What are the effects of extrusion speed on the orientation of wood fibers in WPC trash cans?
The extrusion speed during manufacturing significantly influences the alignment and distribution of wood fibers within Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) trash cans. Higher extrusion speeds typically cause increased shear forces, leading to greater fiber orientation along the extrusion direction. This enhanced alignment improves tensile strength and structural integrity in the parallel direction but may reduce strength perpendicular to the flow. Conversely, slower speeds allow for more random fiber distribution, resulting in more isotropic material properties but potentially compromising specific strength characteristics. Optimal extrusion speed must balance production efficiency with desired mechanical performance, as improper speed selection can cause fiber clustering, voids, or uneven surfaces that diminish product quality and longevity. Manufacturers must carefully calibrate this parameter to achieve target performance specifications while maintaining consistent production output.
