Blow moulding is a versatile manufacturing process that comes in various types, each suited to specific applications and product requirements. The two primary types of blow moulding are extrusion blow moulding and injection blow moulding. Let's delve into each of these methods:
1.Extrusion Blow Moulding:
Process:
In extrusion blow moulding, a continuous tube or parison of molten plastic is extruded vertically.
The parison is then captured by closing it into a cooled metal mold.
Compressed air is introduced into the parison, causing it to expand and take the shape of the mold.
Once the plastic cools and solidifies, the mold opens, and the finished product is ejected.
Applications:
Packaging: Plastic bottles, containers, and jars for beverages, household products, and personal care items.
Industrial Products: Drums, barrels, and large containers.
Toys: Hollow plastic toys, inflatable structures.
Advantages:
Well-suited for large, hollow containers.
Cost-effective for high-volume production.
2. Injection Blow Moulding:
Process:
Injection blow moulding begins with the creation of a preform through injection molding. The preform has a neck that is often threaded.
The preform is transferred to a blow moulding machine.
The preform is heated, and a core rod is used to inflate it within a blow mold.
The plastic takes the shape of the mold as it cools, and the finished product is ejected.
Applications:
Packaging: Small bottles for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food products.
Medical Devices: IV bottles, containers for pharmaceuticals.
Automotive: Hollow parts like air ducts and fluid reservoirs.
Advantages:
Precise control over neck finish and thread details.
Suitable for small to medium-sized containers.
3. Stretch Blow Moulding:
Process:
This type combines aspects of both extrusion and injection blow moulding.
A preform is injection-molded and then heated.
The heated preform is stretched longitudinally and blown into the final shape using high-pressure air.
Applications:
PET bottles for beverages, water, and other liquid products.
Advantages:
Produces high-quality, lightweight containers.
Well-suited for PET containers.
4. Continuous Extrusion Blow Moulding:
Process:
Similar to extrusion blow moulding, but the parison is continuously extruded.
The parison is shaped using a mold as it continues to move through the process.
The finished products are cut off from the continuously extruded tube.
Applications:
Pipes, hoses, and other tubular products.
Advantages:
Continuous production for long, tubular shapes.
Tags:
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