Co-Extrusion & Multilayer Structures - Sheet & Film Applications

Introduction

Products containing multiple layers of polymers are becoming more common especially in applications where barrier properties; strength; weight or cost are an issue.

This course will look at the wide range of properties that can be obtained, the production processes to achieve them and the practical extrusion technologies used.

Each of the two courses on Co-Extrusion and Multilayer Structures will have the same core subjects but will then concentrate on the applications for either Pipe and Blow Moulding or Sheet and Film. Delegates are invited to choose the course that is most relevant to their end use application.

Course Content

• Processing Technologies - A review of all the polymer processing technologies and their capability to produce enhanced properties through combining different polymers.
• Polymer Selection - A review of the current and novel polymers available for the use in co extruded and multilayer structures.
• Product design - How a structure can be designed for packaging, construction, automotive and medical applications.
• Properties of various barrier polymers - A comparison of the properties for various barrier polymers with an extended evaluation of the properties of EVOH for different applications.
• Forming multilayer polymer melts - The many types of extrusion dieheads are reviewed and the possibility of forming multilayer structures examined. The rheology of different materials is reviewed in relation to the principles of die design. Examples of theoretical modeling are provided.
• Line layouts - The implications of using multiple extruders is examined and the requirements made for control and ancillary equipment.
• Quality and process control - How to be in control of the process and product for multilayer structures with practical SPC examples demonstrated. Start up and shut down procedures are given.
• Possible faults and trouble shooting - The instabilities due to using multiple layers are considered. Potential defects in products are examined and linked to the end physical properties and quality control.
• Time is given to delegates in the final part of the course to discuss their own specific application areas with Dr. Peter Cox.

Specific Applications

This course will concentrate on sheet and film products for packaging and medical applications inlcuding the use of films for MAP. Specific quality control methods for films are included.