Silvergate Plastics has launched ‘Optiblo’, a range of colour masterbatch which it says has been designed to “significantly reduce” cycle times and improve the surface finish of blow moulded parts.
The main function of the additive is to eliminate common processing problems by removing die build up, improving pigment dispersion, as well as wall thickness uniformity and dimensional stability. Silvergate says that using Optiblo can increase output and lower energy requirements, thereby saving on operating costs.
It works by reducing friction against metal surfaces, which enables melt to smoothly flow at a faster rate. By improving pigment dispersion and eliminating die build up, this new colour masterbatch is suited to applications such as bottles, drums, oil containers, etcetera. It also reduces warp on large parts, and reduces energy consumption by allowing the processor to operate at lower temperatures.
The company says it is responding to the increasing demand from processors wanting raw materials that enhance operating efficiencies. This trend is rising not only in the UK but across the Continent. Giuseppe Chiacchio, Silvergate’s Export Sales Manager said: “Our customers want quality products quickly, that hasn’t changed. What has changed is a need to improve their own operating practices by introducing high performing raw materials to their manufacturing processes. As a supply chain partner keen to support our customers’ goals, we have responded to their needs by introducing Optiblo to our vast range of products. We have listened and understood the challenges many processors face when moulding at high temperatures. Many of the inherent problems include flow lines, poor surface finish and die build up.
"Optiblo is a colour masterbatch that helps to prevent these factors from occurring. What is really exciting is the fact that Optiblo enables the polymer to flow far faster and much smoother, even at low temperatures. This reduces energy demands, eliminates die lines in 15 minutes and increases output. We believe Optiblo will become the preferred choice in colour masterbatch for many blow moulding producers.”
Silvergate’s new Optiblo range is available in any colour.