A digital rendering of PTi's recently announced expansion, slated to be operational in October 2016.

Processing Technologies International LLC (PTi), a leading global manufacturer of high-performance sheet extrusion machinery, has announced a $10 million plant expansion at its Aurora, Ill. headquarters in response to growing demand for its sheet extrusion equipment. The company will add 40,000 ft2 of space, nearly doubling its net manufacturing capacity while increasing office space to 20,000 ft2.

 "Our strong sales are driving this expansion need," said Dana Hanson, PTi president. "Over the past couple of years we've enjoyed a steady rise in business volume and this appears to be the trend for the foreseeable future." 

Groundbreaking is slated for March 2016 and the new space is expected to be fully operational by October 2016.

PTi needs additional manufacturing space to assemble its sheet extrusion systems, according to Hanson. "When you have several lines being assembled at the same time, the floor has a tendency to disappear quickly," he said. The company sees strong activity for sheet extrusion equipment in the packaging, industrial, and automotive industries. In particular, PTi has established itself as the leader in dryer-less PET systems in North America. The company has sold 17 systems in four years and predicts steady growth as dryer-less technology becomes the new "norm" for PET/PLA processing. The multi-resin functionality makes the technology extremely attractive and versatile, said Hanson.

An integral part of the expansion is a 15,000 ft2 Technology Development Center that will be dedicated to product development and process trials for customers on production-scale systems. This space will accommodate up to three different systems including the patented High-Vacuum Twin-Screw Extruder (HVTSE®)* dryer-less technology, a conventional multi-layer (barrier) system, and a third system with newly patented sheet extrusion technology that will be released soon. All demonstration systems will feature winders for producing roll stock. 

PTi is currently working with local municipalities regarding tax incentives and expects to announce new hiring soon in connection with the expansion. PTi's current facility occupies 60,000 ft2 of space and employs 80 people.