As processors prepare for year-end shutdowns, it's essential to plan not only for production but also for proper machine maintenance. With many facilities closing for the holidays, the days leading up to your final run are critical — and how you shut down your machines can have a significant impact on your startup in the new year.
At Asaclean®, we recommend sealing your machines with a suitable purging compound before any extended downtime. When done properly, this simple step can protect your equipment from resin degradation, carbon buildup, and the costly headaches that often follow long shutdowns.
Why Sealing Matters
Leaving production resin in the barrel during a shutdown is a recipe for trouble. Over time, heat and pressure — even at idle — can cause degradation, which often results in contamination, black specks, and stubborn carbonized material that is difficult to remove. These issues slow down your January startup, increase scrap rates, and in some cases, force a full screw pull to restore production.
By purging with a stable purging compound and sealing the machine before powering down, processors create a thermal barrier that prevents degradation, protects metal surfaces, and makes restarts cleaner and faster. A proper seal helps eliminate surprises — and saves time and money when you’re back up and running.
December 17th: Final Day to Order for Holiday Delivery
To ensure you receive your Asaclean® before the holidays, all orders must be placed by Tuesday, December 17th. Asaclean’s offices and shipping departments will be closed from December 24, 2025 through January 1, 2026, and no product will ship during this time.
This means that if you're planning a year-end shutdown — especially one that begins before or around December 24th — you’ll need to act quickly to secure the purging material you need.
Choose the Right Purging Compound for Shutdowns
Not all purging compounds are appropriate for sealing. The best shutdown sealants are thermally stable, residue-free, and safe to leave in the barrel over an extended period. If you're unsure which Asaclean® grade is right for your process, reach out to your Purging Expert for a recommendation tailored to your equipment and resin types.
As a general rule, it’s best to use a grade that performs well at your processing temperatures and provides a clean break between production resin and machine metal. That way, when you return from the holiday break, you can simply heat the barrel, resume purging, and be back in production within minutes — not hours.
Plan Ahead — Start 2026 Clean
December is a busy time across the plastics industry, and many facilities are already planning their final production runs and shutdown procedures. By ordering your Asaclean® now and properly sealing your machines, you can avoid the stress of a difficult restart in January.
Contact us today to discuss your purging needs, request samples, or get help choosing the best grade for sealing during your holiday shutdown.
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