The Extruder | Continuous mixing in battery cell manufacturing

How it works, areas of application, and potential uses at Fraunhofer FFB

The extrusion process refers to the production of electrode material, known as slurry, which is required for cell production.

In this process, a mixture of various powdered materials and liquids is “kneaded” by two extruder screws to produce a continuous stream of slurry.

Das Bild zeigt eine schematische Darstellung des Extruder-Vorgangs
© Fraunhofer FFB

 

Key technical specifications at a glance: 

  • Manufacturer: Bühler AG
  • Twin-screw extruder
  • Material throughput up to 150 kg/h
  • 2 x powder feeders
  • 4 x liquid feeders

The Extruder in Detail

Das Bild zeigt die Extruder-Anlage und seine unterschiedlichen Bestandteile
© Fraunhofer FFB

What We Offer You

Take advantage of our state-of-the-art facility to test your products under real-world conditions. We offer comprehensive services tailored to meet your specific needs.

 

Our services at a glance:

Parameter Development & Process Optimization

 

 

Evaluation of material-specific process variations: We analyze various materials and their behavior in our systems to achieve optimal results.

Process optimization from system design to target parameter definition: Our experts fine-tune the mixing process to maximize efficiency.

Modern measurement technology: By using advanced measurement technology, both inline and offline, we guarantee precise results and continuous process monitoring.

Holistic process optimization: We support you from plant engineering to the definition of your target parameters to optimize the entire process.

Requirements analysis for development and expansion projects: Together with you, we determine the requirements for your projects and develop customized solutions.

Das Bild zeigt einzelne Komponenten des Extruders.
© Fraunhofer FFB

Research Questions

Das Bild zeigt einen Mann im Kittel  der in einem Labor vor einem Bildschirm steht.
© Fraunhofer FFB

Scalability of materials for dry coating: We analyze and develop scalable solutions to increase the efficiency of your coating processes.

Storage stability of electrode slurry: Optimization of the storage stability of electrode slurry through targeted process adjustments for improved shelf life.

Production and optimization of water-based cathode slurries: We offer expertise in the development and improvement of water-based cathode slurries, including NMC, LFP, and Na-ion.

 

 

Manufacturing Development

Production of slurries for prototyping: Our specialized slurries are ideal for prototyping and ensure seamless integration into subsequent process steps.

Testing of screw configurations: Our experts test various screw configurations to maximize the efficiency and performance of your production equipment.

Improvement of process parameters: We analyze and optimize your process parameters to increase product quality and production speed.

Quality comparison with other mixing methods: Through comprehensive quality analyses, we compare your mixing methods with industry standards to achieve the best results.

Das Bild zeigt, wie Slurry-Paste umgefüllt wird.
© Fraunhofer FFB

The Role of the Extruder in the Manufacturing Process

Das Bild zeigt eine schematische Darstellung, welche den Mischprozess in der Elektrodenfertigung einordnet.
© Fraunhofer FFB

Contact

Joana Flanse

Contact Press / Media

Joana Flanse

Wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiterin, Gruppe Elektrodenfertigung

Fraunhofer-Einrichtung Forschungsfertigung Batteriezelle FFB
Bergiusstraße 8
48165 Münster