processing tips
Look Before You Leap: When Direct Extrusion Makes Sense
The process offers great opportunities to extrude a better product at less cost, but it’s not for everyone. The formulation, product mix, and anticipated volumes must be carefully assessed to determine whether DE is the preferred manufacturing methodology.
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Eight Steps Toward a Seamless Mold Transfer
It’s big news when an OEM decides to move a substantial number of molds from one processing operation (either their own in-house/captive facility or an outsourced molder) to another.
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Screws and Pellets: One Size Does Not Fit All
Screw design, pellet type/size and material behavior are all critical issues to consider to deliver uniform melt to the mold.
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Look Upstream to Avoid ‘GIGO’ Pitfalls in Extrusion
You may think you have a feeding issue when in reality your problem may be upstream.
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Follow These Tips to Select the Right Pelletizer
Start by assessing the status quo, as well as defining future needs. Develop a five-year projection of materials and required capacities. Short-term solutions very often prove to be more expensive and less satisfactory after a period of time. Most of all, know your options.
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Overfeeding Can Cause Surges, Too
Surging can be caused by feed restrictions, as covered in another column, and also by over-feeding or under-melting, discussed here.
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Why Non-Return Valves Leak
We all recognize that the non-return valve is a problem. The question is where is the research to figure out how to correct this so we have a better shot at making more consistent parts
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Solving Feed-Related Surging
Understanding the causes of surging can help troubleshoot and correct it.
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What to Look for in a Modular, Reconfigurable Conveyor System
As conveyors have become a necessity on the plant floor, conveyor manufacturers have attempted to respond to end-users’ needs for flexibility by creating truly modular, reconfigurable systems.
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