Paper & media handling applications are vital components of today's society - from performing self-service transactions, billing payments, to digital printing & imaging. Because of this, product designers continually seek out innovative materials, such as thermoset polyurethanes, to meet precise performance and quality requirements. Unlike traditional plastics, the versatility of thermoset polyurethane chemistry enables product designers to solve challenging design problems. Below, are a few examples of how thermoset polyurethanes were creatively used to improve the performance of paper & media handling products.
The Solution: Together with the OEM, MPC developed a multi-layer belt with two different hardnesses and coefficient of friction (COF) on each side, including a third layer for reinforcement. With its design, MPC was able to combine the functions of the rubber tires and timing belts into a single component.
The Result: The OEM was able to replace multiple parts with our customized belt, saving an estimated $9M per year in service calls, downtime, and spare parts. Moreover, the customer was able to retain the account at risk.
The Solution: MPC developed a custom formulated Durethane® C technology that provided a specific blend of COF and conductivity through its rapid prototyping process. This flexibility enabled the OEM to support MPC's R&D efforts to quickly ramp up to production demand.
The Result: MPC's custom-formulated Durethane® C technology met demanding properties that improved the system's overall performance. As a result, the OEM successfully entered a new market with less maintenance.
The Solution: MPC manufactured high-density 70D structural foam enclosures through a Reaction Injection Molding (RIM) process. To meet performance requirements, MPC applied a specialized EMI-shielding paint to the inside enclosures before finalizing the part’s surface finish with a specific color and texture to match the system's aesthetic requirements.
The Result: MPC was able to provide a completed product that met the customer’s overall design and quality requirements, including EMI shielding. This enabled the OEM to successfully market their new product line and grow their self-service kiosk business around the world.
The Solution: To eliminate the printing deformities and improve downtime, MPC proposed a Durethane S solid 65A elastomer. This material featured high abrasion resistance and resiliency that extended the printing plate’s wear life.
The Result: MPC provided printing plates that allowed the OEM to produce high-quality results longer on corrugated packaging. The proposed elastomeric material increased machine uptime and saved the customer on repair costs.
Conclusion
Thermoset polyurethanes can play a vital role in a wide range of paper & media handling applications from ATMs, printers, and self-service kiosks to name a few. When determining a material, it is important to consider your product's key physical properties, environmental conditions, and aesthetic requirements to achieve optimal performance. If you are seeking material assistance for your product design, complete our design tool, here, or download our material data sheet below: