PMA's Processing Techniques Seminars (PTS) offer a hands-on training opportunity for urethane industry professionals. They are designed for front-line personnel who handle specific, complex challenges associated with urethane production - plant managers, design engineers, owners, research and development engineers and foremen.
Each topic is led by a carefully selected industry expert in order to provide an interactive learning atmosphere where attendees can meet with in a casual, yet informative setting to gain valuable education and information.
Starting after the 2008 PTS trainings, members will be able to download each recorded presentation at no fee, from this section of the web site. PTS presentations are not available to non-members. Basic and advanced session topics, presenters and descriptions are listed below.
BASIC: Adhesives for Bonding Polyurethane
Presented by Brian Minix, Technical Service Manager for Pathway Polymers, Inc.
This presentation will address the bonding of polyurethanes to various substrates during the curing process of the polyurethane. It will include such topics as terminology, surface preparation, bonding agent selection, bonding agent application, bond testing, and failure analysis.
BASIC: Choice of Polyurethane Elastomers for Demanding Applications
Presented by Scott Archibald, Ph.D., Research Scientist for Chemtura Corporation
This talk will focus on major applications for polyurethanes. It will cover what types of urethanes are most suitable for the applications, and will cover advantages of urethane versus metal, rubber, and plastics for these applications. Finally, discussion will be held on how the type of polyurethane, and the processing, control the final properties of the polyurethane material.
BASIC: Mold Releases and How to Use Them
Presented by Jim Ressler, National Product Manager for Stoner, Inc.
The session will be comprised of mold release application techniques, trends in the mold release industry, concerns from the polyurethane molders, and the future of mold release agents for polyurethane. Attention will be given to the practical aspects, rather than the theoretical. Information will be offered regarding 100% solids, solvent based and water based release agents, and the most effective ways of application.
BASIC: Processing Cast Polyurethanes with Automated Machinery
Presented by Paul Hock, Marketing Manager for Max Machinery, Inc.
The decision to automate the processing of urethanes is usually based on the need to increase throughput, reduce set-up time and waste, or work with faster, high performance chemistries. Any company that manufacturers urethane parts should weigh the advantages of automating their processing and replacing the tools of the hand batcher with the controls and repeatability of a machine. There are various levels of automation, and a wide variety of features and functions, that can customize a piece of equipment to meet any production environment or requirements. By understanding the available features, attendees will see the opportunity that lies in automated processing. A good fit between machine and process should pay for the machine, while increasing both quality and control over product.
BASIC: Thermoset Polymers for Mold Making
Presented by Doug VanBrunt, VP Commercial Development for Pathway Polymers
This presentation will explore the use of various thermal set systems to make molds for cast polyurethane materials. It will cover such topics as pattern production, mold material options and properties, material selection, and mold making techniques. There will be many examples of both molds and parts for the attendees to review.