Blow Moulding
The
Blow Moulding Process
Blow moulding is a manufacturing process used to create hollow plastic parts. Compressed air is used to inflate heated plastic into the shape of the mould. This process creates thin-walled, lightweight, and strong plastic parts.
Blow moulding is used to create a wide variety of products, including bottles and containers for food and beverages, household products, and various medical devices.
Why Blow Moulding?
- Cost-effectiveness: Blow moulding is a relatively inexpensive process, especially for large production runs.
- Design flexibility: Blow moulding allows for a high degree of design flexibility, including creating parts with complex shapes and features.
- Versatility: Blow moulding can be used to create various shapes and sizes, from small bottles to large containers.
- Lightweight: Blow-moulded parts are lightweight, reducing shipping costs and making them easier to handle.
Injection Blow Moulding VS Extrusion Blow Moulding
There are two main types of blow moulding: extrusion blow moulding and injection blow moulding.
Extrusion Blow Moulding:
A hollow plastic tube is extruded from a die and pinched closed at one end. The tube is then placed between two mould halves, and compressed air is blown into it, forcing the tube to expand and conform to the shape of the mould.
Injection Blow Moulding:
Molten plastic is injected into a preform (a pre-shaped piece of plastic). The preform is then placed between two mould halves, and compressed air is blown into the preform, forcing it to expand and conform to the shape of the mould.
Ultimately, the choice between injection moulding and blow moulding depends on the specific requirements of the part, such as its shape, functionality, and material properties.