Simulation Double Screw Extruder with Kneading-Block

Figure 1: CAD model created in NOGRID's COMPASS

Figure 2: Setup the extruder case within the GUI

Figure 3: Extruding state at a certain time step

Figure 4: Short animation of the extrusion process

The simulation of double screw extruders with a kneading-block can perfectly be performed using our CFD software NOGRID points.

The importance of double screw extruders

Double screw extruders (twin-screw extruders) belong to the group of multi-screw extruders and are machines that are widely used in plastics technology for processing thermoplastics. In this field, they are used for the preparation and extrusion of plastic melts.  In the extruder, the polymer to be processed is fed lengthwise through a heatable cylinder by means of two rotating screw shafts. The material is melted in the process.

In this study we do not compute the feeding and melting zones, but instead focus on the compression  and mixing zones. Due to the specified mass flow rate of the extruder and the conveying effect of the screws, the material is compressed, resulting in increased pressure and shear rate, which initiates the melting process. Special mixing or kneading elements can be integrated into the screw design to enhance mixing performance. This is especially important when a homogeneous incorporation of aggregates is required.

Benefits of NOGRID points CFD software

NOGRID combines the capabilities to handle free surface flows and moving parts within the domain and allows the simulation of any conceivable geometry and operating mode, such as

  • fully 3D computation solving the complete Navier-Stokes equations
  • easy and intuitive setup for FSI (Fluid-Structure-Interaction) cases
  • freely definable PUR material properties by equations or curves
  • polyurethane (PUR) injection by one or more inlets
  • open or closed domains, including moving of additional parts
  • moving of the mixing head

 

Why choose Nogrid?

 

NOGRID provides professional CFD software for the simulation of fluid flow, heat and mass transfer, and chemical reactions. Its efficient modelling workflow helps engineers analyse flow behaviour, evaluate designs and make informed decisions without creating a conventional volume mesh. 

 

Faster model preparation

With NOGRID, only the geometry boundary needs to be meshed. The finite points inside the fluid domain are generated automatically according to user-defined settings, both at the start of the simulation and during the calculation.

This approach reduces preprocessing effort and makes it easier to prepare complex geometries and cavities for simulation.

Efficient CFD workflow

The modelling process follows four straightforward steps:

Build the geometry. Mesh the boundary. Define the simulation. Start the calculation.

NOGRID is designed to provide short computation times, including for applications involving complex cavities. Engineers can use the resulting data to examine flow distribution and other relevant flow characteristics.

Better insight into fluid-flow processes

CFD solves the fundamental equations governing fluid flow. NOGRID software enables engineers to predict and analyse the behaviour of fluids and related physical processes before or alongside physical testing.

The simulation results can support:

  • evaluation and comparison of design alternatives
  • optimisation of construction and operating parameters
  • improved planning reliability
  • reduction of development time and testing effort
  • faster progression from design to market or operation
Easy Modelling

Steps from geometry generation to simulation results

TRAINING

 

Our two-day training courses teach participants how to set up, run and evaluate simulations efficiently with NOGRID CFD software. The courses include practical guidance for handling different types of simulation cases.

For more details please refer to Training Courses →

 

Technical Support

 

Professional support is available from the beginning of your work with NOGRID. Our technical team assists users by telephone and email with software operation, case setup and simulation-related questions.

For more details please refer to Software Support

 

Simulation Service

 

When internal time, expertise or resources are limited, NOGRID can support your project with individual numerical simulation services. Our engineers develop and evaluate CFD models based on the specific requirements of your application.

For more details please refer to Software Support

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Simulation Software from Nogrid

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