Mr. McQuire: "Ben — I just want to say one word to you — just one word."

Ben: "Yes, sir."

Mr. McQuire: "Are you listening?"

Ben: "Yes I am."

Mr. McQuire: (gravely) "Plastics."

Ben: "Exactly how do you mean?"

Mr. McQuire: "There is a great future in plastics. Think about it. Will you think about it?"

Ben: "Yes, I will."

(Scene from "The Graduate")

Cut to 1998. A brief look at the plastics industry shows it has more than fulfilled this prediction for a great future. According to recent figures from the Society of Plastic Industry, U.S. shipments of plastics rose 55 percent from 1991 to 1996, to a record total of $274 billion. SPI figures for 1996 show plastics products ranked fourth in the top manufacturing industry groups, behind motor vehicles, petroleum refining and electronic components and accessories. Plastic materials also moved up in rankings, from No. 15 in 1994 up to No. 13 by 1996.

Some of this growth can be directly attributed to the growing trend toward using plastic as a replacement for steel and wood. Many of the case histories in Plastics Machining and Fabricating have already alluded to this phenomenon. For example, Cambridge Industries estimates it has saved Honda at least $100 per vehicle on its automobile loadfloors by making one piece of molded plastic perform the function of several pieces of metal that have to be joined together. Not only has the company reduced labor costs, but the systems integration also reduces the cost of tooling. (PM&F November-December 1997)

In another example, Productive Plastics completed a prototype for a 48-inch by 40-inch by 14-inch rear tractor cover for a forklift. According to the company, this new component is non-rusting, non-scratching, will not dent and by being plastic, it increases the life of the product over time. PPI is also working with a customer to convert printing press controllers to plastic, thereby cutting 30 to 35 percent of the cost out of the part. (PM&F January-February 1998)

The reusable packaging industry is also becoming a hot market for plastics manufacturers. In this issue, assistant editor Kevin Bastian details Allied Plastics' manufacture of high-density polyethylene plastic pallets as a replacement for traditional wood packaging. According to co-owner Steve Wieder, "They cost four to five times more, but last 30 times longer. Plus, there aren't any wood chips or nails....They're 100 percent recyclable." (See article beginning on page 13.)

The automotive and packaging industries are just two areas where plastics are making their mark. What's next on the horizon? I'd like to get your input. Phone me at (847) 634-4347 ext. 366, FAX: (847) 634-4379 or e-mail me at kmkoenig96@aol.com. 9

Plastics Machining & Fabricating
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