The performance capability of twin-screw compounding extruders with a conventional top-vacuum vent barrel can be limited in many cases, especially in compounding low-viscosity melts and extrusion processes requiring removal of high volumes of vapor. Vent fouling (material flowing out of the vent opening) and black specks in the compound are two major issues that processors want to avoid.

The TS-SD twin-screw side degasser provides a solution. By the nature of its connection to the side of the Twin Screw Compounding unit, the TS-SD twin screw side-degassing vent stuffer inherently prevents material from falling back into the extruder from the vent. Also, the stuffing action of the screw prevents the vent from fouling. With its large free cross-section for devolatilization, it keeps the melt in the twin screw extruder processing section without product escape, even for processes with a high degree of fill. Fumes or gases are removed reliably through the axially open screw flights. Major increases in the throughput rate with improved product quality have been achieved.

The TS-SD assembly consists of the processing section, utilizing bi-lobal, forward conveying, co-rating twin screws with a self-wiping profile; quick disconnect vacuum adapter with C-clamp counter flange and vent port inspection glass, vacuum debris catch pot, a distributor gear and speed reduction gear with VFD rated AC motor. All components are mounted onto a welded, carbon steel painted pedestal type base-frame with casters.

CTI's Twin Screw Side Degassers are reverse engineered based on the proven Coperion (W&P) ZS-EG Twin Screw Side Degasser series.

In conjunction with a CTI custom designed twin screw extruder barrel with “side-vent” opening the CTI TS-SD twin screw side degassing vent stuffer can be retrofitted to any OEM brand Twin Screw or Single Screw Extruder as seen below.