Fluoropolymer Processing Aid Replacement in Cable Jacketing Compounds
by K. Seven, P. Brigandi and J. Fan, Dow Inc. Wire & Cable R&D
Black polyethylene jacket compounds are widely used in the wire and cable industry for telecommunication and power cable applications. However, these filled polyethylene compounds are susceptible to die build-up during the extrusion process. Die build-up (DBU) refers to the unwanted accumulation of material on the open face of the extrusion die, which can lead to die streaking on the surface of the extruded product as well as additional time and cost to shut down the line and clean the tooling. Excessive die build-up negatively impacts the aesthetic quality and properties of the final product, posing a challenge for the wire and cable as well as the plastic industry.