Sheet Processor Adds Thin-Gauge Capability

Custom sheet processor Pro Ex Extrusion has added thin-gauge capability to its product mix by adding a Welex Evolution sheet extrusion line from Graham Engineering Corp.

Commissioned in December 2017, the dual-resin PET/PP line features a 5-in. (130 mm) extruder with the flexibility to expand to coextrusion. The J-stack configuration (photo) features roll-skewing and electric gap adjustment under full hydraulic load followed by a unique arrangement of auxiliary cooling rolls, each independently driven, heated, and cooled.

Based in Oskosh, Wis, Pro Ex Extrusion is a recycler and manufacturer of custom and proprietary plastic products, including sheet, roll stock, profile, injection molding, polymeric compounds, and packaging technologies for several industries. The company’s sheet business comprises roll stock for thermoforming and lithography. They also work with several experienced printing partners to apply high-quality graphics to their products.

“Many sheet houses are able to produce PET/RPET at 15-18-20 mil,” says Chris Bendickson, Pro Ex co-owner and v.p. of operations (photo). “The ability to manufacture high- quality polyester at 10-12-14 mil expands our capability to serve more demanding applications and gives us a capability not generally found among custom sheet houses. Adding the ability to run high quality clear and colored PP on the same sheet extrusion line as thin as 15 mil truly differentiates us in the market.”

Pro Ex co-owner and president Gary Borgers adds: “With the Pro Ex team’s decades of experience in equipment selection and commissioning, we were very confident in the selection of our new Welex line. The design features, the team’s willingness to customize to our unique needs, and their reputation and commitment to customer service led to our selection.”