At Exapro, we offer a selection of used twin screw extruders designed for high-efficiency compounding, advanced mixing, and continuous processing across plastics, rubber, food, and pharmaceutical industries. Whether you operate in polymer compounding, extrusion, recycling, or specialty material development, these machines deliver exceptional dispersion, consistency, and throughput.
Our marketplace connects you with trusted global brands such as Coperion, KraussMaffei Berstorff, Leistritz, JSW, and ICMA San Giorgio, ensuring industrial-grade performance at a fraction of the cost of new equipment. Priced typically between €24,000 and €97,000, these used twin screw extruders provide proven reliability, robust engineering, and the processing stability required for demanding applications.
CINCINNATI EXTRUSION extrusion line for PVC profiles. CINCINNATI CM45 - Number of screws: 2 - Screw diameter: 45 mm - Main motor power: 14 kW - Production capacity: 100 kg/h - Maximum profile width: 250 mm Calibration table - Number of pumps: 2 - Total pump power: 5 kW Crawler type drive unit - Belt contact length: 1500 mm - Belt width: 250 mm Planetary saw Output table
Used twin screw extruders offer a powerful combination of mixing efficiency, process stability, and cost-effectiveness. By choosing a second-hand system on Exapro, manufacturers gain access to high-performance compounding technology while significantly reducing capital expenditure and shortening lead times.
Lower investment cost – Used extruders on Exapro typically range from €24,000 to €97,000, depending on brand, size, and configuration.
Enhanced mixing and dispersion – Intermeshing co-rotating screws ensure homogeneous melts and uniform additive distribution for masterbatch, compounds, and engineered materials.
Flexibility – Capable of processing rigid PVC, engineering plastics, elastomers, biopolymers, and even food-grade formulations.
Energy efficiency – Optimised screw and barrel designs reduce heat buildup and improve torque transfer, lowering kWh/kg ratios.
Faster ROI – Reduced purchase cost and immediate market availability accelerate payback compared to new equipment.
Access to premium brands – Acquire Coperion, Leistritz, KraussMaffei and similar high-end models at advantageous prices.
Main Technical Features of Used Twin Screw Extruders
Below are the key technical characteristics to consider when selecting a twin screw extruder for compounding, recycling, food production, or pharmaceutical processing.
Screw diameter & L/D ratio
Screw diameter determines throughput, while higher L/D ratios increase mixing efficiency, residence time, and processing capability for advanced formulations.
Screw design & rotation speed
Flight geometry, pitch, and rotation speed define shear rate, dispersion quality, and melt homogeneity. Co-rotating intermeshing screws provide excellent self-wiping, reducing residue and improving consistency.
Barrel temperature & pressure control
Multiple heating and cooling zones maintain an accurate thermal profile, ensuring stable melting conditions for a wide range of materials.
Venting & degassing
Degassing zones remove moisture, volatiles, and gases — essential for recycling, reactive extrusion, and pharmaceutical processing.
Torque & gearbox performance
The gearbox rating and torque capacity determine the ability to process high-viscosity polymers, filled compounds, composites, and demanding materials.
Output capacity
Throughput ranges from small lab extruders processing a few kg/h to large industrial lines exceeding 1,000 kg/h.
Top Brands and Models
Coperion ZSK Series – benchmark for compounding and masterbatch production.
KraussMaffei Berstorff ZE Series – robust extruders for plastics, rubber, and specialty compounds.
Leistritz ZSE Series – modular screw configurations for precision processing.
JSW TEX Series – Japanese systems for engineering plastics and advanced materials.
ICMA San Giorgio TR Series – Italian twin screws for compounding, recycling, and reinforcement.
Bühler – widely used in food extrusion applications.
Thermo Scientific Process 11/16 – laboratory and R&D-scale extruders.
Industries and Applications
Twin screw extruders are used across many industries requiring efficient mixing, homogeneity, and continuous production:
Recycling – reprocessing post-consumer and industrial plastics into reusable granules.
Food processing – cereals, snacks, textured proteins, and pet food.
Pharmaceuticals – continuous granulation and controlled-release dosage forms.
Nanocomposites – dispersion of fillers, fibres, and functional additives.
Wire & cable – extrusion of insulation and sheathing materials.
Medical – tubing, biomaterials, and specialty compounds.
Pricing and Cost Factors
Pricing on Exapro varies according to configuration, processing capability, and machine history. Below are the main criteria that influence cost:
Brand and model – premium manufacturers typically retain higher market value.
Screw diameter & L/D ratio – larger and longer screws increase throughput and flexibility.
Heating & cooling zones – more zones enable better thermal control for sensitive processes.
Torque & gearbox rating – essential for high-viscosity and filled materials.
Automation & controls – advanced PLC/HMI systems improve precision and consistency.
Maintenance history – well-documented service extends lifespan and reliability.
Total cost of ownership – includes spare parts, energy use, and long-term upkeep.
Use Exapro’s Valorexo pricing algorithm to benchmark asking prices and confirm market fairness instantly.
How to Choose the Right Twin Screw Extruder
Selecting the right machine requires aligning processing requirements with throughput, material type, and technical constraints. Below are the key factors to evaluate:
Define your application
Different screw and barrel configurations are recommended for compounding, recycling, food, pharma, and specialty applications.
Check capacity needs
Match screw diameter and L/D ratio to required throughput and material viscosity.
Inspect condition
Assess screw wear, barrel condition, gearbox integrity, heater performance, and control systems.
Evaluate energy efficiency
Modern drive systems significantly reduce energy consumption and operating costs.
Verify compliance
Ensure the machine meets relevant plastics, food, or pharmaceutical standards for your production environment.
Consult experts
Exapro’s team helps shortlist suitable machines, arrange inspections, and coordinate global logistics.
Find the Right Used Twin Screw Extruder for Your Business
Browse our latest listings of used twin screw extruders on Exapro and connect with verified sellers worldwide. With expert guidance, inspection support, international logistics coordination, and pricing tools like Valorexo, Exapro makes upgrading your compounding or extrusion line efficient, reliable, and cost-effective.