Plastic Extruders for Repair of Car Bodies

Plastic extruders are used to repair car bodies by welding plastic parts together. They can be used to repair a variety of plastic parts, including bumpers, fenders, and spoilers.

How Plastic Extruders Work

Plastic extruders work by melting plastic and then forcing it through a die. The die shapes the plastic into a specific shape, which is then welded to the damaged car body part.

Types of Plastic Extruders

There are two main types of plastic extruders: handheld extruders and benchtop extruders.

• Handheld extruders are small and portable, making them ideal for use in the field. They are typically used to repair small plastic parts.
• Benchtop extruders are larger and more powerful than handheld extruders. They are typically used to repair larger plastic parts.

Choosing the Right Plastic Extruder

When choosing a plastic extruder, it is important to consider the following factors:

• The type of plastic you will be welding. Different types of plastic require different temperatures and welding techniques.
• The size of the plastic parts you will be welding. Handheld extruders are best suited for small parts, while benchtop extruders can handle larger parts.
• Your budget. Plastic extruders can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Using a Plastic Extruder

To use a plastic extruder, follow these steps:

1. Clean the damaged area. Remove any dirt, grease, or paint from the damaged area.
2. Prepare the plastic extruder. Set the temperature of the extruder according to the type of plastic you will be welding.
3. Load the plastic into the extruder. The extruder will typically have a hopper or feed tube that you can fill with plastic pellets or scrap.
4. Extrude the plastic. Pull the trigger on the extruder to start the flow of plastic. Guide the nozzle of the extruder over the damaged area and slowly weld the plastic together.
5. Finish the weld. Once you have welded the plastic together, allow it to cool and harden. You can then sand or paint the repaired area to match the rest of the car body.

Tips for Using a Plastic Extruder

• Use the correct temperature for the type of plastic you are welding. If the temperature is too low, the plastic will not melt properly. If the temperature is too high, the plastic will burn.
• Hold the nozzle of the extruder steady and move it slowly over the damaged area. If you move the nozzle too quickly, the plastic will not have time to melt and bond properly.
• Be careful not to overlap the plastic welds too much. If you overlap the welds too much, the plastic will become too thick and may crack.
• Allow the plastic welds to cool and harden completely before sanding or painting the repaired area.

Conclusion

Plastic extruders are a valuable tool for repairing car bodies. They can be used to repair a variety of plastic parts, and they are relatively easy to use. With a little practice, you can use a plastic extruder to repair car bodies like a professional.