Brief Summary
In this article, we will deal with a key topic in the pipe extrusion process, exploring the intricate nuances of the dies and heads used to create these components that are vital in a variety of industrial sectors.
Dies in the pipe extrusion industry
Before going into the details of extrusion heads, it’s important to understand what a die is and what role it plays in the extrusion process. In short, a die is a key tool that determines the finished shape of the extruded pipe. This makes it clear how choosing the right die can have a significant influence on the pipe’s properties in terms of:
Dies can be categorized based on the geometry of the required pipe profile and the material to be extruded. For example, dies for plastic pipes can differ from those designed for metallic pipes. Choosing between these will depend on the nature of the material and the specifics required for the end product.
Extruder head, the heart of the process
The extrusion head is a component located at the end of the extrusion machine that determines the shape and dimensions of the extruded pipe. It is designed to allow the molten material (e.g. plastic polymers) to pass through an opening or “mouth” in the head. This opening is designed to produce pipes of different dimensions, shapes, and characteristics.
In the pipe extrusion process, the molten material is pushed through the extrusion head using a screw or pressure system. While the material passes through the extrusion head mouth, it takes on the shape of the channel or opening determined by the head, before solidifying into the required pipe shape.
There are various different types of extrusion heads, each designed to satisfy specific requirements during the process of shaping materials. We will list six of the main types of extrusion heads:
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radial flow head
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axial flow head
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die-holder or plate head
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multilayer or co-extruded layer head
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heated wire or laser melting head
More specifically, the most commonly used heads for pipe extrusion are the radial flow and axial flow heads. Both these heads are designed to meet the specific needs of pipe production, but differ in how they distribute the material during the extrusion process.
Radial flow head
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Main characteristics: the radial flow head distributes the material uniformly around the central mandrel. This results in uniform distribution of the material along the perimeter of the pipe.
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Specific uses: it is particularly suitable for manufacturing pipes with complex profiles or significant changes in diameter throughout the length of the pipe. It is used in sectors such as the automobile industry, construction, and system engineering.
Axial flow head
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Main characteristics: the flow of material is distributed in a linear way along the mandrel axis. This configuration is simpler than the radial configuration.
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Specific uses: the axial flow head is widely used to produce pipes with simpler and geometrically linear profiles. It is often employed in applications when the continuous production of pipes with a consistent length is required, such as in the packaging industry.
Die-holder heads, on the other hand, are especially suitable when working with materials sensitive to high temperatures, to avoid unwanted distortions and to guarantee that the pipe has a precise shape. This head allows the pipe to cool through the use of combs or other cooling devices.
Bausano, the most reliable partner for producing your pipes
By exploring extrusion dies and heads, we have clarified an often overlooked but crucial aspect of industrial manufacturing. We hope that this complete guide has provided all the information you need to make informed decisions about choosing the extrusion dies and heads most suited to your particular requirements.
Remember, precision in pipe production is not only a question of shape, but also of the quality and reliability of the end product.
If you're looking for innovative solutions for your pipe production extrusion lines, Bausano can help you choose the best option. Optimize your production, lower costs, and improve quality.
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