Extrusion, Wood

Twin-Screw Extruder suits woodfiber/plastic composites.

May 24, 2005 07:35 - Conical Model TC96 processes high fiber loading into homogenous melt for production of shapes, profiles, and structural parts at outputs up to 2,600 lb/hr. It utilizes large diameter screws, measuring 202 mm and tapering to 96 mm with 30:1 L/D ratio. Five barrel zones offer total barrel heating capacity of 100 kW; 4 zones are provided with cooling. PC-based XTREEM XP touch-screen control features 15 in. LCD screen, self-diagnostics, and Ethernet TCP/IP connectivity.

Company web site
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Press Release
Cincinnati Milacron TC96 World's Largest Conical Twin-Screw Extruder for High-Output, Low-Shear Production of Wood/Plastic Composites
Newest conical twin processes high fiber loading into homogenous melt for quality production of shapes, profiles and structural parts at outputs up to 2600 lb/hr

May 2005 - World's largest conical twin-screw extruder, the Cincinnati Milacron TC96 brings higher outputs, up to 2600 lb/hr, to new and challenging applications for woodfiber/plastic composites (WPC). Unique compression and low-shear mixing capabilities enable high fiber loading (up to 70%) and unmatched material processing range. The TC96 delivers a homogenous melt from blends of natural and synthetic fibers, heat- and shear-sensitive thermoplastics, recycled plastics, coupling and nucleating agents, pigment and other additives. Proven champs at quality production of WPC shapes for decking and rails, Cincinnati Milacron conical twins bring superior versatility, melt homogeneity and process control to emerging applications for WPC profiles and structural components. Milacron is the original and primary global producer of large conical twin-screw extruders, created using proprietary engineering and machining technologies.

The TC96's large diameter screws - 202 mm tapering to 96 mm - with 30:1 L/D ratio (based on the discharge diameter) optimize feed zone surface area for faster, more uniform heat transmission from screws to material. Tapered screw design allows a larger feed zone for "fluffy" material and applies a natural compression during processing, resulting in the woodflour being more effectively "wetted out." The deep flight channels and tight intermesh clearances between the conical screws optimize material mixing while reducing shear forces. High torque at low screw speed (34 rpm) enables gentle low-shear melting and mixing to minimize undesirable fiber breakdown and achieve excellent fiber distribution.

Small exit diameter reduces rotational shear and screw thrust, while increasing pumping efficiency into the die area. The conical twin-screw action generates positive pumping pressure for quality extrusion of viscous WPC material, particularly the higher head pressures needed for engineered profiles with thin walls and small die openings.

Consistent, controllable process heating and cooling, critical to the extrusion process, are accomplished by supplying the proper balance of mechanical induced heating by the screws and externally applied energy. The TC96 extruder features five barrel zones with a total barrel heating capacity of 100 kW. Four of the barrel zones are provided with cooling, using a heat-transfer fluid or water-cooled system to dissipate heat. An individual temperature control zone for screws provides a heat capacity of 12 kW. Eight die zones (including entry adapter) are provided with maximum heating capacity of 51 kW.

Unitized construction mounts all components on a single base for fast, easy installation with space-saving compactness - 270"L x 56"W x 93" H (6856 x 1421 x 2356 mm). The design simplifies maintenance with easy access to all sub-components. Screws can be removed from the rear of the machine without disturbing downstream equipment.

The TC96 extruder comes standard with Milacron's PC-based XTREEM XP touch-screen control with 15" LCD screen, self-diagnostics, and Ethernet TCP/IP connectivity. Proven Cincinnati Milacron software provides full production control, including SPC monitoring and analysis, process alarms, slaved co-extruder speed control, and process "recipe" storage and call-up. Operators are provided with on-screen control panels, instant-access information screens with full-color graphics, and multi-language capability.

Cincinnati Milacron Extrusion Systems offers a comprehensive range of conical twin-screw extruders meeting every requirement from lab/development work to precision profiles and high-output shape production. Models are available with 35 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 65 mm, 80 mm, 86 mm, 92 mm and 96 mm conical screws.

For more information from Cincinnati Milacron Extrusion Systems, phone 1-888-MILACRON (645-2276) or fax 1-800-282-8082. Visit Milacron's home page at www.milacron.com for a detailed look at solutions that build productivity through advanced technology.
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Company Information:
Name: Cincinnati Milacron Extrusion Systems
Address: 4165 Halfacre Rd.
City: Batavia
State: OH
ZIP: 45103
Country: USA
Phone: 513-536-3303
FAX: 513-536-3335
http://www.milacron.com
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Thomas Net