Differences Between Blow Moulding and Injection Moulding
Ever wondered how plastics are made? When it comes down to moulding options for a plastic manufacturing company, there are two major processes. These are blow moulding and injection moulding. Plastics come from organic materials such as carbon and hydrogen. The end product, a monomer, is used as a base to make the desired plastic as the end product.
So, how will you decide which process to use during plastic moulding? Below are a few factors you should consider:
The Type of Product Produced
A significant difference between the two processes is that the end products of blow moulding are hollow, singular containers such as bottles. On the other hand, injection moulding gives rise to solid pieces like plastic products.
The Molding Procedure Required
During injection moulding, the plastic is sealed in the injection chamber and moulded entirely throughout the process. However, in blow moulding, for the end product to achieve its desired size, the mould is removed from the plastic, therefore, giving it more freedom.
Presence or Absence of Air
Sometimes, what is good for the goose is not always good for the gander. If air is present during injection moulding, it creates air bubbles in the product; thus lowering its quality and making the product defective. On the other hand, air is vital during blow moulding as it is used to shape the product. Air is forced into the mould, therefore, pushing it out and expanding the product.
Merits and Demerits
The two processes have their pros and cons. For example, blow moulding can only produce hollow shaped products, unlike injection moulding that produces a wide range of products. Blow moulding is cheaper and easier compared to injection moulding. A significant merit of injection moulding is that you can change the color and materials used to manufacture the product. Finally, you need to consider the design and engineering expertise required to manufacture the product.
A viable alternative to injection moulding for companies that have limited options would be vacuum forming. Unlike injection moulding, vacuum forming has fast prototyping and production frames. More to that, vacuum forming has low start-up costs and can manufacture large plastic products.
Plastics can be moulded through blow or injection moulding. You will need to consider the type of product, the moulding procedure and the presence of air when deciding the method of plastic moulding. Further, you must evaluate the merits and demerits of both procedures. Consider vacuum forming as an alternative to injection moulding. Contact a plastic moulding manufacture today to learn more.