SPEAKER INTERVIEW: Steve Torchia, Sasol Chemicals
In the run-up to the Injection Molding and Design Expo, we will be talking to our speakers to get their insight into the industry. Next up is Steve Torchia, Senior Manager, Global Market Development and Product Innovation at Sasol Chemicals.
Sasol is a global chemicals and energy company. They harness the knowledge and expertise to integrate sophisticated technologies and processes into world-scale operating facilities. They safely and sustainably source, produce and market a range of high-quality products in 22 countries. Their world leading Fischer-Tropsch technology provides the foundation to produce fuels and chemicals from coal, natural gas, and sustainable materials.
What do you think sets your company apart from your competitors?
Sasol’s purpose is innovating for a Better World. Innovating for a better world, captures the essence of Future Sasol, and our ‘can-do’ spirit, so ingrained in our DNA, that it pushes us to always strive for excellence and adopt new approaches, to continuously evolve and improve. Innovating speaks to doing things differently, and in new ways. We’re bringing unique technology to the injection molding industry to enable more sustainable processing, cost savings, improved quality, and simplified supply chain.
Are there any new technology developments that your company is working on at the moment?
Our development pipeline for polymer and rubber additives is full. Working with customers, we’re developing new solutions to resolve processing challenges and improve sustainability of their operations.
What are the biggest challenges facing the injection molding industry today, and how can this be overcome?
Meeting the challenge of brand owners and OEMs for more sustainable parts, especially when produced from recycled plastics. A lower carbon footprint future requires addressing all aspects of injection molded parts; from raw material choices to processing energy. Plastics will always be a part of our lives, so Sasol is here to help reduce energy consumption, enable shorter cycle times, utilizing unique technologies, with the long-term goal of net-zero carbon footprint.
How do you see the sector developing in the next five to ten years?
Increasing capabilities to incorporate additives. Digital Control Systems and process monitoring are continuing to innovate, as well as AI and automation. However, the use of polymer additives that enable injection molding of a wide range of parts, expanding the mechanical property window can reduce the supply chain complexity and cost. Imagine sourcing one polymer instead of dozens.
You are exhibiting at the Injection Molding and Design Expo, what are you most looking forward to?
Hear Steve talk on 'How Fischer-Tropsch processing aids can increase injection molding productivity and overcome flow issues' at the Injection Molding and Design Expo conference.