Advanced press technology accelerates polymer innovation at APT

Applied Polymer Technology (APT), part of the Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest (TUS), has enhanced its polymer testing capabilities with the addition of a LabEcon 600 Laboratory Press. Supplied and commissioned by Intelicare, the exclusive distributor for Fontijne Presses in the UK and Ireland, this advanced press is set to play a vital role in APT’s research and development in polymer technology.

Supporting Irish industry with advanced polymer solutions

APT offers cutting-edge polymer technology solutions to Irish companies across sectors such as MedTech, GreenTech, packaging, and sustainability. By focusing on innovation and global competitiveness, APT helps businesses develop state-of-the-art polymer products that unlock export opportunities and improve market standing.

The LabEcon 600: Precision and versatility for R&D

Fontijne’s LabEcon series is renowned for delivering high-performance, compact presses tailored for laboratory and research environments. APT’s LabEcon 600 features a pressing capacity of up to 600 kN, enabling precise quality control and testing of various polymer materials. Its compact design makes it ideal for preparing small-scale samples, ensuring consistent and accurate results across different testing protocols.

Equipped with a heated platen system capable of reaching 400°C, as well as cooling and expanded daylight options, the LabEcon 600 provides unmatched operational flexibility and efficiency in sample processing. This makes it an invaluable tool for producing thin polymer films, which are crucial for applications like puncture and tensile testing, oxygen and moisture transmission rate analysis, and optical clarity assessments—all without requiring costly moulds.

Enhancing sustainable innovation

Dr Declan Devine, Director of the PRISM Research Institute and Academic Director of APT, highlighted the press’s impact:

“The Fontijne Press is an excellent addition to our portfolio of polymer processing equipment. It is a vital tool in developing sustainable materials for packaging applications, helping us accelerate innovation in this space.”

Dr Declan Colbert, Principal Investigator at PRISM, echoed this sentiment:

“The LabEcon 600 provides exceptional capabilities for analysing high-performance polymers and novel biomaterials. Fontijne and Intelicare’s post-installation support has been outstanding.”

Key features of the LabEcon 600

The LabEcon 600 delivers reliable, high-quality results thanks to its advanced features, including:

• ProView control system: A 15” touchscreen interface for real-time process monitoring and precise adjustments
• Active cooling system: Automated cooling between pressing cycles for faster turnaround times, with customisation to industry standards
• Flexible daylight configuration: Increased daylight options for enhanced versatility in sample preparation
• Ergonomic and safe design: Features like a fixed upper platen, emergency stop system, and safety shield ensure user safety and ease of operation

Elevating polymer research

The LabEcon 600 significantly enhances APT’s ability to conduct high-precision testing and sample preparation, which are essential for advancing material development and optimising formulations. Whether improving polymers for the medical industry or creating sustainable composite materials, this state-of-the-art press enables APT to meet the rigorous demands of modern polymer research.

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