From Material Data to Die Design
The value of rheological data goes beyond material selection and process optimisation. The flow data obtained with the Capillary Rheometer can also be used as input for flow simulations during extrusion die design.
By incorporating the measured viscosity and flow behaviour of the material into the simulation, engineers can predict how the polymer will flow through the die before the die is manufactured. This provides valuable insight into pressure distribution, flow balance and potential areas where the die design may need to be adjusted.
Combining accurate material data with flow simulation significantly reduces the need for trial-and-error during die development. Potential design issues can be identified and addressed digitally before manufacturing and testing the die.
Instead of manufacturing a die, testing it, modifying it and testing it again, more development work can be done virtually. This can shorten development time, reduce the number of trial runs and minimise material and production costs.
From Material Validation to Full-Scale Production
The Capillary Rheometer is also valuable during material selection and validation.
Before a material is introduced into full-scale production, its flow behaviour can be compared with defined requirements or reference materials. Potential processing issues can therefore be identified at an early stage, reducing technical risk and avoiding costly surprises during scale-up.
The result is a more informed development process, shorter optimisation cycles and greater confidence that the selected material will perform as expected in production.
