PLASTICS NEWS REPORT
Published: November 4, 2014 10:54 am ET
Updated: November 4, 2014 11:00 am ET

Image By: Milacron LLC
Buyers of Milacron LLC presses will be able to incorporate Trexel Inc.'s MuCell technology into their equipment.

WILMINGTON, MASS. — Trexel Inc. and Milacron LLC have signed a partnership agreement that allows Milacron to incorporate MuCell into the company’s injection molding machines.

The MuCell foaming technology introduces nitrogen or carbon dioxide into the melted plastic in a supercritical state. When the melt comes out of the barrel, the bubbles get released inside the mold. MuCell cuts part weight, allows for shorter cycle times and reduced machine clamping force requirements and gives more dimensional stability to molded parts, according to the Wilmington-based Trexel.

Under the agreement, Milacron has the right to resell the MuCell gas dosing equipment directly to its customers under the Milacron, Ferromatik, Uniloy and Mold-Masters brands, while transferring the operating rights under Trexel’s patents to end users, with no added fees or costs.

“We believe that Milacron is uniquely capable to provide the complete melt distribution and control solution for MuCell systems,” said Bruce Catoen, Milacron’s chief technology officer. “Our extensive portfolio of primary processing equipment, combined with industry leading hot runner and control systems, will allow MuCell technology to expand into new and untapped markets.”

The agreement will include blow molding, as well as injection molding, said Steve Braig, president and CEO of Trexel.

“Milacron, Ferromatik and Mold-Masters provide injection molding systems across all major end user markets globally. Uniloy is a leading blow molding machinery manufacturer, and we look forward to partnering with them in developing blow molded automotive lightweighting solutions,” Braig said.