RUBBER COOLING MACHINE [BATCH-OFF]
\n\n\n\nRubber compound cooling machines, commonly known as Batch-off systems, are primarily used to cool rubber compounds. After the mixing process in a Banbury mixer, rubber compounds heat up significantly. Cooling this rubber compound mass is essential before the next operation or before adding accelerator chemicals.
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There are two main types of Batch-off systems used for this cooling process: Festoon (hanging) type Batch-off systems and Belt type Batch-off systems. In the EVA sector, roller-type cooling units are more commonly preferred. RPMMach is capable of designing and producing various types of Batch-off systems tailored to purpose, fully meeting customer needs with high performance.
\n\n\n\nFESTOON (HANGING) TYPE RUBBER BATCH-OFF COOLING UNITS
\n\n\n\nThese Batch-off cooling units are generally used at the output of open mixing mills. Due to the high dough intake and feeding speed, the cylinders of the open mixing mill can match the rubber delivery speed. These Batch-off units cool using a fan system, blowing air cooled 5–10°C below ambient temperature directly onto the rubber sheets. The cooling capacities of RPM’s festoon Batch-off units range from 1,000 kg/hour to 5,000 kg/hour depending on machine size and design.
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Festoon-type rubber Batch-off systems offer several functional options. At the sheet entry point, a bonding roller joins rubber batches together and ensures continuous compound flow. The compound then passes through an anti-tack tank to prevent sheets from sticking together. A slicing system can be added at the Batch-off entry or exit. Optical sensors monitor compound movement inside the machine. Festoon hangers are made of stainless steel. A metal detector can be installed at the final output, and a wig-wag stacking mechanism is available as a standard option.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, an automatic compound length cutting system can be applied at the output. U-body Batch-off systems with return conveyors are also available upon request. All options available in festoon Batch-off systems can also be applied to belt-type Batch-off systems.
\n\n\n\nBELT TYPE BATCH-OFF COOLING UNITS
\n\n\n\nBelt-type Batch-off rubber compound cooling machines can be manufactured using stainless steel belts, PA heat-resistant belts, or Teflon wear and heat-resistant belts. The compound transport and cooling capacities of this type are smaller compared to festoon systems. However, one key advantage is that they can easily transport and cool compounds with very thin wall thickness. To increase cooling capacity, the number of conveyor belts must be increased — we typically produce 5-layer systems, with 7 and 9-layer options also available.
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In general, rubber compound conveyor belts are produced in a folded, forward-backward transmission method. The same entry options as festoon Batch-off systems can be used. Slicing blades can be applied at the entry or exit. Recently, the most demanded models have been 5-layer PA6.6 (Polyamide 6.6) belt Batch-off systems, which operate quietly. Cooling fans can also be mounted on top of the Batch-off unit.
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It is not recommended to place these belt-type Batch-off systems directly at the exit of an open mixing mill. Although belt speeds can be adjusted to match cylinder speeds, they may be insufficient in terms of cooling rate, or the compound may need to wait inside for 5–6 minutes. For continuous, uninterrupted compound feeding, we recommend conical screw feeding machines at low speeds. These belt-type Batch-off systems have also been very popular in the automotive tire production sector.
\n\n\n\nCLIMATIC CLOSED TYPE BELT COOLING UNITS
\n\n\n\nThese climatic Batch-off systems, patented by RPMMach, have been manufactured since 2012. Cold air produced externally using standard refrigerant gas is fed into the Batch-off to achieve rapid cooling. Their cooling capacities are very high.
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These climatic Batch-off systems are produced in belt and layer configuration. Climatic cooling has not yet been attempted in festoon Batch-off systems, but development work is ongoing. While offering advantages of fast, high-capacity and precise cooling, these climatic systems are slightly more expensive than others and currently have slightly higher operating costs.
\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnical Specifications Overview
RPM Mach Batch-Off Cooling Units are available in customized configurations to match specific mixer output requirements. Key technical parameters include:
- Cooling Capacity: Designed to match mixer output from 50 kg/batch to 500+ kg/batch
- Belt Width: Available in standard widths of 600 mm, 900 mm, 1200 mm and custom sizes
- Belt Length: Configured based on required cooling time and compound specifications
- Anti-Tack System: Integrated water + release agent spray system prevents rubber-to-rubber adhesion
- Drive System: Variable speed drive for precise control of compound residence time on the cooling belt
- Drying Section: Air knife or blow-off system removes excess water before stacking or winding
- Control: PLC-based automation with integration capability for upstream mixer control systems
Why Choose RPM Mach Batch-Off Systems?
With over 30 years of experience in rubber machinery manufacturing, RPM Mach delivers batch-off cooling systems engineered for reliability, low maintenance, and long service life. Each unit is designed and built to customer specifications, ensuring optimal cooling performance for your specific rubber compounds and production volumes.