MACHINERY | MATERIALS HANDLING


At K2025, Maguire presented a comprehensive display of its drying, blending and feeding products


Overcoming wrong loading procedures


When processors find imperfections in their material stream, they typically blame a faulty batch.


However, the problem is often caused by


sors seeking greater automation, material traceabil- ity, and equipment performance data.


Swift response In similar fashion, Motan exhibited several new offerings from its Swift range of ancillary products, along with solutions to automate extrusion. The Swift series covers the entire materials handling product range, from dosing and mixing to drying and conveying. Highlights included: S-Dry 40/80, a compact dehumidified air dryer range with multiple bin combinations that is focused on energy efficiency; S-Compact, which includes integrated conveying and optional control of an additive dosing unit; S-Convey HES, a single-phase material loader for granulates with intelligent control for demand-based material supply; and S-Color V, an additive dosing and mixing unit for masterbatch and regrind dosing applications. In addition, its Gravicolor 110 Med and Metro G


Med are designed for pharmaceutical and medical plastics processing. They comply with FDA stand- ards and guarantee maximum process reliability for sensitive materials.


CLICK ON THE LINKS FOR MORE INFORMATION: � www.blue-air.at � www.birdmachinery.de � www.kreyenborg.com � www.coperion.com � www.gerickegroup.com � www.conairgroup.com � www.kubota-bt.com � www.movacolor.com � www.qlar.com � www.moretto.com � www.maguire.com � www.motan-group.com


28 FILM & SHEET EXTRUSION | September 2026


improper unloading practices. This can lead to several common issues, including: • Angel hair – thin resin streamers created when pellets experience excessive heat, friction or air velocity during unloading; • Snakeskin – thin, textured resin layers formed inside transfer lines by repeated smearing and softening, which later break off and cause clogging; and, • Dust – microscopic particles generated when pellets abrade against each other or the inside of transfer hoses. “This can cause blocked filters, fouled


sensors, inconsistent material flow and un- planned shutdowns,” said Brandon Phan, a blown film technical service engineer at Shell Polymers. Following best practice can minimise friction,


static, and heat during unloading, he says. Keeping airflow in check is critical – with a maximum air velocity of 4,600 feet per minute in vacuum systems or 4,200 feet per minute in pressure systems. Using grounded, clean, preferably stainless- steel hoses reduces static buildup and internal abrasion. Aluminium and plastic are more prone to charge buildup and internal wear. Minimising hose bends and length helps


reduce turbulence, a major cause of fines and streamers. If possible, hoses should be suspend- ed off the ground with minimal curvature, ensuring a smooth flow path for the resin. And, in warmer climates, unloading during cooler hours – and avoiding sun-exposed metal pipes – can reduce heat-related pellet softening. “In addition, maintaining clean transfer systems is as important as proper technique,” he said. “Cross-contamination from residual product in lines or poorly cleaned railcars is a leading source of pellet degradation and product variability.” � www.shell.us


www.filmandsheet.com


IMAGE: MAGUIRE


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