Equipment purging is an essential step for manufacturers in the plastics industry. Far from being a simple cleaning operation, it guarantees optimum performance, prolongs machine life and reduces the costs associated with production faults. This article explores in detail the reasons, benefits and applications of purging for your machines, including 3D printing.
Key benefits of purging your machines
1. Removing contaminants: material or color residues in screws and cylinders can lead to defects such as black spots or color differences. Effective purging removes these unwanted particles before they can damage your production.
2. Protection against carbonization: deposits of carbonized material on metal surfaces increase over time, particularly during prolonged shutdowns. Purge prevents these deposits from becoming embedded by neutralizing oxidation.
3. Preventive maintenance: by cleaning regularly, you can avoid costly breakdowns due to soiling or deterioration of equipment, thus prolonging its lifespan.
4. Cost reduction: a clean machine produces compliant parts right from the start of each cycle, reducing scrap and minimizing material losses.
5. Workshop safety Safety: by neutralizing the chloride acids released by PVC.
When should purging products be used?
- Before a change of material or color: this guarantees a reduction in time and material loss between the two productions.
- Before a prolonged shutdown: using a purge compound for shutdown prevents residue build-up and oxidation, enabling rapid restart.
- Regular maintenance: to ensure continuous cleanliness.
A solution for all processes, including 3D printing: Purge materials are not limited to conventional injection or extrusion machines. They are also indispensable for 3D printers, effectively cleaning nozzles and extrusion systems. These tools help maintain optimum print quality, with no residues or degradation that could alter the final result.
In the demanding plastics industry, purging your machines is more than a technical operation: it’s a strategic act. Not only does it improve your production output by reducing material loss & optimizing production times, it also improves the profitability of your equipment by optimizing its life and reducing downtime.
At AMP-POLYMIX Group, we offer customized solutions for your purging needs, including specific materials for 3D printing. Our experts are available to advise and support you in your choice. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information or to discover our products dedicated to purging.
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