Manufacturers are expected to keep up with technological advances to stay competitive. Extrusion technology is just one of the many sectors that continues to see growth and evolution.
Custom Profile highlights some of the key changes in extrusion technology and how they enhance the manufacturing process.
Extrusion Technology and Automation
One of the biggest advancements in extrusion technology is the use of automation throughout the manufacturing process. While automation has been used for several years in plastic extrusion services, the latest developments drive progress in many ways.
More real-time data is obtained from extruders thanks to automation. Dense sensors keep track of temperature, pressure, and dimensional laser gauges, feeding software updates and allowing for adjustments on screw speed, zone setpoints, and haul-off data.
New developments in automation allow for extruded parts to be loaded and handled throughout the entire manufacturing process, allowing for minimal manual contact and preventing human error.
Automation will continue to advance with extrusion applications, but the current advancements in this technology allow for faster services, more accurate production, and overall higher-quality products that last longer.
Energy and Hardware Efficiency
The latest extrusion technology allows for more efficient manufacturing.. In extruder machines, hardware continues to see key upgrades that improve the overall flow of the production process.
More modern extruders are equipped with mechanics that allow for finer torque on the extruder screw and better speed control, while also requiring less energy than preexisting models. This leads to more accurately manufactured products. Additionally, with more control over the screw, more complex designs can be incorporated. With less energy consumed, this can drive down costs for customers as manufacturers see overhead and operating costs continue to decrease.
Sustainability Improvements
One of the largest benefits of the continued advancement of extrusion technology is a more pronounced focus on sustainability initiatives.
More efficient resource use drives sustainability efforts, thanks to extruder machines that create more precise designs, ultimately creating less waste.
Materials have evolved, with some manufacturers utilizing biodegradable or recycled polymers to create products that feature the same benefits as traditional materials.
Additionally, newer extrusion machines require less energy and emit fewer harmful chemicals than previous models, which directly impacts sustainability efforts.
Learn More and Connect With Custom Profile to Discover the Latest in Extrusion Technology
Custom Profile entered the extrusion market in 1992, and we’re always looking for ways to improve. That starts with the equipment we use and paying attention to how extrusion technology has evolved.
We specialize in custom solutions that are only achievable with high-quality tech in all three of our facilities, starting with our home in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Contact us today to learn how we have evolved our extrusion technology and can use that tech to create your products now and in the future.