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Processing Technologies International (PTi) launched a real-time intrinsic viscosity (IV) monitoring system which delivers greater quality assurance and potentially lower costs for PET sheet production. The unique system, developed in cooperation with Plastic Technologies Inc., Holland, Ohio, allows for the material formulation (recycled, virgin, or post-consumer) to be adjusted online in order to maximize product performance.
PTi’s real-time IV monitoring system is based on a precise measurement of melt temperature and capillary piping pressures. These results are benchmarked against the ASTM D4603-86 standard test method for measuring IV and possess an accuracy of +/- 0.02 decaliters/g. The data is fully integrated into PTi’s TITAN Plus® control system for real time and historical trending analysis. This real-time system offers distinct advantages over offline Solution Test methods which are time-consuming and have delayed results. The real-time IV monitoring system – initially targeted for twin-screw PET sheet extrusion systems – is also being quoted on single-screw systems.