On this episode of PMM Insight, with Editor Ron Shinn and Senior Reporter Karen Hanna:

• Mold makers continue to face tough competition from foreign competitors and are seeing higher costs due to tariffs.

• New technologies such as sophisticated design software, additive manufacturing and robots and other automation help mold makers stay competitive.

• Artificial intelligence is the latest technology mold makers are learning to use.

On this episode of Machinery Minutes:

Mold makers are taking on intricate projects requiring precision that was unattainable just a few years ago, and they are employing a variety of new manufacturing tools to get the job done.

LS Mtron employed retractable tie bars to help Stanford Manufacturing fit two large presses under a low roof.

M&J Recycling has added a system to capture and reuse energy during shaft reversals to its P250e pre-shredder.

On this episode of Machinery Minutes:

• Meet Geoff Foster of injection molding company Core Technology, whose non-profit provides free STEM camps for middle schoolers.
• Additive manufacturing technology maker Stratasys has acquired “a collection of assets” from Nexa3D, which shut down in December.
• Shini USA introduced three new film pelletizers designed for precise cutting and uniform pellet size.

What you'll learn on this PMM Insight podcast episode, a commentary by Editor Ron Shinn: 

• We are in an era of manufacturing transition, from huge numbers of lunchpail-toting workers streaming out of the factory gate at the end of their shift to an era of fewer workers making more goods.

• What will it take to succeed in the new era? Embracing Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing; following sustainable practices; using additive manufacturing; and improving human-machine collaboration.

• Technology can help improve productivity, but manufacturers must invest in their workers.

On this episode of the Machinery Minutes podcast:

• As the national conversation on manufacturing expansion and reshoring continues, we want to know: Do you have excess capacity available to take on new business right away?
• Learn about the advantages of joining the PLASTICS Committee on Equipment Statistics.
• Dri-Air has added two new models to the low-throughput MD dryer series that debuted at NPE2024.

In this episode of the Machinery Minutes podcast:

1. Hoffer Plastics and Rocheleau Tool & Die, both third-generation family-owned plastics businesses, are thriving and remain committed to staying independent and honoring their heritage.
2. The historic HPM brand, known for injection molding machines, has been officially retired by Yizumi, the Chinese firm that acquired its assets in 2011.
3. Blow molding machinery maker Bekum America Corp. has nine new apprentices in its four-year training program — the largest class since the program began in 1994.

What you'll learn in this PMM Insight podcast, with Editor Ron Shinn and Senior Staff Reporter Karen Hanna:  

• Merger and acquisition activity in the plastics industry is slow, but private equity companies are still buying.

• The first step in selling a business might not be the one you expect.

• A buyer's commitment to employees frequently plays a big part in a seller’s decision.

What you'll learn on this episode of the Machinery Minutes podcast:

• Managing mergers and acquisitions: Whether you're buying, selling or keeping your business in the family, we spoke with experts who have tips to ensure the best outcome for all stakeholders.

• Yaskawa America announces expansion: With a $180 million investment, the company will consolidate Illinois and Wisconsin operations in Franklin, Wis., and move its Drives & Motion division headquarters there.

• Kistler system for injection molding: AkvisIO IME 7.0 manages and analyzes data to help processors become more efficient and improve part quality.