American Maplan Introduces High-performance PVC-Extruder
The extruder, engineered with technology from AMC's sister company Battenfeld Extrusionstechnik GmbH (BEX), of Bad Oeynhausen, Germany, has a maximum throughput range of 750 to 850 lb./hr. The machine is robust, but also designed for simplicity and low-cost operation, says Ludwig Reisinger, vice president of technical services and development for AMC. "It's for the price-conscious buyer who wants a reliable yet economical extruder."
American Maplan designs and builds extruders in McPherson, Kansas, but utilized BEX technology for this model as part of an ongoing effort to provide customers with the widest array of performance capabilities and price options in profile extrusion. "We built this machine to fit a certain market niche," Reisinger says. "There is a need for a high-value machine with good price and performance."
The extruder was installed at toolmaker Greiner Extrusion U.S. Inc. (formerly Uniplast International), Meadville, Pennsylvania, which uses it to test tooling for win-dow lineals. Though throughput of 850 lb./hr. is achievable, through effective screw designs, the machine can also efficiently process PVC at rates of 300 to 600 lb./hr., Reisinger says.
Features of the 65-hp. extruder include water-filled screws for temperature control and air-cooled barrel zones, both of which replace oil-cooling systems. Reisinger says these reduce operating costs and lower maintenance. The counter-rotating screws are slightly longer than on conventional 92 mm extruders - 28 L/D compared to 26 L/D. The extra length assures consistent processing.
The extruder has five barrel zones, nine die-heating zones, 52 kW. of heating capac-ity and total installed power of 119 kW. The screws rotate at 21 rpm and generate a maximum torque of 15,100 ft.-lb. AMC can equip the extruder with a full line of downstream takeoff and cutting equipment for post-extrusion operations.
SOURCE: American Maplan Corp.