The recent decade has seen a significant increase in the use of Plastics materials. Plastics are inexpensive and versatile materials and hence found their way into numerous industries and applications. Modern science has paved the way to more robust and modified versions of players that can be optimized to deliver desired results. Industries have accepted the modified polymer grades and increasingly using the material to meet the demands in the marketplace. Polymer helps reduce the overall cost of the final products while enhancing the durability, look and feel. However, not every polymer type exhibits similar properties.

Flow Properties Of Polymer

Different types of polymer exhibit varying degrees of flow properties. The molecular weight of the polymer defines the flow properties. Polymer types with higher molecular weight have more complex or entangled molecules that lead to higher viscosity and reduced flowability of the sample polymer. However, polymers with lower molecular weight tend to flow easily when subjected to pressure due to their less complex structure.

The presence of branching within the structure determines the flowability of the polymer type. Liner polymers flow easily when subjected to pressure and heat. The ability to flow affects the durability of the polymer type. The flow properties of a specific polymer are influenced by the crystallinity, pressure, temperature, and chemical composition of the polymer. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for optimizing polymer processing methods and selecting the appropriate polymer type for a given application.

How To Test Flow Properties

There are numerous ways to test the flow properties of the polymer. However, integrating a melt flow index tester within the production line is the most cost-effective and efficient way of testing the polymer grade. MFI value plays a significant role in material selection. A higher MFI represents the lower physical strength of the polymer type, while a lower MFI implies higher mechanical strength.

Melt flow index testers is one of the best polymer quality testing instrument. It is a user-friendly instrument with easy-to-operate features and provides accurate readings with detailed analysis. However, it is crucial to invest in quality testing instruments. The MFI by Pacorr is designed in compliance with globally acclaimed testing standards like ASTM D1238 and ISO 1133.

Following are the top 5 benefits of investing in polymer testing instruments by Pacorr

• It is equipped with a microprocessor-based display that enables the tester to easily measure and record parameters like temperature, polymer weight, flow properties, etc.
• It comes with various accessories like an orifice, piston, material charger, barrel cleaner, orifice cleaner, etc.
• MFI by Paocrr has an automatic sample cutter that facilitates convenient testing of polymer type.
• Digital temperature and pressure indicator with a digital preset timer to test the sample under varying conditions.
• Powder-coated for corrosion resistance and durability.

Final Thoughts

A melt flow index tester is a powerful instrument that can help manufacturers select appropriate raw materials to ensure quality products. Low-quality raw materials often compromise the integrity of the final product. This may lead to product failure or, worse, damage to the brand's reputation. Hence optimize the production process with an MFI tester. The instrument can gauge the physical properties and pre-determine the impact of various environmental factors on the sample material.