Technology and innovation in the manufacturing
process offer opportunities for companies to attain specific properties and
craft stronger materials. The same applies to the creation of plastics as
manufacturers try to create solutions based on client requirements and the
physical properties of polymer, additives, and reinforcers. The following are
the specific steps to demonstrate how the compounding of plastic adheres to
industry-specific needs.
It Begins
with a Base
plastics compounding begin with manufacturers
identifying the requirements from the client. After obtaining the necessary
specifications, the process starts with mixing the plastic base resin or
polymer. People should note that there are more than 50 resin systems
available. Based on the number, you need a manufacturer with the expertise and
familiarity in identifying usage. Knowledgeable companies provide suggestions
on the resin to apply and allow the process to move to the next step.
Use of
Fillers, Additives, and Reinforcers
The next step involves adding fillers, additives,
and reinforcers. Manufacturers tap in the expertise of their engineers to
determine the necessary materials to include in the compounding process. The
objective focuses on adhering to the performance criteria identified by
clients. The ability to mix additives to the polymer creates adds specific
properties to the plastic. Examples of these properties include flame
retardance, resistance to wear, precolored, and conductivity.
Material
Properties
It is essential to indicate that certain
additives contain components that help strengthen the property of the polymer.
Clients before manufacturing choose specific items that match specifications.
For instance, color changes allow companies to customize the aesthetic look of
the material. Similarly, they also have the chance to adjust the resistance to
particular elements such as fire, UV light, and cold. Given the multiple
variations available, it is important that manufacturers delve in detail before
actual production.
Mixing
Materials
Plastics compounding undergo different processes
before it reaches the client. The first part focuses on mixing the polymer and
additives specified by a client. An extruder is a machine that handles the
combining of the compound. Engineers will carefully determine the actual amount
necessary to meet the required specifications. After mixing, the compound then
goes through the cooling process. Then a machine cuts the material into pellets
before going into the packaging. The end process involves sending the requested
plastic type to the customer.
Quality
Assurance
Equally significant in the manufacturing process
involves quality checks. In-between processes, engineers make it a point to
check and assess for quality standards. The items remain essential in ensuring
that the compounding meets the prescribed criteria of the client. Depending on
the material’s specific properties, internal checks can go as much as 10. The
approach ensures that clients get the items they need. More importantly, it
provides business a way to ensure the delivery of high-quality products.
The Bottom
Line
Overall, plastics compounding is a complex
process that helps improve the quality of standard plastics. In hiring
manufacturers, it is essential to check their experience and capabilities. The
steps above should help you familiarize with the process and identify areas
where you can adjust the properties to meet practical and/or aesthetic needs.
PolyVisions has always been the top choice when
it comes to plastics compounding. With our
facilities and team of experts, we can help you manufacture a range of
industrial items. Contact us today!
