In blow molding production, while the main machine is crucial, the selection of auxiliary equipment plays an equally vital role. Auxiliary machines significantly contribute to production efficiency, product consistency, temperature control, air supply, and waste recycling.
This article explains the impact of five key auxiliary machines on the blow molding process.
Color mixer: Ensures consistent coloring and product appearance
The color mixer evenly blends raw materials with masterbatch or pigments before feeding them into the extruder. This process is essential for achieving uniform color in the final product. For large items or those with strict color requirements, such as water tanks, chemical barrels, road barriers, and portable toilets, even color distribution prevents visual defects like streaks and color variations.
An efficient color mixer reduces rework, improves overall appearance, and builds customer confidence in product quality.
Air compressor: Provides stable air pressure for quality forming
During blow molding, air pressure directly affects wall thickness uniformity and structural integrity. The air compressor supplies the necessary pressure for each blowing cycle. High-quality compressors deliver steady, continuous pressure, preventing pressure fluctuations that could damage the product.
Using a reliable air compressor improves product consistency and mechanical strength, especially for complex or large hollow items.
Chiller: Enables fast cooling and increases productivity
The chiller cools the mold and hydraulic systems, controlling temperatures throughout production. Cooling efficiency impacts cycle time and dimensional stability. Poor temperature control may cause deformation, uneven shrinkage, or reduced material performance.
A stable, efficient chiller shortens cooling time, boosts output, and reduces energy consumption, making it a vital auxiliary machine.
Air tank: Buffers air pressure fluctuations to stabilize operation
The air tank stores compressed air and smooths out pressure variations. In high-speed or multi-cavity production, air demand varies significantly. A properly sized air tank ensures steady airflow, preventing pressure drops and stabilizing the forming process.
This protects the main machine and pneumatic components, increasing product pass rates.
Crusher: Recycles scrap material to reduce raw material waste
Scrap materials such as flash, startup waste, and rejects are inevitable in blow molding. The crusher breaks these materials into reusable granules that can be reintroduced into production.
This improves material utilization, lowers raw material costs, and supports sustainable manufacturing practices.
Auxiliary system: Building a stable and efficient blow molding production line
Though less visible than the main machine, auxiliary equipment is fundamental to maintaining a stable and efficient production line. From raw material mixing to air supply, temperature control to waste recycling, each component impacts production efficiency and product quality.
Shandong Great Machinery focuses on integrating auxiliary equipment with main machines to provide scientific, efficient, and energy-saving blow molding solutions, enhancing customers’ market competitiveness.