In the visual machine configuration (machine editor), it is possible to define screw zones for the process setup.

The button opens the corresponding dialogue:

Figure: Configuring SIGMA screw zones

SIGMA initially tries to recognise the auger zones automatically. However, the zones can be modified, extended and moved by the user. SIGMA divides the process into the following screw zones:

• EZ: Infeed zone (by default from the beginning to the first kneading block).
• PZ: Plasticising zone (standard from the 1st kneading block to incl. 1st return element)
• SZ: Melt conveying zone (as standard after 1st return element up to 1st mixing element)
• MZ: Mixing zone (standard from 1st mixing element to last mixing element)
• DZ: Pressure build-up zone (as standard after the last mixing element up to the screw tip).

The defined screw zones are subsequently used in the SIGMA regulations and are used to check the system configuration.