Economic advantages all along the line

The basis for processing expandable polystyrene (EPS) is the pre-expansion system. Kurtz pre-expansion systems are the result of consistent implementation of physical processes in innovative machine technology, intensive exchange of experience with users and recommendations of raw material manufacturers - and are flexibly adaptable to any requirement with high economic efficiency and in top quality.Kurtz Pre-Expanders guarantee a high degree of automation, reliable control and reproducibility as well as a uniformly foamed product. Together with simple operation, they bring calculable economic advantages. Kurtz offers a complete range of continuous and discontinuous pre-expanders in sizes from 0.15 to 3.0 m3 for the processor of thermoplastic foams.

Advantages of Kurtz EPS Pre-ExpandersEPS Pre-Expander

  • Even density distribution

  • Homogeneous temperature distribution in the pre-expanding boiler

  • Stabilization of EPS-beads in the fluid bed

  • High material throughput

  • Low energy consumption

Pre-foaming process: first step to successEPS Pre-Expander

The EPS raw material is conveyed as granules to the pre-expander, where it is heated by means of wet steam. The hot steam softens the polystyrene beads and activates the blowing agent dissolved in them. This evaporates and causes the softened beads to expand. The bulk density can be adjusted by the weight of the raw material and the foamed volume. The EPS beads pre-expanded are then cooled and stabilized in a fluidized bed on an air cushion before being conveyed by blower via a rotary feeder into the silos.

Welding of the end products

During the subsequent intermediate storage, the blowing gas diffuses out of the pre-expanded polystyrene beads and air penetrates. This "packed air" is further processed on an automatic molding machine. To achieve low bulk densities, EPS can also be post-foamed in a second pass.

For expandable polypropylene (EPP), EPP/HP pre-expanders are available for lightweight foaming. This can significantly reduce logistics costs.

Technical DataEPS Pre-Expander

Prozess Optimisation

  • Density control

  • Electrical temperature control for high densities

  • Cellular wheel sluice for material transport to the silo

Options

  • After foaming facility for low densities

  • Overfill safety for fluid bed

  • Wedge wire sieve for big pre-expanders

  • Data memory

  • Automatic silo control

Applications

  • All EPS raw material

  • Copolymers with EPS percentage

Related ProductsEPS Pre-Expander

EPP Pre-Expander

Reduction of material use and conservation of resources

Overview