Vacuum System Types

 

Plastics conveying systems commonly fit into one of four categories. Typical processor categories are as follows, but exceptions are common.

1. Single source, single destination: Extrusion, thermoforming, and injection (preforms)

2. Single source, multiple destination: Extrusion, injection (caps), and blowmolding (containers)

3. Multiple source, single destination: Extrusion

4. Multiple source, multiple destination: Injection, extrusion (tubing, wire & cable)

These aren’t hard and fast rules because there are many crossover situations but typically, the processors in the businesses listed above will employ the resin conveying system type shown opposite their business category.

There are other factors to consider like:

• Does the resin require drying?
• Are the multiple source materials very similar…like PE and PP?
• Is common or dedicated line conveying preferred?
• Dry or ambient air conveying?
• Are material selection manifolds required?
• Is verification and validation of materials a factor?
• Is line purging required?

All of these questions are best discussed with the systems engineer who will help guide you through this maze.
Then, there are other sub-systems, which are usually considered separately but may be integrated into the primary resin conveying system.

System Integration
When you consider a central resin handling system, it’s best to include all parts of the process if possible. Anything you can do to get pallets & forklifts off the production floor results in better workflow, fewer employees and increased profits.