In developing control systems, FACTS monitors and controls various parameters in the extrusion process. Below is a starter list.
Extrusion Control Points
- Blending ratios of multiple ingredients
- Extruder throughput in lbs/hour or lbs/ft
- Extruder barrel temperature zones – These are usually heating & cooling
- Tooling temperature zones – These are usually heat only
- Die temperature zones – These are usually heat only
- Speeds
- Extruder screw
- Roll stands
- Pullers
- Conveyors
- Capstans
- Wind-ups
- Tension – product tension is controlled by varying the appropriate speed(s) based on load cell or dancer feedback
- Melt Pump Inlet Pressure
- Product Dimensions
- OD (outside diameter)
- ID (inside diameter)
- Width
- Height
- Wall Thickness
- Roll Length
- Cut-to-Length
Parameters typically monitored in the extrusion:
- Drive Loads
- Melt Temperature
- Melt Pressure
- Tension
- Cut Counting
- Product Dimensions
Recommended additional parameters for monitoring to detect problems before any damage occurs, track for maintenance purposes, or assure proper process conditions:
- Gear Box Temperature, Pressure, and Lube Flow
- Motor Temperature
- Drive Faults
- Cooling Tank Temperature
- Relative Humidity and/or Dew Point – controlling cooling roll temperatures to just above the dew point can prevent corrosion and contamination of the product
- Raw Material
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