Twin-Screw Extruders Optimize Output for Powder Coating

Photo Credit: Baker Perkins

Baker Perkins (Peterborough, United Kingdom) has developed a new range of high power twin-screw extruders that are said to deliver superior outputs on powder coating and specialist chemical applications from a smaller barrel, with reduced cost of ownership and machine down time.   

Increased power and speed are the key attributes of the new HPX 45 extruder, achieved by full utilization of an 83 kW motor through torque stability provided by the patented MAX³ feed system, as well as increased thrust capacity of the solid-shaft drive train.

The HPX45 reportedly provides an average output of 750 kg/hour, rising to 1,200 kg/hour on specific applications—typically 20% higher than an MPX50 machine. A full range of HPX extruders is being developed, and the MPX series will be retained for powder coating applications requiring through shaft cooling.

The HPX45 extruder handles a full range of powder coatings and toners including the most intensive formulations; it is aimed at the small to medium batch market producing 300-800 kg/hr of product, ideally suiting 100 kg to 1,500 kg batches.

The HPX retains all the latest features of the MPX range, including the MAX³ feed system; a high-cool barrel increasing efficiency and enabling lower melt temperatures; a split stuffing box for increased access; a pivoting main feeder for easier calibration and emptying; and purge feeders for quicker turnaround between batches. Noise is said to be minimized by using water-cooled main drive motors, and a high-cool discharge adaptor and non-stick coating minimize product hang-up at discharge.

The MAX³ feed system improves the flow of material into the extruder barrel and air out of it to eliminate material build up in the extruder infeed that leads to restricted output and torque surges. The system reportedly brings proven 40% to 100% throughput benefits, as well as top feeding creates improvements in operation that are said to significantly reduce cost-of-ownership.

In addition, the HPX features innovative control features, including a touch-screen human-machine interface (HMI) developed specifically for the complete range of Baker Perkins extruders. Options include systems integration of upstream and downstream equipment into a single control point for the line.