Episode Details

In this episode of Global Economic Press, Alex Brady discusses a groundbreaking development in the manufacturing sector. Cooper Plastics has announced a significant advancement in injection molding technology, which is set to transform the industry by 2026. The company has expanded its structural foam injection molding capabilities, allowing for the production of large, lightweight, high-strength plastic components for Original Equipment Manufacturer customers across multiple industries. This innovative process combines thermoplastic resin with a blowing agent to create parts with a solid outer skin and a lightweight foamed core, enabling the production of large, complex components with excellent stiffness-to-weight ratios while reducing material usage and internal stress compared to traditional molding methods.

In addition to structural foam, Cooper Plastics offers structural web molding, a specialized process that produces solid parts with internal hollow channels formed using low-pressure nitrogen. This capability allows for a 15 to 30 percent weight reduction compared to solid molded parts, improved surface finish, and elimination of sink marks in thick sections. The company’s LP500S press supports ultra-large part production with 500 tons of clamp force, a platen size of 89 inches by 98 inches, a maximum clamp opening of 120 inches, and part capacity up to 120 pounds. Cooper Plastics primarily utilizes High-Density Polyethylene, with additional material options including polypropylene and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene to meet application-specific performance requirements. For more information or to request a quote, visit Cooper Plastics.