Extrusion Fundamentals and Processing Workshop

Course Details

Instructor: David Constant

Instruction Time: 2-Day (1 1/2 days of classroom instruction, 1/2 day of lab work)

Course Prerequisite: None

Date: November 10-11, 2026

Price: $1250 (Register 3 or more attendees and get 10% discount)


Extrusion Processing Fundamentals is a two-day training course consisting of one and a half days of classroom instruction and half a day of hands-on training. The class starts with an introduction to polymer types, molecular weight, and rheology. We then present a step by step explanation of the extrusion process, from the feed hopper to the die, primarily focusing on an in-depth study of single screw extruders, plastic behavior, and the equipment utilized in plastics processing.


Day two of the course is a hands-on investigation of the effect of changes in process variables on product output. Process variables such as extrusion temperature and product formulation are changed and product output moni­tored. The causes of the observed product variations are discussed, and these variations correlate to day one learnings. Additionally, corrective actions that can be taken are discussed.


Day One: Classroom

  • Introduction to Plastics​
  • Basics of Extrusion​
  • Single Screw Extruders​
  • Twin Screw Extruders​
  • Plastics Behavior in Extrusion
  • Extrusion Process Overview
  • Materials Handling
  • Drying
  • Extrusion Operations
  • Processing Conditions


Day Two: Class and Lab

  • Extrusion Process Overview (con’t)
  • Process Monitoring, Control, and Quality Assurance
  • Safety and Maintenance
  • Problem Solving Methodology
  • Processing Lab and Troubleshooting


To register, please download the registration form.


Location

Polymers Center

8900 Research Drive

Charlotte, NC 28262

(704) 602-4100


Dress Code

Business casual

Polo or button down shirt

Long pants

Closed toe shoes, no heels


Lab Etiquette

No drinks, food or gum

No tobacco or vaping devices

Safety glasses must be worn

DAVID R CONSTANT


A distinguished expert in plastics engineering, Dave’s background includes pivotal roles at renowned organizations including BASF Specialty Polymers, Charter Next Generation Films, Battenfeld Gloucester Engineering, Celanese/Ticona, ExxonMobil and LyondellBasell. 


Dave is recognized for his extensive knowledge and expertise in the plastics industry.  In his 40+ year career, he has excelled in management, applications & business development, technical service and research that has focused on film, extrusion coating, sheet and pipe extrusion, formulations and compounding, packaging laminations converting, injection molding, blow molding and plastics analyses.

His proficiency includes a working knowledge of many high-temperature plastics, engineering plastics and commodity plastics, as well as plastics processing machinery. He has been acknowledged for his polymer materials insights through several patents and a Recognition Award from ASTM International.


Dave is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Lowell’s Plastics Engineering program.  He remains passionate about Plastics and helping to guide newcomers to learn about the technology through classroom and hands-on training!