Using an aluminum profile extrusion machine involves a series of steps like installation, adjustment, test runs, operation, maintenance, and repairs. Although it may seem complicated, you really just need to follow the instructions. However, as an operator, you must be familiar with the structural features of the extrusion machine you're working with, so you can properly control the extrusion process and operate the machine correctly. There are many types of extrusion machines, and while the key operating points differ, they also share some similarities. Today, let's go over the operation steps and key points of using an aluminum profile extrusion machine in detail.
一. Preparations Before Driving
1. For plastics used in extrusion molding, the raw materials should meet the required drying standards. If necessary, further drying should be done. Also, sift the materials to remove clumps and mechanical impurities.
2. Check whether the water, electricity, and gas systems in the equipment are functioning properly, make sure the water and gas lines are unobstructed and leak-free, and check if the electrical system is normal. Ensure the heating system, temperature control, and various instruments are working reliably. Run the auxiliary machines at low speed without load to see if they operate normally. Start the vacuum pump on the sizing device and check if it works properly. Lubricate all sliding parts of the equipment. If any faults are found, fix them in time.
3. Install the machine head and sizing sleeve. Choose the machine head specifications according to the type and size of the product. Install the machine head in the following order.
二. Starting the Machine
1. You can start the machine once the temperature has stabilized. Before starting, retighten the bolts on the barrel and extruder head flange to compensate for any differences caused by thermal expansion. When tightening the head bolts, do it diagonally and apply even force. The flange nuts should be evenly tightened all around to avoid material leakage.
2. To start the machine, press the 'Ready to Start' button first, then the 'Start' button. Slowly turn the screw speed adjustment knob to start the screw at a low speed. Gradually increase the speed while adding a small amount of material. Pay close attention to the main motor ammeter and various indicator readings. Add material as needed, ensuring even and consistent feeding when using a twin-screw extruder with a metering feeder.
3. When the material comes out of the die evenly and the plasticization is good, you can begin the pulling and shaping process. To judge the plasticization, rely on experience. Usually, you can check the extruded material's appearance: it should be shiny, free of impurities, foam, burnt spots, or discoloration. When you press the material by hand to a fine degree, it should not have burrs or cracks and should be somewhat elastic. This indicates proper plasticization. If plasticization is poor, adjust the screw speed or the barrel and head temperature until the desired results are achieved.
4. During extrusion production, regularly check the process parameters as required by the procedure and record them. Inspect the quality of profiles according to the inspection standards, and take timely action if issues are found.
三. Stopping the Machine
1. Stop feeding materials. Once the plastic in the extruder is fully pushed out and the screw is exposed, turn off the power to the barrel and the head, and stop heating.
2. Turn off the power to the aluminum profile extruder and auxiliary machines to stop the screw and auxiliary equipment.
3. Open the flange connecting the machine head and remove the head. Clean the die plate and all components of the head. To avoid damaging the inner surface of the head, use steel brushes or steel sheets to clean the remaining material, then use sandpaper to remove any plastic stuck inside, polish it, and apply machine oil or silicone oil to prevent rust.
4. For screw and barrel cleaning, after removing the head, restart the main machine, add stop-feed material (or crushed material), and clean the screw and barrel. At this time, the screw should run at low speed (around sr/min) to reduce wear. Once the stop-feed material is fully ground into powder and extruded, compressed air can be blown repeatedly from the feed and exhaust ports to remove any remaining pellets and powder. After confirming there is no leftover material in the barrel, reduce the screw speed to zero, stop the extruder, and turn off the main power and the main cold water valve.
5. Safety items to note when extruding aluminum profiles include electricity, heat, moving mechanical parts, and handling heavy components. The extrusion workshop must have lifting equipment for installing and dismantling heavy parts like the machine head and screw to ensure safe production.
