With bioresins getting more attention, D-M-E Co. has rolled out its Eco-Smart line of hot-runner components designed to process corn-based polylactic acid.
“It's new ground for a lot of the industry, but there are more and more companies getting interested in PLA,” said Robert Starr, director of global marketing.
Molders need hot runners with greater corrosion resistance and a better ability to minimize shear heat because of PLA's temperature sensitivity, he said.
Madison Heights, Mich.-based D-M-E worked with molders for two years to fine-tune the materials and parts in hot runners to work specifically with the resin.