Extrusion Vacuum Tank

Extrusion Vacuum Tank

An extrusion vacuum tank is a crucial component in the extrusion process, particularly for producing high-quality plastic pipes and profiles. It plays a vital role in cooling and shaping the extruded material.

How it Works

Extrusion: The molten plastic is forced through a die, creating the desired shape.
Vacuum Tank Entry: The hot extrudate enters the vacuum tank, which is filled with cooling water.
Cooling and Sizing: The vacuum within the tank helps to draw the extrudate against a sizing sleeve or calibrator, ensuring precise dimensions. Simultaneously, the cooling water rapidly cools the plastic, solidifying its shape.
Water Removal: The cooled extrudate exits the tank, often with the help of a haul-off unit.
Benefits of Using a Vacuum Tank

Precise Dimensions: The vacuum ensures the extrudate maintains its shape and size, resulting in consistent and accurate products.
Faster Cooling: The vacuum-assisted cooling process is more efficient than traditional methods, leading to increased production speeds.
Improved Product Quality: The controlled cooling minimizes defects and warping, resulting in higher quality products.
Versatility: Vacuum tanks can be used with a wide range of plastics and profiles, making them suitable for various applications.
Types of Vacuum Tanks

Vacuum tanks come in various sizes and configurations to accommodate different extrusion needs. Some common types include:

Single-chamber tanks: These are the simplest type, typically used for smaller extrudates.
Multi-chamber tanks: These offer multiple cooling zones, allowing for more precise control over the cooling process.
Spray tanks: These use spray nozzles to apply cooling water directly to the extrudate, providing rapid cooling.
Manufacturers of Extrusion Vacuum Tanks

Several companies specialize in manufacturing extrusion vacuum tanks, including:

Boston Matthews
Sarem Makina
Plastics Extrusion Machinery LLC (PEM)
Lima Extrusion
When choosing an extrusion vacuum tank, it's essential to consider factors such as the size and type of extrudate, the desired cooling rate, and the specific requirements of your extrusion process.