Best Single Screw Barrels for Plastic Extrusion Reviewed

The global market for single screw barrels continues to expand, reaching over USD 840 million in 2024 and projected to hit USD 1.38 billion by 2034. Top choices like the Zhejiang Jinteng Single Screw Barrel, Xaloy X-800, and others deliver outstanding performance for PVC pipe single screw barrel, PE pipe extruder single screw barrel, and single screw barrel for blowing molding applications.

What to Look for in a Single Screw Barrel

Key Performance Criteria

The difference in friction coefficients between the polymer and barrel or screw surfaces significantly affects conveying capacity. If the friction between polymer and barrel is much higher than that between polymer and screw, the material moves forward efficiently, resulting in higher output and better process stability. Grooved barrels increase drag friction forces, enhancing conveying capacity and output stability, which are critical performance criteria in extrusion.

Engineers also consider several technical factors when evaluating a Single Screw Barrel:

1. Residence time distribution, which measures flow and mixing efficiency.
2. Rheological behavior, including viscosity and shear rate.
3. Pressure and temperature profiles along the screw.
4. Conveying capacity and output stability.
5. Mechanical aspects such as screw displacement and risk of screw lock-up.
6. Melting behavior and mixing capacity.
7. Process stability under different conditions.

Material Compatibility

Selecting the right barrel means understanding how it interacts with different plastics. The table below summarizes key material properties and their importance:

Durability and Lifespan

Durability remains a top priority for manufacturers. High-quality barrels use materials like nitrided steel or bimetallic alloys to resist abrasion and corrosion. These features extend service life, especially when processing filled or recycled plastics. Optimized screw and barrel design also improves melt homogeneity and reduces downtime, which helps maintain stable output and lowers energy use.

Maintenance and Ease of Use

Routine maintenance ensures consistent performance and extends equipment lifespan.

• Regular cleaning prevents material buildup and keeps efficiency high.
• Inspection for wear and tear is critical because abrasion and corrosion increase the gap between screw and barrel, lowering output and product quality.
• Maintenance of thrust bearings and seals prevents misalignment, vibration, and leaks.
• Proper alignment and tensioning of the drive system ensure efficient power transfer.
• Calibration of sensors and controls maintains precise process control.

These activities help reduce downtime, improve product quality, and optimize energy consumption.

Top Single Screw Barrels for 2025

Zhejiang Jinteng Single Screw Barrel Review

Zhejiang Jinteng Machinery Manufacturing Co., Ltd. stands out as a leading manufacturer in the plastic extrusion industry. The company uses advanced bimetallic technology and strict quality control to produce Single Screw Barrels that deliver reliable performance and long service life. Precision manufacturing and customization options allow users to match barrels to their specific extrusion needs.

The Single Screw Barrel from Zhejiang Jinteng uses premium bimetallic materials, which provide excellent wear and corrosion resistance. This construction leads to longer service life and lower maintenance costs. Customers often praise the product for its quality, reasonable pricing, and professional service. The company’s focus on advanced manufacturing and quality assurance ensures that each barrel meets high industry standards. These features make the Zhejiang Jinteng Single Screw Barrel a top choice for plastic extrusion applications where durability and precision matter.

Note: Zhejiang Jinteng offers customization based on customer drawings, ensuring a perfect fit for various extrusion machines.

Xaloy X-800 Single Screw Barrel Review

The Xaloy X-800 Single Screw Barrel uses advanced materials and engineering to deliver outstanding performance in demanding extrusion environments. Tungsten carbide particles are uniformly dispersed in a corrosion-resistant nickel alloy matrix, giving the barrel exceptional resistance to abrasive wear and corrosion. This design allows the barrel to process hard-to-melt materials such as HMW-HDPE and LLDPE with ease.

• The Xaloy X-800 handles highly filled abrasive compounds, including those with 25% or more glass fiber or mineral fillers.
• Precision engineering and computer-controlled furnace processes ensure uniform bimetallic carbide distribution.
• The seamless construction, up to 6100 mm in length, eliminates risks of degradation or contamination.
• Proprietary backing steel reduces stress and improves straightness during heat cycles.

Industrial users recognize the Xaloy X-800 as the global standard for abrasive and corrosion-resistant barrels. The barrel’s long working life and optimized screw geometries help minimize start-up issues and improve operational efficiency. Xaloy’s expertise, with over 75 years of casting technology and more than 25 patents, supports the reliability and productivity of this Single Screw Barrel in a wide range of extrusion applications.

Nordson BKG Single Screw Barrel Review

Nordson BKG Single Screw Barrels are designed for high-volume production environments. These barrels support consistent output and high throughput, making them ideal for manufacturers who need reliable performance under demanding conditions.

• Nordson BKG Master-Line underwater pelletizers can process up to 4,400 pounds per hour.
• New cutter hubs and blade designs increase throughput and reduce wear, minimizing downtime and maintenance.
• Abrasion-resistant screw and barrel materials maintain performance even with highly filled compounds.
• The X8000 screw encapsulation and X800 barrel inlay materials provide exceptional abrasion and corrosion resistance.
• The Quantum system reduces screw recovery time by 10 to 15 percent, supporting fast-paced production.

Nordson’s focus on advanced materials and engineering ensures that their Single Screw Barrel maintains consistent performance and output. These features help manufacturers achieve stable production, reduce maintenance costs, and maximize productivity.

Reiloy Wear-Resistant Single Screw Barrel Review

Reiloy Wear-Resistant Single Screw Barrels use proprietary hard alloys and advanced casting technology to deliver superior abrasion and corrosion resistance. The company produces its own alloy powders, ensuring consistent quality and performance.

• Reiloy barrels feature bimetallic construction with nickel-cobalt or nickel-based alloys containing large carbides and ceramic phases.
• Alloys such as R121 (iron-based with chrome carbides) and R239/R241 (nickel-based with tungsten carbides) provide tailored wear protection for different applications.
• Inductive centrifugal casting and rigorous testing guarantee distortion-free, long-lasting barrels.
• The barrels perform well with abrasive or corrosive materials, including plastics with up to 30% glass fiber or high mineral filler content.
• Screws receive secondary treatments like hard chrome plating, nitriding, and carbide encapsulation for added resistance.

Reiloy custom designs barrels and screws to optimize performance for specific resins and applications. This approach improves melt quality, extends service life, and maintains high productivity, even with challenging materials.

Single Screw Barrel Comparison Table

Feature Overview

The leading models for 2025 show strong technical performance and user-focused features. The table below highlights key specifications and support details for each Single Screw Barrel option:

Note: All models offer advanced features such as grooved feed zones, vented barrels, and servo drive integration for better efficiency and control.

Pros and Cons Summary

Each Single Screw Barrel model brings unique strengths to plastic extrusion. The table below summarizes the main advantages and limitations:

Tip: Users should match the barrel’s features to their production needs for the best results.

Choosing the Right Single Screw Barrel for Your Needs

For High-Volume Production

Manufacturers seeking high output should focus on technical specifications that maximize efficiency and durability. Key factors include screw diameter, length-to-diameter (L/D) ratio, and motor power. The table below highlights important metrics for high-volume extrusion:

Models like the KPM 120/38 and BKE 120 deliver outputs up to 1,400 kg/h, making them ideal for large-scale operations. Advanced materials and precise temperature control further enhance reliability and lifespan.

For Specialty Plastics

Processing engineering polymers or bioplastics requires careful attention to material properties and equipment design. Single screw extruders handle specialty plastics such as polycarbonate, nylon, and PLA efficiently when equipped with customized screw designs and advanced temperature control. Metallurgical choices, such as corrosion-resistant alloys, prevent equipment damage and ensure product quality. Operators must monitor temperature and screw speed closely to avoid degradation or defects. Regular maintenance and skilled operation help address challenges like inconsistent melting or pressure fluctuations.

Tip: Collaborate with equipment suppliers to customize screw and barrel configurations for sensitive or unique materials.

For Budget-Conscious Buyers

Cost-effective extrusion solutions often rely on the simplicity and versatility of single screw extruders. These machines offer lower initial investment and reduced maintenance costs compared to twin screw systems. Used equipment from reputable brands can further lower expenses without sacrificing reliability. The straightforward design supports a wide range of applications, including pipes, films, and sheets, making it a practical choice for businesses with limited budgets.

• Single screw extruders are affordable and easy to maintain.
• Used machines provide additional savings.
• Versatility supports diverse production needs.

Careful assessment of efficiency, quality, and long-term costs ensures the best value for budget-conscious operations.

The top extruder barrels for 2025 deliver reliability, energy savings, and long service life. High-volume users benefit from robust designs and advanced controls. Specialty processors should select barrels with custom engineering and durable coatings. Budget-focused buyers gain from simple, low-maintenance options. Users should match equipment features to their production needs.

FAQ

What is the main advantage of a single screw barrel in plastic extrusion?

Single screw barrels offer reliable performance, simple maintenance, and cost efficiency. They work well for most standard plastic extrusion applications.

How often should operators inspect a single screw barrel for wear?

Operators should inspect the barrel every three to six months. Regular checks help maintain output quality and extend equipment lifespan.

Can a single screw barrel handle different types of plastics?

Yes. Manufacturers design single screw barrels to process a wide range of plastics, including PVC, PE, PP, and specialty polymers.