Meter/Mix Machine Types for Processing Plural Component Thermosets

Overview

This document from Fluidic Systems Inc provides a comprehensive overview of meter/mix machine types for processing plural component thermoset materials such as epoxy, polyurethane, polysulfide, and silicone. The focus is on selecting and understanding positive displacement (PD) pump technologies used in plural component dispensing systems that ensure accuracy, reliability, and high-quality output in demanding production environments.

Fluidic Systems specializes in advanced meter/mix dispensing technology designed around electronically controlled double-action rod pumps, which deliver continuous, pulse-free, and highly accurate flow. Unlike traditional hydraulic or pneumatic drives that suffer flow instability with load changes (e.g., temperature-induced viscosity variations), Fluidic’s servo-driven rod pumps maintain consistent speed and volumetric accuracy regardless of load. This results in better process control, material quality, and production reliability.

The document compares key PD pump technologies: gear pumps, progressive cavity pumps, piston pumps, and rod pumps. Gear pumps offer simplicity and low cost but may suffer from gear wear and resin slippage leading to ratio drift. Progressive cavity pumps provide pulse-free, low shear flow and can handle suspended solids but have high maintenance and cost, especially with abrasive materials. Piston pumps deliver high pressures and accuracy but involve complex parts and seal wear. Rod pumps combine high accuracy and robustness with fewer parts, reduced wear due to rod-to-cylinder clearance, and compatibility with low to moderately abrasive resins.

Meter/mix systems are characterized by ratio control (fixed vs. variable ratios) and flow continuity (single-action intermittent vs. double-action continuous flow). Fluidic’s systems utilize variable speed drives with closed-loop servo motor ball-screw drives and advanced PID control, enabling seamless metered flow without pulsing or lead/lag issues.

Control architecture employs PLC-based programs with HMI touchscreen interfaces for full operational control, peripheral integration, and comprehensive sensor-based fault protection. Ethernet connectivity allows remote diagnostics and reprogramming for enhanced operational support.

Fluidic’s dispensing platforms cover a wide range of ratio capabilities (fixed 1:1 to 10:1 and variable 1:1 to 100:1) for 2 or 3+ components, with pressure ranges up to 3,000 psi and viscosity capabilities from 1 to 2 million centipoise. They support all chemistries including mild abrasives and syntactics, utilizing static or dynamic disposable mixers.

Applications span aerospace adhesives, composite bonding, honeycomb panel potting, RTM processes, dielectric impregnation, structural bonding in buses, rails, and recreational vehicles, showcasing processing of various commercial thermoset formulations.

In sum, Fluidic Systems offers robust, highly accurate meter/mix dispensing solutions optimized for plural component thermoset materials, emphasizing continuous flow, precise ratio control, and advanced control systems to ensure superior process consistency and product quality across diverse industrial applications.