Influence of Die Length on Extrusion Pressure and Extrudate Surface Quality

Abstract

The extrusion process is very popular in industry. Nowadays, extrusion is also closely associated with the 3D printing process, but this article is focused on extrusion, as a process that is mainly associated with spheronization. The extrusion product is shaped in such a way that it is suitable for the ongoing spheronization process. With this two-step extrusion-spheronization (E–S) process, it is possible to create pellets with controlled high sphericity, which are desired in tablet and capsule production due to their easily characterized (and controlled) dosage profile and good flow properties. During extrusion, it is important to monitor several parameters. This post is dedicated to one of them and that is the length of the die and its effect on the extrusion pressure as well as the effect on the extrudate surface quality.