Accumulator Head Blow Molding: Precision Engineering for Large and Thick-Walled Products
What is Accumulator Head Blow Molding?
Accumulator head blow molding is a specialized process where molten plastic is stored in an accumulator before being extruded as a parison. This method is ideal for producing large, heavy-walled products like industrial containers, automotive parts, and playground equipment.
Types of Accumulator Head Machines
- Single-Layer Accumulators
- For standard products requiring uniform material distribution (e.g., trash bins).
- Multi-Layer Accumulators
- Combine different materials (e.g., HDPE/EVOH) for chemical resistance or insulation.
- Vertical Accumulators
- Designed for ultra-large parts like 200L drums or septic tanks.
Key Advantages
- High Material Capacity: Handles large parisons (up to 50 kg) without interruptions.
- Wall Thickness Control: Programmable accumulator pistons ensure consistent material flow.
- Durability: Produces thick-walled products resistant to impact and stress cracking.
Applications
- Industrial Packaging: Chemical drums, IBC totes.
- Automotive: Fuel tanks, battery casings.
- Infrastructure: Stormwater drainage pipes, septic systems.
Operation Workflow
- Plastic Melting: Resin is melted and fed into the accumulator.
- Parison Extrusion: The accumulator releases a controlled volume of molten plastic.
- Mold Inflation: Compressed air shapes the parison into the mold cavity.
- Cooling & Demolding: Parts cool for 1–5 minutes before ejection.
Technical Innovations
- Hydraulic Proportional Valves: Enable precise parison thickness adjustments.
- Multi-Cavity Molds: Produce multiple parts per cycle for cost efficiency.
