In the EPE foaming process, temperature control directly affects blowing agent decomposition efficiency, cell structure, and product quality. Unstable temperatures can cause bubble rupture, uneven density, or even raw material carbonization and waste. Precise temperature control acts like a "smart brain" for the foaming machine, boosting productivity and reducing defects.
EPE foaming follows the "three-stage temperature control rule", with clear roles for each stage:
1.Feeding Stage (80-100℃): Pre-heats PE pellets to soften and transport them evenly, reducing screw load.
2.Compression Stage (120-140℃): Critical plasticization phase where blowing agents (e.g., butane) fully integrate into the melt for uniform mixing.
3.Metering Stage (160-180℃): Precisely controls blowing agent decomposition, achieving an ideal 98% decomposition rate with stable cell density (300-500 cells/cm³).
1.Precision: Within ±1℃ (traditional ±5℃ fluctuations cause >15% defects)
2.Transverse Uniformity: Sheet temperature difference ≤±2℃ across width, preventing edge over/under-foaming
3.Response Speed: Auto-adjusts within 3 seconds of anomalies, reducing downtime for calibration
Problem |
Cause |
Solution |
Uneven bubble sizes |
Large compression stage temperature fluctuations |
Upgrade to PID closed-loop control, add more temperature sensors |
Edge discoloration/carbonization |
Local overheating at die edges |
Install independent edge temperature zones with air-cooling for uniform heat dissipation |
High blowing agent residue |
Metering stage temperature below decomposition threshold |
Use gradient heating curves to ensure decomposition rate ≥95% |
Temperature control is the "hidden competitiveness" of EPE foaming. Precise control directly boosts yield by 20%-30% and capacity by 15%. If you face temperature-related challenges or seek more efficient solutions, contact Fuliyuan— 23 years focused on foaming technology, upgrading temperature control for 300+ customers.