From equipment and processing to quality and mathematics, this training package is designed to deliver fundamental training to anyone working in a twin-screw extrusion facility.

Package Includes:

• Math for Extruders
• Twin Screw Extrusion

Part 2: Plastic Materials

• Introduces the plastics industry and the nature of plastic materials
• Explains complex concepts such as melt viscosity and polymer flow
• Provides detailed explanations of both shear and shear heating with plastics
• Covers the behavior of both amorphous and semi-crystalline polymers
• Gives an understanding of shrinkage, orientation, and degradation

Part 3: The Extrusion Process

• Explains the mechanics of Twin Screw material feeding and conveying
• Melting processes for both programmed and fixed screw designs are covered
• Describes the commonly used types of dispersive and distributive mixing systems
• Covers the pumping, shaping, cooling, and cutting of the extrudate
• Cites important safety precautions for working around extrusion equipment

Part 4: Preventive and Corrective Actions

• Covers common extrusion defects and their typical causes
• Explains the importance of accurate process monitoring
• Differentiates between open and closed loop process control systems
• Ways to adjust the process and detect equipment problems are also covered

Part 5: Startup, Changeover and Shutdown

• Provides common procedures to start-up and shut-down an extruder
• Details both upstream and downstream changeovers
• Die, material, and color change considerations are also covered
• The importance of safety and cleanliness are stressed throughout this series

Part 6: Quality

• Defines quality and its importance to the success of extrusion operations
• Explains the concepts of quality assurance vs. quality control
• Covers the form, fit, and functionality of the extruded product
• Critical vs. non-critical extrudate defects are compared and contrasted
• The importance of meeting the customer’s needs is stressed throughout the course

Part 7: Material Handling

• Stresses the importance of proper material handling – from delivery to feedthroat
• Covers various vacuum conveyance and hopper loader systems
• The problems associated with not drying hygroscopic materials
• Details ways to blend materials while avoiding material contamination

Part 8: Problem Solving and Troubleshooting

• Focuses on getting the right answer in the shortest time
• Easy to follow problem solving steps and rules are detailed
• The importance of documentation and procedure