PELLETISERS | MACHINERY
Pelletisers are a critical part of any compounding line and manufacturers are working to improve operation and uptime while optimising
performance.Peter Mapleston finds out more
make progress
It is a simple fact that a compounding line is nothing without a pelletiser. And just like for a compounding extruder, there is no “one size fits all” solution in terms of pelletiser selection — the polymer being processed, the compound additives, the speed of the line, and the performance requirements of the finished product are just some of the factors that need to be considered and that will have an impact on the features needed in a pelletiser. So, it should be no surprise that pelletiser
producers are increasing and tuning the options available on their offerings to ensure they meet customer needs ever more precisely. Major players are putting extra emphasis on customer service aspects, while smaller suppliers are emphasising their flexibility in providing special features for niche applications. This article takes a quick look at some of the latest developments and explains how they are being used in practice. Coperion Pelletizing Technology used the K2019 show in Dusseldorf, Germany, to display its improved dual-bearing strand pelletisers in public for the first time. It says the equipment has been extensively re-engineered to incorporate field experience and latest market demands. “The SP140, SP240 and SP340 models incorporate various enhanced features for easy, rapid handling and optimised pellet quality,” the company says.
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Coperion has also developed a new proprietary technology for adjustment of the cutting gap, which it says has already impressed users with increased comfort and speed compared to classic systems. “Conventional solutions like eccentric screws or compression-tensioning screws present disadvantages such as non-linear movements, potential dirt pockets on the product, several setting steps or subsequent shifting from additional locking mechanisms,” the company says. It claims its new solution offers faster and more
comfortable adjustment. Fine adjustment is also said to be more precise and simpler, as it can be done by hand without the need for tools. Likewise, integrated spring pre-tensioning eliminates the free clearance of the screws, which markedly reduces machine setup times.
Interior design
As well as making the overall design of the pelletisers more compact and integrating the operating panel into the machine, Coperion has reworked the interior space. The cutting tools have been installed closer to one another, enabling a shorter unguided strand length in the pelletiser and enhancing possible cutting results with soft materials in particular. “This new construction results in less dead space in the interior which, together with optimised
January 2020 | COMPOUNDING WORLD 17
Main image: TPE pellets in production on a Maag Pearlo underwater pelletiser at Hexpol TPE in Germany
Pelletisers
IMAGE: MAAG
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