A new, upgraded, state-of-the art polymer testing facility has been unveiled in Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal.  One of only a handful similar facilities in South Africa, the new testing laboratory is specifically aimed at product testing and new product development for Continental Compounders’ local and international customers.

Polymer diversity

“The world of engineering polymers is both exciting, diverse and dynamic. New compounds are continuously being developed in this ever-evolving industry in order to meet the requirements of the engineering fraternity. Globally, compounding companies are at the forefront of these developments, pushing the envelope of machine and materials. In order for Continental Compounders to remain on the cutting edge of these advancements, we invested a significant amount of finances, technical innovation and intellectual capital into creating a laboratory that is capable of offering our customers a highly specialised, technical service, which goes hand-in-hand with our recent investment in new a engineered polymers compounds facility,” explains George Dimond, CEO of Continental.

The company manufactures engineering polymers that are primarily used for injection and extrusion in white goods, automotive, metal replacements and other similar products. They have also recently added to their product range by supplying polypropylene (PP) and nylon (PA66 and PA6) to their local compounds.

Compound testing

“Our new, expanded Engineering Polymers facility allows us to develop and produce compounds that were designed to meet the unique requirements of the African Continent, as well as ensure that our products meet and maintain stringent quality standards,” Dimond says. They are now able to perform various new tests, including Heat Deflection Tests (HDT),  Melt Flow Index (MFI), Ash Content, Impact Strength, Tensiles, Elongation, Limited Oxygen Index (LOI), Density, Shrinkage, Flexural, Congo Red, Colour Spec, Melt Rehologies and Volume Resistivity (VR).

“Having this facility in place gives our customers the peace of mind that the compounds we supply them, will meet their product and process requirements, allowing smooth and consistent operations,” Dimond says.