Process and part optimization of poly(ether) block amide 63D microbore tubing

This research investigated the effects of process variables on the dimensional and mechanical performance of an extruded poly(ether) block amide 63D microbore tube. The factors of extruder output (EO), extrusion temperature (ET), sizing temperature (ST), die to tank gap (DTG), sizing tank entrance size (TES), sizing tank water level (TWL), tool area draw down (ADR), and tool land length (LL) were challenged. Results from this industrial experiment concluded that the dimensional stability of the tube, as reflected in percent (%) inside and outside diameter, was influenced only by ADR. Ovality was also affected by ADR in conjunction with ET, EO and TWL. It was determined that all tensile properties at break showed dependence on DTG, ET, EO and ADR. Young's modulus demonstrated the same influence from EO and ADR as yield strain yet was also affected by DTG. Yield stress was influenced by all experimental factors except TES, TWL and LL.