The Modular Disk Coextrusion Die: A New Annular Die Technology for the Millennium

摘要

The unique features of the die stand out in stark contrast to the existing standard state of the art coextrusion dies. The main feature of the die is the module itself. Besides being able to weave together polymers into any structure desired, the module is capable of adapting the die to many changing situations. These range from a high output production die to a lower output laboratory die and then even to a "cut & paste" research tool. Using the research tool, internal pressure measurements can be made and compared to output rate and observed extrudate quality. While having the capacity to make the standard coextruded structures of today, the die can also coextrude the mega or micro-layered structures of tomorrow. With a 12 melt delivery capacity, the die is poised to create new compositions of matter never made before. To give a glimpse of the new composition of matter possibilities from mega and micro -layered structures, examples of unexpected results are discussed and referenced. Because of its compact size, this die can be applied to parison blow molding, tubing and profile extrusion as well as films, the main subject of this paper.