Feeding systems

Feeding systems connect the dry blend prepared in the mixer to the extruder. The aim is to deliver material without separation or interruption, when and in the quantity the extruder needs it. Erk PVC Makine designs systems that convey mixed raw material continuously through a single line or to each extruder separately.

Three ways to convey

• Flexible spring feeding (Flexcom): follows a more flexible route than a screw, suits tight spaces and has a robust build.
• Screw conveyor: made to standard pipe diameters in stainless or black steel; feeds vertically, at an angle or horizontally.
• Air conveying: moves granules by air, installed with a vacuum system, air filter and blower.

Full details of each option are on the extruder feeding systems page.

Which one, and when?

The decision rests on whether the material is powder or granules, conveying distance, height difference, obstacles along the route and the number of extruders. Flexible feeding stands out in tight, winding layouts, screw conveyors on fixed rigid routes and air conveying for granules over longer distances. Planning the feeding line together with the heater–cooler mixer keeps the flow consistent from cooler outlet to extruder. A layout drawing and the hourly consumption of each extruder are a good starting point for a quote. For dosing, mixing and feeding planned as a single project, see turnkey PVC mixing line.