PE film granulator is a device to make granules from waste plastics through extrusion, plasticizing and cutting processes. However, in practice, the problem of extrusion instability is sometimes encountered, which may lead to a decline in product quality and lower production efficiency. In this paper, we will discuss the reasons for the extrusion instability of waste plastic recycling pelletizing machines and propose corresponding solutions.
Reasons for extrusion instability of PE film granulator
- Insufficient plasticizing capacity is a key factor in unstable material discharge. When the plastic is not sufficiently plasticized in the barrel, it affects the flow of the material, leading to compromised uniformity in the discharge. This can be due to the PE film granulator’s and equipment’s design or improperly set operating parameters, which prevent the plastic from being sufficiently thermoplasticised, thus affecting the stability of the extrusion.
- The jamming of the PE film granulator during the cutting process is also an important cause of extrusion instability. When the pellet cutting machine is carrying out cutting operations, if jamming occurs, it will cause the flow of materials to be hindered, thus affecting the normal discharge process. In this case, the discharge rate may be subject to significant fluctuations, manifesting itself in an unstable state.
- Improper use of lubricants is also a cause of extrusion instability. In particular, when too much external lubricant is used, it tends to cause the material to slip between the barrel and the screw, failing to form a solid blockage. This situation not only makes the extrusion speed fluctuate but also may cause non-uniformity of the discharge, which affects the stability of the whole plastic granulation process.
Solutions to extrusion instability
- In the case of insufficient plasticizing capacity, the plasticizing capacity can be increased by raising the heating temperature, increasing the screw speed or changing the barrel structure to ensure that the plastic can be fully melted, thus improving the stability of the PE film granulator discharge.
- For the problem of jamming during cutting, regular mechanical inspection and maintenance can be carried out to ensure the normal operation of PE film granulator parts. In addition, the use of a more precise cutting process and improved wear resistance of the knife, help to reduce the occurrence of jamming.
- For cases of excessive use of lubricants, especially excessive external lubrication, the lubrication system can be adjusted to ensure a reasonable amount of lubricant. In addition, regularly clean the build-up between the barrel and the screw to prevent material slippage and maintain the stability of the discharge. Adjusting the type of lubricant and choosing a lubricant that is more suitable for the characteristics of the plastic is also an effective means.
