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BLOG ARTICLE

Is Inefficient Vacuum Holding Back Your Plastics Production?

NORTH AMERICA | 29 September 2024 | 5 min

As the old saying goes, "You're only as good as your tools." This couldn't be truer in the fast-paced, demanding, and constantly evolving plastics industry. Using the wrong equipment, particularly vacuum pumps, can lead to process inefficiencies, costly downtimes, and poor product quality. When it comes to extruder degassing, having the right vacuum technology is crucial ensuring product integrity. The Edwards EXDM Extruder Degassing Module has proven time and again to be a highly reliable solution for extruder degassing in various applications, saving companies both time and money.

Why Vacuum is Essential in Extruder Degassing

Extruder degassing, also referred to as devolatilization, is an essential process used in many plastics manufacturing applications. During extrusion, plastics undergo intense mixing, heating, and molding. Trapped air, moisture, monomers, and gases within the material can lead to bubbles, voids, or mechanical weaknesses in the final product. Applying vacuum at strategic points during the process helps to efficiently remove these impurities, improving the overall quality and appearance of the plastic.

Different types of extruders, such as single-screw, twin-screw, and planetary extruders, rely on vacuum systems to remove entrained gases. For manufacturers aiming to increase the efficiency and consistency of their degassing process, the Edwards EXDM system offers a competitive advantage.

Edwards EXDM Extruder Degassing Module: The Ideal Solution for Plastics Industry Applications

The Edwards EXDM system is a robust, flexible vacuum solution designed for the demands of extruder degassing, particularly in plastics recycling. With Edwards’ trusted EDC dry claw vacuum pumps at its core, the EXDM system is built to withstand multiple starts and stops without compromising performance or impacting your process. Key benefits of the EXDM system include:

  • Increased Productivity: With manual and intelligent automatic control options, the EXDM system allows for seamless integration into existing installations, optimizing throughput and reducing downtime. Its advanced design ensures flawless performance with minimal operator intervention.
  • Improved Product Quality: By removing residual moisture, monomers, and gases from the plastic during extrusion, the EXDM system ensures higher product quality, reducing defects such as bubbles, voids, and poor surface finishes.
  • Environmental Friendliness: The EXDM system uses proven dry claw vacuum technology, which eliminates the need for waste oil or water, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable production process. With its stainless steel claw mechanism and corrosion-resistant inner chamber, it is designed for a long, reliable service life without harming the environment.
  • Modular Design for Customization: Whether your process requires a single pump or a multi-pump system, the EXDM can be customized to fit your needs. Its built-in solvent flush helps prevent condensable build-up, and additional filtration options ensure that solids and liquids are efficiently captured, extending the life of the pump and improving process efficiency.
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The Science Behind the EXDM: A Solution Built for Durability and Performance

At the heart of the Edwards EXDM system is the EDC dry claw vacuum pump, which features an innovative design to handle even the most demanding plastics processing environments. The system includes stainless steel claws and a coated inner chamber, ensuring corrosion-free operation. The EXDM system also allows for flexibility in filtration, with options for one or two filters to capture process solids and liquids, ensuring consistent pump performance.

In extruder degassing applications, where maintaining stable vacuum levels is critical, the EXDM module offers precise control with both manual and automatic operation modes. It is designed to handle a range of degassing needs, from small-scale recycling operations to large-scale plastics manufacturing processes.

Customizable Solutions for Every Application

Every plastics manufacturing facility has its own unique set of challenges. That’s why the Edwards EXDM system is designed to be flexible and scalable. Whether your application calls for light, medium, or heavy-duty operations, Edwards' network of application experts can help design the ideal system for your process, including multiple pump systems, customized filtration options, and integrated control mechanisms.

Ultimately, the key to successful plastics production lies in reliable and efficient vacuum technology. The Edwards EXDM Extruder Degassing Module offers the perfect solution, providing increased productivity, improved product quality, and reduced environmental impact.

Don’t let outdated vacuum technology hold back your operation. Contact Edwards today to learn more about how the EXDM system can transform your extruder degassing and plastics processing needs. With flexible solutions and customizable designs, the EXDM is your key to a more efficient and profitable production process.

Get in touch with us for more information.