Table
of
Contents
Special Advertising Supplement
Cover by Mackenzie Diekmann, IAPD Senior Multimedia and Design Manager.
This is the official publication of the International Association of Plastics Distribution and carries news and announcements concerning the IAPD. The association and Performance Plastics: A Publication of IAPD — The Performance Plastics Association are not responsible for content or opinions other than those relating to association activities.
® Registered, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, by the International Association of Plastics Distribution. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in any form whatsoever is forbidden without express permission of registered trademark owner.
Performance Plastics: A Publication of IAPD — The Performance Plastics Association is printed on paper with 10% post-consumer recycled content.
IAPD • phone (913) 345-1005 • fax (913) 345-1006 • www.iapd.org
Three pillars, one vision: A look back at iapd’s 2024 strategic initiatives
This article is an adaptation of IAPD President Peter DelGado’s Wednesday General Session speech, delivered at the 68th IAPD Annual Convention in Louisville, KY, USA, October 9, 2024.
t last year’s IAPD Annual Convention + connecX in San Diego, we debuted the updated IAPD Three-Pillar Strategy, which reflects our core strategic pillars:
- Grow and advocate for the Performance Plastics Industry.
- Improve the knowledge, performance and capability of IAPD members
- Make the distribution channel the path of choice.
Looking to iapd’s future: a conversation with IAPD President and Vice President
Jim Richards: We had productive supplier/customer meetings and committee meetings throughout the week. The Government Relations Educational Session offered valuable insights into what the next four years might hold for our industry.
On Tuesday, the PAC Reception was a great success, raising over US$7,000 in contributions. Thank you all for your generosity — these funds will go directly toward supporting our legislative efforts to advance the performance plastics industry.
DelGado: We were thrilled to welcome new members and first-time attendees at their reception, followed by reconnecting with old friends at the Welcome Reception.
Showcase

Ensinger and Loson have collaborated to successfully optimize a Delta robot’s performance in food packaging lines by replacing traditional metal inserts with high-performance polymers. A case study published by Ensinger demonstrates how TECAPEEK natural polymer can enhance robotic arm efficiency while solving multiple engineering challenges.
The original robotic arm design, weighing approximately 300g, included aluminum inserts that accounted for 27% of the total weight. These metal components added unnecessary weight and posed corrosion risks in food packaging environments where aggressive cleaning agents are used.
By replacing the aluminum inserts with TECAPEEK natural and implementing an innovative mechanical connection design, the engineering team achieved several key improvements:
News
Articles reporting on plastic products are prepared from information furnished by members of the IAPD and non-member magazine advertisers. The information provided is deemed reliable but is not verified. It should not be assumed that the publisher has reviewed or tested any of the products. For more information, contact companies by visiting their websites.

The product meets ASTM-D-1784 specifications and UL 94 V-0 testing criteria while maintaining RoHS compliance. Available in light gray with a smooth finish, the sheets range from 1/8 inch to 3 inches in thickness, with FM 4910 listing covering thicknesses from 1/4 inch to 1 inch.
CORRTEC CORZAN CPVC sheet is compatible with other Corzan pipes and fittings, making it an ideal choice for electrical cabinets, water treatment facilities, and air handling applications. www.plaskolite.com.
Generational influence on Work and Career Advancement
here are numerous factors that influence how individuals approach their career. The generational category to which one belongs is a significant factor. As the average retirement age increases, so do the number of generational categories that are present in the work force. While not all who belong to one generational category share the same defining characteristics, understanding how the generational categories are determined, the unique contributing factors that influence these generations, as well as how these factors shape their views of work and careers may prove to be advantageous. The differences between each generation within a workplace can be a source of misunderstandings and potentially lead to conflict. When we work to gain understanding of the different generations, these misunderstandings or conflicts can be avoided resulting in a better work environment. Better yet, embracing the strengths of each generation can unlock huge potential within multigenerational teams.
EnvironmentalCorner
Celebrating iapd Member Achievements in sustainability
The 2024 IAPD Environmental Excellence & Environmental Impact Award Winners
he IAPD Environmental Excellence Award and Environmental Impact Award were created to honor companies who have gone above and beyond in their dedication to sustainable business practices. Applicants for the award are assessed by the IAPD Environmental Committee based on strategies for recycling, conservation, community outreach, employee engagement and more. As we enter the new year, let’s take a moment to look back on the inspiring achievements of the 2024 Environmental Excellence and Environmental Impact Award winners.

Gold – Cast Nylons Ltd.
They consistently exceed their goal of recycling over 75% of their solid waste annually.
Cast Nylons Ltd. also diverts 25,000+ pounds annually from landfills through an innovative recycling initiative which involves the depolymerization of one of their plant waste streams to convert it back to its original raw material.
SIMONA AMERICA Group Embraces Sustainable Initiatives by taking Actionable Steps
IMONA AMERICA Group has announced a series of significant steps in sustainability. For SIMONA, sustainability is an integral part of their global identity, guided by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. SIMONA’s approach to sustainability is focused on “producing right” by incorporating more efficient processing methods, educating the next generation of plastic’s industry leaders about how to impact the future responsibly and positively, as well as product modernization – where plastic can be a part of innovative technologies for a more sustainable future.
SpecialFocus
t the dawn of a new era of space exploration, aerospace companies worldwide are seeking ways to make their products more efficient, reliable and cost-effective as humanity looks to the stars. Plastics are one of the most versatile materials that aid in achieving this goal of expanding our reach beyond our atmosphere. Plastics’ adaptability across a myriad of applications has led to its integration into almost every new project in the aerospace industry. Plastics offer significant advantages transforming how aircraft and spacecraft are designed, manufactured and operated.
SpecialFocus
Elevating safety: Plastics for a secure aerospace
hen it comes to our modern world, we understand that every facet of our lives needs plastics. In aerospace, plastics transform a flying metal tube into a safe, durable and lighter-weight high-functioning environment that is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable. Plastics are an integral part of an aircraft’s ability to function and many parts using plastics are not there solely for the sake of a lightweight solution. Plastics used in aircrafts are engineered and designed to provide additional benefits, such as fire resistance, chemical resistance, visibility and strength.
While flame-ratings are usually top of mind when considering which plastic works best for various parts in an airplane, it’s more than simple fire resistance. Plastics need to meet specific fire rating characteristics; but what does that mean?
SpecialFocus
he aerospace industry is a dynamic market for solutions that rely on machinable plastics. Whether discussing the commercial aircraft segment, the defense segment (including military drones) or the space segment (including satellites and other space-based systems), the level of technology employed dictates a heavy reliance on safety, performance and precision that rules out many lower-grade and lower-cost materials — and even traditional plastic processes like injection molding.
In addition to delivering the best possible strength and overall performance, machined plastic parts are better when:
- Lower volume requirements are requested because there is little or no tooling investment.
- Precise tolerances are required.
- Fast delivery is needed.






APD – The Performance Plastics Association, concluded its 68th IAPD Annual Convention + connecX on October 10, 2024, at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, KY, USA. This event welcomed delegates from across the world for a week of critical industry conversations about workforce retention, upcoming federal legislation/regulations and economic forecasting; as well as supplier meetings and ample professional networking opportunities.
The General Sessions featured insightful keynote presentations diving into leadership skills by Matt Mayberry and economic forecasting Alan Beaulieu.
The IAPD connecX showcase was held on Wednesday. The new connecX Passport game amped up engagement across the show floor, driving attendees to spend time at more booths to gain entry into a prize raffle.
Convention delegates enjoyed the history of Louisville throughout the week, starting with a bourbon tasting at the Welcome Reception and wrapping up the week with the closing party at Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby.
Save the date: The 69th IAPD Annual Convention + connecX will be held September 28 – October 2, 2025 at the Marriott Marquee in Chicago, IL, USA.
2024 Special Recognitions & Awards

Paul Davis Award of Merit
In 1986, IAPD created the Paul Davis Award of Merit to recognize members who have performed exceptional, extraordinary or outstanding service on behalf of the association and the plastics distribution industry. IAPD has awarded the distinguished 2024 Paul Davis Award of Merit to Deborah Ragsdale of Polymer Industries, honoring her remarkable contributions to the performance plastics industry. Since joining Polymer Industries in 1989, Ragsdale has shown impressive growth, advancing from receptionist to her current role as director of relations. A respected industry leader, Ragsdale served two impactful terms each as IAPD vice president and president. Her effective leadership of the Government Relations Committee and Political Action Committee, along with service on multiple boards and committees, has significantly strengthened the organization and established her as a trusted industry advocate.
connecX TRADE SHOW




at Churchill Downs







People &
Places
Jonathan

Dr. Keith Hechtel

Fabrication
SERVICES SHOWCASE
Fabrication Services Showcase contains paid listings of companies with fabrication services, products and machinery that cater to the performance plastics distribution industry. IAPD does not endorse nor make recommendations in regard to the companies supplying their services. For details and pricing information to include your company in this Fabrication Services Showcase, contact Dave Blackhurst, IAPD’s Sales Executive, at (913) 345-1005 or email dblackhurst@iapd.org.
CNC Equipment

Sawing, trimming, drilling, polishing, measuring or 3D processing — no matter what techniques are involved, Stiles has the CNC technology to get it done. Their machining solutions can be custom-configured to your specific needs. From productivity and high precision, to energy and material savings, Stiles provides proven CNC options for plastics processing. For more information, contact info@stilesmachinery.com or visit www.stilesmachinery.com.

Vortex Tool Company, Inc. designs and manufactures a wide variety of standard and custom high-performance router and insert cutting tools for the woodworking and plastics industries, and provides retipping and sharpening services for all makes and models. www.vortextool.com, phone (800) 355-7708.
REP BUSINESS
Exchange
special advertising supplement
Annual
Corporate Profiles
IAPD is proud to present its annual look at innovative companies in the performance plastics industry. Enjoy learning more about the wide range of materials, equipment and services available from these advertisers.

THE PLASTICS EXPERTS
ince 1988, Georgetown, SC–based AGRU America, Inc. has created innovative engineering plastics solutions for a safer and more sustainable future. AGRU America is part of AGRU Kunststofftechnik GmbH, an Austrian family-owned enterprise in business since 1948. AGRU maintains production facilities in Austria, the United States and China. AGRU solutions, including state-of-the-art products such as AGRU geosynthetics, concrete protective liners, pipes and fittings and semi-finished products, are sold in over 100 countries on six continents from over 150 distribution sites.
AGRU America comprises five U.S. manufacturing facilities, four in South Carolina and one in Fernley, NV. These facilities produce or distribute products under three engineering plastics categories: geosynthetics, pipes and fittings, and semi-finished products. AGRU solutions combine various AGRU products and services to offer engineers avenues to tackle complex application challenges, including waste management, water/wastewater, mining, energy, industrial and construction. AGRU promotes the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals by creating solutions supporting access to clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, infrastructure and communities.

eadquartered in Spring, Texas, Champion Fiberglass® Inc. is the leading supplier of fiberglass conduit and strut to the industrial, electrical and mechanical markets. It is the most advanced production facility for manufacturing rigid fiberglass conduit in North America, where the company’s proprietary high-speed winding process and high-temperature curing ovens are key to the consistency and quality of these versatile products.
Beginning its production of epoxy fiberglass conduit and fittings in 1988, Champion Fiberglass has steadily grown to reach a number of milestones throughout the years.

ecognized as a worldwide leader in plastics processing technology and application development, Ensinger has the ability to combine the optimum materials solution with the most suitable manufacturing method, and thus provides the industry with the most innovative and cost-effective engineering solutions available today. Ensinger designs and manufactures semi-finished and finished products tailored exactly to the customer’s individual requirements. Your projects can benefit from Ensinger’s vast knowledge base and many years of experience in finding the best solutions for problems involving engineering thermoplastics materials.
Ensinger offers a broader array of engineering materials than any other plastics processor. From general industrial materials such as polypropylene, polyethylene, acetal and nylon to high performance resins such as TECAPEEK® polyetheretherketone and TECATRON® polyphenylene sulfide, Ensinger has the ability to provide shapes and parts for even the most difficult and challenging applications and environments.

manufacturers of quality polycarbonate sheets and panels
allina SRL was founded in 1960 by Pier Aulo Gallina in La Loggia, Italy specializing in plastic trim production for the automotive industry. Over the subsequent years, Gallina has expanded its product lines and developed polycarbonate sheet and system solutions for the architectural and industrial market sectors. Today, the Gallina companies are renowned producers and suppliers in Europe, the Middle East and the Americas, with production facilities and manufacturing partnerships in Italy, Greece, Turkey, the United States, France, Germany and India with key sales partnerships throughout Europe and the United States.
Gallina USA, LLC was established in Janesville, WI, USA in 2002 and currently operates a 150,000-square-foot manufacturing and warehousing facility serving the multiwall and solid sheet polycarbonate needs for the distribution, architectural, industrial, horticultural and do-it-yourself (DIY) sectors.

committed to quality and continuous improvements
ince their inception over 50 years ago, Hudson Extrusions, Inc. has been dedicated to a singular goal: “Total Customer Satisfaction.” They strive to exceed their customers’ expectations through outstanding customer service, quick turnaround times and producing extruded plastic tubing and profiles of exceptional quality.
Having been family owned and operated since 1956, they value the personal service that has become scarce in today’s technologically advanced environment. Their knowledgeable sales staff has a combined 40+ years of experience in the plastics industry and are ready to help with any questions or inquiries you may have.

Our Innovation. Your Imagination.®
ing Plastic Corporation is a leading manufacturer of quality polymer sheets, slabs and massive shapes — including several products pioneered by the company. Its polymers are made in the United States and sold worldwide through a network of top plastics distributors to customers who fabricate products for the marine industry (King StarBoard® brand), signage, food service, healthcare, architectural, industrial and other markets. King Plastic manufactures more than 20 products including:
- King StarBoard® — The original marine-grade polymer sheet
- King StarBoard® AS — The anti-skid marine-grade polymer sheet
- King StarBoard® XL — The lightweight marine-grade cellular sheet





Conveyor Guide Rails made with King Hy-Pact® in black







Conveyor Guide Rails made with King Hy-Pact® in black

POLYCARBONATE & PVC POWERHOUSE
ith time-tested resources, proprietary technologies, and a rich history of expertise, Palram has become a trusted partner to markets spanning industrial; construction and architecture; safety and security; sign and display; transportation; and outdoor living.
From our seasoned sales reps and knowledgeable and responsive customer service team to timely shipping, and broad breadth of offering, Palram is committed to providing world-class service.
Experience the benefits of a nimble, single source supplier of high-quality polycarbonate and PVC.

he companies of The Rowmark Group (TRG), including FinishTEK, RCL and Rowmark Extrusion, are focused on helping you exceed your customers’ expectations. Whether you’re looking for custom plastic sheet extrusion or the latest in surface decoration through custom laminated films and state-of-the-art robotic hydrographic application, TRG makes it easy to get all of your materials from one source.
FinishTEK pioneered the hydrographic dipping process in the 1990s. A state-of-the-art facility with robotic hydrographic dipping capabilities and a knowledgeable team has made FinishTEK a leading supplier of decorated plastics and metals for OEM and Tier One suppliers.

egener Welding, LLC is an international supplier of high-quality welding, processing and testing equipment for thermoplastic materials. Their mission is not only to offer a wide range of quality products, but to ensure that our customers have access to customized solutions, expert advice, training programs and reliable service and support. A dedicated team of knowledgeable personnel are available to aid in defining the proper equipment for the job, as well as finding solutions to any welding problems their customers may have.
AdvertisersIndex
BoardofDirectors
AdvertisersIndex
Champion Fiberglass • (281) 655–8900 • www.championfiberglass.com
Ensinger • (800) 243–3221 • www.ensingerplastics.com
Gallina USA, LLC • (888) 463–3342 • www.gallinausa.com
Hudson Extrusions, Inc. • (800) 837–6015 • www.hudsonextrusions.com
King Plastic Corporation • (800) 780–5502 • www.kingplastic.com
Palram Americas • (800) 999–9459 • www.palramamericas.com
Rowmark LLC • (800) 243–3339 • www.rowmark.com
Wegener Welding, LLC • (800) 647–3061 • www.wegenerwelding.com
BoardofDirectors
Michelle Betz • Alro Plastics • Jackson, Michigan, USA
Jeff Burke • Curbell Plastics, Inc. • Orchard Park, New York, USA
Katie Clapp • A&C Plastics, Inc.• Houston, Texas, USA
Chris Corona, Executive Committee • CartierWilson LLC • Solon, Ohio, USA
Bryan Davis • Ensinger • Washington, Pennsylvania, USA
Peter DelGado, President • Curbell Plastics, Inc. • Orchard Park, New York, USA
Kevin Duffy • VYCOM – A PLASKOLITE COMPANY • Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA
Bob Healy • Mitsubishi Chemical Group • Reading, Pennsylvania, USA
Hayden Hess, Executive Committee • Industrial Plastic Supply, Inc. • Anaheim, California, USA
Jeremy Kietzke • Professional Plastics, Inc. • Dallas, Texas, USA
Mike McKenna • Interstate Advanced Materials • Sacramento, California, USA
Jim Richards, Vice President • PLASKOLITE • Columbus, Ohio, USA
Ken Schwartz • Covestro LLC – Specialty Films • South Deerfield, Massachusetts, USA
Publishing
Headquarters
Headquarters Staff
Editorial Committee
6734 W. 121st Street
Overland Park, Kansas 66209 USA
Susan E. Avery, CAE
savery@iapd.org
Editor
Sara Marquardt
smarquardt@iapd.org
Director of Marketing & Content
Erin Smith
esmith@iapd.org
Advertising Sales
Jessica Bokath
jbokath@iapd.org
Senior Design & Multimedia Manager
Mackenzie Diekmann
mdiekmann@iapd.org
Board Liaison • Ken Schwartz • Covestro LLC – Specialty Films • South Deerfield, Massachusetts, USA
Trisha Beeman • Professional Plastics, Inc. • Bellingham, WA, USA
Paige Bowen • Seelye Acquisitions • Apopka, FL, USA
Peter Daumeyer • CartierWilson LLC • Tampa, Florida, USA
Michael Fabbri • King Plastic Corporation • North Port, Florida, USA
Keith Hechtel • Curbell Plastics, Inc. • Orchard Park, New York, USA.
Jeff Mikitka • Mitsubishi Chemical Group • Reading, Pennsylvania, USA
Bryan Olin • Polymer Industries • Tacoma, Washington, USA
Ed Townsend • Braskem • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Amy Woodard • Piedmont Plastics • Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
Publishing
Headquarters
6734 W. 121st Street
Overland Park, Kansas 66209 USA
Headquarters Staff
Publisher
Susan E. Avery, CAE
savery@iapd.org
Editor
Sara Marquardt
smarquardt@iapd.org
Director of Marketing & Content
Erin Smith
esmith@iapd.org
Advertising Sales
Jessica Bokath
jbokath@iapd.org
Senior Design & Multimedia Manager
Mackenzie Diekmann
mdiekmann@iapd.org
Editorial Committee
Board Liaison • Ken Schwartz • Covestro LLC – Specialty Films • South Deerfield, Massachusetts, USA
Trisha Beeman • Professional Plastics, Inc. • Bellingham, WA, USA
Paige Bowen • Seelye Acquisitions • Apopka, FL, USA
Peter Daumeyer • CartierWilson LLC • Tampa, Florida, USA
Michael Fabbri • King Plastic Corporation • North Port, Florida, USA
Keith Hechtel • Curbell Plastics, Inc. • Orchard Park, New York, USA.
Jeff Mikitka • Mitsubishi Chemical Group • Reading, Pennsylvania, USA
Bryan Olin • Polymer Industries • Tacoma, Washington, USA
Ed Townsend • Braskem • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Amy Woodard • Piedmont Plastics • Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
