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Real time measurement and control of viscosity for extrusion processes using recycled materials

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-09, 07:14 authored by Bao Kha NguyenBao Kha Nguyen, Gerald McNally, Alan Clarke
The aim of this paper is to develop a new generation of extruder control system for recycled materials which has ability to automatically maintain constant a polymer melt viscosity of mixed recycled polymers during extrusion, regardless of variations in the Melt Flow Index (MFI) of recycled mixed grade high density polyethylene (HDPE) feedstock. The variations in MFI are due to differences in the source of the recycled material used. The work describes how melt viscosity for specific extruder/die system is calculated in real time using the rheological properties of the materials, the pressure drop through the extruder die and the actual throughput measurements using a gravimetric loss-in-weight hopper feeder. A closed-loop controller is also developed to automatically regulate screw speed and barrel temperature profile to achieve constant viscosity and enable consistent processing of variable grade recycled HDPE materials. Such a system will improve processability of mixed MFI polymers may also reduce the risk of polymer melt degradation, reduce producing large volumes of scrap/waste and lead to improvement in product quality. The experimental results of real time viscosity measurement and control using a 38 mm single screw extruder with different recycled HDPEs with widely different MFIs are reported in this work.

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Published version

Journal

Polymer Degradation and Stability

ISSN

0141-3910

Publisher

Elsevier

Volume

102

Page range

212-221

Department affiliated with

  • Engineering and Design Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2017-07-17

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2021-03-04

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