The dynamic responses of a 2–1/2 inch single screw plasticating extruder and extrusion line were investigated. Step changes in screw speed, take‐up speed, back pressure, and processing materials were used to determine the transient responses of barrel pressures, die pressure, melt temperature, and extrudate thickness. Dynamic responses of the entire extrusion line can be explained by the flow mechanism of the extruder and the logical properties of the polymer used. A capillary rheometer was also used to determine if it could simulate pressure responses in the extruder for screw speed changes. Results showed that capillary rheometer was helpful in estimating the short term pressure responses in the die.