Melt spinning and characterization of hollow fibers from poly(4‐methyl‐1‐pentene)

Abstract In this article, the melt spinning behavior of poly(4‐methyl‐1‐pentene) (PMP) hollow fibers (HF) is examined. The melt spinning trials are carried out on a pilot scale melt spinning plant with different settings while a 10‐hole 2c‐shaped spinneret is used. It is found that the winding speed mainly affects the outer fiber diameter. The influence of different melt spinning parameters is investigated, in particular temperatures, take‐up velocities, and the use of quench air. For this purpose, the shape and crystalline structure of the fibers are analyzed using a light microscope, a scanning electron microscope, and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering. The shape of the fibers is mainly influenced by the temperature settings in the melt spinning process. As a reasonable lower limit, a melt spinning temperature of 280°C is identified. Concerning the crystallinity, a saturation going along with a slight reduction of the polymer chain orientation is observed at elevated take‐up velocities.