Selection of the Target Machine

With the scale-up button the dialog window depicted in Figure is opened. In the upper part of the window the machine data are displayed. By way of an explorer window the master design can be determined. In the lower part of the dialog window the user has to specify, whether he wants to use elements from the construction kit or wants SIGMA to create fictive elements, which fulfil the similarity theoretical requirements. By comparing the results of both options it is possible to better evaluate the influence of separate elements on the process.

In the latter case, the user has to set scale-up rules for kneading blocks. The chosen rule takes only effect if main and model machine have different L/D ratios . Three options are available:

• Equal number of kneading discs in main and model machine
• Constant staggering angle α
• Constant staggering angle and constant number of discs

Especially energy input, melting behavior, and degree of mixing are strongly influenced by the chosen law. The results have to be evaluated by the user for the unique process.

Figure: Selection of the target machine