PTi Completes Installation of 'Dryer-Less' PET/PLA Sheet System
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Eco-Conscious Sheet Manufacturing Solution Delivers Production-Scale Capabilities
SCHAUMBURG, Ill. - Processing Technologies International (PTi), a leading global manufacturer of high-performance sheet extrusion machinery, has completed the installation of its unique "dryer-less" twin-screw sheet extrusion production system at company headquarters in Aurora. The production-scale demonstration line is up and running. Several customers have already conducted successful product trials utilizing this technology. The novel sheet system is on display during a plant tour in conjunction with the 20th annual SPE Thermoforming Conference Sept. 17-20 in Schaumburg, Ill.
"The launch of this unique technology is of major significance for our customers who now have an eco-conscious manufacturing solution which delivers major energy savings and cost reduction," explained Dennis Paradise, PTi's senior vp. of sales and marketing. "Moreover, it is the only full-scale "dryer-less" twin-screw sheet extrusion demonstration system available for trials in North America." PTi has invested over $3 million to install the unit for North American customers.
The demonstration line will be available to sheet manufacturers for product evaluation using their own virgin and recycled materials. Paradise noted that customers have the ability to run production-scale trials instead of scaling up from a small lab-scale pilot line that can often result in inaccurate estimations and unfavorable results. The production-scale line eliminates the uncertainties associated with a scale-up from a small lab line. Ultimately, it will give customers a proof-of-production result, according to Paradise. And potentially companies will be able to produce samples at sufficient volumes for test marketing programs - a capability not typically possible with pilot-scale equipment, he added.
The production-scale unit, which is capable of processing rates in excess of 2000 lb per hour (900 kg/hr), runs a variety of resins including post-consumer and industrial PET/PLA. The energy-efficient process relies on Italy's Luigi Bandera's patented High-Vacuum Twin-Screw Extruder (HVTSE(TM))* technology, which allows PET to be processed without the need for raw material drying and crystallizing. It employs a single atmospheric and dual high-vacuum, vent system with a co-rotating twin-screw extruder. This novel approach allows moisture and other volatiles to be removed as part of the extrusion process. In the case of recycled PET, the need for re-crystallization of the material is also eliminated. The energy savings from the elimination of drying and crystallization can approach 30-35% versus the conventional method.
PTi has a strategic business alliance with Bandera to exclusively market the technology in North America.
About Processing Technologies International LLC (PTi)
Processing Technologies International LLC, based in Aurora, Ill., is a leading global manufacturer of high-performance sheet extrusion machinery, serving more than 20 countries. Established in 1988, PTi produces and services single-screw extrusion equipment for many end-use markets including packaging, construction, automotive, lawn and garden, office products, signage and displays, and appliances. PTi's extrusion systems are engineered to exacting standards and offer an exceptional range of design features which result in superior equipment performance. More information is available by calling (630) 585-5800 or visit www.ptiextruders.com.
*HVTSE Technology by Bandera
