Polymerextrudering

Polymerextrudering, also known as polymer extrusion, is a manufacturing process for generating continuous profiles by melting polymer material and forcing it through a shaped die. The method is widely used with thermoplastics and some elastomers. The resulting extrudate is drawn by take-up equipment and cooled to solidify.

An extrusion line typically includes a hopper, a heated barrel with a screw or screws, a screen filter, a die, calibrating and cooling systems, and winding or cutting equipment. The screw(s) convey, melt, and homogenize the polymer, building pressure to push it through the die. Temperature profiles along the barrel are carefully controlled to achieve proper melting, mixing, and viscosity.

Process variants include profile extrusion (rails, mouldings, window and door profiles), pipe and tubing extrusion, sheet and film extrusion (including blown film), and cable or wire insulation extrusion. Coextrusion enables layered products. Key parameters are melt temperature, screw speed, throughput, backpressure, and cooling rate. Die design, calibration accuracy, and downstream handling determine dimensional tolerances and surface finish. Materials are chosen for melting temperature, chemical resistance, and mechanical properties.

Applications span packaging, construction, automotive, electronics, and consumer goods. Advantages of extrusion include continuous production, material efficiency for long parts, and consistent cross sections; limitations include high equipment cost, sensitivity to rheology, and challenges with material fillers or highly viscous polymers.