PLASTY 2025 Conference in Milovy: Expert Topics, Current Challenges, and a Discussion on the Future of the Plastics Industry

Industry Meeting Focusing on Current Challenges in the Plastics Industry 

The opening address was delivered by Marek Křupka, Managing Director of the organising company, who emphasised the importance of sharing technical knowledge, practical experience and keeping abreast of current industry trends. The conference once again confirmed its role as a platform for connecting technical expertise with the specific needs and challenges facing the plastics industry.

The Plastics Industry: Current State, Trends and Sustainability 

The opening session featured presentations focusing on overall developments in the plastics sector. Discussions covered global trends in plastics consumption and the continuously expanding worldwide production capacity for plastic granules. There were also critical perspectives on the sustainability of Europe as a manufacturing centre and on the possibilities for transitioning to CO₂-neutral production. One presentation offered a specific example of a manufacturing approach that is as environmentally friendly as possible and demonstrates a practical path towards sustainability. 

PROCESS Session: Artificial Intelligence and Practical Software Tools

The session focusing on the process side of production presented new opportunities for using artificial intelligence – from communicating with a specialised chatbot to resolve process problems through to data analysis and support for production stabilisation. It also included demonstrations of intelligent assistants responding to changes in the production process, as well as assistants with a machine protection function. In addition, practical applications of purging compounds, heat transfer fluids and automatic lubrication systems were presented. Participants appreciated the specific practical examples and discussions of the benefits of these technologies for improving production efficiency and quality.

MATERIALS Session: Recycling, Additives, Regranulates and Legislation

The materials session focused primarily on processing plastic waste and ensuring the quality of regranulates. Laboratory tests for inspecting incoming and outgoing materials were presented, and issues relating to price pressures and requirements for the traceability of recycled content in products were addressed. There were also presentations on plastics additives – including the use of UV stabilisers, antistatic agents and processing aids – and on options for modifying regranulates. One presentation covered the current state of legislation concerning plastics management, packaging recycling and a new directive aimed at preventing so-called greenwashing. 

MOULDS AND MACHINES Session: Repairs, Maintenance and Efficiency

The final thematic session focused on the technical aspects of moulds and machinery. Discussions covered mould cleaning and lubrication, the suitability of individual media, as well as common mistakes and the principles of proper maintenance. The topics of mould and screw repairs attracted attention, highlighting the differences between ideal and realistic options under production conditions. Various types of screws and their service life depending on the processing technology were also discussed. Other areas presented included intelligent production cells, peripheral equipment automation and new approaches to mould cooling such as a comparison between conventional and pulsed temperature control. Ways of avoiding human errors - mix-ups or failure to follow processing procedures - were demonstrated.

The History and Tradition of Industry Meetings in the Plastics Industry

At the end of the first day of the conference, Mr Jaroslav Novák, a long-standing member of the Uniplast association, recalled the history of plastics conferences and seminars in the former Czechoslovakia. This tradition dates back to the 1960s. His presentation served as a reminder of how important it was, and still is, for professionals to meet to exchange experience and develop their expertise.

Summary and Benefits of the PLASTY 2025 Conference

The two-day programme offered not only technical presentations, but also opportunities for networking, discussions and sharing experience. The aim of connecting professionals across the sector, creating a forum for open debate and providing inspiration from practice was fully achieved. 

Participating Companies: Spectra, Arburg, Boco, Engel, Fanuc, Korinex, Mepac, PP Kovanda, Radka, Remiva, Uniplast, Valplast SK, Wittmann.