If you are considering investing in a plastic extruder, you have the option of using either a single-screw or twin-screw extruder. The type of extruder will affect your production speed, mixing capabilities, and overall flexibility of operation.

Here's more information on what each type of extruder brings to the table.

Single Screw Extruders

As the name suggests, a single-screw extruder is a simple device with only one rotating screw in the barrel. Typically, single-screw extruders are ideal for situations where simple profiles, such as pipe and sheet, are required. While single screw machines work well, they are a bit slow, don't mix well, and may not be the best choice for any complex shapes. 

Twin Screw Extruders

As the name suggests, a twin-screw extruder has parallel screws in the barrel. Depending on the application, the twin screws can rotate in the same or different directions. Due to their design, twin-screw extruders offer higher stability, exhaust performance, speed and mixing performance. 

Advantages of Plastic Extrusion

Extrusion is a popular method of mass production that offers the perfect combination of versatility, flexibility and consistency. Here are some of the key benefits of the plastics extrusion process.

Cost Effectiveness: The extrusion process is highly cost effective compared to other processes. Generally, plastic parts are made with any kind of developed injection molding services or extrusion. However, extrusion has no complex tooling requirements and is simpler, thus reducing costs. In addition, extrusion presses can run continuously without interruption, providing 24-hour production and reducing the chance of inventory shortages.

Unmatched Flexibility: If there is a consistent cross-section, you can create any shape or contour using the plastic extrusion process. From complex shapes to sheets, pipes and other products, extrusion can provide virtually any type of design.

Change: Thermoplastics remain very malleable until the cooling process. This means you can easily perform other shaping operations to ensure the final product is the right size for your needs.