Acrylic processing aids are included in the group of polymer additives which facilitate and regulate the melt flow in thermoplastic productions, with their low utilization rates. Rigid PVC applications have made significant progress since 1950, (the date when processing aids began to be used). PVC, which has low heat and light resistance, overcomes its brittle, fragile structure only with the support of processing aids. 

General PVC Applications 

PRO 30  

Addition of PRO 30 greatly reduces fusion time and improves melt homogeneity. These properties enable processing at higher temperatures and increased production rates with the perfect quality of the final product’s surface. It is a low molecular weight processing aid. Usage of PRO 30 provides high melt strength and reduction in plate-out. Processing aids provide several advantages during PVC processing. Some of the most important ones are; melt fracture elimination and surface improvements, die build-up reduction, improved production capacities, gel reduction, improvements in processing, the use of recycled or regrind resins. 

PRO 40 

Application of PRO 40 increases melt strength and fusion time significantly. It has the capability to bind PVC chains together, resulting in increased melt elasticity by having long polymer chains. This property makes it possible to be used in foam applications. It provides not only perfect wall thickness, but also excellent thermoforming capability. PRO 40 improves melt homogeneity, achieving a perfect surface finish in the final product. 

PRO 60  

Semfa Group PRO 60 is very similar to PRO 40 but with earlier fusion. It can be used at 5 to 10&49; lower dosage. 

Foam Applications 

PRO 45 

PRO 45 is formulated to be used in foam applications. Addition of PRO 45 reduces density very significantly and makes the final product surface excellent. It is a high molecular weight processing aid. As the addition is increased, the ability of keeping the gas inside the melt improves, resulting in lower density and better foam. Consistent processing becomes possible with the usage of this highly efficient processing aid. 

PRO 70 

PRO 70 is an acrylic based processing aid having ultra-high molecular weight that is designed for applications such as foam pipes, foam sheets and foam profiles. It provides better mechanical properties and high-efficiency extrusion in applications of foam pipe and foam profile due to its ultra-high molecular weight and ability to form more homogeneous PVC melt. As a result, it better plastification, lower torque value, higher melt resistance and lower density. Thanks to its improved mechanical properties, it provides more elasticity and good gelation in order to prevent tearing. The mechanical properties of the melts increase proportionaly with the molecular weights of the processing aids and with their usage levels in the formulation.

Lubrication

PRO 50 

PRO 50 is a lubricating acrylic processing aid. Usage of PRO 50 reduces the tendency of the PVC melt to adhere to the hot metal surfaces of the processing machinery, resulting in prevention of sticking and much longer production runs without stopping. Not only does it reduce plate out but also makes a very clear and glossy surface finish possible for the final product. PRO 50 can be used in combination with other processing aids, while improving melt homogeneity and heat stability. Increased fusion time and reduction in torque are some other benefits gained when PRO 50 is used in formulations.