Technology

The Technology of Rotationally Moulded Plastic

How Rotation Moulding Works

Pre-measured plastic resin is loaded into each mould, and then the moulds are moved into the oven where they are slowly rotated on both the vertical and horizontal axis, similar to a gyroscope. Utilising heat and continuous multi-axis rotation process transforms polyethylene powder into a hollow finished product. The mould continues to rotate during the cooling cycle so the parts retain an even wall thickness. Once the parts are cooled, they are released from the mould. The rotational speed, heating and cooling times are all controlled throughout the process to suit specific product needs.

Rotational moulding is a highly versatile manufacturing option that allows for unlimited design possibilities with the added benefit of low production costs and offers many design advantages over other moulding processes.

Consistent wall thickness and strong outside corners that are virtually stress free. A choice of materials to suit the application, including materials that meet regulatory requirements or contain additives to help make a product weather resistant, flame retardant, or static free. Designers also have the option of multi-wall moulding that can be either hollow or foam filled. Rotational moulding can easily produce large and small parts in a cost effective manner. Since there is no internal core, minor changes can be easily made to an existing mould.

This unique process offers extraordinary benefits over traditional manufacturing methods. It can mould products a small as a ping-pong ball to items as large as a 26,000-litre tank, a 6 metre boat, or a playground deck structure tested to 6.5 tonnes loading. Rotational moulding produces virtually stress-free products from a mould with no assembly joints to fail. It means these products can incorporate cuts, textures, colours and a range of other design options. It is the cost-effective alternative that can produce all kinds of complex shapes and sizes without compromising quality - something impossible by other moulding processes.

Polyethylene is an extremely tough, durable, lightweight thermoplastic material. The colour and ultra-violet stabilisers are compounded to give long term resistance and stability in harsh sun. No chemicals reactions take place during the manufacturing of our products so there are no chemical residues of by-products. Polyethylene is an environmentally friendly material. It is fully recyclable and can be repaired by a heat welding process if damaged. It has a proven performance record over years for upright water storage containers. Its cannot rot or corrode and is UV stabilised for harsh sun and weathering conditions. It is also resistant to algae growth because of its basic formulation and not from the addition of chemical fungicides.

Stallion Plastics supports the need to protect the environment. All Stallion Plastics waste is recycled and re used, the production process utilises clean burning natural gas and there are no toxic chemicals used in any aspect of production.

                                                         Stallion Plastics Partnership Limited - Quality Calf Care Products for all Your Calf Rearing Needs
                                                     P O Box 807, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
                                                        Phone 06 356 8816, Fax 06 356 8817. Freephone 0508 688 688. Email grant.allen@stallion.co.nz