Advanced Dosing Systems for Bulk Solids in Intelligent Extruders

Extrusion is a technological process involving the formation of semi-finished or finished products from plasticized polymers or composite materials. This process consists of three basic stages: solids conveying, melting and metering. To maintain the highest operation standards and product quality, modern extruders must ensure continuous control of the process and stability of the process parameters from the material loading stage onwards. Devices ensuring uniform dispensing of materials via continuously- or cyclically-operated movable components have long been in use. This paper presents the development and applications of advanced intelligent dosing units for bulk solids in extruders. Their design, operational principles and impact on process stability and product quality are discussed. Particular attention is paid to automation, control algorithms and sensor integration, as they enable precise and energy-efficient dosing compliant with the Industry 4.0 requirements