Extrusion Moulding

Extrusion is a very similar process to injection moulding but uses a die instead of a mould. The shaped die produces continuous lengths of a thermoplastic product.

Extrusion produces products such as guttering, uPVC windows and pipes. The typical plastics used are PVC (polyvinylchloride), Nylon and Polythene.

  • The thermoplastic granules from the hopper fall onto the Archimedean screw.
  • The rotation screw takes the plastic past the heater.
  • The molten plastic is passed through the die and is cooled.
  • The process is continuous.
  • The product is cut into the desired size later on in the process.
  • Extruded products are usually simple shapes.
Advantages Disadvantages
  • Fast and continuous production.
  • Can make long lengths of products e.g. pipes, curtain rails.
  • Low cost of the material.
  • High setup costs.
  • Simple shapes.
  • Lengths must be cut after moulding.

Resources

Vacuum Forming