In Brief
When it comes to plastic production and recycling, extrusion compounding plays a crucial role. In this article, we will take a look at how the process functions and find out how it offers tailor-made solutions, shaping plastic materials that respond in the best possible way to the specific needs of modern industrial applications.
What is compounding?
Compounding is a fusion process that involves mixing different plastic materials together with additives – or reinforcing agents – and represents the most effective way to adapt the properties of thermoplastic materials to specific requirements. The additives used include lubricants, heat stabilizers, antioxidants, radiopacifiers, and colorants, creating an end product known as a compound or composite.
Thermoplastic materials, or high-performance engineered polymers, are a type of polymer designed to provide optimized features compared with traditional plastic materials. These have been specially formulated and chemically modified to meet specific performance needs, such as:
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mechanical resistance
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heat resistance
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chemical resistance
Let’s now take a detailed look at some of the key characteristics of engineered thermoplastic materials:
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mechanical resistance: engineered polymers are often reinforced with fiberglass, carbon, or other materials to improve their mechanical resistance. This makes them suitable for applications that require greater robustness and durability;
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heat resistance: many engineered thermoplastic materials are able to resist high temperatures without significant loss of mechanical properties. This characteristic makes them suitable for high-temperature applications, such as under the hood of a car or in an industrial setting;
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chemical resistance: they are often designed to resist aggressive chemical substances, including solvents, oils, and acids. This makes them suitable for use in chemically aggressive environments;
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dimensional stability: they keep their shape and dimension even in extreme conditions, reducing the effect of thermal expansion and other environmental changes;
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rigidity and toughness: they can offer a combination of rigidity and toughness, useful in applications where high strength and ductility are required;
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electrical insulation: many of these polymers are excellent electrical insulators, which makes them ideal for applications in which high electrical resistance is required;
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lightweight: despite their cutting-edge properties, many engineered thermoplastics are relatively lightweight, helping to reduce the overall weight of the components or products in which they are used.
Common examples of engineered thermoplastic materials include polyamide (nylon), polyethylene, reinforced polytetrafluoroethylene (reinforced PTFE), polycarbonate (PC), and many others.
Extrusion and its implications: operational details
As we’ve seen, there are several key criteria when it comes to obtaining an even mix of different raw materials. Dispersive and distributive mixing, as well as heat control, represent crucial factors that usually take place through the use of specially configured twin screw extruders. A plastic compounding extruder is a specialized machine designed for this particular work.
Granulation is another key element in the compounding process. Once the blend has been extruded and taken on the desired shape, it is turned into small granules to make it easier to manage and use subsequently. Granulation plays a key role in the compound plastic production process, ensuring that the end product is easy to manage and can be used in a range of production processes.
Bausano extrusion technology: bespoke lines for exceptional results
Discover cutting-edge extrusion technology with Bausano, a leader in plastic compounding production innovation for over 70 years. Our bespoke extrusion lines have been designed to perfectly suit your technical requirements, offering versatility and uncompromising quality.
Trust our long experience in designing and producing extrusion lines. From pre-sales support to after-sales assistance, we guarantee a complete and reliable service.
Take your first step towards excellence. Contact us today to find out how Bausano solutions can take your production to the next level of efficiency and energy sustainability.
