That Plastics Guy

In this episode, Kurt discusses why it's so important to share all technical objectives of a project with your material supplier.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Joint Kurt as he offers his thoughts on the current Canada/US trade dispute.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In today's episode, Kurt talks about proper inventory management and just how long can leftover material sit in your warehouse.  Many materials can last a long time...others have a much more limited shelf life.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses the basics of blow molding.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Joint Kurt as he gives a brief introduction to expanded polypropylene.  What is it?  How is it processed?Have a look at this plant tour video that discusses the EPP process.https://youtu.be/mWNVqLC0aes?si=GxqbfkQldnJSlJY0Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he gives a brief overview of the often overlooked and misunderstood engineered resin called "PEEK".Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In today's episode, Kurt talks about when you should consider halting a technical development, product trial, or other customer development processes.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In today's instalment of Tech Tip Friday, Kurt weighs in on density, also referred to as specific gravity.  What does it mean, and how to understand this important material specification.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses why pellets look different and what that means to you as a processor.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

On today's audio podcast, Kurt interviews Greg Moffatt, President and CEO of the Chemistry Industry Association of Canada.Learn about CIAC's background, programs, and goals with this in-depth interview of the organization's leader.  Greg truly has a passion for polymers too!For further information, please go to their website https://canadianchemistry.ca/We greatly appreciate Greg's time and the contributions he and his team make to our industry.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he gives his yearly "PSA" message about using hot air dryers to remove surface moisture on your plastic pellets.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses the origins of TPV, what makes it an easier polymer to work with than flexible PVC, and how to leverage this compound for your application.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he talks about the high level differences between TPV and TPE materials.  Both TPV and TPE are often referred to as "TPE" materials, but the chemistry and characteristics are indeed different.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In today's TTF episode, Kurt talks about the use of a quality purge compound if you run or reprocess resins, or run multiple heat history regrinds through your equipment.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses a broader definition of sustainability; what happens when parts leave the custody of ownership of the manufacturer.Can we recycle everything?  Can we make plastics break down to nothing?Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he talks about sustainability in our everyday lives, as part of the plastics processing community.  What can we do to make a difference every day?Many things...many small steps and initiatives that add up to make big differences!What are you waiting for?  Let's embrace efficiency and sustainability!Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses what an antioxidant is and why it's important to plastic processing.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In today's episode, Kurt talk about the economics of small productions with high cost material, and why smaller order quantities are the better choice (despite higher per pound prices). Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses some of the nuance associated with a commodity white masterbatch, and why they are NOT created equal.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he talks about the new additive from Polytives GmbH, that Simcoe Plastics is distributing across North America.  The Polytives additive is a viscosity (or melt flow) modifier that can help you run better parts, more efficiently.  Visit www.polytives.com for more information and contact us at [email protected] for sampling and pricing.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses the common practice of using post consumer feedstocks in nylon compounding.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

On today's episode, Kurt discusses a few basic tips that can help you navigate this seemingly out of control resin market.#ThatPlasticsGuy #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

On today's episode, Kurt talks about the importance of using a purging compound to save expensive resin.  Resin that will be in short supply should the current conflict continue. New promo hats to the first five customers that contact me for purge compound samples and pricing.#materialscience   #ThatPlasticsGuy #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

We are back into challenging times in business and specifically with resin prices.  How can we fight inflationary pressure that is the result of the current conflict (effecting 20% of the world's oil movement)?  Let's start by being fair with each other.#ThatPlasticsGuy #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In this encore presentation, Kurt discusses what a let down ratio is, and what elements can effect the let down ratio of a colour concentrate. Learn about its crucial role in achieving perfect colour matching.This episode continues our exploration of colour! Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

The first time reviewing a tool on Tech Tip Friday!Join Kurt as he discusses the Milwaukee M12 Colour Match Light (model 2127-20) and how this versatile hand held tool can be used on your shop floor.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses how different light sources can effect the colours we perceive and how light is measured.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

On today's #TTF, Kurt talks about the three main ways of combating odour in plastic applications.  Masking, eliminating the source, or absorption.  Each method has its pros and cons, but only one is safe and not chemically based.  Talk to us at [email protected] if you want to learn more.#ThatPlasticsGuy #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt has he chats with Camilo Ferro, President of RAWS Americas.  RAWS is a new type of plastics additive that does a superlative job of breaking down plastic.  With the RAWS technology, there is finally a safe and controlled multiple pathway to plastics end of life.  Whether working with prime resins, recycled streams, or a combination of both, RAWS effectively answers the end of life question that plagues plastics.  Check them out at   https://rawsamericas.com/Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he presents a brief description of what "wide spec" material is and why it doesn't always end up being the bargain that it appears to be.#thatplasticsguy  #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

On today's episode, Kurt wraps up the case study of warpage in a customer's part.  While crate-grade HDPE did produce a great part, it was not accepted by the end user.  Further digging revealed the polypro being used was wide-spec with a variance in melt flow.  Tune in to find the resolution to this case study.#ThatPlasticsGuy #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Today, Kurt talks about why certain commercial purging compounds require a "soak time" to activate.  Are they better?  Find out!#ThatPlasticsGuy #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

On today's podcast, Kurt offers his insights supporting the use of purging compounds to maximize machine uptime.Topics covered include:- How does using purge compound increase your uptime- When purging make not be advantageous- Building a procedure around your equipment when purging- Going beyond cost per pound when calculating cost savings- Types of purge compoundContact us at [email protected] if you want to learn more! Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses the importance of using a commercial purging compound to increase the uptime of your equipment.#ThatPlasticsGuy #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he shares a case study that used injection volume to control part shrink.#ThatPlasticsGuy #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses the concept of purchasing resins by the pound, but selling parts based on volumetric pricing.  Does using cheaper, but more dense materials really have a nagative impact on cost?#engineering  #thatplasticsguy  #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt and returning guest Darryl Gratrix of NexGenSkilledTrades, as they discuss and share updates related to the current state of skilled trades in Ontario.Darryl shares insights of how Ontario's education system is responding to the need for more skilled trades people.A meaningful conversation that deeply effects our society and future economic growth.  Please listen if you have (or know) high school age kids. Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he discusses how unchecked mold cooling can contribute to warpage in your polyolefin part.  #ThatPlasticsGuy #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Welcome to 2026 and welcome back to That Plastics Guy!As we start the new year, now is a great time to plan your planned maintenance for all of your production equipment!  Your main processing equipment, upstream and downstream equipment.  Do it now and be proactive and avoid excessive down time.  It could also be an ideal time to look at staff training programs (both process and personal development).Make 2026 a memorable year (for all of the right reasons)!#ThatPlasticsGuy #Plastics #InjectionMolding #PlasticManufacturing #Polymer #Engineering #Manufacturing #MaterialScienceFind Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt for the last Tech Tip Friday for 2025!As the production hours wind down and equipment is shut down for the holiday break, Kurt suggests using a mechanic purge compound, which is safe to stay for an extended period of time in the screw and barrel.Happy Holidays!!Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

On today's episode, Kurt shares insight from his recent trip to New Zealand.  Specifically, how that country has adopted a citizen-level responsibility for protecting their delicate ecosystem.  Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In today's #TTF, Kurt suggests choosing sustainability over wasteful consumerism.  Consider gifting consumables, experiences, or high quality/long lasting items.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In today's episode, Kurt talks about the importance of being an advocate for the plastics industry and the responsible use and management of plastics as a commodity.And DON'T litter!!!Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he welcomes back to the show, Justin Riney, the Sustainability Commercial Manager for the Americas, for INEOS Styrolution America, LLC.Justin tells us about different projects the PSRA has worked on throughout North America in 2025 - including infrastructure investments to increase polystyrene recycling and new partnerships. We also discuss how legislation can positively impact the work of plastics recycling and what's in store for Justin at the PSRA in the coming year.Tune in to learn why, and how we can all drive positive conversations about polystyrene!Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In today's episode, Kurt gives a summary of the podcast he recorded with Justin Riney of the Polystyrene Recycling Alliance.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In today's TTF, Kurt shares what he thinks is the most important ingredient for success.  Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

Join Kurt as he offers a few tips accumulated over the years to help build and develop relationships with your customers.  Kurt talks about what to budget, as well as the importance of spending time (rather than just dollars) to build trust, respect, and above all a decent working relationship with your important customers.Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In today's episode, Kurt talks about his decision to purchase Simcoe Plastics and "go it alone".  Entrepreneurship is rewarding, challenging, and exhilarating...but, full of responsibility, discipline, and intellect.  If you believe being an entrepreneur is your chosen path, you really need to ask yourself if you have the skills, support, and industry knowledge to not only forge this path, but to succeed.Reach out if you want to connect and talk about it! Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

In this "spooky" episode of Tech Tip Friday, Kurt covers some of the scary causes of molding defects.  Just a quick reminder of the basics of good molding and especially the good practices when changing between molds and/or colour.Boo!Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle

On today's #TTF, Kurt asks the question "how are you going to leverage AI in your plastics business?"Whether you are a processor, distributor, engineering consultant, sales team, or marketing to an end user...how will this revolutionary tool impact your business?  How will you safeguard, or "future proof" your business?  How will you leverage AI to make your business leaner and more efficient?Take some time to reflect and leave a comment if you are so inclined.Happy Friday and have a great weekend!Find Simcoe Plastics Ltd. on Facebook and Instagram.Find "That Plastics Guy" on Linked-In and YouTube.Find Kurt Stahle on Linked-In as well.Subscribe to our newsletter at www.simcoeplastics.comAll links here  https://linktr.ee/kurt_stahle