Evolution of IMP5™ technology
The project: Many MFI reference polymer standards were received from a number of leading polymer manufacturers. Tests were made on a standard Porpoise P5 Melt Indexer/ Rheometer that was progressively upgraded according to the CFD identification and analysis work. In the later configurations it was conclusively proved that it is possible to replicate every aspect of the standard MFI procedure and test conditions within a gear pump type of Rheometer. The results show a high degree of certainty and repeatability over the wide range of polymers types. The data from the equipment can therefore be certified to be in conformance with the ISO/ASTM MFI test. This principle has been developed further using the power of CDF, as explained below. The technology is branded IMP5™.
Process: Manufacturing processes used in the production of polymer are amenable to feedback control through measurement of rheological properties. Basic polymers, LDPE, PP and PS etc, respond to an Average Molecular Weight /MFI control strategy. The more complex polymers, such as PP Copolymer and PE variants, respond to a molecular weight distribution/Rheology control strategy. In all cases the technology can provide the reference measurement and derive control parameters. Moreover the new technology invests the analyser with data traceability, which leads to process control fundamentally calibrated to the accepted standard.
QA involvement: The need for intensive QA laboratory Melt Indexer spot checks on the On-line counterpart is eliminated. With the supply of frequent, accurate and traceable MFI data, the QA function now becomes clearly re-defined. Full-time classification of all product quality becomes a reality.
Maintenance: The maintenance schedule now becomes normal, leaving the data certification work to competent service providers such as Envogen (UK)
Plant Efficiency: Plant efficiency is good when all operational components operate efficiently in their own right. The IMP5 revolution brings a new clarity to operations of Process, QA and Maintenance. These operations can now be disentangled, leaving the way to the simplified management of a once over-complex problem.