Plasticising unit

The plasticising unit is part of injection moulding machines, screw extruders or similar devices. It consists of a heated barrel and a screw.

Its tasks include melting and homogenising the moulding compound before it is formed in the injection mould or at the extrusion die.

Three-zone screw (universal screw)

Feed zone: In this zone, the granules are drawn from the hopper into the plasticising unit.

Compression zone: In the middle part of the screw, the screw flight becomes narrower in order to build up pressure. The moulding compound is compacted and air is removed from the granules. Friction heat and the heated barrel melt the moulding compound.

Homogenising and metering zone: The final stage mixes the viscous melt to ensure a uniform temperature distribution and additive distribution.

The temperatures of the individual zones are controlled independently of one another.