Compacting

Since it is difficult to manipulate and convey low bulk density materials (e.g. fibres), their processing/recycling will often set a challenge. However, these processes can benefit greatly from transforming the material into dense pellets. 

The compactor facilitates the production of these pellets by pushing low bulk density material through a die at high pressures. The resulting heat and shear cause the agglomeration of the material, leading to a more processable material.

• The Kahl 33-390 compactor is fed at the top with low bulk density material.
• This material is then compressed by the rollers. When a sufficient amount of material has been collected, the pressure build-up will cause the material to be pushed through the die.
• The compactor is equipped with 2 dies  with different length/diameter ratios. This ratio has a major influence on the processing pressure and temperature of the material.
• A cutter, underneath the die, cuts the compressed strands, and pushes them out.
• Depending on the material, the rolls can exert more or less pressure, in order to better control the process.
• The main parameters that control the process are the L/D of the die, the feed rate and the set pressure.