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Masterbatch Sizes: How the Right Granulate Optimises Processes
At first glance, masterbatch granules appear unremarkable. In practice, however, their size can help to optimise certain processing procedures.
Depending on the processing method, dosing technology and specific requirements, the granule size of the masterbatch can be another factor that influences quality, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. In order to meet the specific requirements of processors, Lifocolor offers four masterbatch sizes, which we present here in an overview.
Why the Size of the Masterbatch Can Influence Certain Processing Methods
The original goal, their most important task and, above all, their ‘superpower’: masterbatches should and can only be let-down in very small quantities. This is precisely where the following questions arise:
- How precisely can the let-down-ratio be adjusted?
- How evenly is the colour or additive distributed in the component?
- How stable is the process over time?
- What are the costs per part?
First, the good news:
Over the course of our 35 years of experience, we have refined our standard granulate to such an extent that it is now the best choice in almost every respect.
- High let-down accuracy, even with smaller quantities
- Homogeneity of colour and additive
- Prevention of segregation in the hopper
- Suitable for volumetric and gravimetric dosing methods
- Cost-effective colouring
For special requirements or challenges, such as
- Very low let-down quantities
- Extreme let-down accuracy
- Faster melting or very short dwell times in the machines
- Exceptional shot cycle times and line speeds
- Particularly large or small pellet sizes of the polymer to be coloured
- Segregation effects
Lifocolor can help you optimise your process with additional granulate sizes.
What sizes does Lifocolor offer in addition to the standard granule:
In addition to standard granules, Lifocolor offers three further sizes that can be tailored to your requirements to help shape your processes effectively and efficiently:
Small granulate ("small"): for finer dosing, thinner wall thicknesses and demanding visible parts
- Smaller pellet sizes for low let-down ratio with excellent distribution and homogeneity
- Well suited for volumetric and gravimetric dosing processes
- Possibly better statistical distribution in PCR materials (Post-Consumer-Recyclates)
- e.g. for parts with low wall thicknesses, higher optical requirements
Micro granulate ("micro"): Granules for low shot weights and low let-down-ratio
- Very small pellets for the finest distribution
- Enables lowest let-down-quantities (0.2 – 1 %)?
- Reduces variations in low shot weights and in extremely fast cycles
- Accelerates melting during short dwell times
- Ideal for gravimetric dosing systems
- e.g. micro-injection moulding, closures, very thin-walled parts, certain PCR applications
Large granulate ("macro"): for volumetric dosing with large polymer pellet sizes and very high throughputs
- For larger polymer pellets and very high throughputs
- Low segregation in the hopper
- Very stable conveying in volumetric systems
- e.g. for profiles, pipes, extrusion lines with high output
How Lifocolor Supports you in Selecting the Right Granule Size
In special cases, the correct granulate size of the masterbatch can therefore be another lever for quality, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The choice depends less on the product name than on the actual process conditions.
At Lifocolor, our support does not end with the product. Particle size is part of an overall concept:
- Analysis of your dosing and processing conditions already in the development phase
- Recommendation of the optimum particle size for your process
- Support with conversions and trials
- Consideration of PCR, sustainability, optics and mechanics
Would you like to develop your ideal masterbatch in terms of formulation and size
so that your end product is outstanding in every respect?
Talk to the Lifocolor experts:
📩 or
☎️ +49 (0) 9571 789-0.
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