PTi to Showcase Innovative 'Dryer-Less' PET/PLA Sheet System at NPE 2012
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AURORA, Ill. - Processing Technologies International (PTi), a leading global manufacturer of high-performance sheet extrusion machinery, will feature its unique "dryer-less" twin-screw sheet extrusion production system at NPE 2012: The International Plastics Showcase, April 1-5, 2012 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. At its booth (#6885), the company will also show its latest sheet handling systems including a new three-position turret winder.
The "dryerless" sheet extrusion system is an eco-conscious manufacturing solution which delivers major energy savings and cost reduction, according to Dennis Paradise, PTi's senior vp. of sales and marketing. 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 at company headquarters for North American customers.
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. The demonstration line is 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. Several customers have already conducted successful product trials utilizing this technology.
PTi announced plans to schedule a live customer demonstration three weeks after the NPE show at its Aurora, Ill., headquarters.
At NPE, PTi will also showcase its new line of winding systems, specifically the company's first three-position turret winder. It is a compact system that allows slit material to be wound two-up; that is half-slit material can be run on two rolls at the same time. The turret winder provides all the same benefits of a cantilever unit with a smaller footprint, thus reducing floor space. It has a maximum diameter of 40 in, capability for three- and six-in cores, a maximum roll weight of 4300 lb, and maximum width of 70-in. The unit's control system is integrated into PTi's TITAN® control platform, allowing for remote troubleshooting.
PTi's line of sheet winding system also includes cantilever, A-frame, and automatic designs. These are supported by a line of sheet accumulators featuring fully integrated pneumatic tension control. The company has developed a family of sheet winders in response to demand for turnkey production solutions. Fully automated features include cut and transfer, shaft extraction, roll un-loading/core loading, and roll weight measurements and recording. Several of the winders are capable of differential shaft winding, allowing for multiple webs on a single shaft. The winders were initially developed to support PTi's sheet extrusion systems but are also offered as stand-alone products.
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
Press Contact:
Joseph Grande
413.684.2463
joe.grande@verizon.net
Company Contact:
Dennis Paradise
(630) 585-5800 Ext. 119
dparadise@ptiextruders.com
