'Economy' extruders add custom options.

A new low-cost line of extruders introduced by American Kuhne Extruders, Norwich, Conn., is loaded with features not normally found on "economy" models--like automatic heater burnout alarms, digital pressure indicators, custom barrier screws, and a comprehensive spare-parts kit. The Ultra line is also reportedly unique among economy models for offering over 30 customizable options. Custom paint colors cost less than $1000 extra (beige is standard), and left-handed versions cost a few thousand dollars more. (The mirror-image configuration lets one operator monitor two lines.) Over a dozen Ultras have been sold, more than half painted a custom color or left-handed. The Ultra line comes in sizes of 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, and 4.5 in. and 24 or 30:1 L/D. Tel: [phone], PTDirect: 365UB