--- title: Why Plastic Processors Should Use Purging Compounds description: Learn why purging compounds are essential for plastic processors. Discover how they reduce downtime, cut scrap, and improve machine and part quality. image: https://www.asaclean.com/hubfs/Why%20Use%20Purge%20Blog%20Photo.jpg --- [ Order Online ](https://asaclean.my.site.com/b2bstore) [ Free Sample ](https://offers.asaclean.com/free-sample) ## [ Asaclean Blog ](https://www.asaclean.com/blog) Browse by Topic " aerospace asaclean asaclean news Asaclean® benefits asahi kasei automotive Best Practices black specks blisters blow molding blown-film extrusion buyers caps and closures carbon contamination cast-film extrusion Chemical Purging Compounds clear applications Color Changeovers Company News compounding consumer products contamination Cost savings custom molders Customer Success Story decreasing scrap defects electronics Energy Efficiency EX Grade extruder cleaning Extrusion fillament glass filled Glitter Grade Selection HDPE High and Low Temp Changeovers hold a bubble Hot Runners Injection Molding Injection Molding Tips LDPE Lightweight automotive components LLDPE low residue maintenance Material Changeovers Mechanical Purging Compounds medical Melt Flow Index NPE 24 nylons on the fly packaging PCR PEEK Polypropylene Post Consumer Resins preventative preventative purging processing tips profile extrusion Purge Program purge programs Purge Training Purge Trial purging purging compounds purging concentrates purging procedures Purging Tips quality recycled resins residue issues scrap reduction Screw Pulls sheet extrusion shutdown and sealing start-up super engineering resins Sustainability Tech Day technical support training trials Troubleshooting Twin Screw twin screw extrusion two step purging U Grade ULTEM venting Viscosity webinars wire extrusion - 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[Post Consumer Resins](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/post-consumer-resins) - [preventative](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/preventative) - [preventative purging](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/preventative-purging) - [processing tips](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/processing-tips) - [profile extrusion](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/profile-extrusion) - [Purge Program](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/purge-program) - [purge programs](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/purge-programs) - [Purge Training](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/purge-training) - [Purge Trial](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/purge-trial) - [purging](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/purging) - [purging compounds](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/purging-compounds) - [purging concentrates](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/purging-concentrates) - [purging procedures](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/purging-procedures) - [Purging Tips](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/purging-tips) - 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[Twin Screw](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/twin-screw) - [twin screw extrusion](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/twin-screw-extrusion) - [two step purging](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/two-step-purging) - [U Grade](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/u-grade) - [ULTEM](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/ultem) - [venting](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/venting) - [Viscosity](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/viscosity) - [webinars](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/webinars) - [wire extrusion](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/topic/wire-extrusion) [ Subscribe ](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/why-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds#subscribe-modal) ### Suscribirse Cost savings / 7 min read / January 06, 2026 # Why Plastic Processors Should Use Purging Compounds - [Facebook Share ](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.asaclean.com%2Fblog%2Fwhy-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds) - [Twitter Tweet ](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.asaclean.com%2Fblog%2Fwhy-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds&text=Why+Plastic+Processors+Should+Use+Purging+Compounds) - [LinkedIn Share ](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.asaclean.com%2Fblog%2Fwhy-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds&title=Why%20Plastic%20Processors%20Should%20Use%20Purging%20Compounds&summary=Learn+why+purging+compounds+are+essential+for+plastic+processors.+Discover+how+they+reduce+downtime%2C+cut+scrap%2C+and+improve+machine+and+part+quality.&source=) - [Pinterest Pin ](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.asaclean.com%2Fblog%2Fwhy-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds) - [Email Email ](mailto:?subject=Why%20Plastic%20Processors%20Should%20Use%20Purging%20Compounds&body=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.asaclean.com%2Fblog%2Fwhy-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds) ![Why Plastic Processors Should Use Purging Compounds](https://www.asaclean.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Why%20Use%20Purge%20Blog%20Photo.jpg?width=640&height=500&name=Why%20Use%20Purge%20Blog%20Photo.jpg) In plastic manufacturing, efficiency, quality, and cost control are always top priorities. Whether you run injection molding machines, extruders, or blow molding equipment, the cleanliness of your machine’s screw, barrel, and die greatly impacts production outcomes. That’s where **purging compounds** become essential tools in your process toolkit. Purging compounds are specialized cleaning materials formulated to thoroughly remove residual resin and contaminants from processing machines. They are designed to clear out old material, colors, carbon deposits, and other residues that traditional methods often leave behind. Using purging compounds correctly can dramatically improve production efficiency, reduce scrap, and save money across your operations. #### What Purging Compounds Do In plastic manufacturing, efficiency, quality, and cost control are always top priorities. Whether you run injection molding machines, extruders, or blow molding equipment, the cleanliness of your machine’s screw, barrel, and die greatly impacts production outcomes. That’s where **purging compounds** become essential tools in your process toolkit. Purging compounds are specialized cleaning materials formulated to thoroughly remove residual resin and contaminants from processing machines. They are designed to clear out old material, colors, carbon deposits, and other residues that traditional methods often leave behind. Using purging compounds correctly can dramatically improve production efficiency, reduce scrap, and save money across your operations. #### Cutting Changeover Time & Reducing Scrap One of the biggest advantages of using purging compounds is the ability to **speed up color and material changeovers**. Every time you switch from one color to another, or from one resin to a different material, residual polymer must be removed from the machine. Problems like streaking, black specks, and coloration errors can easily occur if old material is not thoroughly cleaned out. Purging compounds help by: - Significantly reducing the time it takes to clean out old resin - Eliminating cross‑contamination between batches - Reducing scrap caused by visible defects Processors using high‑quality purges often report **[faster color changeovers](https://www.asaclean.com/solutions/color-changeovers), reduced downtime, and better part quality**, resulting in lower overall production costs. #### Improving Machine Maintenance & Longevity Purging compounds are also a valuable part of proactive machine maintenance. Residue buildup not only affects product quality but also increases wear on machine components over time. When contamination, carbon, and degraded resin accumulate, they can contribute to poor performance and even mechanical issues. By keeping the screw and barrel clean, purging compounds help: - Prevent excessive carbon buildup - Reduce the need for manual cleaning and maintenance - Extend the life of critical machine components - Minimize instances where a full screw pull is needed This leads to **fewer unplanned maintenance events and more consistent production schedules**.  #### Protecting Product Quality Across Processes Whether you’re molding consumer goods, medical parts, packaging film, or automotive components, product quality is essential. Purging compounds play a direct role in quality control by preventing defects that arise from contamination. These include: - Color streaks or mismatches - Black specks and gels - Surface blemishes - Inconsistent mechanical properties Removing residual material thoroughly before the next run helps ensure that each part meets specifications, which supports higher yields and fewer rejected parts. #### A Better Alternative to Regrind and Virgin Resin Some processors try to clean machines using regrind or virgin resin, thinking it will save money. In reality, these materials are formulated for part production, not machine cleaning. When used to purge, they can just add layers of material rather than remove contamination, ultimately making the problem worse. Purging compounds are engineered specifically for cleaning performance. A well‑designed purge will penetrate hard‑to‑reach areas, pull residue off the screw and barrel, and leave the machine ready for the next production step. #### Choosing the Right Purging Compound Not all purges are the same. Purging compounds are available in different types and formulations—mechanical, chemical, or concentrate—each suited to different processes like injection molding, extrusion, or blow molding. Working with a purging expert can help you select the right compound for your resin type, processing temperature, and production goals. #### Conclusion: Smarter Operations Start with Purging Purging compounds are more than a luxury—they are a practical investment in **efficiency, product quality, and long‑term cost savings**. By using purges correctly, processors can reduce downtime during changeovers, minimize scrap, maintain machine performance, and improve overall process reliability. If your team struggles with contamination, long changeovers, or poor part quality, it’s time to consider the role of purging compounds in your operation. With the right products and procedures, you can unlock cleaner machines, smoother transitions, and better manufacturing outcomes. If you're new to purging or have a new application with new needs, [request a free sample](https://offers.asaclean.com/free-sample) or schedule a consultation with one of our purging experts today. [![](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/468726/interactive-161630774182.png) ](https://www.asaclean.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLK1xg%2B%2FF6JrQ14UidkbQaIQAnClvAqZ1fht9eJ56bPzRM7wrFIDBGs%2B1VMzf75dAJyKaIB9y5Rc2UJY7xTuVAFHbvyyoF%2FsvOixDFR8%2FACDmsg7xNJGXRVdjuxpTIPG8pfBh%2BFh7K3E2GBcZamlJmbxbr8TcPvMR5iBKGwHJS%2BWBfKTKJfNuvlWzQ9lZZYH3yvYYMEv7wycNMn1jhuSYqcA3C%2Fcuj05gmAdTPOqIiPW3LMGWpASKX0o&webInteractiveContentId=161630774182&portalId=468726) ![Tom Hanvey](https://www.asaclean.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Tom%20Headshot.jpg?width=150&name=Tom%20Headshot.jpg) #### [ Tom Hanvey ](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/author/tom-hanvey) Tom Hanvey is the Associate Director of Marketing & Sustainability at Asahi Kasei Plastics North America. Before joining APNA, he worked as the Senior Marketing Manager for Asaclean Purging Compounds. He's worked in the plastics industry for over 10 years and focuses on recyclable resins and on the inbound marketing side, providing easy-to-digest content to processors looking for an edge on their competition. - [Share On LinkedIn ](https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashanvey/) ## Related Posts [![Asaclean Purging Compounds are designed to excel in medical applications.](https://www.asaclean.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Medical%20Blog.jpg?width=450&height=250&name=Medical%20Blog.jpg) Why Medical Plastics Manufacturers Should Use Purging Compounds Purging Tips / 5 min read / January 20, 2026 ](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/why-medical-plastics-manufacturers-should-use-purging-compounds) [![Why Purging With Polycarbonate is a Contamination Time Bomb](https://www.asaclean.com/hs-fs/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/This%20image%20depicts%20a%20time%20bomb%20with%20a%20clock%20attached%20to%20red%20sticks%20of%20dynamite.jpeg?width=450&height=250&name=This%20image%20depicts%20a%20time%20bomb%20with%20a%20clock%20attached%20to%20red%20sticks%20of%20dynamite.jpeg) Why Purging With Polycarbonate is a Contamination Time Bomb Troubleshooting / 3 min read / June 11, 2018 ](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/why-purging-with-polycarbonate-is-a-contamination-time-bomb) ## Comments Get Started ## Ready to start improving your efficiency and increasing your profitability? - [Request a Consultation](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/why-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds#) - [Contact Sales](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/why-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds#) ![](https://www.asaclean.com/hubfs/assets/images/icons/icon-layers.svg) #### Free Sample Request a free sample of Asaclean® Purging Compounds for your plant and start saving today. [Request your free sample](https://offers.asaclean.com/en/free-sample?hsLang=en) ![](https://www.asaclean.com/hubfs/assets/images/icons/icon-calculator.svg) #### Cost Savings Calculator Use our free calculator to see how much you could be saving with Asaclean® Purging Compounds. [See your savings](https://www.asaclean.com/cost-savings-calculator) [ Back to Top ](https://www.asaclean.com/blog/why-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds#top) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Tom Hanvey", "url" : "https://www.asaclean.com/blog/author/tom-hanvey" }, "dateModified" : "2026-01-06T16:36:24.590Z", "datePublished" : "2026-01-06T16:36:08.000Z", "headline" : "Why Plastic Processors Should Use Purging Compounds", "image" : [ "https://www.asaclean.com/hubfs/Why%20Use%20Purge%20Blog%20Photo.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://www.asaclean.com/blog/why-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://www.asaclean.com/hubfs/Asaclean%20Logo%20TM.jpg" }, "name" : "Asahi Kasei Plastics North America" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "Article", "articleBody" : "In plastic manufacturing, efficiency, quality, and cost control are always top priorities. Whether you run injection molding machines, extruders, or blow molding equipment, the cleanliness of your machine’s screw, barrel, and die greatly impacts production outcomes. That’s where purging compounds become essential tools in your process toolkit. Purging compounds are specialized cleaning materials formulated to thoroughly remove residual resin and contaminants from processing machines. They are designed to clear out old material, colors, carbon deposits, and other residues that traditional methods often leave behind. Using purging compounds correctly can dramatically improve production efficiency, reduce scrap, and save money across your operations. What Purging Compounds Do In plastic manufacturing, efficiency, quality, and cost control are always top priorities. Whether you run injection molding machines, extruders, or blow molding equipment, the cleanliness of your machine’s screw, barrel, and die greatly impacts production outcomes. That’s where purging compounds become essential tools in your process toolkit. Purging compounds are specialized cleaning materials formulated to thoroughly remove residual resin and contaminants from processing machines. They are designed to clear out old material, colors, carbon deposits, and other residues that traditional methods often leave behind. Using purging compounds correctly can dramatically improve production efficiency, reduce scrap, and save money across your operations.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Tom Hanvey" }, "datePublished" : "January 06, 2026", "headline" : "Why Plastic Processors Should Use Purging Compounds", "image" : "https://468726.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/468726/Why%20Use%20Purge%20Blog%20Photo.jpg", "name" : "Why Plastic Processors Should Use Purging Compounds", "url" : "https://www.asaclean.com/blog/why-plastic-processors-should-use-purging-compounds" } ```