WCA November 2024

Industry News

Advances in extrusion of flame-retardant materials As understanding of safety evolves, so does the technology designed to anticipate and mitigate risks. This progression is evident in the cable industry, where the focus has shifted from solely technical specifications to addressing real-world applications and safety, particularly concerning flame-resistant cables. Historically, cables with PVC insulation, while low in flammability, generated toxic fumes when exposed to high temperatures, posing significant safety risks. Recent legislation has tackled these concerns by setting unified requirements for electrical cables to enhance safety and ensure consistency across products. A factor in these regulations is how cables perform when exposed to flames. In response to these stringent standards, compound manufacturers have developed increasingly sophisticated materials. This evolution has necessitated the creation of a new generation of extruders capable of precisely controlling process variables and achieving high production speeds. MFL Group has collaborated with plastics manufacturers to develop an advanced range of extruders that offer precision in temperature control and achieve high production output. Key innovations include: • Increased torque capabilities to handle the higher viscosity and processing pressures of modern compounds

MFL Group extrusion technology

• A thermoregulation system that measures the actual melt temperature rather than relying on the extrusion cylinder temperature • New screw profiles that reduce shear rates while enhancing production flow These advancements have resulted in an international patent for the flame-resistant material processing technology. Machines featuring this patented technology have been operational for several years. MFL Group is also designing future automation systems aimed at optimising production processes for greater energy efficiency, increased output and continuous quality monitoring. The company aims to harness the full potential of its machinery through exponential technologies such as artificial intelligence, IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) and machine learning, driven by its dedicated MFL X division. Guill selects new representative for Europe Guill Tool has appointed a new European sales representative company: EuroDev will offer the full line of Guill products across Europe, excluding the UK, where Padraic Lunn continues to represent Guill. Since its establishment in 1996, EuroDev has been the preferred business development partner of more than 500 North American firms. Its team consists of more than 75 multilingual professionals whose aim is to help North American companies map out expansion strategies in an increasingly complex marketplace. The company’s sales outsourcing includes market research, entry strategy, lead generation and sales. Padraic Lunn has worked since 1990 in the medical device extrusion industry in Ireland. With more than 16 years in precision extrusion, Padraic Lunn Enterprises Ltd offers a full range of extrusion machinery and consultancy for all extrusion processes, with a strong emphasis on tubing, wire, pipe and profile applications. The firm represents extrusion equipment companies in the UK, Ireland and other parts of Europe, and also provides customised extrusion training programmes based on customers’ specific process requirements. Guill Tool & Engineering Co, Inc EuroDev BV https://guill.com www.eurodev.com Mario Frigerio SpA www.mflgroup.com

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November 2024