Application of experimental twin-screw extruder in TPE particle production and study on its processing temperature
With the advancement of materials science, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) particles have attracted much attention in the plastics industry due to their excellent physical properties and environmental properties. TPE particles are not only recyclable, but also non-toxic and environmentally friendly, and some materials are also degradable, making them an ideal alternative to traditional plastics. In the process of producing TPE particles, experimental twin-screw extruders play a crucial role.
The processing temperature of TPE particles is usually between 160°C and 220°C, depending on the grade of the raw material and the processing process. Excessive processing temperature may cause raw materials to decompose or burn, affecting the appearance and performance of the product; The temperature is too low, may lead to poor flow of raw materials, it is difficult to form the ideal shape. Therefore, precise control of the processing temperature is essential to ensure the quality and performance of TPE particles.
The working principle of the experimental twin-screw extruder consists of several stages: feeding, melting, melt transport, mixing, exhaust and metering. Driven by the screw, the material undergoes a transformation from a solid state to a molten state, and forms a uniform melt under the mixing and transportation of the screw. In the melt transport section, additives or fillers can be added to give TPE particles specific properties. The material is then passed through the exhaust section to remove bubbles and volatile substances, and finally pressure is built up in the metering section to ensure a stable extrusion of the material.
In the production of TPE pellets, the screw combination and operating conditions of twin-screw extruders need to be optimized according to the specific material characteristics and product requirements. For example, for TPE formulations that require high filling volumes, special screw designs may be required to ensure a uniform dispersion of the filler and adequate mixing of the melt. In addition, the control of mold temperature also has a significant impact on the appearance and performance of the product, too high or too low mold temperature may lead to product surface defects.
TPE particles have a wide range of applications, including automotive parts, medical devices, daily necessities manufacturing, electronic products and other fields. With the advancement of technology and the expansion of market demand, the application of TPE particles in the field of building materials has also shown great potential, such as door and window seals, roof waterproof materials, floor materials and so on.
In short, experimental twin-screw extruders play a central role in the production of TPE pellets, and their precise temperature control and efficient screw design are key to ensuring product quality. With the continuous expansion of TPE particle applications, twin-screw extrusion technology will continue to innovate to meet higher production efficiency and product quality requirements.