Extrusion International 3-2026

27 Extrusion International 3/2026 Advanced process analysis: Turning data into insights Beyond detection and classi cation, the SIMAC ® in- troduces a powerful process analysis module that helps manufacturers understand not only what defects occur, but why. The module offers: • Statistical monitoring of defect frequency and distribution • Trend analysis over production length and time • Correlation between defect type and position • Identi cation of periodic or localised patterns • Filtering of non-critical defects based on type With these capabilities, factories can trace recurring issues back to root causes, such as tooling wear, mate- rial inconsistencies or periodic mechanical vibration. The provision of ltering and statistical visualisations high - light how operators can quickly isolate relevant defect categories. From detection to decision, instantly The combination of AI-based detection, intelligent classi cation, continuous learning and deep process insights transforms SIMAC ® from a traditional inspec- tion tool into a comprehensive decision-support system. Operators can react faster, engineers can analyse more effectively and production managers gain reliable data for optimising output quality. Zumbach’s next-generation SIMAC ® Surface Testing System sets a new benchmark for the industry: smarter detection, deeper understanding and adaptive perfor- mance that keeps pace with the dynamic environment of wire, cable, tube and hose manufacturing. ZUMBACH Electronic AG P.O. Box CH-2552 Orpund, Switzerland sales@zumbach.ch, www.zumbach.com EXTRUSION TECHNOLOGIES Polyketone Pipe Extrusion Polyketone (PK) is primarily used in pipe applications where high chemical resistance, mechanical toughness, and excellent barrier properties are required. It often serves as a high-performance alternative to materials such as PA12 or POM. A utomotive Industry & Fuel Systems: Due to its ex- tremely low permeability to fuels and high resis- tance to aggressive chemicals, PK is frequently used for fuel lines. Chemical Plant Engineering: Polyketone pipes and lines are ideally suited for transporting aggressive me- dia, as the material exhibits excellent hydrolysis resis- tance and is insensitive to many solvents. Industrial supply lines: PK pipes offer high impact strength and fatigue resistance, making them suitable for durable industrial components and pressure lines. Polyketone is a thermoplastic with special properties. Processing via extrusion requires certain speci c features in the design of the extruders and in the handling proce- dures during the start and end of the extrusion process. Processing Considerations Minimal shear stress, short residence times in the extruder, no mixing sections or if necessary, those de- signed for optimal ow, no use of screens or breaker plates, no use of melt pumps. Incorrect processing leads to discoloration, cross-linking and inhomogeneous melt There is a manufacturer of polyketone that recom- mends a very simple extrusion concept based on a smooth feed bush intake and a simple 5-zone screw. This concept has the disadvantage of low output per machine size, and likely also uctuations in output due to the pre - heated material and the unstable feed through the feed zone. The speci c characteristics and requirements de - scribed above are therefore dif cult to meet. C 75 37 Extruder