A General List of Extrusion parameters to Control or Monitor

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