The German extruder manufacturer Leistritz Extrusionstechnik has upgrades its popular ZSE MAXX series extruder based on end user feedback. The result is the ZSE 27 iMAXX featuring a new, more user-friendly design that was on display at the recent K Show.

"We take the feedback from the market very seriously,: explains Anton Fürst, Managing Director at Leistritz. "Our customers asked for even more ease of use and efficiency. Therefore, we reconsidered our ZSE 27 MAXX and redesigned it to incorporate an integrated design."

At first glance, the ZSE 27 iMAXX is missing a control cabinet. It was eliminated by installing the whole extruder electrics including the water-cooled frequency converter into the base frame. Thus, the extruder not only saves space but also gets more mobile. "A further novelty is that we used a water-cooled Siemens motor," explains Fürst. "It is smaller, but supplies the same power."

Another feature is the closed dual supply water-circuit. Its inlet and outlet, as well as the COAX valves, are integrated into the supply frame. The closed water circulation system allows for reduced water consumption and is independent from water quality. "We inserted an inspection window to be able to monitor the safety coupling," says Fürst. "The inductive sensor can easily be exchanged via the screw joint underneath the window - without having to dissemble the whole motor."

Besides the increased protection for electrical components against solids and liquids based on the IP54 standard (heating cartridges are rated at IP65) the ZSE 27 iMAXX is also easy to clean. The machine has a smooth surface and the base frame is powder coated. All cables are neatly housed in the supply frame. Fürst adds; "We changed several things in terms of user and maintenance friendliness, but we perpetuated the technical advantages of the ZSE 27 MAXX: namely high torque and high volume."