PVC compound samples: production trials and acceptance planning
A PVC compound sample can look suitable in the laboratory yet behave differently on a production line. Sample acceptance needs measurable product targets and recorded processing conditions.
A PVC compound sample can look suitable in the laboratory yet behave differently on a production line. Sample acceptance needs measurable product targets and recorded processing conditions.
Define the application before requesting a sample
“We need flexible granules” provides limited information for compound selection. Share product geometry, extrusion or injection method, target hardness, colour and service conditions together. Cable sheathing, hoses and profiles need different acceptance lists. Mark the mandatory clauses in any customer specification.
Identify measurement methods as well. A hardness value is incomplete without the scale, specimen thickness, conditioning and measurement timing. Record laboratory specimens separately from finished parts so that a geometry effect is not mistaken for a raw-material difference.
Record reference production
Run the current material before testing the candidate. Record the machine, screw, die, temperature zones, line speed, rotation speed, pressure and cooling conditions. Remain within safe operating limits and follow equipment instructions. A trial on another line is not automatically a like-for-like performance comparison.
- Material code, batch and sample delivery date.
- Initial settings and settings changed during the trial.
- Time to stable production, output and rejected material.
- Dimensions, surface, colour and agreed mechanical measurements.
- Results after conditioning or ageing.
Diagnose an unsuccessful trial
When a sample produces poor surface quality, investigate material and processing variables separately. Complete the initial comparison at reference settings, then make controlled adjustments within the recommended processing range. Changing temperature, speed and die simultaneously makes it difficult to identify the improvement responsible. Assign a new specimen code after each adjustment.
Move from samples to regular supply
Product, production and quality teams should agree the acceptance table before the trial. Assess consistency during stable production rather than judging one good part. Transfer the accepted compound code, document revision and critical quality characteristics into the purchasing specification. Include the application, target properties, machine information and evaluation plan when requesting Plastay Compounds samples.
Related products and technical evaluation
Plastay Compounds — Soft and rigid PVC compound / granules
Start compound selection with the application, process and performance target. Assess hardness, flexibility and ageing for soft PVC; dimensional stability, impact and processing for rigid PVC. Portfolio ranges shown here are not guaranteed values for a single grade. Request a grade-specific data sheet and sample.
Discuss your application with the technical team →
