Solving the Twin Screw Extrusion Configuration Problem - a Plasticating Modeling Program

Co-rotating twin-screw extruders are widely used by polymer materials producers and compounders due to a number of interesting constructive and functional features. In fact, a broad range of polymer systems can be prepared / processed by adjusting adequately the operating conditions (output, screw speed and barrel temperature profile) and the screws geometry/configuration. This work presents a model for plasticating co-rotating intermeshing twin-screw extrusion, covering sequentially solids conveying, melting of a moving solid plug followed by melting of solid particles surrounded by melted polymer, and melt conveying, which are the typical process stages that materials are subjected to in these machines. The model is then used to investigate the influence of the operating conditions and screw configuration on relevant process responses such as melt exit temperature, mechanical and thermal energy consumption, degree of mixing and average residence time.