The process of plastic extrusion, which is frequently used by the plastic industry, involves melting of plastic material, forcing the melted plastic into a die to obtain the desired shape and finally cutting it in the required length. Irrespective of whether it is hundred yards of pipe-tubing or thousands of straws, plastic extrusion is commonly used, thanks to its ready availability and working ease.

Plastic extrusion process is an ideal choice when it comes to products requiring constant cross section. Thanks to the low cost and high production, plastic extrusion is now being preferred by most of the manufacturers, for plastic extruded products like weather stripping, adhesive tapes, piping, wire insulation and plastic sheets.

Prior to undertaking plastic extrusion process, it is essential to first obtain proper machinery and supplies from plastic extrusion manufacturer, suiting the procedures. Plastic extrusion machine, a fairly simple device, ensures smooth and hassle free extrusion process from start to end. Screw driver screw driver motor, barrel and hopper are some of the major components in a plastic extruder machine.

Raw thermoplastic is the second most important and key component which is required for plastic extrusion process. However, majority of extrusion operations make use of resin plastic, thanks to its easy loading and faster melting.

And, the last necessary component required for Custom Plastic Extrusion process is, the die. It is the die which allows uniform and even flow of the melted plastic and obtaining the desired shape. It is advisable to opt for custom made die so as to ensure better results. 

The process of plastic extrusion starts by placing raw resin into the extruder’s hopper. Next, the resin is gravity fed into the extruder’s barrel, through the feed throat of the hopper. A long and rotating screw is located within the barrel, which feeds the resin forward in the barrel and pushes it towards the die.

Resin, which is subjected to temperatures which are extremely high, starts to melt within the barrel. Barrel temperatures can be as high as 400 to 530 Fahrenheit, depending on the type of raw thermoplastic being used. And now, the molten plastic, which has reached the end of the barrel, is forced through a screen pack and fed into the pipe leading to the die. Any contaminants present in the molten plastic are effectively removed by the screen pack.

Molten plastic which is fed in the die cavity is now left to cool and harden. Sealed water bath is used for expediting the cooling process of the molten plastic. While creating plastic extrusions, it is essential to ensure the correct temperature levels and melting rate, of the resin. Optimal temperature levels will help in maximizing the uniform fluidity of the plastic, apart from minimizing the risk of warping of the final product.

For more info:- Custom Fabrication