Characteristics of the studies on the energy efficiencies of the extrusion process and of the extruder

Adequate and simulation models used to study polymer extrusion processes are characterized. The energy efficiencies of the extrusion process and of the extruder are defined and their dissimilarities indicated. Selected relationships are presented, relating the energy efficiency to selected physical properties. The methodology used to study the energy efficiencies of the extrusion process and of the extruder on research stands is presented, involving or not the use of a computer. So far a general consensus has been to treat the energy efficiency of the extrusion process as that of the extruder. The divergent energy efficiency values reported in the literature can be traced back to dissimilar plasticating equipment designs, various extruder drive designs, various polymer types and other dissimilar extrusion parameters.