Know-How
Sharper Dies Make for Smoother Extrusions
Dies that have a radius at the exit will result in poorer surface finish.
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Clamp Tonnage: More Is Better...Right?
Determining the correct tonnage provides a foundation that must be rock-solid to avoid flash and damage. But applying excessive force can create problems with the part, mold, and machine.
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Cycle Time: Science vs. Rules of Thumb, Part 1
What temperature must the polymer reach so the part can be ejected from the mold? Here, more than for any other variable, ‘rules of thumb’ unfortunately prevail.
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Locating Rings, Platen Damage, and the Center of Gravity: Part 3
Selecting the right locating ring and putting it to good use takes careful consideration.
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Sizing the Barrier Gap
Here’s a less complex way to properly size the barrier gap for barrier screws.
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How to Duplicate a Process From Press to Press
To adopt the right approach you must distinguish between machine and plastic parameters.
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The Need for Generalists: Part 4
Solving problems generally requires distinguishing good samples from bad ones. But that can become clumsy when one person runs the test while another analyzes the data.
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Optimize Feeding to Get More Money in Twin-Screw Compounding
Follow these practical examples to improve the feeding efficiency and productivity of your process.
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Locating Rings and Platen Damage: Part 2
Selecting the right locating ring and putting it to good use takes careful consideration.
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How ‘Hydro Wedges’ Reduce Screw Wear
Using them only in the melting section provides for greater design freedom and negates the impact these devices can have on output and melt temperature.
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