Silicone masterbatch improves polyethylene processability
The MB25-502 silicone masterbatch provides processability advantages for polyethylene (PE) compounds that are highly mineral-filled (to improve flame retardancy) and used in wire and cable insulation and jacketing applications, says the company. By reducing screw torque, die buildup and die pressure, the material can improve extrusion throughput by up to 110% compared to PE compounds without a processing additive. The MB25-502 masterbatch enables wire and cable customers to maximize productivity without paying a premium for unneeded functionality, says the company. It raises the throughput of PE compounds with mineral loadings up to 70 wt.%, by reducing screw torque by as much as 30%. Lower torque, in turn, speeds production and cuts energy costs. The silicone masterbatch also avoids buildup on the die (and increased die pressure) that would require frequent interruptions for cleaning. The product is compatible with low-density PE, linear low-density PE, and cross-linked PE, and it is supplied globally as free-flowing pellets. — Dow Corning, Midland, Mich.