How often do I need to use purging compounds?

Cycles of purge depend on the complexity of material, number of colors processed, additives and processing parameters. Beyond using a purge compound when transitioning from one color or material to another, using a specialized purge compound could also be beneficial in the case of unexpected production events. One common example is when an operator has missed setting the proper processing temperature of a heatsensitive polymer for too long of a time.

Preventative maintenance of screws, barrels, and hot runner systems, through regularly scheduled and consistent purging, makes sure that they stay in clean condition, reducing carbon buildup. A general rule of thumb is one purge per week. If shutdowns are performed, purge should be used during every shutdown.