Moulding machine

Types of moulding machines

Moulding machines are divided into 4 main categories based on the type of plastic used: extrusion blow moulding machines, injection blow moulding machines, stretch blow moulding machines, and injection stretch blow moulding machines.

• Extrusion blow moulding machines:

These machines produce large quantities of plastic parts using a fast and continuous manufacturing process. The machine extrudes a molten tube of thermoplastic material, which is then clamped into a mold. After that, compressed air is used to expand the plastic against the mold cavity surfaces, creating the desired shape. The most common products created with this type of machine are bottles, jerry cans, drums, and containers.

• Injection blow moulding machines:

These machines use the same principle as extrusion blow moulding machines, but they have an extra stage where the preform is shaped and then placed in a cold mold. The preform is then heated and blown with air to create the final product. This process is mainly used for the manufacturing of small bottles and containers.

• Stretch blow moulding machines:

These machines combine the injection and the stretch blow machines. They create containers with a better finish, higher quality, and a more precise neck area. These features are the reason why these machines are used in the manufacturing of bottles for beverages and personal care products.

• Injection stretch blow molding machine:

This is a combination of the injection and the stretch blow moulding machines. It first creates a preform, which is then reheated and stretched to create the final product. This machine is used to create products such as jars, bottles, and containers with very high precision and quality.

Specifications and maintenance of moulding machines

Many different types of moulding machines have been developed to suit the wide range of applications in various industries. Each type of machine has different specifications that are important to consider when choosing one for a particular project.

• Capacity: This is the amount of material that can be processed in one cycle. It is usually measured in terms of weight or volume and can range from a few grams to several kilograms. Customers need to match the machine's capacity with their project's production requirements.
• Injection pressure: This is the force at which molten material is injected into the mold. It is usually measured in pressure per square inch (psi) or megapascals (MPa). The injection pressure required will depend on the material being used and the complexity of the mold design.
• Mould height: This is the maximum distance between the two halves of the mold when it is closed. The moulding machines' clamping unit must have enough force and stroke to accommodate the height of the mould being used.
• Clamping force: This is the force exerted by the machine's clamping unit to keep the two halves of the mold closed during the injection and cooling process. It is usually measured in tons (t) or kilonewtons (kN). The clamping force required will depend on the size and shape of the mold, as well as the material being used. Larger and more complex molds will require higher clamping forces.
• Barrel capacity: This is the maximum volume of material that the machine's injection unit can hold. It is usually measured in cubic centimeters (cc) or liters (L). The barrel capacity must be large enough to accommodate the material required for the project.
• Screw diameter and length: This is the size of the screw that moves the molten material through the machine's barrel and into the mould. It is usually measured in millimeters (mm). The diameter and length of the screw will determine how much material can be processed in each cycle.

The maintenance of the moulding machines is straightforward if done regularly. First, before starting any maintenance work, ensure that the machine is disconnected from the power supply. Also, make sure that the machine is at room temperature, then clean the machine with a dry cloth or a vacuum to remove any dirt or debris. Doing this will prevent any electrical accidents from occurring. Also, make sure that all major components are securely fastened and properly aligned to ensure optimum performance. Furthermore, lubricate all moving parts with the appropriate lubricant to reduce friction and prevent premature wear. Finally, inspect the electrical system and wiring to ensure there are no loose connections or damaged components that need immediate replacement or repair.

Scenarios of moulding machines

The plastic injection moulding machine is widely used in many industries and fields.

• Automotive Industry

Plastic injection moulding machines produce a variety of plastic parts and components for vehicles. These include dashboard panels, bumpers, car lights, and other automotive parts. Approximately 80% of automotive components are made using plastic injection machines.

• Medical Industry

Plastic injection moulding machines are used to produce various medical devices and components. These may include syringes, inhalers, blood vials, and other medical supplies. Due to the need for high-quality materials, precision and cleanliness, plastic injection moulding machines are widely used in the medical industry.

• Consumer Electronics

Many parts of electronic devices are produced using plastic injection moulding machines. These include cases and buttons for mobile phones, computers, televisions, and more. The use of plastic injection moulding machines allows for mass production of electronic devices at an affordable price.

• Toys and Games

Plastic injection moulding machines are widely used in the production of toys and games. They make everything from plastic parts to stuffed animals, action figures, dolls, and more. These toys can be made in many different shapes and sizes, using different types of plastic materials.

• Home Appliances

Many components of home appliances are made using plastic injection moulding machines. These include parts like buttons, handles, and panels of appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens. Plastic parts provide an affordable way to produce home appliances that are both durable and attractive.

• Construction Industry

Plastic injection moulding machines are widely used in the construction industry. They make plastic parts and components of buildings like doors, windows, and floor tiles. Plastic parts are a more affordable option for construction materials, and they are also easy to install and maintain.

How to choose moulding machines

When looking to buy plastic injection moulding machines for sale, there are several factors to consider to ensure they meet their production needs and budget requirements.

• Capacity:

It's important to determine the required production capacity. The amount of plastic that can be processed per time is measured in kilograms. This is vital to ensure that the machine's output can meet production demands. The capacity to look into includes shot weight, injection pressure, and injection rate.

• Power consumption:

It's important to consider the power consumption of the machine to ensure it is energy efficient. This will help keep operating costs down. Look for models with energy-saving features such as variable pump drive and automatic shutdown after material solidification.

• Automation and robotics:

When considering the machine to buy, it is essential to look for automation and robotic options. This feature is important for streamlining production processes, improving efficiency, and reducing labor costs. Things to look for include robotic part removal and ejection, automated material handling, and robotic tool changes.

• Machine type:

When it comes to choosing a plastic injection moulding machine, it is crucial to select the right type of machine that is best suited for one's specific production needs and requirements. The two main types of plastic injection moulding machines are electric and hydraulic. While electric machines provide high precision and repeatability, hydraulic machines offer high injection speeds and pressure ratings. However, they are often less energy efficient than their electric counterparts. It is important to carefully consider the trade-offs between precision and speed in order to find the right balance for one's application. In some cases, a hybrid machine that combines the benefits of both electric and hydraulic systems may be the best option. It is also important to choose a machine with the right clamping force to ensure it can effectively mold the desired plastic parts. Other factors to consider when choosing a plastic injection moulding machine include its shot size, screw design, and control system.

• Machine condition:

Users must consider the machine's condition before making a purchase. New machines are more expensive, but they offer the latest technology and better energy efficiency. On the other hand, used and refurbished machines are more affordable and can be a good choice for buyers with a limited budget. However, users must ensure the machine is in good working condition and has been properly maintained. Buyers can ask for a demonstration and inspect the machine in person before making a purchase.

Moulding machine Q and A

Q1. What material is used for moulding machine construction?

A1. Moulding machines are made of heavy-duty metal frames, such as cast iron and steel. Metal frames provide stability and withstand the high pressure and force during the moulding process.

Q2. What are the energy requirements of an injection moulding machine?

A2. The energy requirements of an injection moulding machine vary depending on the machine's size and operating parameters. The primary energy consumers are the plasticizing and injection process, mould movement, and cooling. Larger machines that use more power will have higher energy consumption. Injection moulding machines are energy efficient and use energy responsibly. They have lower energy use during standby and cooling phases.

Q3. Are there any alternatives to plastic for injection moulding?

A3. Yes, there are many alternatives to plastic for injection moulding machines. Some materials include bio-based plastics, such as PLA and PHA, that are derived from renewable sources. Other alternatives include biodegradable plastics and recycled plastics. These materials offer environmentally friendly options for injection moulding products.

Q4. What is the difference between a horizontal and vertical injection moulding machine?

A4. The primary difference between vertical and horizontal injection moulding machines is their configuration. In a horizontal machine, the injection unit is horizontal, while in a vertical machine, it is vertical. Horizontal machines are more common and are used for products that require mould inserts. Vertical machines are ideal for overmolding and metal insert moulding. The choice between the two machines depends on the specific product requirements and manufacturing needs.