Melt Spinning Process | Feature of Melt Spinning | Advantages and Disadvantage of Melt Spinning

Melt Spinning Process: 

Melt spinning is the most convenient and economic method for polymer fiber manufacturing at industrial scales. In melt spinning, the fiber-forming substance is melted for extrusion through the spinneret and then directly solidified by cooling. Melt spinning uses the heat to melt the polymer to a viscosity suitable for the extrusion through the spinneret. As the name indicates the chips of fibers are melted and extruded through the spinneret to obtain the fibers. It is used for the polymers that are not decomposed or degraded by temperatures necessary for extrusion. Polymer chips obtained from previously reacted chemical combinations are melted and then pumped through a spinneret in an air chamber. The extruded stream cool and solidify into continuous filaments and are then drawn out of the chamber twisted and/or processed further and subsequently wound onto spools. This method of spinning is suitable in manufacturing the polyester yarns. 

Melt Spinning Process

Melt spun fibers can be extruded from the spinneret in different cross-sectional shapes (round, trilobal, pentagonal, octagonal, and others). Trilobal-shaped fibers reflect more light and give an attractive sparkle to textiles.  Pentagonal-shaped and hollow fibers, when used in carpet, show less soil and dirt. Octagonal-shaped fibers offer glitter-free effects. Hollow fibers trap air, creating insulation and provide loft characteristics equal to, or better than, down. 

Requirements for Melt Spinning:

§ The polymer should not be volatile

§ The polymer should not decompose in the molten state and the melting point.

§ Polymer should be 30 degree centigrade less than its decomposition temp.

Special Feature of Melt Spinning : 

§ High production ( SPG. Speed 1000-2000 m/min)

§ Hazard, Non Toxic

§ No environment pollution.

§ No solvent required .

§ Heat of spg high.

Fiber Characterizations: 
Different characterization methods were performed to study the resulting fiber properties, including microstructures, thermal properties, mechanical properties, rheological properties, molecular orientation and crystallization behavior. 

Fiber Which Processed by Melt Spinning:
Polyester, Nylon, Olefin, Polypropylene, saran, and sulfar etc. are produced via melt spinning process. 

Advantages of Melt Spinning: 

1. Can be used for both staple and continuous filament.

2. Direct and simple process.

3. No environment pollution.

4. High production speed (2500-3000) ft/min.

5. Low investment cost.

Disadvantage of Melt Spinning: 

1. Required more proper maintained of machine.

2. Heat of input is high.