Extrusion International 6-2022

30 Extrusion International 6/2022 K 2022 Engineering at the Highest Level New die plate technology enables stable pelletizing of LCP by using an underwater pelletizing system for the first time T he pelletizing of LCP (liquid crystal polymers) has always been a big challenge. ECON engineers faced this problem and proved their technologi- cal leadership once again. The result is a breakthrough and milestone in the world of pelletizing. The ground- breaking further development of the patented Thermal Insulation Tech- nology enables the pelletizing of LCP with an underwater pelletizing sys- tem for the first time in history. The ECON technology ensures an easy and repeatable start-up process. “Long-term trials have shown that the Thermal Insulation Technology 2.0 is ready for 24/7 production,” mentions Dominik Neumann (Head of R&D). By using the new technology, a very low pressure of 25 bar is built up at the die plate, which allows operation with- out using a melt pump. Compared to conventional technologies, the uniform pellets, with an outstanding smooth surface, increase the quality significantly. In addition, a very small amount of fines is produced. In addition to LCP, the Thermal In- sulation Technology 2.0 enables the continuous pelletizing of other high- temperature plastics, such as PPS and PEEK. “ECON welcomes interested customers to test their very own high- temperature polymer at any time in our technical center to prove the re- sults to themselves,” emphasizes Ger - hard Hemetsberger (CSO). ECON GmbH www.econ.eu LCP pellets – conventional technologies LCP pellets – ECON Technology Speed BOPP Line at K Show Contracted A .J. Plast, one of the leading filmmanufacturers in South- East Asia, and Brückner Maschinenbau have one of the longest partnerships in the BO industry. Their current joint project is already Brückner's 15th film production line: a 5-layer, 10.4 metre wide BOPP line with a line speed of 600 metres per minute and an output of 7.5 tonnes per hour. The project impresses with high production efficiency and takes an important step towards zero emissions, ener- gy saving and carbon reduction. The technology used will not only drastically reduce energy consumption, but also reduce water consumption. The newly designed double air heat exchanger in the kiln process preheats fresh air and takes energy recycling to a new level. A.J. Plast owner Kittiphat Suthisamphat says: “With our new line we increase productivity and reduce our energy consumption at the same time. That’s two of our major goals for our future film production focusing on environ - mental sustainability – and with Brückner at our side we will reach them.” Xaver Sedlmeier, Sales Director at Brueckner Group Asia- Pacific: “We are very proud of this new project. In close co - operation we have designed a film stretching line that is completely tailored to the needs of A.J. Plast and the needs of the markets. It is always a pleasure to master challenging projects with the A.J. Plast team." Brückner Maschinenbau GmbH & Co.KG www.brueckner.com A.J. Plast owner Kittiphat Suthisamphat (right), Helmut Huber, Managing Director CSO, Brückner Maschinenbau (left)