Polimeri Europa Extir EH 5000 Expandable Polystyrene

Subcategory: Polystyrene; Thermoplastic

Material Notes:
Extir EH 5000 is an expandable polystyrene in the form of spherical beads of medium-large particle size, with a low pentane content as blowing agent. Extir does not contain CFC or HCFC. This grade is used for the very fast cycle production of large shape mouldings and block moulding over a wide density range. It is characterised by a very short maturing time, even at high density, excellent moulding processability, good fusion, good surface finishing and very good dimensional stability.

Applications: Extir EH 5000 is a very fast cycling grade used for production of large, thick section mouldings. It can also be used for the production of medium / high density blocks. Finished products exhibit high fusion, high resistance to impact / mechanical stress, and an outstanding dimensional stability. Typical applications are: • large sized or special industrial packaging • packaging with excellent cushioning properties for electronic items • internal shells for crash helmets • medium / high density blocks for thermal insulation

It is recommended to keep the product in a dry well ventilated store between 15-20°C. For product packaged in octabins the guaranteed shelf-life is one month; product in steel drums has a six months guaranteed shelf-life. During the processing of Expandable Polystyrene any sparkle or flame must be avoided and smoking should be forbidden. An adequate electrical grounding of machinery and of pneumatic transport lines is recommended. For further information concerning storage, packaging and processing precautions please refer to "Styrenics - Technical data sheets" and to the "Extir Safety Data Sheet". This grade complies by composition with the requirements set by the main regulations for plastics intended for food contact (including the EEC directive 90/128).

Processing: Extir EH 5000 can be easily pre-expanded on conventional equipment over a wide density range (18 ÷ 80 kg/m³). Low densities (i.e. 16 kg/m³ after 2 expansions) are obtainable despite its low pentane content. This product needs minimum maturation times (from 1 to 48 hours), even at high density. Moreover the steaming cycle is nearly not influenced by the maturation time. Due to its excellent processability and low pentane content, it is possible to operate with very fast cycle times (mainly by reducing the cooling times) and with low steam pressures. Moulded items and blocks exhibit a very high fusion level, excellent surface finishing, good mechanical properties and an excellent dimensional stability. Extir EH 5000 can be moulded on all types of shape and block moulding machines. Blocks are cut into sheets of the required thickness by means of hot and/or oscillating wires (installation of an exhaust system to remove fumes and dust is recommended).

Information provided by Polimeri Europa