Durability is a key characteristic of bimetallic screw barrels that makes them highly valuable.
Due to the very nature of their use - handling and molding plastics in high temperature, the screws and barrels are exposed to continual stress, abrasion, and often corrosive gases. This exposure can cause wear and damage over time, leading to a loss in performance and eventually equipment failure.
Bimetallic screw barrels, however, are specifically designed to resist this. They are typically made from a base (usually standard steel), which provides general mechanical strength, and then coated with a second, more resilient metal that is resistant to abrasion and corrosion. This second layer can be up to three times harder than the base, providing a significant increase in lifespan. This metal is often a type of high-speed steel or tool steel, which have qualities such as high hardness at elevated temperatures and high wear resistance.
Not only does this extend the lifespan of the screw barrel, reducing replacement and maintenance costs, it also ensures a steady, consistent performance throughout its life. This leads to a better final product, as inconsistencies in the equipment can lead to inconsistencies in the plastics produced.
Overall, the durability of bimetallic screw barrels provides long-term value in terms of cost, performance, and product quality.