What is Hot Melt Extrusion Extruder?

A hot-melt extruder is a key piece of equipment used in polymer material processing. It converts solid raw materials (such as plastics, rubber, and drug carriers) into a uniform melt through heating, melting, mixing, and extrusion, and then extrudes the material into a molded product. It is widely used in the plastics, pharmaceutical, food, and chemical industries.

Hot-melt Extruder Working Principle
Feeding: Solid raw materials (granules, powders) are fed into the extruder through a hopper.
Heating and Melting: The rotating screw and the heating cylinder gradually melt the raw materials into a viscous, fluid state.
Mixing and Homogenizing: The shearing and compression effects of the screw ensure a uniform mixing of the materials (fillers, masterbatches, etc. can be added).
Extrusion: The melt is extruded through a die to form a specific shape (such as film, tubing, or fiber).
Cooling and Solidification: The extruded melt is cooled by a cooling system (water or air) to set the shape.

Hot Melt Extruder Applications
Plastics Industry:
Production of pipes, sheets, films, wire and cable sheathing, etc.
Pharmaceutical Industry:
Preparation of solid dispersions (to improve drug solubility) and sustained-release formulations.
Food Processing:
Extrusion of puffed foods (such as French fries and pet food) and plant-based protein meats.
Chemicals and New Materials:
Processing of nanocomposites and biodegradable plastics (PLA and PHA).

Purchasing and Maintenance Recommendations
Select a model based on the material:
Common plastics → single screw; high-mixing requirements → twin screw.
Temperature Control Accuracy: The pharmaceutical and food industries require high-precision temperature control within ±1°C.
Screw Material: Corrosion-resistant (such as chrome plating or bimetallic screws) to extend life.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly clean the screw and mold to prevent carbonization.
Lubricate transmission components and inspect the heater coil for deterioration.