European Thermoforming Conference 2002 - Zurich

'the event that those associated with the Thermoforming Industry could not afford to miss' - and so it proved!

Nearly 240 attendees from 22 different nations met in Europe to ensure that this was truly an international event.

The SPE European Thermoforming Division Conference is one of the few events organised, sponsored and managed by members of their industry

The 3-day biennial conference held in Zurich from 22nd- 25th March was unique insomuch as it represents a practical educational platform supported by seminars from internationally renowned speakers in the field of thermoforming. Coupled with the constant networking opportunities the conference offers, it remains the industries most important forum.

Seminars were well balanced covering many topical subjects in both thin and thick gauge disciplines. Speakers gave insights into new developments, materials and market opportunities that exist as well as a review of competitive processes. Technical presentations included papers on biodegradable packaging, selective laser sintering and flammability specifications for plastic parts, to name but a few.

Experts were invited to participate in a number of controversial workshops, the presenters provoking topical debate with the very experienced audience rising to the challenge. These sessions were always lively and well attended,

The subjects this year included the future of twin sheet thermoforming and the necessity and involvement of industrial designers in developing markets for thermoforming processes. Thin sheet thermoforming workshops included developments in cutting technology and in line versus off line processing.

Interesting comparisons were made between the European and U.S. markets resulting in the overall impression that Europe has significant potential for advancement outside the 'traditional' market areas.

Great emphasis will be placed by the E.T.D. over the coming months on the subject of market development. Efforts will be made to raise the profile of thermoforming processes and its capabilities to industrial designers and engineers within manufacturing industries.

The President of the S.P.E. Terry Browitt who attended the conference, commented during the proceedings how much of a great success the event had been and announced that at a recent council meeting, the Society of Plastics Engineers agreed to charter the European Thermoforming Division as the first official division outside the United States - a remarkable achievement.

The details of the 4th E.T.D. Conference will be announced shortly, but we can confirm the date will be March 2004, venue to be decided. However, based on the success of this and previous conferences and with limited places available and simultaneous translation planned for the next event, it is recommended to make a note in your diaries now.