In plastics processing, the efficiency of operations is also influenced by the technologies used. For example, advanced granule conveying systems and drying plants help to ensure good results in moulding, extrusion, and blow moulding operations.
In this article, we will present the impact of efficient, high-performance conveying and drying systems on plastics processing. We will also discuss the advantages offered by Vismec systems to plastic manufacturing companies looking to improve their productivity, reduce costs, and achieve high-quality results.
The advantages of effective granule conveying in plastics processing
An optimised granule conveying system directly impacts the efficiency and quality of plastics processing, ensuring that material is transferred smoothly and without interruptions.
In the extrusion process, the granule conveying system must ensure a constant supply of material, avoiding interruptions that can compromise product quality. In fact, an irregular conveying system for granules arriving at the extrusion screw can cause variations in thickness and aesthetic defects in extruded profiles, tubes, or plastic films.
On the other hand, the advantages of an efficient granule conveying system with a constant material flow include:
- reduction of machine downtime due to feeding issues;
- optimal management of raw materials, preventing excesses or shortages of granules through a controlled material supply.
In the injection moulding process, a high-performance feeding system helps ensure the absence of contaminants in the plastic material, thermal balance, and proper distribution of granules. An inadequate system, conversely, may cause air bubbles or cavities in the finished product or retain impurities in the granule mix, compromising the strength and aesthetics of the moulded parts.
In blow moulding, where molten plastic is inflated in a mould to create hollow containers, the quality of the material must be ensured from start to finish. An efficient granule conveying system ensures that the material reaches the machine without significant variations in its basic conditions, allowing for:
- granules temperature control to ensure uniform melting during the process;
- reduction of potential structural defects or fragility caused by irregularities in the material;
- higher production speed, thanks to a continuous and smooth flow of granules.
Vismec offers granule conveying systems designed to ensure efficiency and reliability at every stage of the production process. Our centralised conveying plants enable automated handling of granule conveying from loading stations to the various processing machines, guaranteeing a constant flow of material and minimising human intervention.
Automation reduces process errors and material waste as well as enables continuous monitoring of conveying quality through advanced control systems such as Vismec FW50. Additionally, the presence of modular or adaptable components such as cyclonic filters ensures an optimal management of the different processing stages according to customer demands.
Advantages of effective drying of plastic polymers
An effective drying of plastic polymers contributes to the efficiency of production processes and the quality of the finished product. This is why the use of a high-performance drying system is crucial, especially considering the characteristics of the various plastics processing methods.
In the extrusion process, for instance, the presence of moisture can generate surface defects and air bubbles, compromising product quality. Conversely, effective drying ensures that granules are moisture-free before being melted, enhancing material consistency and homogeneity during extrusion. This results in defect-free products with uniform and strong surfaces, and it safeguards the mechanical performances of the material.
In injection moulding process, drying is equally strategic. If the granules are not dry enough, they may undergo hydrolysis processes that deteriorate the mechanical properties of the material, making it less resistant. Additionally, moisture can cause imperfections on moulded parts, compromising both aesthetics and functionality. Effective drying prevents these difficulties, ensuring that the piece meets the required quality standards, especially in sectors with stringent technical specifications, such as medical or advanced electronics.
Moisture can also have a significantly negative impact in blow moulding. Excessive water quantity in granules may cause changes in the viscosity of the molten plastic, generating weak points on the surface of the blown piece and compromising its structural resistance. An effective drying system, on the other hand, ensures defect-free and structurally strong products.
Considering the characteristics of the processes and the needs of the companies, Vismec offers a range of technologically advanced solutions for the drying of plastic granules. Here, the main ones:
- Drywell: compact and high-performance, designed to reduce floor space and ensure maximum ease of use.
- Dryplus: extremely versatile, installed onboard the machine, optimises energy consumption, by reducing it by up to 40%.
- DryCube: perfect for drying and conveying technical plastic granules, it combines the efficiency of a rotor dehumidifier with an integrated pneumatic conveying system, a receiver for the drying hopper, an IMM receiver, and related accessories. Flexible and independent, it is positioned beside the processing machine.
The advantages of Vismec systems also include an accurate control of residual moisture within granules, a modularity that makes it easy to adapt the systems to different production requirements, and reduced machine downtime.
Thanks to these technologies, companies can improve product quality, reduce waste, and increase operational efficiency. Discover how: contact our team!