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AUTOMATING A POLYMER MIXING PROCESS

KT Hydraulics recently designed and installed an automated PUR ratio system for a leading plastic roof panel manufacturer.

The system, which replaced several semi-manual polymer dispensing units, offers higher control of all polymers used in the manufacturing process with instant correction of all dosages, minimising waste and improving efficiency at the plant.

In completing the contract, KTH analysed the requirements of the process before drawing up detail plans, designing the system and commissioning it. The system controls the temperature and dosing of materials used in the manufacture of high-density polyurethane foam for the thermally insulated core of the roofing panels.

The system precisely controls the addition of five materials used in the process; polyol, isocyanate, two activating additives and a blowing agent. In doing so, it controls pumps and valves throughout the plant.

KTH director Roger Fish comments, "the contract is an excellent example of how KTH uses hydraulic systems to solve manufacturing problems and demonstrates how such solutions can overcome seemingly insurmountable manufacturing hurdles to increase plant efficiency.