, aerospace, and industrial applications. Our proprietary tool design software, processes, and equipment enable us to injection mold components having complex geometries made from challenging ultra, high-performance thermoplastic materials, and reinforced compounds.

For more information on Performance Plastic’s capabilities, please contact Rich Reed, Vice President of Sales, and Marketing at 513.321.8404 or email at [email protected].

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The Importance of FEP/PFA for the Energy Storage Function of Batteries

November 9, 2023  |  , ,

Fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) and perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) are fluoropolymer materials that are often used in the construction of certain components in batteries, particularly as insulating materials. While they may not directly store energy in batteries, they play a crucial role in enhancing the safety, efficiency, and performance of battery systems. Here’s why FEP/PFA plastics are important for the energy storage function of batteries:

 

  1. Chemical Resistance: FEP and PFA plastics are highly chemically resistant, which is crucial in battery applications. They can withstand exposure to various corrosive electrolytes and chemicals found within batteries without degrading or reacting. This resistance helps ensure the long-term stability and integrity of the battery components, leading to improved battery durability and lifespan.
  2. Thermal Stability: FEP and PFA materials have excellent thermal stability and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, from extremely cold to very hot conditions. This property is essential for batteries, as they can operate in environments with varying temperature conditions. Maintaining thermal stability helps to prevent short circuits, leakage, and overall performance issues.
  3. Dielectric Properties: Both FEP and PFA injection molded parts are excellent electrical insulators. They have a low dielectric constant and low dissipation factor, meaning they have the ability to insulate and isolate electrical components in batteries effectively. This is vital for preventing short circuits and ensuring the safe operation of the battery.
  4. Low Permeability: FEP and PFA plastics have low gas and liquid permeability, which is essential for battery separators. The separators in batteries are critical for preventing direct contact between the positive and negative electrodes, while still allowing the passage of ions. Low permeability materials help maintain this separation, preventing electrolyte leakage and maintaining the battery’s overall performance.
  5. Mechanical Strength: FEP and PFA injection molded materials are durable and mechanically robust. They can withstand mechanical stresses and pressure changes that batteries may experience during manufacturing, assembly, and use. This strength is particularly important for maintaining the integrity of battery components and preventing damage.
  6. Non-reactive Nature: FEP and PFA are non-reactive with most substances, which is essential for ensuring the purity of the battery components. They do not react with the electrolyte or other battery materials, helping to maintain the chemical stability of the battery system.

While injection molded FEP and PFA plastics do not store energy in batteries themselves, they are crucial components for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of battery systems. Their chemical resistance, thermal stability, dielectric properties, low permeability, mechanical strength, and non-reactive nature all contribute to the overall performance, safety, and longevity of energy storage systems, making them indispensable for the function of batteries in various applications. For more information on FEP and PFA plastics for batteries, please call Rich Reed, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at 440-785-7122.

 

 

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Fluoropolymers are a great choice for Challenging Environments

October 26, 2023  |  , ,

Fluoropolymers are indeed an excellent choice for parts that must perform in challenging environments. These polymers, which include materials like PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene), and PFA (perfluoroalkoxy), offer a range of unique properties that make them ideal for such applications:

  1. Chemical Resistance: Fluoropolymers are highly resistant to a wide range of corrosive chemicals, acids, and bases. This makes them suitable for use in environments where other materials would quickly deteriorate or corrode.
  2. Temperature Resistance: These polymers can withstand extreme temperatures, both high and low. PTFE, for example, can handle temperatures as low as -200°C and as high as 260°C, making it ideal for applications in harsh temperature conditions.
  3. Non-Stick Properties: Fluoropolymers have excellent non-stick properties, which means they do not easily adhere to other materials. This is why they are often used in cookware coatings, but it’s also valuable in industrial applications where materials need to slide or not adhere to surfaces.
  4. Electrical Insulation: They have good electrical insulation properties, which is important in applications where electrical conductivity could cause problems.
  5. UV Resistance: Many fluoropolymers are highly resistant to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, making them suitable for outdoor applications.
  6. Low Friction Coefficient: These materials have a low coefficient of friction, which means they can reduce wear and tear in moving parts and machinery.
  7. Biocompatibility: Some fluoropolymers are biocompatible, making them suitable for use in medical and pharmaceutical applications.

Fluoropolymers find applications in various industries, including chemical processing, electronics, aerospace, and automotive, where they are exposed to aggressive chemicals, extreme temperatures, and other challenging conditions. Their durability, resistance, and performance characteristics make them an excellent choice for parts and components in these demanding environments.

For more information on how Performance Plastics can help you with your material choice in challenging environments, please contact Rich Reed, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at [email protected]

 

 

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The Importance of Maintenance of Injection Molds

September 14, 2023  |  ,

Maintenance of injection molds is crucial in manufacturing plastic and metal parts. It plays a significant role in ensuring product quality, minimizing downtime, and extending the lifespan of the molds. Here are some key reasons highlighting the importance of maintenance of injection molds:

  1. Quality Assurance: Regular maintenance helps uphold the quality and consistency of the manufactured products. Any wear and tear on the mold can lead to defects in the final products, such as surface imperfections, warping, or dimensional inaccuracies.
  2. Cost Efficiency: Preventive maintenance is more cost-effective than corrective measures. Properly maintained molds are less likely to break down, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements. This can lead to significant cost savings over time.
  3. Downtime Reduction: Mold breakdowns or failures can result in production downtime, which can be extremely costly for manufacturing facilities. Routine maintenance can help identify and address potential issues before they cause major disruptions in production.
  4. Longevity of Molds: Injection molds can be expensive to produce, so maximizing their lifespan is essential to get a return on investment. Regular maintenance can extend the life of molds, allowing them to be used for a more extended period.
  5. Consistent Cycle Times: Well-maintained molds operate more efficiently, leading to consistent cycle times. This ensures that production targets can be met without unexpected delays or variations in output.
  6. Productivity Improvement: Maintaining molds at optimal conditions can enhance productivity by reducing the likelihood of production defects, mold-related issues, and unplanned downtime. This, in turn, boosts overall efficiency.
  7. Safety Considerations: Molds that are in poor condition can pose safety risks to workers. Sharp edges, loose components, or damaged parts can lead to accidents. Regular maintenance helps identify and rectify potential safety hazards.
  8. Waste Reduction: When molds are not properly maintained, defective parts are likely to be produced. This can result in increased material waste, which is both environmentally and economically unfavorable.
  9. Customer Satisfaction: Consistency in product quality, thanks to well-maintained molds, leads to higher customer satisfaction. Satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend your products to others.
  10. Compliance with Standards: In some industries, there are strict quality and safety standards that must be adhered to. Regular mold maintenance can help ensure compliance with these standards and prevent costly fines or legal issues.

In summary, maintenance of injection molds is critical for maintaining product quality, reducing costs, minimizing downtime, ensuring safety, and prolonging the life of molds. Investing in a proactive maintenance program is a smart strategy for any manufacturing operation that relies on injection molding processes.

For more information on how Performance Plastics maintains our molds and our manages our best practices, please contact Rich Reed, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at [email protected], or visit our website and www.performanceplastics.com.

 

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Process Monitoring is Crucial in Tight Tolerance HPM Plastic Injection

September 7, 2023  |  , ,

Plastic Injection Molding HPM (high-performance material) parts with tight tolerances demand that processes are repeatable within established limits.  Performance Plastics utilizes best practices to eliminate process inefficiencies and unplanned maintenance, when working with materials such as Torlon (PAI), PEEK, Ultem (PEI) and FEP/PFA.  Simple processes must take place every shift to ensure that process and production are on target.

  • Process Validation

Process validation procedures must be completed prior to establishing process monitoring.  A validated process must run at complete cycle efficiency, producing little to no scrap for no less than 8 hours.  Evaluations and considerations must be analyzed whether a process can be repeated from one run to the next.

  • Process Installation Qualification – Making Sure Everything Works
  • Operational Qualification – Test, Test, and Test Again
  • Performance Qualification – Testing the actual Part.
  • Process Monitoring

Many companies fail to understand that a similar press or mold does not guarantee the tight tolerance processes will be repeated, especially when working with HPMs.  Each press must have its own process monitoring record, and sister molds need to be approached as completely different molds.

Areas that must be constantly monitored:

  • Fill Time
  • Peak Pressure
  • Part Weight
  • Cycle

Each value must have control limits and must be within the window established for these limits to control.

  • Basic Molding Fundamentals

The key to the HPM process consistency is the care and inspection of molds before each job.

  • Molds are cleaned and inspected.
  • Nozzles are inspected for blowback.
  • Hot runner point temperatures are verified.
  • Water is verified at the beginning of each run.

Performance Plastics embraces best practices in order to provide our customers with the quality and repeatability required for HPM tight tolerance medical, aerospace, and industrial parts.

For more information on how Performance Plastics manages our best practices, please contact Rich Reed, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at [email protected], or visit our website and www.performanceplastics.com

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Designing for Manufacturing using Plastic Injection Molding

August 17, 2023  |  , ,

Design for Manufacturing (DFM) is a crucial aspect of the plastic injection molding process. It involves optimizing the design of a plastic part to ensure that it can be easily and cost-effectively manufactured using injection molding techniques. Here are some key considerations and guidelines for DFM in plastic injection molding:

Part Geometry and Complexity:

  • Keep the part geometry simple and avoid intricate features that could complicate the molding process or require complex tooling.
  • Minimize the use of undercuts, sharp corners, and thin walls to prevent molding defects and challenges in ejection.

Draft Angle:

  • Incorporate draft angles (tapered surfaces) on vertical walls to facilitate easy ejection of the part from the mold.
  • A typical draft angle is around 1-2 degrees per side, but this may vary based on the material and part design.

Wall Thickness:

  • Maintain uniform wall thickness throughout the part to ensure proper flow of molten plastic and reduce the risk of sink marks, warping, or voids.
  • Avoid sudden transitions between thick and thin sections, as this can lead to molding defects.

Ribs and Bosses:

  • Use ribs to reinforce thin sections of the part and add structural integrity.
  • Design bosses (protruding features) with appropriate wall thickness and draft angles to ensure good mold filling and easy part ejection.

Corners and Fillets:

  • Incorporate rounded corners and generous fillet radii to distribute stress and prevent stress concentrations that could lead to part failure.

Material Selection:

  • Choose a suitable plastic material for the intended application, considering factors such as mechanical properties, chemical resistance, temperature stability, and more.

Gating and Venting:

  • Position the gate (entry point for molten plastic) in a location that minimizes aesthetic defects and ensures uniform filling.
  • Provide adequate venting to allow air and gases to escape during injection, preventing voids and trapped air.

Texture and Surface Finish:

  • Consider the desired texture or surface finish early in the design process, as this may impact mold design and material flow.
  • Textures can help hide imperfections and improve aesthetics.

Tolerances:

  • Specify realistic tolerances that are achievable through the injection molding process.
  • Avoid tight tolerances that could increase manufacturing costs and lead to rejects.

Moldability Analysis:

  • Conduct mold flow analysis using simulation software to identify potential issues and optimize the part design before production.
  • Address potential concerns such as weld lines, air traps, and flow imbalances.

Tooling Considerations:

  • Collaborate closely with the tooling manufacturer to ensure the mold design aligns with the part design and material properties.
  • Optimize the number and complexity of mold cavities based on production volume requirements.

Assembly and Post-Processing:

  • Design parts for easy assembly by incorporating features like snap fits, self-locating tabs, and mating surfaces.
  • Minimize the need for secondary operations or post-processing steps.

By following these design principles and collaborating with experienced injection molding professionals like Performance Plastics, you can create plastic parts that are well-suited for efficient and cost-effective manufacturing through the injection molding process.

For more information on Design for Manufacturing and its use, please contact Rich Reed, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at [email protected], or visit our website at www.performanceplastics.c

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