Compounding: Continuous Processor Can Run Safely on Empty

Continuous Processors from  Readco Kurimoto LLC, York, Pa., feature a proprietary power transmission design and bearing configuration that allow them to be operated safely while running on empty. Said to be an upgrade versus extruders that must rely on the material to guard against metal to metal contact with the barrel, the Readco units automatically prevent the mixing elements from contacting the barrel and eliminate risk of contamination from metal to metal contact to allow safe startup without any material in the process. By loading the recipe, raising the barrel temperature, and verifying the system settings while running empty, the Continuous Processor saves on both material and energy at every startup.

When shutting down for cleaning or maintenance, the units may be run on empty to allow the designed-in, self-wiping action of the mixing elements to automatically purge approximately 95% of the material from inside the mixing chamber. This Readco advantage minimizes the need for chemical cleaning agents, offering especially significant cost savings and environmental protections in systems requiring solvents for cleaning, the machine builder says.