Flexible coextrusion system for PVC sheet production

MUNICH -- Palram Israel Ltd (Ramat-Yohanan, Israel) is producing multi-layer PVC sheets in a finished width of 2030 mm for a wide range of applications on a coextrusion line. The company is one of the leading manufacturers of thermoplastic semifinished products, as well as polycarbonate and PVC sheets.

The coextrusion system from KraussMaffei Berstorff is designed to process various formulations for flexible applications. The system is equipped with a KMD 133-32/PL 32D twin-screw extruder and used by Palram in conjunction with a KMD 75-26/PL coextruder to produce multi-layer sheets using the coextrusion method.

“A critical criterion for any investment decision we make is flexibility, because we want this system to work with varying formulations and manufacture a variety of final products," said Avinoam Gershoni, Group Technical purchasing manager of Palram. "Thanks to the coextrusion technology supplied by KraussMaffei Berstorff, we can respond very quickly and flexibly to the wishes of our customers.”

For example, Palram manufactures free-foamed and coextruded multi-layer sheets as well as transparent PVC sheets. “The ability to manufacture such a wide range of products enables us to stay competitive,” Mr Gershoni said.

KraussMaffei Berstorff twin-screw extruder of the 32D series for production of PVC sheets  

The key in gaining a competitive edge in the market place lies not only in diversification, but also in perfect end product quality. “The centerpiece of our 32D twin-screw extruder, the screw, has a specially adapted geometry for sheet extrusion which ensures exact temperature control,” said Peter Oswald, head of Product Management at KraussMaffei Berstorff. “The result is an excellent melt homogeneity which ensures perfect end product quality combined with high output levels – in the case of this system, up to 1200 kg/h.”

Palram has been a satisfied customer of KraussMaffei Berstorff for a number of years now. In the United Kingdom and in USA, the company manufactures a range of products such as PVC sheets in a width of 2400 mm and decking products on multiple production lines.