Melting model for intermeshing counter-rotating twin-screw extruders

Previous experimental studies of melting of pellets in an intermeshing counter-rotating twin-screw extruder have shown that melting is initiated both between the screws and at the barrel. Models are developed for melting in both those regions. The melting between the screws is initiated by frictional work on the pellets by the calendering stresses between the screws. The melting action at the barrel is induced by a barrel temperature higher than the melting point and propagated by viscous dissipation heating of the melt film produced.