Our Extrusion Die Stretching Machine (Figure 1) is designed for hot die draw-down of plastic tubing used in catheter production, improving material strength and tightening O.D. tolerances in the process. Capable of processing up to three tubes in parallel, the system supports a range of extrusion requirements with three available models:
- 3×26
- 3×68
- 3×80
These configurations allow the machine to handle different tube lengths and processing conditions across common catheter manufacturing steps, including tubing neck-down, balloon tubing pre-stretching, and sheathed balloon heat setting on completed catheters. The Model EDS-3X26 also supports hypotube jacketing and other applications that require precise tube stretching.
- 26”, 68” or 80” maximum draw down length
- 6-digit LCD display for draw speed and draw distance readout
- Chain Drive with air activated engage/disengage clutch
- Optical limit switches
- Quick release mechanism for fast exchange of the extrusion dies
- Air clamps with polyurethane soft jaws or stainless steel serrated jaws available
How the Extrusion Die Stretching Machine Works
The extrusion die stretching process is controlled through a microprocessor-based system that manages sequencing, timing and safety interlocks. Tubing is drawn through a heated die using a guided carriage system designed for precision and repeatability.
- Tubing insertion. Thinned tubing ends are fed through the hot extrusion die.
- Tube gripping. An air clamp secures the tubing using serrated hard jaws or optional urethane soft jaws, depending on the application.
- Controlled draw movement. The draw slide travels along a central guide rail on a precision ball bearing carriage, ensuring smooth and consistent motion. Adjustable home and end-of-draw switches can be positioned along the rail using a stainless steel ruler graduated in centimeters.
- Single or two-step pulling. The machine can perform either a single continuous draw or a two-step pull process:
- Initial draw: The tubing tail is pulled through the die a short distance, typically 0.5 or 1.0 inches.
- Reposition and final draw: The jaws release, move closer to the die, re-grip the tubing at its thickest section and complete the final pull.
Extrusion Die Stretcher Technical Specifications
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION | EDS-3X26, 3X68, 3X80 |
Dimensions (LxWxH) | 3×26: 38”x17.75”x10.25” (96.5cm x 45.0cm x 26.0cm) 3×68: 75.5” x 18.0”x9.0” (191.8cm x 45.7cm x 22.9cm) 3×80: 90.5”x18.0”x9.0” (230cm x 45.7cm x 22.9cm) |
Weight | 3×26: 45lbs (20.2Kg) 3×68: 90lbs (40.5Kg) 3×80: 100lbs (45Kg) |
Power Requirements | Standard System: 120VAC 50/60 Hz., 520 Watts. Fuse 6.25A 250V. Standard System: 230VAC 50/60Hz., 520 Watts. Fuse 5A 250V. |
Air Supply | 80-120 PSI (0.7 MPa) Shop Air, Dry, Filtered |
Capacity | 3 tubes, side by side, .020 inch to .187 inch |
Max Stretch Distance | 3×26: 26 inches (66cm) 3×68: 68 inches (173cm) 3×80: 80 inches (203 cm) |
Minimum Stretch Speed Maximum Stretch Speed | 3.0 mm/sec 30 mm/sec |
Temperature Range | Ambient to 450°F (232°C) |
