Laboratory Extruders in Research and Development: Precision for Material Optimization

Research and development in rubber and silicone processing require tools that work precisely and efficiently. Laboratory extruders play a central role in this process: they simulate production processes on a small scale and make it possible to develop new formulations and optimize existing materials.

In this article, we take a detailed look at the different types of laboratory extruders, their tools, and their applications – and show why they are indispensable for modern research and development.
 

1. Types of Laboratory Extruders by rubicon: Precision for Every Task

rubicon offers a variety of laboratory extruders tailored to specific requirements. Here is an overview:

Standard Extruder: Versatile and Precise

The extruder from rubicon is designed to effectively determine the extrusion behavior and viscosities of rubber compounds. Its innovative features enable a wide range of applications, making it an indispensable tool for batch and release testing, which can be conducted with quality certification thanks to short testing times. The standard extruder is the workhorse of laboratory extrusion.

• Areas of Application:
  • Ideal for determining extrusion behavior and viscosities.
• Features:
  • Short testing times for rapid batch and release tests.
  • Use in quality control thanks to modern measurement technology and easy operation.
  • Compact design that facilitates integration into any laboratory.
     

Vacuum Extruder: Maximum Purity of the Mixture

The vacuum extruder is specialized in the removal of air cells and volatile components from rubber compounds.

• Technical Advantages:
  • Reduces porosity and improves bonding quality.
  • Optimizes material homogeneity and ensures precise end products.
• Applications:
  • Production of high-quality coatings and bonds.
     

Vertical Extruder: Flexibility in Tight Spaces

The vertical extruder for processing rubber or silicone offers an excellent solution when space is limited. The extruder can be used flexibly either as a standalone machine or for coextrusion as a side extruder. The positioning of the extruder allows for both vertical and horizontal operation at various height positions. Movable on rollers and equipped with a plug-in electric connection, it enables flexible, cross-extrusion line use. Ideal for small production quantities, the vertical extruder combines space-saving with functionality.

• Features:
  • Can be operated both vertically and horizontally.
  • Flexibly movable on rollers and equipped with plug-in electric connections.
  • Adjustable height positions for different extrusion lines.
     
• Ideal Applications:
  • Small series production.
  • Coextrusion in combination with other extruders.
     

Hybrid Extruder: Innovation Meets Versatility

A versatile extrusion device that can process both rubber compounds and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). Our hybrid extruder uses an innovative drive concept with a three-phase synchronous motor, eliminating the need for traditional extruder gearboxes. This technology enables an extended screw speed range and high screw torque. The easy switch between extrusion units for rubber and TPE allows the hybrid extruder to be flexibly used in research, development, and quality control. The hybrid extruder from rubicon sets new standards with its ability to process different materials.

• Technical Highlights:
  • Processing of both rubber compounds and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE).
  • Innovative drive concept with a three-phase synchronous motor, eliminating the need for a traditional gearbox.
  • Extended screw torque and high screw speed range.
     
• Advantages:
  • Quick switch between extrusion units.
  • Sustainable and energy-efficient solution for research and development.
     

2. Precise Heads for Laboratory Extruders

The functionality of laboratory extruders is enhanced by specialized tools. Two of the most important tools from rubicon are:
 

Straight head with Garvey Die

• Usage:
  • Evaluation of the extrudability of rubber compounds.
  • Assessment of surface quality according to ASTM D 2230-96.
     
• Application Benefits:
  • Provides precise data that can be directly incorporated into process optimization.

Rheometer Head

• Usage:
  • Determination of shear and elongational viscosity of rubber compounds during the extrusion process.
  • Batch testing and quality control.
     
• Technical Highlights:
  • Direct integration into the extrusion process.
  • Real-time data analysis for formulation development.
     

3. Gear Pumps: Efficient Material Conveyance

A gear pump is used in laboratory extruders for rubber because it can convey the material precisely and evenly. Additional technical advantages:

• Constant Material Flow: Ensures consistent product quality.
• Gentle Processing: Prevents overheating and material damage.
• High Pressure Capability: Suitable for processing highly viscous rubber compounds.
• Energy Efficiency: Reduces operating costs and is environmentally friendly.
• Easy Cleaning: The design of the gear pump facilitates cleaning and material changes.
   

These characteristics make gear pumps ideal for the precise and efficient processing of rubber compounds in laboratory extruders.
 

4. Applications of Laboratory Extruders

Laboratory extruders from rubicon offer a variety of applications:

• Recipe development and release testing in the rubber laboratory
   
• Quality control during release testing
   
• Determination of shear and elongational viscosity of rubber compounds with the rheometer head
   
• Production of precision films and tubes
   
• Coating of cords and metal wires for silicone products
   
• Production of blanks for compression molds
   

With their versatility, they enable detailed material studies and the production of small quantities.

Laboratory Extruders from rubicon

Laboratory extruders are indispensable tools for rubber and silicone processing. With the innovative machines and tools from rubicon, companies can optimize their processes, develop new materials, and enhance the quality of their products. The extensive range of types – from standard to hybrid extruders – offers the right solution for every requirement.

Are you looking for precise, efficient, and versatile extrusion solutions? 

Then you've come to the right place! rubicon laboratory extruders are compact, space-saving, and universally applicable. They offer practical evaluation options for the extrusion behavior of rubber compounds as well as for the industrial production of small series. Equipped with the latest measurement technology and software, they support the determination of extrusion behavior and daily quality control.

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