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ARMA Annual Conference 2003 July 13th - 16th Christchurch, New Zealand The Association of Rotational Moulders Australasia held their conference in chilly Christchurch this year with a follow on ski trip for the après-ski crowd. There were over 100 attendees, 75 of whom were from rotomolding companies. The atmosphere was enthusiastic as usual with many new-comers mixing with the old-timers. My personal enjoyment in attending ARMA events stems not only from the opportunity to meet many old friends but also in meeting these new-comers. Being so far from Europe and North America encourages (forces?) creativity to the fore. Molders try and succeed in doing things that many in other countries would not even attempt. I'm looking forward to coming back again soon. Sunday July 13th - Qenos Reception The event kicked off with a reception hosted by Qenos, one of the local material suppliers. Qenos acknowledges rotomolding as a strategic market for their business, one that they have seen grow consistently over the last decade. The evening was a good chance to meet, talk and it set the scene nicely for the rest of the conference. Monday July 14th Leisa Donlan, CEO of ARMA, put together an excellent list of speakers and topics. The conference was also the basis for the general meetings of the association with several open workshops to allow members to express their opinions on important matters. Here's a quick review of the papers presented: Using Simulation as a Planning Tool in Rotational Moulding - Prof. Roy Crawford, Queen's University of Belfast An excellent presentation as always. Roy described results produced using the RotoSim simulation software for rotational molding. The program can be used for process support for process control and troubleshooting and also for process development by assisting with the analysis of variables for development work. Some good data comparing experimental and predicted results presented but I'd still like to see more. Using Technology for Profit in Rotational Moulding - Rory Jones, La Politecnica, Auckland Rory has returned to his native Auckland after studying at Queen's University and working at ITR in Turin, Italy for 18 months. Rory discussed some of the differences in approach between molders in New Zealand and Europe. New Zealand molders trend towards single product dedicated facilities whereas European molders are more generalists. ITR appear to have conducted some interesting work on rotomolding materials. Improving Business Profitability and Marketing Strategies for Websites, Email & the Internet - Debbie Mayo-Smith Now this one was good. Nothing to do with rotomolding directly but Debbie presented some great ideas and tips for improving your website and email approach. I'm implementing as I type... Business Relationships that Work - Managing the Client - Barry Tuck Barry is a local business consultant who talked about building business relationships that work based on three key points: Positive, Enduring, Mutually Beneficial. He encourages everyone to raise service delivery, increase that 'surprise and delight' factor, develop long-term strategic partnerships and create advocates for your business through customers and suppliers. Enhancing the Performance of Pigmented Rotational Moulded Applications - Peter Holbein, Ciba Specialty Chemicals A review of pigment and additive properties critical for effective dispersion and use in rotational molding. Polymer Selection & Performance - Tony Mercieca, Qenos A review of material properties and their selection for various applications. Ask the Experts - Common Problem Solutions for the Process - Chaired by Graham Cole, LinPac Rotational Moulding Nice to see Graham back in the saddle. Here he was chairing a panel of experts assembled to discuss various aspects of the process.
Advances in Machinery for Rotational Moulding - Pierluigi Sacchi, Polivinil, Italy Polivinil have introduced a new line of molding machines known as Logica (ΛOGICA). The machines offer compact burner systems, folding oven doors and compact gear motor systems that reduce floor space utilization by 20%. A heat exchange system also improves gas consumption. Tuesday July 15th Strategies for Attracting Young Employees & Australian Training Package - Wendy Davies, Manufacturing Learning Australia Wendy discussed the various government drives to improve training in Australian Industry. ARMA has been proactive in this area and has a new training pacakge available to it's members. J.R. Courtenay Polymers - Dario Masutti Dario reviewed ICO Polymer's global presence and two projects that are of broad interest to the industry: surface pinholing and internal surface crazing. Looking forward to further presentations. Advanced Problem Solving - Paul Nugent A chance to discuss some key problems for rotational molding and field some questions from the audience. Two and a half hours goes quickly - we (I) could talk all day once the group starts. Good stuff. Factory Tour - Mace Engineering Ltd. Mace is a local firm that offers cast mold services as part of their broader engineering services. The tour was impressive particularly their new high power to weight ratio two stroke engine with the lateral piston. Thanks to Warwick for arranging a private tour after the main event. Australasian Industry Update - Leisa Donlan, CEO & Bill Clough, President of ARMA Leisa and Bill reviewed the events of the last year and how the industry is faring. ARM - An International Perspective - Dave Mulligan, President of ARM International Dave presented thoughts on closer ties between ARMA and ARM International. The two groups are looking to capitalize on common interests to help focus rotational molding activities with other groups worldwide. Vanglobe's Christmas in July Gala Dinner The season's are a little confused in the southern hemisphere and to add to the confusion, Vanglobe Ltd. sponsored a lively Christmas Gala event replete with turkey dinners and live entertainment. It was an excellent evening complete with a successful turn at the blackjack tables into the early hours. Here's a couple of shots to give you a flavor of what took place.
For those that know that Ann Rowland of Ferry Industries, Inc. is possessed, here is photographic evidence of those demons that pursue her constantly. You might even see horns growing if you look closely.....
Speaking of demons, here are two devils that can brighten up any conference. Vinnie Smith of Devan Plastics and Richard Harris of J.R. Courtenay's preparing for a night of debauchery.
To balance the madness, we turn to the poise of Pierluigi Sacchi and his charming daughter, Chiara. Peter Vybiral and Nick McNelly of Fylost Plastics despite the attire are actually Australian - (un)fortunately you can't quite see their formal shorts in the picture.
Yours truly with Adrian Browne with an 'E' of Betapoly (local joke, you had to be there).
I can't quite remember what the award was for but here's Leisa Donlan (CEO of ARMA) presenting Ann with something for doing something special. (Is that Lucifer in the background?)
It's always good to see Peter Poulsen of Skellerup. Here he is with his wife and Dave and Julie Mulligan of Roto Plastics Corp. Dave is President of ARM International and attended the meeting to discuss closer ties with the Australasian group. Wednesday July 16th Industry Panel Sessions These were a chance for molders to raise questions and issues associated with some important topics affecting many or all of the molders in the association, including: ARM - ARMA proposed merger / collaboration Industry warranties Training systems Workshops Welding - Bruce Russell Innovation - Tony Beasley, Canterbury Rotomoulders Ltd.
2004 Conference Next years event is scheduled for July 2004 in the wine growing region of the Barossa Valley near Adelaide, Australia. Reserve my spot at the wine tasting now Leisa..... |
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