Granulation of Extruded Plastic Wires – Influence of Tool Geometry and Process Parameters

Granulators cut extruded elastomer wires in small pieces, which can be used as starting raw material for injection molding. This contribution investigates the most relevant parameters of process and tool geometry for the granulation technology, with the aim of improving process efficiency and granule quality. Fiber-reinforced PA and ABS plastics have been analyzed using a dedicated test bench and finite element simulations. High-speed camera and various sensors were used to investigate the cutting process. The considered geometrical and kinematic parameters have been varied within a broad range in order to determine optimum values.