How to Make a Screw Extruder
A screw extruder is a device used to create plastic screws by forcing plastic through a small hole into the shape of a screw. While you can purchase commercial extruders at hardware stores for your personal use or business, you can also create a simple screw extruder by using a few common household items. Depending on the size of screw you need for a particular project, you can also easily customize your extruder design by creating your own model.
Instructions
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Make Your Own Screw Extruder
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1
Wash and rinse your old plastic bottle in order to remove residual debris or liquid. Be sure to thoroughly wash the inside and outside of the bottle.
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2
Use your utility knife to puncture and cut a small hole in the cap of the bottle. If the cap has a clear plastic cover on the inside, remove this disk before continuing. Use your utility knife to shape the hole on your bottle cap to match the shape you desire for your screws.
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3
Use your utility knife to remove the bottom half of the plastic bottle, thus creating a funnel-like design.
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4
Place your plastic mold material in the "top" of the bottle funnel and push the material through the hole in your bottle cap. Cut the strand of plastic with your utility knife at the desired screw length.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure to use a bottle that is large enough to hold your plastic mold material. An old soda or milk bottle is ideal.
Have multiple bottle caps on hand in case your original cap is damaged or clogged through extruder use.
Wear protective gloves and glasses for added protection while making your extruder.
Be patient while using the utility knife to cut your bottle caps in order to prevent injuring yourself.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit screws and heart shaped screws image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
