Gravimetric dosing systems are a key technology for achieving cost reductions in pipe production. They enable significant savings in raw materials and energy. By saving just 1-2% of dry blend, gravimetric dosing can offer a payback time shorter than 1 year. Furthermore, reducing reject material through precise control saves approximately two-thirds of the dry blend price, meaning 3% less reject can save an amount equivalent to 1-2% overweight.
Gravimetric systems provide accurate material flow, crucial for maintaining low overweight through good wall distribution. They support the operator by handling routine tasks, working in conjunction with scanners for wall thickness and Automatic Temperature Centering (ATC) to produce pipe in the best possible way.
For direct dosing, a gravimetric system can be used with a self-wiping double screw dosing feeder, potentially integrated with an Intermixer. These systems can stand on weighing units. Successful use of post-consumer recycled material also relies on adjustments on line by dosing feeders, which can be managed gravimetrically.
Gravimetric dosing ensures a constant, measured material feed, contributing to improved reproducibility and stability of the extrusion process. This contrasts with volumetric systems, which dose based on volume rather than weight, making them susceptible to variations in material density and flow characteristics. Gravimetrics provide valuable data for statistics and visualization when integrated with modern electronic controls.