DSM Xplore developed
a twin screw compounder with a capacity of just a few grams
of material. This microcompounder, which is the smallest
in the world, is a unique asset for the development of new
material compounds. A full-pledged material processing machine
on a laboratory bench or in a fume cupboard!
The microcompounder
can process maximum batch-volumes up to 5 ml. As an option
our compounder houses the unique Vari-BatchTM concept, which
gives you the opportunity to select your batch-volume, via
multiple recirculation channels, from 2 ml to 5 ml. In the
past, testing and evaluating of new materials or formulations
was not possible due to lack of sufficient synthesized material
or too expensive additives.
Our microcompounder offers a
solutions to these issues. Even more, when it is used in
combination with our laboratory injection moulding machine.
The core of this laboratory compounder is formed by a divisible
fluid tight mixing compartment containing two detachable,
conical mixing screws. Both the screws and the housing are
specially treated to minimise wear and to make them resistant
against chemicals. Chemical resistance and hardness of the
barrel is essential to maintain it’s original geometry
which enables to generate reproducible data over the years.
The
main drive is continually digitally variable and allows for
axial force measurement which controls constant die pressure
for film and fiber applications, hence through-put control.
The
processing temperature can be controlled in 6 separate heating
zones which enables to process with a temperature gradient
or directly via an additional melt-thermocouple. Residence
time can be varied via recirculation of the melt. Mixing
and dispersion are superb preventing agglomeration; shear
can be set by RPM or axial force control. In addition screw
flank barrel gap is also adjustable.
Other standard features
are air and water cooling, N2 purge, integrated touch screen
control, axial force measurement (determination of viscosity).
Dedicated software enables you to control the instrument
parameters and to acquire data to analyse a processing cycle/run. |
