image of a tank blow molding machine

IBC tank blow molding machines are designed to produce a variety of large, rigid containers from plastic materials, such as high-density polyethylene and polypropylene. Various types of IBC tank blow molding machines are available on the market, with each offering unique benefits and features. This blog post will look at the different types of IBC tank blow molding machines and discuss their various uses.

Extrusion Blow Molding Machines

Extrusion blow molding is the most common type of IBC tank blow molding machine. The process involves melting down the plastic resin and forcing it through a die in the shape of the desired product. The molten plastic is then forced into a preformed mold and cooled until it takes the desired shape. This machine type is ideal for quickly producing large quantities of products with minimal waste and high accuracy. Some benefits of using an extrusion blow molding machine include cost savings due to faster production times, improved product quality due to consistent shapes, and less energy consumption. 

Furthermore, these machines require little maintenance and can operate at high speeds without damaging the processed plastic materials. Another advantage of these IBC tank blow molding machines is that they have a wide range of temperature control settings, allowing for precise temperature control, which can help improve product quality and reduce downtime due to malfunctions or material failure. 

Injection Blow Molding Machines

Injection blow molding (IBM) machines begin by creating a parison, or a hollow preform composed of a thermoplastic material. This parison is clamped into the mold and injected with compressed air, stretching and forming the plastic into the desired shape. Once the plastic is cooled, it is ejected from the mold as an IBC tank. Injection blow molding is advantageous because it offers high levels of automation and repeatability and the production of complex designs with very little waste. IBM machines can also produce lightweight products with very thin walls, making them perfect for IBC tanks that need to be easily transportable. Additionally, these machines provide superior flexibility in adjusting the output according to customer needs. Thanks to their fast cycle times, injection blow molding machines can quickly and efficiently create multiple IBC tanks in short order. 

Stretch Blow Molding Machines

Stretch blow molding machines use a combination of extrusion and injection techniques to form plastic containers from a preform. The preform is heated in an oven and then stretched over a mold using internal air pressure. This results in thin-walled containers that are strong, lightweight, and attractive in appearance. The containers produced by this method are well-suited for storing and transporting various liquids or solids. The advantages of this type of machine are that it requires relatively less energy, offers excellent repeatability and accuracy, and is easy to operate and maintain.

Conclusion

IBC tank blow molding machines come in three main types: extrusion, injection, and stretch blow molding. Each type has unique benefits and drawbacks, making it important to consider your specific needs when selecting the right machine for your business. By researching each type of IBC tank blow molding machine and understanding their capabilities, you can make an informed decision to meet your production goals best.