Rotational molding is a manufacturing process that is used for plastics with the aim of producing durable components and parts that can stand the test of time. The process is also known as rotocasting or rotomolding. The key thing to note about this term is that it’s actually a thermoplastic process that was founded during the 20^th century.

Today, it is now becoming increasingly popular and functional in different parts of the world. It’s also becoming higher in demand in many industries, unlike other processes that are used in the manufacture of plastic, like thermoforming, blow molding, or injection molding. One of the main reasons why the rotational molding process is the preferred option for manufacturing is because of the ability to produce complex and durable hollow products that cannot be produced with other manufacturing methods.

There are many advantages that come with the use of this process, among which include quality finishing, cost-effectiveness, no size limits, and being an eco-friendly option as it can help in the manufacture of re-use and recycle materials with ease. Let's take a closer look at rotationalmolding.com.

Rotational Molding Process

As mentioned earlier, rotational molding involves specialized processes that help in creating durable and long-lasting plastic parts. It achieves this with the aid of a mold that helps in manufacturing plastic parts. However, it does not involve the use of pressure in the manufacturing process, especially to move through the mold. What is done mostly involves using heat to fuse and melt plastic resin.

The processes involved in rotational molding can be grouped into four stages, which include the following:

Loading

Loading is the first step, and it involves placing the resin in the mold before pulverizing it into a fine powered that is also loaded deep into the mold. This is then placed in a secured container and rotated vigorously so that no powder escapes.

Heating

After the loading process, the mold is moved to a heating source or chamber, and the rotation on both axes continues. However, this is with a low speed for better fusing and distribution of the resin.

Pre-cooling and Cooling

Once the cooking cycle is completed, the mold is transferred into a cooling chamber so that it can cool by water or air spray. In some cases, a combination of water and spray may be used. This is also done while still rotating the mold, and to further enhance the temperature lowering process.

Unloading

After the cooling process, the mold is opened to remove the finished product and transfer it to the next cycle.

One key thing to note is that there are many materials that can be applied for rotational molding. However, one of the most commonly used options today is polyethylene. Other examples you should know include elastomers, polyurethane, polycarbonate, fluoropolymers, nylon, and plastisols. Rotational molding allows for the manufacture of parts more economically, and this can be in large or small quantities. They can also be manufactured in different sizes and shapes, which is not something that can be easily achieved with other manufacturing processes.

Rotational Molding Design

This is a process that is applied in designing products or parts and a tool or mold to manufacture other products. Basically, it mostly involves an engineer, especially one that understands the principles of the rotational molding process to ensure that the design is efficient. It’s worth noting that rotomolding process helps in producing hollow wall parts following the mold design.

Another impressive thing about rotational molding is that it makes it easier for one to incorporate different interesting features into a product or design. You might be wondering what these features are. They include molded-threated fittings and inserts, molded in aluminum features like fittings and extrusions, and molded-in stainless steel or carbon substances like stainless steel bushings, tubing, and more.

It’s worth mentioning that rotational molding also makes it possible for features and shapes to blend easily. This is the main reason why rotationally molded plastics and products usually have a very nice geometric shape, and the aim is to enhance aesthetics and beauty. All of this is achieved while still maintaining the durability of the created material.

If you are concerned about the insulating capabilities of the parts created with this method, the main thing to understand is that rotationally molded products can incorporate foam filling for more strength. A key thing to have in mind is that the foam-filled products usually need a double wall design so that they urethan foam can be injected deep into the walls. There are other features that can be included to the product design, and among these options include mold in graphics, post mold graphics, bulkhead fittings, and spin weld fittings. In addition to everything we have mentioned above, there are also design issues to avoid, and the most common issues to have in mind are flat walls, sharp corners, material flow, and draft angles.