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What You Should Know About the 3 Main Types of Blow Molding Machines
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Blow molding is a common method to produce jars, bottles, and cylindrical, hollow tubes. In application, there are 3 main types of blow molding machines in the market – and we are going to break them down to you in detail in this guide.
What Is Blow Molding?
In manufacturing, the blow molding process is what creates long, hollow plastic products for a variety of applications. This is made possible by inflating the molten plastic polymer inside a set mold design. As a result, the plastic is forced to conform to the mold allowing for the final product to take shape.
Here’s what a usual blow molding process looks like :
1. The plastic polymer pellets are heated until molten or pliable.
2. A preform is designed – usually a tube or an injection-molded blank.
3. The mold is then clamped around the preform.
4. Inflation happens, pressing the molten plastic against the walls of the mold.
5. The final product is cooled and ejected for inspection/packing.
The 3 Main Types of Blow Molding Machines
Blow molding machines are categorized based on the way they form and shape the molten plastic into the intended final product. There are 3 main categories of such machines in industrial applications :
Extrusion Blow Molding (EBM)
With EBM, the plastic pellets are melted then extruded into a parison – a tube-like, continuous sleeving. The mold is then clamped over the parison so it can take the shape of the design. After this step, air is channeled into the parison. The resulting inflation forces the parison to conform to the molded shape.
Common Applications : Detergent bottles, motor/engine oil containers, plastic milk jugs, and other uniform containers of larger volume.
Injection Blow Molding (IBM)
IBM is a common option for manufacturers who want to achieve the intricate, premium look on their bottles. The molten plastic is injected using a screw and barrel gauge, which will then be transferred to the blowing mold to be inflated.
Common Applications : Perfume vials, pharmaceuticals, cosmetic and beauty products.
Stretch Blow Molding (SBM)
Most of your PET bottles are produced by an SBM line. The process starts when there is axial and radial stretching of the preform before it’s shuffled into the blower. This distinct manufacturing process is what improves the strength, clarity, and material distribution of the final plastic product.
Common Applications : PET beverage bottles, water bottles/tumblers, and carbonated drink containers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Blow Molding Machine Type
Selecting the right blow molding machine goes beyond price —you’ll need to first evaluate your business needs, product design, target market, and future scalability potential before you can commit to any one blow molding machine.
Here’s how to make the right choice for your manufacturing needs :
· Determine Production Volume and Output : Assess your demand and choose the machine that has a corresponding production capacity. Large scale operations may need more complex setups with multiple mold cavities, injector sizes, and mold designs.
· Sizing and Design Complexity : Bottle designs with unique, ergonomic features might need more expensive, customized molds. Complex shapes also affect wall thickness and overall tensile strength, aside from lengthening production time.
· Material Compatibility : Check that your choice machine is compatible with varying types of plastic polymers like PET, HDPE, PP, and LDPE. This gives you the freedom and flexibility to work with different plastic types for parallel applications.
· Level of Automation : Semi-auto models, while cheaper, will require manual work when loading and unloading. This could easily add up in costs. On the other hand, fully automated systems take a bigger investment upfront, but eventually the costs breakeven in the long run.
· Maintenance, Support, and Warranty : For a blow molding machine to be deemed reliable, they must come with global warranty and access to service centers/agents in your region. Going for those advertised as low-maintenance can boost your profit margins as well.
Why You Should Choose A Trusted Blow Molding Machine Supplier
Choosing the right blow molding machine is only part of the equation — you’ll need to partner with a reliable machinery manufacturer to ensure that your production goals are always on track. Here are some things that a trusted blow molding machine supplier can offer you :
Access to High-Quality Machines
It’s important to choose machines that are built for continuous runs without slacking on the precision. Seek also durable components and parts that have advanced, touch-controlled paneling.
Often, trusted suppliers can also furnish you with a variety of mold options and designs. Some may even take orders for customized mold design, for the perfect fit with your existing machinery.
Technical Support and Training
When you go with a reliable supplier, you’d also be getting warranty-covered technical support, troubleshooting assistance, and proactive maintenance. Plus, their trained personnel can assist with machine installation, calibration, and even provide training courses for your operators.
The best thing about this is, many such suppliers offer their customers 24/7 or next day technical assistance.
Reduced Downtime and Operational Risks
Getting machinery from a reputable supplier often translates to better production uptime and far lower operational risks/hazards. Should anything go wrong, your supplier will be able to send a technician to inspect the machine, run diagnostics, and source parts for the repair.
In the long run, this adds up, considering that the swift service and action keep your machinery productive and profitable over the long term.
Choose The Right Type Of Blow Molding Machine
Selecting the right blow molding machinery is a critical decision that flows back into product quality, production efficiency, and long-term profitability. By carefully evaluating the 5 factors we’d discussed earlier, you’d be able to pair your manufacturing needs with a reputable supplier – possibly even one like us. Browse through our blow molding machine catalog and give us a call if you see something you like.
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