SoftBoost Piovan’s SoftBoost split heating hoppers come in three models that can hold from 21 cubic feet to almost 50 cubic feet of PET or recycled PET (rPET). They have a compact design and can be positioned on a mezzanine level or next to an injection molding machine to limit heat loss. They are constructed with a 3.9-inch-thick insulating layer, and stainless steel is used for all surfaces that come in contact with pellets.
What’s new? The patented air-channeling system, which can heat the core of the pellets to the desired temperature in just 40 minutes.
Benefits Fast, gentle drying of PET and rPET. SoftBoost’s design allows it to dry resins at a temperature between 248 and 284 degrees Fahrenheit – substantially lower than the 338 to 356 degrees Fahrenheit required by conventional systems. Dehumidification at or near the press limits heat loss and cuts energy costs. It also reduces the residence time of the material in the hopper, which preserves materials’ mechanical and chemical characteristics, as well as their appearance.
Universal Dynamics Inc., Fredericksburg, Va., 703-490-7000, http://unadyn.piovan.com
David Tillett | Associate Editor
Associate Editor David Tillett writes and edits for Plastics Machinery & Manufacturing, Plastics Recycling and The Journal of Blow Molding. He covers new products, industry news, patents and consumer and business equipment. He has more than 20 years of experience in daily newspaper, online and magazine journalism.
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