New features offering increased throughput, a reduction in downtime and remote access for immediate machine evaluation worldwide are included in the latest upgrades to Baker Perkins’ MPX range of industrial extruders.

MAX³ Feed System

A new feed system can lead to a throughput increase of up to 34%. The patent-pending MAX³ system features a re-designed feed port and screws to improve flow of material into the extruder barrel and air out of it.

The innovation addresses a long-standing problem within the industry of material building up in the extruder feed port restricting output and causing torque surges. This occurs when particles hit the intake screws and ‘bounce’ back into the infeed areas, rather than flowing into the machine.

Integrated Control System

A new integrated control system has been developed that works with every machine in the Baker Perkins extruder range. The system includes secure remote access that enables Baker Perkins’ engineers to log in to a machine anywhere in the world for fault-finding, commissioning and software updates. Options include systems integration of upstream and downstream equipment into a single control point for the line.

Automatic management of machine settings through a system holding up to 50 formulations ensures exact, unvarying replication of each product, eliminating quality variations caused by operator error.

Process parameters are trended on-screen and logged in a database. This can be connected to a network or external PC for analysis and reporting, typically required for quality control and process improvement programs.

Start up and shut down sequences are fully automatic, minimizing time and reducing waste. Alarm management means that the operator can immediately identify and locate problems.