Extrusion

Abstract

Plastic extrusion is a steady-state process for converting a thermoplastic raw material such as plastic pellets or powder to a finished or near-finished product. Conversion takes place by forming a homogeneous molten mass in the extruder and forcing it through a die orifice that defines the shape of the products cross section. The resulting material which is called extrudate is cooled and drawn away from the die exit. The extrudate can then be wound on a spool or cut to a specific length.