A granulator is a device that processes feedstock in the form of a film or fine crushed material into granules (of the same mass and shape). Granules, in turn, serve as a raw material for the manufacture of finished plastic parts.
The use of granules makes it possible to obtain raw materials with uniform density and flowability. These quality characteristics make it possible to fully automate the process of supplying raw materials. Plastic Granulator works on the principle of hot granulation (extrusion granulation). It happens like this: the raw material enters the extruder, where it becomes an amorphous mass under the influence of high temperatures and mixing. Under pressure, the mass is driven through the forming head and becomes a rod (strand), which is then cut into granules. The material is cooled before and after cutting.
Granulators are classified according to the characteristics of the equipment:
1.Extruder design: single or twin screw.
2. Size and weight of granules (head type).
3. Cylinder material.
4. Mesh filter - quantity and material.
5. Replacing the strainer: stop the extruder, without stopping.
6. Cooling method.
7.With a metal detector.
8. Type of dryer.
9. Degassing zone - is there any.
10. Availability of a bunker.
11. Loading: manual, conveyor.
12. Unloading: pneumatic, manual or conveyor.
13. Productivity: from 30 kg /hour to 2 tons /hour.
14. Power consumption: from 4 to 100 kW.
15. Dimensions.
16. Cost.
17. Period of continuous work.
18. Noise level.
19. Security.
How to choose the right installation? Judging by the classification, this is done for the projected line. Be sure to take into account: the type of raw materials, power consumption, how the raw materials are loaded, productivity, the method of unloading the granules and the layout of the line, taking into account the size of the equipment and the room in which it will be installed.
