 |
 |
||||||
[February 2004]
New Batch Extrusion Press
Crystal Structures Ltd (Bottisham, Cambs, England) has introduced a new energy efficient, compact yet powerful extruder capable of processing a wide range of materials, including ceramics.
This versatile piston and cylinder extrusion press is designed and built to customer specifications in mild or stainless steel. The double-hinged barrel is said to be ideal for easy opening, loading and cleaning and is especially useful for small batch or experimental work.
The speed is variable, but accurately controlled for consistent extrusion conditions and can be programmed via RS232 interface. Unlike many commercial machines, this machine is self contained and so compact that it can be moved on castors when necessary and is supplied from a 13A plug. Speed, position and force are fully instrumented for complete control of extrusion parameters and the barrel can be heated or chilled if required.
1...Limited was sourcing a ceramic extrusion machine to use in its pilot plant facility at St John's Innovation Centre in Cambridge. "We had looked at a number of commercial machines but they were all way too big and bulky," said Actuator Group Manager, Mark Swetnam. "Also the price was prohibitively expensive. These machines were for production rather than research and development. By chance I came across Crystal Structures who were advertising a bespoke machine building service. The machine has been in service for around twelve months now and is in regular use. We have so little space we have to wheel it out to use it. Overall, we are very pleased with its performance and simplicity."
www.crystalstructures.com
ENDS