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A hot-runner nozzle assembly optimized for processing biopolymers such as polylactic acid (PLA) is a new standard offering from D-M-E Co., Madison Heights, Mich. PLA is hypersensitive to shear and can degrade quickly into corrosive acids that plate out on the walls of the molding system, D-M-E says. That reportedly imposes different requirements for residence time, shear flow, and thermal balance. Since previous systems made to handle PLA were “one-off” types, this is said to be the first standard commercial line aimed at biopolymers. The new Eco-Smart hot-runner system uses special corrosion-resistant components and uninterrupted material flow paths for reduced shear. The manifold and nozzle are heated inside and out and have front-removable heaters and thermocouples for easy maintenance. (248) 398-6000 • www.dme.net |
